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Snowbrush

Ceanothus velutinus

CommonPlant
Illustration of Snowbrush (Ceanothus velutinus)

Snowbrush is a fragrant evergreen shrub of western mountain forests that is a pioneer species after fire or logging, rapidly colonizing disturbed ground. It fixes atmospheric nitrogen, enriching soils for later-successional trees. Its white flower clusters are heavily visited by native bees, and it provides crucial early-season forage for deer and elk.

Habitat
Disturbed mountain slopes, burns, and forest openings in the western US
Diet
Browsed by deer and elk; flowers support native bees in early summer
How common
Common

Best time to see a Snowbrush

The best time to see a Snowbrush is May–July, when about 63% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 8,009 research-grade iNaturalist observations.

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