Common Snowberry

(Symphoricarpos albus var. laevigatus)

Common Snowberry (Symphoricarpos albus var. laevigatus)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Symphoricarpos albus var. laevigatus, commonly known as Common Snowberry, is a deciduous perennial shrub native to a wide range of habitats in Western North America, including forest edges, open woodlands, and riparian zones. It typically grows at a moderate rate to a height of 3-6 feet (0.9-1.8 meters) and a width of 4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 meters). This shrub is characterized by its dense, twiggy form and clusters of small, bell-shaped, pink flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. The flowers are followed by distinctive white berries that persist into winter, providing visual interest and food for birds.

Common Snowberry is valued for its ornamental berries, low maintenance, and ability to thrive in a variety of soil conditions. It is often used in urban plantings, as a border shrub, or for naturalizing in wild gardens. It can tolerate a range of light conditions from full sun to part shade and prefers medium draining soils such as clay, loam, or sandy types. While it is drought-tolerant once established, it benefits from medium amounts of water. Snowberry is also used in restoration projects due to its erosion control capabilities. However, gardeners should be aware that it can spread aggressively via root suckers, potentially becoming invasive in some areas. Pruning is recommended to maintain shape and control spread.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub
  • Height: 3-6 feet
  • Width: 4-6 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Pink, White
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer, Fall
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Deer Resistant, Groundcover, Low Maintenance, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Forest edges, open woodlands, and riparian zones

Other Names

Common Names: Snowberry, Ghostberry, Smooth-Leaved Snowberry, Waxberry

Scientific Names: , Symphoricarpos albus var. laevigatus, Caprifolium puniceum, Symphoria punicea, Symphoria punicea, Symphoricarpos albus f. laevigatus, Symphoricarpos albus f. variegatus, Symphoricarpos albus subsp. laevigatus, Symphoricarpos albus subsp. laevigatus, Symphoricarpos albus var. laevigatus

GBIF Accepted Name: