Roundleaf Buffaloberry
An absolutely stunning shrub native to southern Utah and Arizona, the Roundleaf Buffaloberry (Shepherdia rotundifolia) is a rare and threatened species that looks like molten silver frozen in botanical form. Named buffalo berry for its edible berries that have been used to flavor buffalo meat. It is quite a sight to behold in the wild and has long been as much adored as it is difficult to cultivate. Though others in its genus and family (Eleagnaceae) are quite easy to propagate and grow in garden settings, this one has proven difficult for many a green thumb across the West. We’re trying our hand at it as well and offering young cutting grown plants, but making no guarantee on their long term survival. Cuttings are unsexed, so could be either male or female, though most growers will be happy if they can just get this finicky beauty to survive.
Latin Name: Shepherdia rotundifolia
Site and Soil: Well draining soil in full sun. Adding limestone for a slightly alkaline environment might help better replicate the soils it’s native to
Pollination Requirements: Dioecious, requires male and female plants to set fruit
Hardiness: Hardy to around -20º F.
Size at Maturity: 3-6 ft. in height. and spreading
Bloom Time: Spring
Ripening Time: Summer
Pests & Diseases: None known to us
USDA Zone: 5