Common snowberry - Symphoricarpos albus (Care, Characteristics, Culture, Images, Toxic)

Common snowberry

Also known as: Snowberry bush

Common snowberry (Symphoricarpos albus) is a flowering deciduous shrub related to honeysuckle. Common snowberry grows in floodplains and woodlands throughout Canada and the United States. In these areas, it's important as a source of food for the ecosystems of deer, bears, and longhorn sheep. Common snowberry is planted to control soil erosion as well as for ornamental purposes.

Scientific classification

Species

Common snowberry (Symphoricarpos albus)

Honeysuckles, moschatels and allies

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

Summer

Bloom Time

Green, Blue

Leaf Color

6 mm

Flower Size

White, Green, Purple, Pink

Fruit Color

Pink, White

Flower Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Common snowberry

Attributes of Common snowberry

Growth Rate

With a moderate growth rate, common snowberry develops most vigorously in spring and summer, height and foliage inclusion being notably magnified. The speed impacts the plant's timely flowering and berry production cycle, leading to a dense and abundant summer display. However, growth may potentially taper off in off-peak seasons.

Distribution of Common snowberry

Distribution Map

Common snowberry is native to North America and naturalized in much of Argentina, Austria, Uzbekistan, etc. This honeysuckle variant enjoys a moist climate and is often found in forests and woods, stream or riverbanks, and floodplains.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Banks and flats in canyons and near streams

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

Common snowberry is a low-maintenance shrub that works well for irregularly shaped hedges and screens. Gardener appreciate how easily this plant can adapt to different soil conditions, and the year-round interest it provides with attractive leaves, flowers, and fruits. It also offers reasonable erosion control. Combine with Magnolias, Dogwood, or Spruce.

Interesting Facts

At one time, common snowberry was popular in gardens. Now it is more often used for erosion control and occasional ornamental purposes. Although many different kinds of wildlife will eat common snowberry for food, it contains saponins which are poisonous to humans. Native Americans used this shrub to make soap and shafts for arrows.

Name Story

Common snowberry: "Symphori" means "bear together" whereas "carpos" means "fruits" which is referring to the clusters of fruits. Albus refers to the meaning white, hence the common name snowberry refers to the white fruits. Since it is the most common species in its genus, it is called common snowberry.

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Toxicity

The fruit of the common snowberry plant is mildly toxic due to saponins, causing diarrhea and vomiting. Cats and dogs can experience illness if they ingest leaves or fruits. Pet owners should closely monitor their pets for unusual symptoms and seek veterinary care if poisoning is suspected. Even mild toxicity can pose significant risks if consumed in high quantities.

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Quickly Identify Common snowberry

Snow-white berries, 0.5 inches (1.3 cm) diameter.

Oppositely arranged oval leaves, yellow-green in fall.

Pinkish-white tubular flowers in clustered leaf axils.

Distinctive white berries with green to white color transition.

Erect stems, hairy texture, up to 1/2 inch (1.3 cm) diameter.

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Care Guide for Common snowberry

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Common snowberry thrives in cooler climates with moderate moisture and short droughts. Watering is best every 1-2 weeks, keeping soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Preferring well-draining soil, common snowberry supports essential growth cycles typically when grown outdoors.

Fertilize: For optimal growth and fruiting of common snowberry, apply balanced fertilizers (e.g., 10-10-10) in early spring, shifting to higher nitrogen variants as growth increases. Apply biannually, respecting manufacturer guidelines to avoid over-fertilization, and adjust dosage for seasonal changes, applying cautiously near roots.

Pruning: Common snowberry is a deciduous shrub with white berries that thrives in diverse environments. Prune in early spring to remove dead wood and improve air circulation. This promotes healthier foliage, better berry production, and maintains shape, encouraging vigorous growth and enhancing ornamental appeal.

Propagation: Common snowberry propagates best in autumn and winter through cuttings and layering. While propagation can be moderately challenging, new shoots and leaf growth signal success. Ensuring sufficient moisture and well-drained soil is crucial for optimal propagation health.

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Images of Common snowberry

Attributes of Common snowberry

Distribution of Common snowberry

Culture

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Common snowberry

Care Guide for Common snowberry

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