Wolfberry
Symphoricarpos occidentalis
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Pl. DE94 — Symphoricarpos occidentalis
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IOverview
Overview
Wolfberry, scientifically known as Symphoricarpos occidentalis, is a shrub native to the central and western regions of North America, including parts of Canada and the United States. It thrives in various habitats across its range, from Alberta to Wyoming. This plant is valued for its edible fruit, which can be enjoyed fresh or used in culinary applications. Wolfberry prefers well-drained soil with a pH between 6.6 and 8, and it can tolerate both full sun and partial shade. Its light green foliage and clusters of small white flowers make it an attractive ornamental plant. The shrub grows to about 1.8 meters in height, making it suitable for garden borders or as a hedge.
Quick answers
What is Wolfberry?
Wolfberry, scientifically known as Symphoricarpos occidentalis, is a shrub native to the central and western regions of North America, including parts of Canada and the United States. It thrives in various habitats across its range, from Alberta to Wyoming.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Wolfberry thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist but well-drained soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It grows best in zones 3-7 and can reach a height of 1.8 meters as a shrub. For optimal fruit production, ensure the soil pH is between 6.6 and 8. While it can tolerate drier conditions, regular moisture helps maintain healthy growth. Propagate through cuttings or seeds.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade, Full shade
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
3-7
Habit
Shrub
Mature size
1.8 m tall
Soil pH
6.6–8
For first-time growers
How to grow Wolfberry for the first time
8steps
Wolfberry is a hardy shrub that's easy to grow for beginners, making it perfect for your first planting project.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or young plants, garden gloves, trowel.
- 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 light to partial shade. Ensure soil is well-draining and slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.6–8).
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds in the ground or start young plants indoors before transplanting them outdoors.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly, keeping soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for pests and diseases.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water when dry, especially during hot weather. Prune in late winter to maintain shape and remove dead branches.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune after fruiting to encourage new growth and prevent overcrowding. Harvest fruits in fall when ripe.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soil, neglecting winter protection in colder zones.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The wolfberry's fruit is edible and can be eaten raw or cooked. It is often used in jams, jellies, and desserts due to its sweet taste. The berries can also be dried for later use. Skip the invention of specific recipes; focus on these general uses.
Other uses:CraftingHedgerowErosion control
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 30 native
Broader regions
native:Masachusettes, British Columbia, California, Colorado, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Manitoba, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, Northwest Territorie, Ohio, Oklahoma, Ontario, Oregon, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, Québec, Saskatchewan, South Dakota, Texas, Utah
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · de94b16b-5edb-44b7-a4cf-662eb99e0444
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