Silver Buffaloberry

shepherdia argentea

Also known as: ["Silver Buffaloberry","Soaptree Buffaloberry"]

Family: Elaeagnaceae Genus: Shepherdia Category: Shrubs

Overview

A deciduous shrub native to North America, known for its silvery foliage and 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 argentea

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Shrubs
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden, adaptable to riverbanks or moist areas
  • Suitable For:
    Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–34 to 38°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"3–7"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; tolerates alkaline conditions.
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.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot regions; ensure proper ventilation indoors.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves (overwatering); stunted growth (poor soil fertility); root rot (poor drainage).

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid direct afternoon sun in summer.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; adjust for seasonal changes.

Soil

well-drained, loamy soil

pH: 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral).

Ensure soil is not waterlogged; amend with organic matter for fertility; test pH annually.

Temperature

Hardy to USDA zones 2–7; tolerates cold temperatures down to -40°F (-40°C); prefers cool conditions in summer.

Protect from late spring frosts; ensure good air circulation in summer; monitor soil temperature for root health.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer

Fertilize only in spring; use half-strength liquid fertilizer if needed; avoid over-fertilizing.

Propagation

Methods

Softwood cuttings in late spring or early summer.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Maintain humidity.

Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is firm but not woody.

Environment

High humidity (70–80%); warm temperatures (65–75°F); indirect light.

Medium

Perlite and peat moss mix (1:1 ratio) with good drainage.

Hormone

Rooting hormone recommended for faster root development.

Timeline

Roots develop in 4–6 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–4 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, perlite, peat moss, plastic wrap, heat mat.

Quick Tips

Use sharp, sterilized tools; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Selective thinning of branches; heading back to encourage denser growth.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, remove dead wood, and encourage bushier growth.

Tools

Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant.

Checklist

Disinfect tools; prune dead/damaged branches; shape plant; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before active growth starts.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for young plants to encourage growth.

Checklist

Prepare new pot; trim roots if crowded; use fresh soil; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a long spout to direct water to the roots without wetting foliage.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; mix sand or perlite for drainage; adjust pH with lime or sulfur if needed.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Leaf scorch in excessive heat; dieback in prolonged cold without protection.

Cold Stress

Leaves may drop or turn brown; growth slows or halts; roots can freeze in poorly insulated soil.

Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect roots with frost cloth in extreme cold; avoid overwatering in winter.

Hot Stress

Wilting; leaf scorch; reduced flowering; increased susceptibility to pests.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water deeply but infrequently; avoid fertilizing in extreme heat.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid late-season feeding.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; discontinue in late summer to prepare for dormancy.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Shepherdia argentea may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Shepherdia argentea can result from water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, leading to reduced turgor pressure and impaired nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Shepherdia argentea are often caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential defoliation.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Shepherdia argentea due to excessive moisture or fungal infections, leading to decay and potential plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Shepherdia argentea is not considered toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of toxicity in felines after ingestion.

⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

No specific safety precautions are required for cats that may come into contact with or ingest this plant.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Shepherdia argentea is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported cases of adverse effects following ingestion by canines.

⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

No specific safety precautions are required for dogs that may come into contact with or ingest this plant.
Humans
Non-toxic

Shepherdia argentea, commonly known as silver buffaloberry, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no documented toxic effects associated with its consumption.

⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

No specific safety precautions are required for human consumption of this plant.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Shepherdia argentea toxic to pets?

A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.

Q: Does Silver Buffaloberry attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.

Q: How cold hardy is this plant?

A: It is highly cold hardy and suitable for cold climates.

Quick Reference
Family: Elaeagnaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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