Rustleaf Buffaloberry
shepherdia canadensis
Also known as: ["Rustleaf Buffaloberry","Rustleaf Buffaloberry"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub native to North America, known for its silvery-green leaves and bright red berries.
Benefits & Perks
["cold hardy","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Elaeagnaceae |
| Genus: | Shepherdia |
| Botanical Name: | Shepherdia canadensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in cooler climates, adaptable to various soil types
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"-40–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"2–6"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; tolerates sandy or rocky soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed for rejuvenation.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates light shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sun if moved from shade; protect from intense midday sun in summer; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Monitor for leaf scorch in summer; provide afternoon shade if needed; rotate plant for even light exposure.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep root growth; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot; amend with organic matter for fertility; test pH annually.
Temperature
Hardy to USDA zones 2–6, tolerating temperatures as low as -40°F (-40°C). Prefers cool temperatures and can suffer in prolonged heat above 80°F (27°C).
Protect from late spring frosts; water deeply before cold snaps; avoid placing in hot, dry microclimates.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during spring and summer
Avoid over-fertilizing, which can harm roots; use a fertilizer with micronutrients for best results; stop feeding in late autumn.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood cuttings taken in early summer or seed propagation in fall.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Transplant when rooted.
Best Time: Early summer for cuttings; fall for seeds after dormancy.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (65–75°F), and indirect light for cuttings.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; peat moss can help retain moisture.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for cuttings to improve success rate.
Timeline
Cuttings may root in 4–8 weeks; seed germination can take 1–3 months with cold stratification.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle, plastic bags for humidity.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, clean tools for cuttings; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of branches; heading back to encourage denser growth; remove crossing or damaged stems.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead wood, and encourage bushier growth. Focus on removing older stems to rejuvenate the plant.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune before active growth; remove dead or diseased wood; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; trim roots if necessary; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; avoid overhead watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone to a depth of 6–8 inches. Ensure water drains well and avoid wetting foliage to reduce fungal risk. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry during the day.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage; use peat moss to lower pH if needed.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in excessive heat; browning or dieback in extreme cold without protection.
Cold Stress
Leaves may curl or turn brown; growth slows or halts; risk of frost damage in late spring or early fall.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base in winter; protect from harsh winds; avoid planting in frost pockets.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering during heatwaves; may drop leaves to conserve water.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in early spring; dilute liquid fertilizer if using; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Apply a diluted liquid fertilizer monthly during growing season, avoiding winter feeding.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicShepherdia canadensis is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not pose a known risk to feline health upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicShepherdia canadensis is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects associated with ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Humans
Non-toxicShepherdia canadensis, commonly known as Rusty Mountain Silverberry, is not considered toxic to humans. The plant has been used traditionally for various purposes, including as a food source, without reported toxic effects.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Shepherdia canadensis toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: Is this plant suitable for cold climates?
A: Yes, it is cold hardy and can thrive in cold regions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Elaeagnaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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