Coralberry

Symphoricarpos orbiculatus

(Also known as Indian Currant)

 

Coralberry is a partial shade to shade tolerant deciduous shrub that is most known for its clusters of coral-pink to purple berries.  The berries remain on the plant through the winter and are a nice contrast to the greenish-white flowers which bloom in the spring and into the summer. 

Coralberry has slender stems with shreddy bark and green to blue mature leaves which turn red in the fall.  At maturity, coralberry can grow between 2 to 5 feet in height and 2 feet wide and spreading.  It forms extensive colonies and spreads by rooting where it touches the ground.  Coralberry grows well in our alkaline clay soils, is heat tolerant, and is a wildlife attractant.  It can also grow in poor conditions such as exposed soils and renovations sites.

This mound shaped shrub is great addition to woodland gardens, or when used in naturalistic plantings and as a shrub border.  Care can include a strong cut back during the winter for thicker, bushier growth, or prune only to maintain a healthy framework.  Coralberry can be susceptible to mildew.  Several cultivars of coralberry exist.

Coralberry is an excellent choice for shady areas, especially if you would like to attract birds and bees. It has a natural look that fits well in a informal gardens. It will take some sun, but avoid planting it in full sun or harsh, afternoon sun locations.