Family: Caprifoliaceae
Author: A.Gray
Bibliography: Smithsonian Contr. Knowl. 5(6): 66 (1853)
Year: 1853
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Symphoricarpos
Vegetable: False
Observations: SW. & WC. to N. Mexico
Description
The roundleaf snowberry, botanically known as Symphoricarpos rotundifolius, is a fascinating member of the Caprifoliaceae family. This plant was first formally described by the eminent botanist A. Gray in a scholarly publication from 1853, specifically in the Smithsonian Contributions to Knowledge (volume 5, issue 6, page 66).
The roundleaf snowberry is primarily observed in the southwestern and west-central regions of the United States, extending its reach into northern Mexico. It thrives in these locations, contributing to the rich biodiversity of the area.
This deciduous shrub is known for its distinctive round leaves, which serve as its namesake. The plant is particularly valued for its ornamental qualities, characterized by small, delicate flowers that bloom in clusters. Following the flowering period, it produces white, berry-like fruits that persist into the winter, providing visual interest during colder months and serving as a food source for a variety of bird species.
Its hardy nature and adaptability to different soil types and conditions make it a resilient addition to gardens and natural landscapes. The roundleaf snowberry not only adds aesthetic value but also plays a crucial role in supporting local ecosystems by offering habitat and nourishment to wildlife.
In conclusion, Symphoricarpos rotundifolius, with its unique round leaves and characteristic berries, stands out as a significant plant within the Caprifoliaceae family. Its presence from the southwestern and west-central United States to northern Mexico highlights its adaptability and ecological importance.
Common Names
Eng: coralberry, roundleaf snowberry, round-leaved snowberry
Fra: symphorine à feuilles rondes
En: Roundleaf snowberry, Coralberry, Round-leaved snowberry
Ar: حب الثلج مستدير الأوراق
Bg: Кръглолистен снежноплодник
Fr: Symphorine à feuilles rondes
Ru: Снежноягодник круглолистный
Synonyms
- Symphoricarpos glabratus (Eastw.)
- Symphoricarpos glaucus (Eastw.)
- Symphoricarpos rotundifolius var. vaccinioides ((Rydb.) A.Nelson)
- Symphoricarpos montanus (S.Watson)
- Symphoricarpos oreophilus var. utahensis ((Rydb.) A.Nelson)
- Symphoricarpos parvifolius (Eastw.)
- Symphoricarpos utahensis (Rydb.)
- Symphoricarpos vaccinioides (Rydb.)
- Symphoricarpos austiniae (Eastw.)
- Symphoricarpos tetonensis (A.Nelson)
Distribution
- Arizona (native)
- British Columbia (native)
- California (native)
- Colorado (native)
- Idaho (native)
- Mexico Northeast (native)
- Mexico Northwest (native)
- Montana (native)
- Nevada (native)
- New Mexico (native)
- Oklahoma (native)
- Oregon (native)
- Texas (native)
- Utah (native)
- Washington (native)
- Wyoming (native)
Additional Images
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Leaf
Taken Jun 9, 2022 by Muscariaman (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 9, 2022 by Muscariaman (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 3, 2019 by Steph (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 3, 2022 by Lisa Schmidt (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 6, 2022 by M Kim (cc-by-sa)
Flower
Taken Jun 27, 2008 by EOL − Barry Breckling (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Jul 15, 2014 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jul 15, 2014 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jul 15, 2014 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)
Taken Aug 6, 2022 by M Kim (cc-by-sa)
Fruit
Taken Jul 15, 2014 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)
Taken Sep 3, 2020 by Tami Folkert (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 21, 2015 by EOL − paloma (cc-by-nc)
Taken Aug 30, 2017 by Tara Conler (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 26, 2017 by Tara Conler (cc-by-sa)
Bark
Taken Aug 30, 2017 by Tara Conler (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Sep 22, 2006 by EOL − Steven Thorsted (cc-by-nc)
Taken Nov 22, 1999 by EOL − William R. Hewlett (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Oct 12, 2001 by EOL − Steven Thorsted (cc-by-nc)
Taken Aug 21, 2015 by EOL − paloma (cc-by-nc)
Taken Aug 6, 2014 by EOL − Jennifer Rycenga (cc-by-nc)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2888638)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:149477-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Symphoricarpos rotundifolius A. Gray)
Specifications
Growth form>: Rhizomatous
Growth habit>: Shrub
Growth rate>: Moderate
Growth
Ph maximum: 7.5
Ph minimum: 5.2