Snowberry
Symphoricarpos albus laevigatus
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Pl. 0CE3 — Symphoricarpos albus laevigatus
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IOverview
Overview
Snowberry, scientifically known as Symphoricarpos albus laevigatus, is a deciduous subshrub or shrub native to the northern and western United States, including Alaska and California. It thrives in various soil types—light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay)—and can tolerate both full sun and partial shade, though it prefers drier conditions. This plant grows up to 3 meters tall and is known for its edible fruit, which can be enjoyed fresh or used in jams. Its distinctive white berries contrast beautifully with the plant's green foliage, making it a popular ornamental choice in gardens.
Quick answers
What is Snowberry?
Snowberry, scientifically known as Symphoricarpos albus laevigatus, is a deciduous subshrub or shrub native to the northern and western United States, including Alaska and California.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Snowberry thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It can grow up to 3 meters tall and is hardy in zones 3-7. This subshrub or shrub requires little water once established but benefits from consistent moisture during the growing season. Propagate by cuttings or division in early spring. The fruit is edible and provides a sweet treat for both humans and wildlife.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade, Full shade
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
3-7
Habit
Subshrub, Shrub
Mature size
3.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Snowberry for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple Snowberry shrub for your garden, focusing on basic care and maintenance.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Snowberry plant or seeds, a trowel, mulch.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a spot with partial sun to full shade. Ensure soil is well-draining but moist, suitable for light, medium, or heavy soils.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants in early spring or fall. For seeds, sow them in late winter or early spring.
- 5
First two weeks
Water the plant regularly to help it establish roots. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, especially during hot weather. Prune in late winter or early spring to maintain shape and remove dead branches.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter or early spring to encourage new growth and maintain size. Harvest fruit for culinary use when they turn white.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in full sun, neglecting winter protection in colder zones.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The fruit of the Snowberry can be eaten raw or used in jams and jellies. SKIP
Other uses:CraftingCosmeticDisinfectantHairHedgerowSoapErosion control
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 30 native
Americas1 region
native (1)United States
Broader regions
native:British Columbia, California, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Idaho, Indiana, Maine, Maryland, Masachusettes, Michigan, Missouri, Montana, New Brunswick, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Nova Scotia, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Prince Edward I., Rhode I., Vermont, Virginia, Washington, Wisconsin, Wyoming
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 0ce319a6-f356-42fb-8c89-cc19c6b82fa5
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