Snowberry is a deciduous shrub native to North America. It is well known for its small pink flowers that bloom in summer and its distinctive white berries that persist into winter, providing visual interest and an important late-season food source for wildlife. This hardy shrub is highly adaptable and is often used for erosion control and habitat restoration.
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Growth Habits & Characteristics:
•Height: 3–6 feet
•Spread: 3–6 feet
•Sun Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
•Soil Preferences: Tolerant of a wide range of soils, including clay, loam, and sandy soils; drought-tolerant once established
•Bloom Time: Late spring to summer (May–July)
•Water Needs: Low to moderate
•Growth Habit: Dense, multi-stemmed, suckering shrub with arching branches
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Host Insect:
Serves as a host plant for the Snowberry Clearwing Moth, which mimics a hummingbird in flight.
Pollinator Importance:
•Attracts various native bees, butterflies, and other pollinators to its small, tubular flowers.
•Provides shelter and nesting sites for beneficial insects and small birds.
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Ecological Importance:
•Wildlife Food Source: The berries, though toxic to humans, are eaten by birds such as robins, waxwings, and grouse in late fall and winter.
•Pollinator Support: Flowers provide nectar for bees, butterflies, and hummingbird moths.
•Erosion Control: Deep roots help stabilize soil, making it ideal for slopes and riparian areas.
•Habitat Value: Provides shelter for small mammals and nesting sites for birds.
•Drought Resistance: Thrives in dry conditions, making it a valuable addition to xeriscapes and native gardens.