Buffaloberry (Shepherdia argentea) is a deciduous shrub native to North America, particularly thriving in the Great Plains and the Rocky Mountains. It plays a crucial role in agroecology and regenerative agriculture due to its nitrogen-fixing ability, which enhances soil fertility. As a pioneer species, it is ideal for land restoration projects and can establish in poor, sandy, or rocky soils. Buffaloberry is a valuable component of food forests, serving as a shrub layer that supports biodiversity. It provides habitat and food for wildlife, including birds and pollinators. Historically, Indigenous peoples utilized the berries for food and medicinal purposes. In guild design, it pairs well with other nitrogen-fixing plants and deep-rooted species that can access nutrients from lower soil layers.
Growing Details
Buffaloberry thrives in full sun and well-drained soils. It is tolerant of drought and poor soil conditions, making it suitable for challenging environments. For optimal growth, prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter to improve drainage and fertility. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants include deep-rooted species like comfrey and other nitrogen-fixers such as clover. Common mistakes include overwatering and planting in overly shaded area
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Shepherdia argentea</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Native to North America, particularly the Gre
applicable geo region: North America
language used: en
Flowering:
beginning
of May for 30 days
Harvest:
beginning
of August for 60 days
Seed Start:
?
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(3/5)
edible uses: The bright red berries of Buffaloberry are edible and can be consumed raw or cooked. They are commonly used in jellies, sauces, and wines due to their tart flavor and high vitamin C content. The berries are best harvested in late summer to early fall when they are fully ripe. Caution is advised as they can be astringent and may cause stomach upset if consumed in large quantities.
Medicinal Rating:
(2/5)
medicinal uses: Buffaloberry has been traditionally used by Indigenous peoples to treat digestive issues and as a topical treatment for skin conditions. The berries and leaves can be used in poultices or teas, but should be used with care due to their astringent properties.
health concerns: The berries should be consumed in moderation as they can be astringent and may cause stomach upset if eaten in large quantities.
other uses: Buffaloberry can be used as a nitrogen-fixing plant in agroforestry systems. Its dense growth makes it suitable for erosion control and as a windbreak. It also serves as a habitat for beneficial insects and wildlife.
Scientific Literature
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Botanical data
specie: Shepherdia argentea
common names: Buffaloberry; Silver Buffaloberry; Thorny Buf
family: Elaeagnaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Shepherdia
Growing Conditions
area needed: 4.0 m
spacing: 2.0 m
growing difficulty: Low
Deciduous / Evergreen: Evergreen
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 20ยฐC / 15ยฐC / 25ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 20ยฐC / -40ยฐC / 35ยฐC
water demands: Low
humidity:
light demands: High
root type: Medium
frost tender: Low
hardness:โโโโโโโโโโ(3/10)
first harvest: 3 years
life span: 50 years
succession: Pioneer
growth rate: Medium
max height: 6.0 m
max width: 4.0 m
soil preference:
Poor Soil
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Dioecious
growth details: Buffaloberry thrives in full sun and well-drained soils. It is tolerant of drought and poor soil conditions, making it suitable for challenging environments. For optimal growth, prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter to improve drainage and fertility. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants include deep-rooted species like comfrey and other nitrogen-fixers such as clover. Common mistakes include overwatering and planting in overly shaded area
Potential Disturbances: Buffaloberry is relatively pest-resistant but can occasionally be affected by aphids and scale insects. Introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings to control aphid populations. Planting garlic or chives nearby can help repel pests. Neem oil can be used as an organic spray for scale insects.
Growth Timeline
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