Symphoricarpos albus
Symphoricarpos albus · Caprifoliaceae
The gardener's calendar
In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around symphoricarpos albus and prepare for winter.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Blooming
- June to August, discreet pink or white flowers
- Fruits
- Persistent white berries, very decorative in autumn
- Mature size
- 1.5 to 2.5 m in height, bushy form
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Very hardy, down to -25°C
- Origin
- North America
- Soil type
- Ordinary, well-draining, tolerates limestone
Care
Exposure
Snowberry adapts to full sun and partial shade. In sunny conditions, it fruits more abundantly and produces more berries. It tolerates partially shaded locations well, particularly in warm climates.
Watering
Water regularly the first year after planting to encourage root establishment. Once established, snowberry is very drought-tolerant thanks to its deep root system. During periods of intense heat, occasional watering is sufficient.
Soil
This plant accepts a wide variety of soils: ordinary, chalky, acidic or slightly alkaline. Well-draining soil is preferable to prevent root asphyxiation. Enrichment is unnecessary if the soil is of average quality.
Pruning
Prune lightly after flowering or in late winter to maintain a compact shape. Remove dead or diseased branches. Snowberry tolerates heavy pruning well and can be rejuvenated if it becomes too dense. Avoid pruning too late to preserve the decorative fruits.
Fertilizing
No fertilizer application is essential. An organic mulch at the base in spring is sufficient to gradually feed the plant. In case of weak growth, a light application of balanced fertilizer in spring can stimulate vigor.
Diseases and pests
Snowberry is generally very robust. It may occasionally be affected by aphids or whiteflies, without major consequence. No serious fungal disease normally affects it if drainage is good and aeration is correct.
Did you know?
The white berries of snowberry, which persist long on branches in autumn and winter, are a precious food source for wintering birds. Its scientific name Symphoricarpos comes from Greek and literally means 'fruit-bearer together', referring to the way the berries cluster densely on the twigs.
Where to buy it
Best planted in autumn so the roots settle in before summer, or in early spring once the frost has passed. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, October, November.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.