Creeping Snowberry (Symphoricarpos mollis)

Also known as: Mountain Snowberry, Southern California Snowberry, Spreading Snowberry, Sharp Leaf Snowberry

Creeping Snowberry (Symphoricarpos mollis), native to western North America, is generally regarded as edible. However, its berries contain saponins, compounds that impart a soapy taste. These berries typically ripen in late summer.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Creeping Snowberry

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Vine, Shrub

Plant Height

46 cm

Spread

60 cm to 1.5 m

Leaf Color

Green Blue

Flower Size

2.5 cm

Flower Color

Pink

Images of Creeping Snowberry

Quickly Identify Creeping Snowberry

Deciduous sub-shrub, 1 foot (30 cm) tall, spreads via rhizomes forming 3-4 feet wide patches.

Soft, rounded, light green leaves; reddish stems; pink flowers in late spring; white berries in summer.

Clusters of pink flowers and globular white berries distinguish the plant in spring and summer.

Saponins in berries give them a soap-like taste, acting as a natural deterrent to consumption.

Scientific Classification of Creeping Snowberry

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Dipsacales

Family

Honeysuckle

Genus

Snowberry

Species

Creeping Snowberry

Planting and Growing of Creeping Snowberry

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 2 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

4-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Creeping Snowberry?

Symphoricarpos mollis prefers moderate watering, ensuring the soil remains lightly moist but not waterlogged. Aim to provide approximately 500 milliliters of water per session, making sure the soil can drain effectively to prevent root rot.

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What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Creeping Snowberry?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun, Full shade

Duration of light: 2 to 4 hours daily

Symphoricarpos mollis thrives under partial sun conditions, ideally with morning sun and afternoon shade. This light balance supports consistent growth and berry production, enhancing both beauty and vitality.

What is the optimal light condition? ›

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What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Creeping Snowberry?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 75℉

For optimal growth and health, Symphoricarpos mollis prefers temperatures between 60°F and 75°F. This range ensures that the plant's physiological processes function efficiently, promoting robust growth and vibrant foliage. Maintaining this range allows the plant to thrive, minimizing stress and susceptibility to diseases.

What Soil is Best for Creeping Snowberry?

Soil type: Sandy loam, Loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Symphoricarpos mollis thrives in well-draining soil, which prevents root rot by allowing excess water to flow through easily. This type of soil ensures your plant has access to nutrients without the risk of drowning its roots. It's crucial for maintaining healthy and vigorous growth. While this plant isn't incredibly demanding, it does benefit from soil with moderate nutrient content. This ensures a steady supply of essential elements like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, promoting lush foliage and abundant berry production. The presence of air spaces within the soil allows roots to access oxygen necessary for respiration. Well-aerated soils prevent compaction, helping Symphoricarpos mollis to establish strong root systems and enhance its overall resilience.

How to Fertilize Creeping Snowberry?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Symphoricarpos mollis, use a balanced fertilizer at half the recommended strength for houseplants. Apply approximately 1 tablespoon per square foot for granular fertilizers, ensuring even coverage to avoid root burn.

How to Prune Creeping Snowberry?

Pruning Time: Spring, Autumn

Start by assessing the plant's structure in early spring, identifying any dead or damaged branches for removal. Utilize sharp, clean pruning shears to make cuts at a 45-degree angle just above bud nodes to promote new growth. In early autumn, a lighter trim is advisable to maintain shape and encourage robust berry production. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Creeping Snowberry plant?

Propagate Time: Early spring, Late summer

Collect mature seeds in autumn, then store them in cool conditions until early spring. Before sowing, soak the seeds overnight to break dormancy and encourage germination.

In late summer, choose healthy stems and cut 4-6 inch pieces. Strip the leaves from the bottom half and dip the ends in rooting hormone to promote root development.

In early spring, dig up the plant and carefully separate its sections. Replant them in suitable soil, ensuring each has sufficient roots and shoots for healthy growth.

How to Repot Creeping Snowberry plant?

Repotting frequency: Once every 2 years

Repotting Symphoricarpos mollis should be considered when the roots start to outgrow the current pot, often noticeable when roots emerge from the drainage holes or the plant shows signs of restricted growth. Early spring, just as growth begins, or autumn, after flowering, are ideal times to repot. Catching it post-bloom allows the plant to establish roots in the new medium before rapid winter dormancy.

Choose a pot that is one size larger than the current one, with ample drainage holes. The pot should offer enough space for root expansion without excess soil that may retain water and lead to root rot. Terracotta pots are ideal as they allow moisture to evaporate, aiding in preventing overwatering issues.

Opt for well-draining loamy soil, rich in organic matter, which simulates the plant’s natural habitat. Such soil offers a balanced nutrient profile and sufficient aeration, essential for healthy root growth. Mixing in perlite or coarse sand can enhance drainage, crucial to prevent waterlogging.

Toxicity of Creeping Snowberry

Is Creeping Snowberry toxic to humans?

The toxicity associated with creeping Snowberry arises from either ingestion or direct contact with the plant. When consumed in large quantities, it poses a significant danger and necessitates immediate medical intervention. Even smaller amounts can lead to symptoms like vomiting, which help mitigate the risks involved. Direct contact with the plant may provoke skin rashes or irritation in individuals with sensitive skin. The berries themselves are especially toxic. Creeping Snowberry is commonly grown in gardens and parks, making it a frequent hazard for children and unsuspecting adults who might mistake the fruits for safe edibles.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.

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