Start growing
Extremely hardy and low maintenance. Prefers moist, well-drained soil.
GROW SOMETHING WONDERFUL
Amethyst Berry
Symphoricarpos × doorenbosii
Your guide to planting, growing, and getting to know this plant.
THE PLANT NOTEBOOK
Amethyst Berry care, from seed onward.
- Botanical name
- Symphoricarpos × doorenbosii
- Common names
- Snowberry hybrid
- Family
- Caprifoliaceae
- Genus
- Symphoricarpos
- Species
- S. x doorenbosii
Growing with your kit
The Seeds In A Cup® methodology involves watching the 'Winter Jewel' berries develop from the delicate summer blooms.
Propagation
By seed or softwood cuttings.
Seasonal growth & harvest
Berries persist long into winter, providing dramatic cold-season interest.
Growing conditions
Adaptable to various soils; prefers sun to partial shade.
Weather & tolerances
Highly cold tolerant (Zone 4); handles urban pollution well.
Pests & plant health
Anthracnose and powdery mildew.
Plant safety
Berries are not edible for humans; can cause stomach upset if ingested.
Botanical features
A small deciduous shrub with arching branches. Tiny pink flowers are followed by stunning, spherical purple berries.
Varieties
‘Amethyst’, ‘Magic Berry’.
Garden & everyday uses
Ornamental landscaping. excellent for winter interest and floral arrangements
Native range & distribution
Garden hybrid of North American native species.
Conservation
Common garden hybrid.
Name origins
Named for the vibrant amethyst-purple color of its ornamental berries.
History
Developed in the mid-20th century to enhance the berry color of the common snowberry.