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Description
Shepherdia Argentea, commonly known as silver buffaloberry, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Elaeagnaceae family. It is native to North America and can be found in regions such as Montana, Wyoming, and South Dakota. The plant grows up to 8 feet tall and has an equal spread. It has an upright growth habit and a dense canopy.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Elaeagnaceae |
| Genus | Shepherdia |
Appearance
The silver buffaloberry has silvery-grey leaves that are narrow and elongated. The leaves are about 1-3 inches long and have a pointed tip. The plant produces yellow flowers that bloom in the spring and are followed by red berries that ripen in the fall. The berries are about 1/4 inch in diameter and are edible, although they are quite sour. The bark of the plant is greyish-brown and becomes more rough with age.
Care Guide
Silver buffaloberry is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of soil and light conditions. It prefers well-drained soils and full sun to partial shade. It is also drought-tolerant and can handle cold temperatures. Water: Water the plant deeply once a week, especially during the first growing season. After that, it can tolerate periods of drought.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a year in the spring.Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soils but can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils.Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Silver buffaloberry is generally pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to leaf spot and rust. These can be treated with fungicides.
Habitat
Silver buffaloberry is native to North America and can be found in regions such as Montana, Wyoming, and South Dakota. It grows in a variety of habitats, including prairies, woodlands, and stream banks.
Question and Answer
Q: Is silver buffaloberry edible?A: Yes, the berries are edible, although they are quite sour.Q: What is the hardiness zone for silver buffaloberry?A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.Q: What is the growth habit of silver buffaloberry?A: The plant has an upright growth habit and a dense canopy.Q: What is the scientific name for silver buffaloberry?A: The scientific name is Shepherdia Argentea.
Related Plants
Other plants in the Shepherdia genus include:
- Shepherdia Canadensis
- Shepherdia Rotundifolia
- Shepherdia Wyomingensis
References
- USDA Plants Database: Shepherdia Argentea
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Shepherdia Argentea
- Gardening Know How: Silver Buffaloberry Care: Tips For Growing Silver Buffaloberry Bushes
