Symphoricarpos mollis

This pretty little deciduous sub-shrub is native to the forests, thickets and coastal scrub of the western United States and Canada. Typically growing only 1' tall but spreading by rhizomes to 3-4' wide, it is a stellar choice for erosion control. Spring brings soft-pink, bell-shaped flowers which become miniature snow-white berries in late summer. The soap-flavored fruit is edible in a pinch, but is more esteemed by birds than people! This wonderful native groundcover can handle sun to shade and is attractive to pollinators and other wildlife. S-Sh/M-D

A deciduous sub-shrub typically growing only 1 ft tall but spreading by rhizomes 3-4 ft wide. The tiny snow white berries of this native shrub appear in late summer, as the soft pink bell shaped flowers fade. Fruit is edible, but tastes a bit like bath soap, and is appreciated more by birds than people. Plant with ferns, current, and coral bells. Excellent for erosion control. Native to California and is also found outside of California, but is confined to western North America. Creeping snowberry provides nesting cover for the endangered least Bell's vireo, in southern California. Also useful for erosion control because of its rhizomes. Native Americans crushed the leaves of creeping snowberry to treat sores and wounds. The bark was boiled to remedy tuberculosis and venereal disease. Stems were used for arrows and pipes Found in commonly occurs on dry, sunny slopes at low to mid elevations, although it can occur in shady conditions as well. Communitites located in Yellow Pine Forest, Red Fir Forest, Lodgepole Forest, Mixed Evergreen Forest, Southern Oak Woodland. Between 30 and 9843 feet.