Shepherdia - Growing Guide
Growing Shepherdia argentea
Buffalo berry
These deciduous shrubs are related to Eleagnus and Hippophae which originate from north America. These plants are perfect for exposed coastal locations or windy locations generally as are Hippophae and Eleagnus.
S. argentea has an upright and bushy habit which can become tree-like with oblong silvery leaves which are covered in slivery scales. It produces tiny and insignificant yellow-green flowers which are followed on female plants by ovoid bright red fruits. Although these taste filthy and bitter these were originally used by native Americans to make a sauce to accompany buffalo meat.
The ultimate height of this plant is around 10-12ft. While it may be an unspectacular ornamental plant it certainly has its uses in a coastal shelterbelt planting alongside its related genus.
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