Common Snowberry vs Yarrow - TreeTime.ca

Common Snowberry vs Yarrow

Symphoricarpos albus

Achillea borealis (Previously Achillea millefolium)

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Common Snowberry
Yarrow

Common Snowberry is a small deciduous shrub with characteristic white to pink flowers and clusters of white fruit.

This North American native species is very adaptable, and can be used for erosion control in riparian and restoration areas. Snowberry's fruit attracts wildlife, and livestock can consume the berries without issue.

Yarrow is a herbaceous, native wildflower that is found across Canada. It features large, flat clusters of tiny white flowers. The blooms attract a variety of pollinators, making it an ideal choice for pollinator gardens. While partial shade is tolerated, the best flowering occurs in full sun. Yarrow is resistant to deer and rabbits, making it both a beautiful and practical addition to your landscape.

The entire plant is edible, but leaves and flowers are most commonly consumed. They have a strong licorice scent and a mild sweet flavor that is similar to tarragon. Yarrow leaves can also be used as a natural insect repellent.

It is important to plant Yarrow in the right place, it can spread quickly via both rhizomes and self-seeding. Deadheading the spent flowers will extend the bloom season and can help limit self-seeding.

Common Snowberry Quick Facts

Yarrow Quick Facts

Zone: 1a
Zone: 3a
Height: 0.9 m (3 ft)
Height: 0.3 m (1.0 ft)
Spread: 0.9 m (3 ft)
Moisture: dry, normal
Moisture: dry, normal
Light: full sun
Light: partial shade, full sun
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: no
Catkins: no
Berries: white waxy berries
Flowers: pink to white flowers in spring
Flowers: clusters of white flowers
Bark: red-brown shredded bark
Growth rate: fast
Growth rate: fast
Life span: short
Life span: short
Suckering: none
Suckering: none



Toxicity: berries toxic to humans

Toxicity: toxic to dogs, cats, and horses
Other Names: common snowberry
Other Names: common yarrow, devils nettle, milfoil, western yarrow, white yarrow