Amelanchier canadensis (Canadian Serviceberry)

Amelanchier canadensis (Canadian Serviceberry) is a dense, upright, multi-stemmed large shrub or small tree with a delicate, dome-shaped crown. In mid-spring, attractive erect sprays of small, slightly fragrant, white, star-shaped flowers emerge just before the leaves. They are attractive to pollinators and followed by small, edible, blue-black berries in early summer. The berries are used in jams, jellies, and pies and are appreciated by birds and humans.

Serviceberry trees are a beacon for a diverse array of bird species, notably the American Robin, Baltimore Oriole, Cedar Waxwing, Eastern Bluebird, Mourning Dove, Northern Cardinal, Northern Mockingbird, and various warblers. With their nutritious berries and welcoming branches, serviceberries provide vital sustenance and habitat.

The foliage of mid-green, finely toothed, oval leaves turns to brilliant shades of yellow, orange, and red in the fall. The plant remains attractive even after the leaves drop, thanks to its elegant growth habit and light gray bark adorned with charcoal-gray striations. A terrific plant with four seasons of interest to use around ponds, lakes, and streams or in boggy or marshy ground.

• Grows up to 25-30 ft. tall (7-9 m) and 15-20 ft. wide (4-6 m)
• A full sun to part shade lover, this plant is easily grown in moist, well-drained, acidic soils. Best berry production and fall color occur in full sun. Adaptable to both wet and dry sites and various soil types.
• Low maintenance, this plant is also generally pest and disease free, but keep an eye out for fire blight.
• Perfect as a specimen plant, hedges, screens, or for banks and slopes. It can be used for erosion control. Great in naturalized or native plant gardens or along stream banks and ponds.
• Propagate by seed and semi-hardwood cuttings or remove suckers in winter.
• Native to eastern North America.