This suckering shrub has slender branched woody stems that form an upright-rounded to decumbent habit. It has oval dark green leaves and the small pink bell-shaped flowers appear in a spike during spring and followed by persistent large white berries.

Hardiness zones 3 to 9

Symphoricarpos albusIs naturally found in North America from Nova Scotia to Alberta and in the south from Minnesota to Virginia. It grows in canyons along stream banks associated with the mixed evergreen forests and yellow pine forests. It is not commonly found in wetlands and appears from sea level to an elevation of 1,500 m (4000 ft).

It prefers a well drained moist fertile limestone based soil but will tolerate most well drained soils and is pH adaptable. In an open sunny position it will produce more fruit but the plant will tolerate heavy shaded positions and is frost and drought tolerant.

Common Snowberry is grown for its spreading habit and attractive fruit. It is planted in small or woodland gardens and is used in tubs and planter boxes. The shrub is suitable for coastal and low-mountain regions, establishing in 2-3 years and is moderately long lived. It is also planted along water courses for soil stabilisation and is ideally suited for city gardens, tolerating pollution and neglect. ID 3422

Symphoricarpos (SIM-foh-ree-KAH-pos) albus(AL-bus)

Caprifoliaceae (cap-ree-foh-lee-AY-see-ee)