Shepherdia

Description

Shepherdia is a genus of deciduous shrubs that is native to North America. It is commonly known as buffaloberry, due to its bright red berries that resemble currants. The plant grows up to 10 feet tall and 8 feet wide, with a spreading habit. Its leaves are simple and alternate, with a light green color that turns yellow in the fall. The flowers are small and yellow, blooming in early spring before the leaves appear.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Shepherdia is a hardy shrub that is popular for its bright red berries and attractive foliage. The plant grows up to 10 feet tall and 8 feet wide, with a spreading habit. Its leaves are simple and alternate, with a light green color that turns yellow in the fall. The flowers are small and yellow, blooming in early spring before the leaves appear. The fruits are bright red berries that are edible but sour, and they persist on the plant through the winter.

Care Guide

Shepherdia is a hardy shrub that is relatively easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:Water: Shepherdia prefers regular watering during the first year after planting. Once established, it can tolerate drought conditions.Fertilization: Shepherdia does not require regular fertilization. However, you can apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring to encourage growth.Soil: Shepherdia prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils.Sunlight: Shepherdia prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it will produce fewer berries in shady conditions.Hardiness Zones: Shepherdia is hardy in USDA zones 2 to 7.

Common Pests & Diseases

Shepherdia is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by spider mites, scale insects, and leaf spot. Spider mites and scale insects can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. Leaf spot can be controlled by removing infected leaves and improving air circulation around the plant.

Habitat

Shepherdia is native to North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including prairies, woodlands, and riparian areas. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.

Question and Answer

Q: Are the berries of Shepherdia edible?
A: Yes, the berries are edible but sour. They are often used to make jelly or jam.Q: Can Shepherdia tolerate drought conditions?
A: Yes, once established, Shepherdia can tolerate drought conditions.Q: Is Shepherdia resistant to pests and diseases?
A: Yes, Shepherdia is relatively resistant to pests and diseases.Q: What is the hardiness zone for Shepherdia?
A: Shepherdia is hardy in USDA zones 2 to 7.

Related Plants

Here are some related plants to Shepherdia:

• Elaeagnus
• Hippophae
• Myrica
• Viburnum

References

• “Shepherdia.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 9, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281932.
• “Shepherdia argentea.” University of Connecticut Plant Database. Accessed September 9, 2021. https://hort.uconn.edu/detail.php?pid=445.
• “Shepherdia canadensis.” USDA Plants Database. Accessed September 9, 2021. https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=SHCA7.