Symphoricarpos Albus

Description

During early summer, the clusters of green-white to pink flowers start to bloom amongst the attractive blue-green leaves, followed by clusters of white, conspicuous, round fruits, 1-2cm in diameter, which persist into the autumn. This bushy, rounded shrub can make a fast-growing, multi-stemmed deciduous hedge which spreads by suckers underground. It is an important winter food source for quail, pheasant, and grouse, but is considered poisonous to humans, as the berries contain the isoquinoline alkaloid chelidonine, as well as other alkaloids and should not be eaten. Ingesting the berries causes mild symptoms of vomiting, dizziness, and slight sedation in children.

Sowing Advice

Seeds have already been thoroughly cleaned and cold-stored for several months. Sow into well-drained, sandy compost at any time of year, cover to their own depth with sand or grit. No artificial heat is needed; seed tray is best left in a cool protected spot and kept moist. Seeds usually germinate in spring, regardless of when sown.

Key Facts