Silver Buffalo Berry vs Sensation Lilac - TreeTime.ca

Silver Buffalo Berry vs Sensation Lilac

Shepherdia argentea

Syringa vulgaris Sensation

Silver Buffalo Berry
Sensation Lilac

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.

Sensation Lilac is an outstanding shrub known for its fragrant, bicolor flowers. In mid-spring, stunning purple flowers with white borders emerge and cover the entire plant.

Once the flowers bloom, they give off a beautifully sweet scent that is enjoyed by people, butterflies, hummingbirds, and other wildlife. Plant Sensation Lilac in full sun to produce the most vibrant flower color.

Staff Favorite!

Silver Buffalo Berry Quick Facts

Sensation Lilac Quick Facts

Lowest Price: $3.49 - SAVE UP TO 42%
Lowest Price: $5.99 - SAVE UP TO 50%
Zone: 2a
Zone: 3a
Height: 5 m (18 ft)
Height: 2.4 m (8 ft)
Spread: 3 m (10 ft)
Spread: 1.8 m (6 ft)
Moisture: dry, normal
Moisture: normal
Light: full sun
Light: full sun
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: no
Catkins: no
Berries: deep red, edible
Flowers: white
Growth rate: medium
Growth rate: medium
Life span: medium
Life span: short
Maintenance: medium
Suckering: high
Suckering: high

In row spacing: 0.9 - 1.2 m (3 - 4 ft)

Between row spacing: 5 m (16 ft)


Other Names: buffalo shepherdia, silver buffaloberry, thorny buffaloberry