Shrubs vary widely in size, shape, color, bark, flower, and fruit. This New England Wild Flower Society course led by Roland “Boot” Boutwell will introduce you to almost fifty species of native New England shrubs, emphasizing plant identification, family characteristics, and historical plant uses. Bring a hand lens. Weekend sessions are held in off-site locations; directions will be provided during the first class, which will be held June 1 at Garden in the Woods in Framingham.

There is a second Native New England Shrubs class which begins on 9/10/15. For complete information and to register visit http://www.newfs.org/learn/our-programs/native-new-england-shrubs. $200 for NEWFS members, $250 for nonmembers.  Image of elderberry bush from www.nativeplantwildlifegarden.com.