Western Snowberry (Symphoricarpos occidentalis) is a cold-hardy perennial shrub native to North America, admired for its ornamental clusters of white to pink flowers and distinctive white berries. This compact shrub forms dense thickets and is highly valued for habitat restoration, erosion control, and pollinator support.
Often used in natural landscaping designs, Western Snowberry thrives in a variety of soils including dry, rocky environments. Its blooms attract bees and butterflies in the summer, while the showy berries provide winter forage for songbirds.
Perfect for eco-friendly landscaping, this low-maintenance non-GMO shrub seed is ideal for wild gardens, shelterbelts, and wildlife food plots.
Features
- Native perennial shrub with pink-tinged white flowers and white berries
- Non-GMO seed quality suitable for eco-conscious gardeners
- Excellent for wildlife habitat, erosion control, and natural landscaping
- Tolerant of drought and poor soils once established
- Supports pollinators and provides winter food for birds
- Low maintenance and cold hardy for various climates
Specifications
- Seed Type: Western Snowberry (Symphoricarpos occidentalis)
- Common Name: Snowberry
- Plant Type: Perennial Deciduous Shrub
- Plant Height: 3 – 6 feet
- Zones: USDA Zones 2–7
- Light Requirement: Full Sun to Partial Shade
- Soil Type: Adaptable to clay, loam, or sandy soil; tolerant of poor drainage
- Germination Time: 30 – 90 days (cold stratification recommended)
- Days to Maturity: 2–3 years until mature size
- GMO Status: Non-GMO
- Season: Spring or fall planting
- Planting Depth: Sow seeds on surface and lightly press
- Spacing: 3 – 5 feet apart
- Optimal Temperature: 55°F to 70°F (13°C to 21°C) for germination
- Watering: Moderate; drought tolerant once established
- Companion Plants: Prairie grasses, Yarrow, Purple Coneflower
- Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer
- Wildlife Support: Nectar for pollinators, berries for birds
- Uses: Hedgerows, erosion control, habitat restoration
- Storage: Store seeds dry and cool until ready to plant
Planting Guide
- Cold Stratification: Requires 60–90 days of cold treatment for best germination.
- Direct Sow: Scatter seeds outdoors in late fall or early spring for natural stratification.
- Soil: Loosen soil and mix with compost if needed; press seeds gently on top.
- Watering: Keep soil lightly moist until germination occurs.
- Growth: Develops slowly but becomes a resilient shrub with deep roots and dense growth.