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Silver Buffalo Berry vs Western Chokecherry
Shepherdia argentea
Prunus virginiana var. demissa
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Silver Buffalo Berry is a cold hardy, ornamental shrub that is commonly used in the first row of shelterbelts instead of caragana or lilac. It features subtle yellow flowers, smooth grey bark, and red fruit. On occasion orange fruit is produced and rarely a yellow fruit. Please note: we regularly collect the rare yellow and orange fruit to use for our seed source.
Long-lived and slow growing, Silver Buffalo Berry is commonly found around sloughs, in coulees, and on light soils across the prairies, and grows best in full sun.
Buyers can enjoy increased bird life to their property, as this shrub acts as a habitat plant. It is also commonly planted for its ornamental and winter interest. It is native to parts of central and western North America.
This species is also known as one of the more salt-tolerant species for those with saline soils.
Note: this berry has mixed reviews when fresh, but makes a desirable jam or jelly with what is described as a clove and pear taste.
Western Chokecherry is a shrub or small tree commonly used for farmstead and field windbreaks.
It produces white flowers in the spring and edible dark purple fruit that matures between September and October. Its cherries are great for making for making jams, jellies or wine, but are not very palatable for raw eating.
Silver Buffalo Berry Quick Facts
Western Chokecherry Quick Facts
In row spacing: 0.9 - 1.2 m (3 - 4 ft)
Toxicity: toxic to horses, cattle, etc.)