Western Snowberry vs Bebbs Willow

This large shrub is native to all of Canada and most of the United States. Its leaves are green on the top and grey on the bottom, and it produces catkin based flowers and non-edible fruit which appears very similar to a group of pine needles.

Bebb's Willow is foraged for by many species including elk, hares, beavers and various birds. It is commonly used to prevent erosion and protect aquatic environments due to its preference for shady, moist environments.

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.

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