Scientific name: Shepherdia canadensis
Synonym: Elaeagnus canadensis, Hippophae canadensis, Lepargyrea canadensis
Family: ELAEAGNACEAE
Common names: “Soap berry” “buffalo berry”
Plant Type: Deciduous shrub
Conditions:
Zone: 2-6
Light: Full sun – part shade
Exposure: Exposed or sheltered, less common in humid coastal regions
Soil: Average – poor, tolerates alkalinity
Moisture: Moist – dry well drained, handles some drought
Aesthetic:
Plant Size: 4-6′ H & W
Leaf and Stem shape: opposite branches and leaves, with silver hairs and rust-colored dots covering the underside
Flower: Inconspicuous yellowish flowers below joints of unopened leaves followed by translucent, red or orange, oval fruits with one stony seed
Pruning: Minimal
Maintenance: Low
Landscape use: Hedges, shrub border, windbreaks, erosion control
Propagate: By cuttings, seed and layering
Pests & Disease: Deer, powdery mildew and rust maybe
Comments: North American native, used by first nations, not recommended for eating as the berries contain saponins which can be toxic in large doses but they have a sweet-bitter taste, nitrogen fixer, berries can be used as a soap alternative
