How to Grow Snow Bush Plant - Plant Care & Tips

By NorwichGardener Team   /   2025

Snow bush is a type of plant that is known for its white flowers. This plant is native to the United States and can be found in states like Texas and Louisiana. The snow bush plant grows to be about 3-4 feet tall and has a shrub-like appearance. The flowers of this plant are white and have a small yellow center. The snow bush plant is sometimes used as an ornamental plant in gardens.

How to Grow Snow Bush Plant - Plant Care & Tips

Also known as

  • Mountain snowberry
  • White snowberry
  • Bearberry
  • Kinnikinnick
  • Cowberry

Common Knowledge

  • A snow bush is a type of flowering plant.
  • It is native to East Asia.
  • It is a member of the rose family.
  • Its scientific name is Styrax japonicus.
  • It is also known as the Japanese snowbell.
  • It is a deciduous shrub.
  • It typically grows to a height of 6-8 feet.
  • It has dark green leaves and white flowers.
  • It blooms in late spring or early summer.
  • It is often used as an ornamental plant in gardens.

Related plant:
Hydrangea Runaway Bride Snow White

Growing Steps

  1. For snow bush , first step is to choose the appropriate location and soil.
  2. The next step is to till the soil and remove any rocks or debris.
  3. Next, you will need to add some organic matter to the soil to help the plant grow.
  4. Once the soil is prepared, you can then plant the snow bush seeds.
  5. After planting, water the seeds well and keep the soil moist.
  6. Once the seeds have germinated, thin out the seedlings so that only the healthiest plants remain.
  7. As the plants grow, you will need to fertilize them and keep up with the watering.
  8. Once the plants are established, you can then begin to prune them to the desired shape.
  9. The final step is to enjoy your beautiful snow bush !

Related plant:
Spiraea Snowmound

Soil Condition

About soil condition, snow bush do well in average to poor quality soil that is well drained. They are not choosy about the soil type but prefer a slightly acidic to neutral pH. They are not drought tolerant and need to be watered during prolonged dry periods.

Light condition

Not too different with other desert plants, snow bush needs very little water to survive. In fact, it can go for long periods of time without any water at all. The key to keeping this plant healthy is to make sure it gets enough sun. Snow bush needs at least six hours of direct sunlight each day to thrive. If you live in an area with long winters, you may need to provide supplemental light with a grow light.

Good Temperature

The temperature dropped rapidly and soon the snow was falling heavily outside. The snow bush was covered in a thick layer of snow and looked like a white ball. It was so cold that the snow on the ground was freezing and the air was filled with a thick fog.

Humidity Requirement

Ideal humidity condition for this plant are 50% and above. The snow bush (Euphorbia bupleurifolia) is a small, evergreen shrub that originates from South Africa. It has thick, fleshy leaves that are blue-green in color and have a waxy coating. The flowers are small and yellow, and they bloom in clusters. The snow bush is drought-tolerant and does not require much water. It prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade.

Fertilizing

Discussing fertilizer, usually the plant food is thought of as something that goes on the ground around the plant. However, when it comes to trees and shrubs, much of the fertilizer should be placed in the planting hole with the root ball before the plant is set in the ground. This is especially important for newly planted trees and shrubs.

Plant Pruning

Pruning a snow bush is easy and can be done in a few simple steps. First, cut off any dead or dying branches. If the plant is overgrown, you can also trim back some of the longer branches to encourage new growth. Next, remove any suckers or water sprouts that are growing from the base of the plant. Finally, cut back any branches that are crossing or rubbing against each other.

About Propagating

Propagation is best done by rooting stem cuttings in late spring. Cuttings should be taken from new growth and be 4-6 inches long. Use a sharp, clean knife or pair of shears to make a clean cut just below a node. Remove the lower leaves, leaving 2-3 at the top of the cutting. Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone and plant in a well-draining potting mix. Water well and place in a bright, indirect light location. Keep the soil moist, but not soggy. Cuttings should root within 4-8 weeks. Once roots have developed, transplant to a larger pot or into the garden.

Growth Speed

Usually, the plant growth rate . They can produce new leaves and stems at a rate of about 1 to 2 inches per week. Under ideal conditions, some plants may even grow up to 4 inches in a week. However, the plant's growth will typically slow down during the winter months.

Common Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are Aphids, caterpillars, earwigs, and whiteflies. If you see any of these pests on your plant, you can remove them by hand or with a strong stream of water from the hose. You can also use an insecticide, but make sure to follow the directions on the label.

Basics of Growing

  • Do not forget to water your snow bush regularly.
  • Fertilize your snow bush every month.
  • Prune your snow bush every so often to encourage new growth.
  • Place your snow bush in an area that receives full sun.
  • Be sure to plant your snow bush in well-drained soil.
  • Mulch your snow bush to help retain moisture.
  • Keep an eye out for pests and diseases.
  • Harvest the leaves of your snow bush when they are young and tender.
  • Use a stake to support your snow bush if it becomes too tall.
  • Enjoy the unique beauty of your snow bush all year round!

Similar Plants

  • Sarcococca saligna - Snow Mountain Sweet Box
  • Sarcococca trilobata - Snow Mountain Sweet Box
  • Sarcococca wallichii - Snow Mountain Sweet Box
  • Salix reticulata - Snow Mountain willow
  • Salix reticulata f. aurea - Snow Mountain willow
  • Salix reticulata f. albicans - Snow Mounta

Source:
Living snow fences | UMN Extension - University of Minnesota
Breynia disticha Snowbush - University of Florida
Faculty & Staff | Snow College

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Reviewed & Published by Richelle
Submitted by our contributor
Shrubs Category