Roundleaf Snowberry
symphoricarpos rotundifolius
Also known as: ["Roundleaf Coralberry","Roundleaf Gooseberry"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub native to North America, known for its round leaves and white berries.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Dipsacales |
| Family: | Caprifoliaceae |
| Genus: | Symphoricarpos |
| Botanical Name: | Symphoricarpos rotundifolius |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: mixed shrub border, woodland edge, or naturalized area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–34–38°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderate to fast-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Well-draining loamy soil with organic matter; tolerates poor soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates light shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in summer; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Morning sun is ideal; provide shade during peak heat; rotate plants for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; amend with organic matter; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 3–7; tolerates temperatures from -30°C to 30°C; prefers cool to moderate conditions.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in fall and winter
Fertilize lightly; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; stop feeding before winter.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood cuttings in late spring or early summer; layering is also effective.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is firm but not woody.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (20–25°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Peat and perlite mix or cactus mix with added sand for drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–6 weeks; plants can be transplanted after one growing season.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, plastic bags, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, disease-free cuttings; maintain consistent moisture; avoid direct sunlight.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to open the plant; heading back to control size; selective removal of weak or dead stems.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage flowering, and remove dead or weak growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead/damaged stems; thin crowded areas; shape the plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–5 cm in diameter; ensure drainage holes are clear.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; use fresh, well-draining soil; ensure proper drainage.
Suggestions
Repot only when root-bound or soil is depleted; typically every 2–3 years for container-grown plants.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; trim roots if needed; add fresh soil; position plant; water lightly.
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 early in the day to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; avoid heavy clay amendments.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch in excessive heat; leaf drop or dieback in prolonged cold; stunted growth in temperature stress.
Cold Stress
Leaves may wilt or discolor; growth slows; buds may fail to open in extreme cold.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect with burlap in severe cold; avoid planting in frost pockets.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or premature leaf drop; reduced flowering in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Choose balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; water after fertilizing; monitor for signs of burn.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid over-fertilizing; reduce feeding in late summer.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSymphoricarpos rotundifolius is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not produce known toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicSymphoricarpos rotundifolius is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant does not contain known toxic substances that would pose a risk to canine health upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicSymphoricarpos rotundifolius is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. The plant does not produce known toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Symphoricarpos rotundifolius toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: How much maintenance does it require?
A: It requires low maintenance, making it suitable for busy gardeners.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Caprifoliaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
