Creeping Snowberry
Symphoricarpos mollis
Last reviewed: August 2026
Symphoricarpos mollis (Creeping Snowberry) is a low-growing native shrub of California that blooms May through July with small white flowers. This drought-tolerant plant attracts bees and butterflies while providing wildlife habitat.
Creeping Snowberry (Symphoricarpos mollis) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs or cats (aspca.org (opens in new tab), last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
Light
part sun
Water
low
Size
12"–36" H × 24"–60" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
CA, NV
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Before you buy
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Creeping snowberry is a low-growing native shrub with delicate arching branches and small rounded leaves. It produces dainty pink flowers in late spring followed by white berries that persist through fall. This adaptable plant forms an attractive groundcover in woodland settings.
Growing Creeping Snowberry
Grow Creeping Snowberry in part sun and low water. Mature plants reach 12 to 36 inches tall and spread 24 to 60 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Creeping Snowberry is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: foundation, mid zone.
- Can look sparse or twiggy during winter dormancy
- May spread beyond intended boundaries if not maintained
- White berries may be considered messy by some
Wildlife value
The flowers attract bees and butterflies during bloom season. Birds feed on the white berries, making this plant valuable for local wildlife.
Common questions
- When does Symphoricarpos mollis bloom?
- Creeping Snowberry blooms from May through July, producing small white or pinkish flowers that attract bees and butterflies.
- What growing conditions does Creeping Snowberry prefer?
- Symphoricarpos mollis thrives in partial sun to light shade with low to moderate water requirements, making it well-suited for drought-tolerant gardens and natural landscapes.
- Where is Symphoricarpos mollis native?
- Creeping Snowberry is native to California, where it grows naturally in chaparral, woodland, and coastal areas.
- Is Creeping Snowberry toxic to dogs?
- Creeping Snowberry is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
- Is Creeping Snowberry toxic to cats?
- Creeping Snowberry is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for cats (aspca.org).
- Is Creeping Snowberry HOA-friendly?
- Creeping Snowberry is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.
These answers were drafted with an AI model from this plant's data. Verify care details with a local expert.
Native range data from the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew). Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Creeping Snowberry? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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