How to Grow a Snow Wreath

The snow wreath (Neviusia alabamensis) is an unusual novelty shrub that just wants some respect. Showy white midspring flowers highlight this Alabama native, but while not quite the bloomer that forsythia is, snow wreath deserves a chance to win your heart.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Determine a good planting site. A place with moist, well-drained soil that receives full sun or partial shade will suite the snow wreath well. The shrub grows in an upright position form 6- to 8-feet tall and equally as wide with free-form arching branches.

2. Ready the shrub for planting. Containerized or balled and burlapped specimens can be found at garden centers or nurseries. Remove any twine around the branches used in transport. Cut any wire and trim half the burlap covering the rootball.

3. Clear the planting area of any unwanted organic matter, such as weeds and garden debris. Dig the planting hole 3 to 4 times the width of the container or rootball and equal to the depth at which the shrub was growing.

4. Position the snow wreath in the planting hole making sure it is straight. Add a small portion of the original soil to secure the shrub. Fill the planting hole with water and the rootball. Backfill the remaining soil and water again deeply.

5. Mulch the planting area. To prevent weeds and help the soil retain moisture, spread 3 to 4 inches of commercial mulch or other organic material over the entire planting area. "Dressing" the site lends a professional, finished touch to the landscape.

Tips & Warnings

• The snow wreath is a slow-growing deciduous shrub that grows well in Hardiness Zones 5 through 8. The shrub's leaves are oblongs about 1.5- to 3- inches long and toothed. Their color lasts until the leaves drop in fall.
• Flowers of the snow wreath have many long stamen that make the shrub appear feathery. Mass planting the shrub can provide a dramatic affect in a spring garden.
• Prune the snow wreath after it blooms in spring so that it doesn't look straggly.