Creeping Snowberry (Symphoricarpos mollis)

Creeping Snowberry

Also known as: Mountain Snowberry, Southern California Snowberry, Spreading Snowberry, Sharp Leaf Snowberry

Creeping Snowberry (Symphoricarpos mollis) is a plant that’s indigenous to western North America. Although most people consider it to be an edible plant, it has saponins in it. Saponins make things taste like soap. The berries appear in late summer.

Scientific classification

Species

Creeping Snowberry (Symphoricarpos mollis)

Honeysuckles, moschatels and allies

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Vine, Shrub

Plant Type

Spring, Summer

Bloom Time

2.5 cm

Flower Size

Pink

Flower Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Moderate

Growth Rate

Images of Creeping Snowberry

Distribution of Creeping Snowberry

Distribution Map

Creeping Snowberry is indigenous to North America, particularly in regions with a Mediterranean climate. Its native distribution significantly encompasses the western coastal areas and adjacent territories. The plant flourishes in these locales, yet there is no substantial evidence of introduction beyond its original range.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Chaparral ecosystems, along coastlines

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Toxicity

Creeping Snowberry poisoning occurs from ingestion or contact. Large amounts are extremely toxic, requiring urgent medical attention, while small doses cause vomiting. Touching creeping Snowberry can irritate sensitive skin. The berries are particularly dangerous. Children and unsuspecting adults are at risk by eating the seemingly edible fruits, often found in gardens and parks.

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Weed Control

Creeping Snowberry is not considered a weed in its native range of western North America, since it is limited to specific forest habitats. Its cover can increase in forests following clearcutting or burning. Creeping Snowberry spreads efficiently via rhizomes, and the cover provides made it one of the choice plants for halting erosion. When it's cultivated, its growth may need to be controlled. The leaves and the berries contain saponins that make them mildly toxic to mammals. Ingestion by humans can cause stomach upset and dizziness, but no serious poisonings have been reported.

How to Control It

Best weeding time: before fruition

Removal: You can remove this weed by gloved hand or by tools in early autumn or early spring each year. You need to completely clean out its root system to prevent it from regrowth. If dry soil makes it hard to pull, you can water the soil thoroughly, which also helps eradicate the weed's root system.
Chemical control: Specialized herbicide for this weed can effectively eradicate it. Prune first before applying herbicide for better results.

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Quickly Identify Creeping Snowberry

Deciduous sub-shrub, 1 foot (30 cm) tall, spreads via rhizomes forming 3-4 feet wide patches.

Soft, rounded, light green leaves; reddish stems; pink flowers in late spring; white berries in summer.

Clusters of pink flowers and globular white berries distinguish the plant in spring and summer.

Saponins in berries give them a soap-like taste, acting as a natural deterrent to consumption.

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Care Guide for Creeping Snowberry

Every 3 weeks

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Creeping Snowberry prefers consistent moisture, thriving in damp, forested soils. Although moderately drought-tolerant, it requires watering every three weeks. Mulching outdoors helps retain moisture, especially during the active growing season when its water needs increase.

Fertilize: Creeping Snowberry thrives with balanced fertilizers in spring and fall, and high-nitrogen options early in the season. Apply quarterly to avoid nutrient burn, adjusting for seasonality. Water creeping Snowberry before and after fertilization for better nutrient absorption and root protection.

Pruning: Creeping Snowberry is a low-growing shrub with petite white berries and arching stems. Prune in early spring to remove dead branches, enhance air circulation, and encourage new growth, which improves flowering and berry production. Regular maintenance is essential for overall plant vitality.

Propagation: Creeping Snowberry is resilient and easy to grow, ideal for propagation via cuttings. Select healthy stems using clean tools to prevent infections. Plant cuttings in well-draining medium, maintaining moisture without waterlogging. Rooting hormone can enhance growth, though creeping Snowberry often roots well without it.

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Images of Creeping Snowberry

Distribution of Creeping Snowberry

Toxicity

Weed Control

Quickly Identify Creeping Snowberry

Care Guide for Creeping Snowberry

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