Nutrient Analysis of Two Browse Species

Abstract

In current twigs of American beautyberry and rusty blackhaw, fiber content increased during spring and remained high for the remainder of the year. Old twigs usually contained more fiber than current twigs. Levels of protein, nitrogen-free extract, and cell contents-the most digestible fractions-were highest in spring, and new twigs contained higher levels than old twigs. Leaves, particularly those of beautyberry, were more nutritious than twigs or fruit. Beautyberry fruit was most succulent and nutritious when it ripened in early autumn.