Symphoricarpos mollis

Symphoricarpos mollis, also known as Creeping Snowberry or False Meetia, is a species of flowering plant in the honeysuckle family. It is native to the western United States and Canada, where it is found in a variety of habitats, including chaparral, oak woodland, and coniferous forests.

Description

Symphoricarpos mollis is a deciduous shrub that typically grows to a height of 1–3 feet. It has a creeping habit, with stems that spread along the ground and root at the nodes. The leaves are opposite, oval to round in shape, and 1–3 cm long. The flowers are small, bell-shaped, and pink to white in color. The fruit is a small, white berry that is often tinged with pink.

Distribution and habitat

Symphoricarpos mollis is native to the western United States, from Washington to California, and east to Nevada and Idaho. It is also found in British Columbia in Canada. It grows in a variety of habitats, including chaparral, oak woodland, and coniferous forests, at elevations of 0–2,500 meters.

Ecology

The berries of Symphoricarpos mollis are eaten by a variety of birds and mammals, including grouse, quail, and bears. The plant also provides cover for small mammals and birds.

Cultivation

Symphoricarpos mollis is not commonly cultivated, but it can be grown in gardens that mimic its natural habitat. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. It is drought-tolerant once established.

Taxonomy

The genus name Symphoricarpos comes from the Greek words symphorein (to bear together) and karpos (fruit), referring to the clustered fruit. The species name mollis means soft or tender, possibly referring to the soft hairs on the leaves and stems.

References

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