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Dwarf Birch vs Western Snowberry
Symphoricarpos occidentalis
Betula pumila
NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON
NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON
Like the Common Snowberry, the Western Snowberry is a small shrub with pink flowers useful for feeding livestock and preventing erosion. Unlike the common species, however, the Western Snowberry is much more suited to wet conditions, capable of persevering through poor soil drainage and occasional flooding.
After the Snowberry's flowers have bloomed, it produces berries which often last on the plant through winter. These berries are toxic to humans, but livestock and local wildlife love them! Those hoping to attract wildlife to their property can plant Snowberry and expect to see animals foraging on it much later in the year than other plants.
Dwarf Birch, also known as Bog Birch for its common occurrence in wet areas, is a small deciduous shrub native to North America.
Found growing up into the arctic circle, this is one of the few trees that grows that far north.
Common in riparian zones and boreal forests across Western Canada. It is a common reclamation species.
This species is often used by local artisans to twist into shapes like willow and make decorative hearts, circles, etc.
Western Snowberry Quick Facts
Dwarf Birch Quick Facts
Toxicity: berries are toxic to humans