Native Plant Database

Header Photo: Mervin Wallace

Serviceberry

Amelanchier arborea
Plant Type: Shrubs
Native Environment: Forest
Season of Interest: Mid (May - June), Late (July - frost)
Main Color: White
Fall Color: Gold, Orange

USDA PLANTS Range Map

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Serviceberry with white flowers.
Photo: www.HenryDomke.com.
Sun Exposure 
Full Sun, Medium Sun/Average Shade
Soil
Moisture
Moderate
Nature Attracting
Pollinators/Beneficial Insects, Songbirds
Wildlife Benefit
Food/Birds, Food/Pollinators, Food/Small Animals, Nesting
Animal
Resistance
Size

Height:

15 to
30
feet

Spread:

15 to
20
feet
Size
Height: 15 to
30
feet
Spread: 15 to
20
feet
Size
Height: 15 to
30
feet
Spread: 15 to
20
feet
Typical Landscape Use
This is a fine shrub/small tree for naturalizing at the edge of a woodland or planting in a shaded garden or in full sun.
Establishment and Care Instructions
In its native habitat, serviceberry is an understory tree in dry wooded areas or edge of wooded areas, but in cultivation it grows in moist or dry conditions but performs best in moist, well-drained soil.
Special Features
Special Usage
Edible
Basic Description

Tall shrub or small tree bearing clusters of fragrant white flowers in April. Flowers give rise to very flavorful, red to purple-black, berrylike fruits relished by both songbirds and people. This lovely tree has colorful fall foliage in a blend of orange, gold, red and green. Note: This resource on this edible plant is intended as general information only. As with any foods, there is a potential for allergic reactions when consuming native edibles. Always seek the advice of a health professional with any questions about touching or eating any plant matter.

Closeup of white serviceberry flowers.

Serviceberry flowers. Photo: www.HenryDomke.com.

Orange fall foliage of serviceberry.

Serviceberry, fall color. Photo: www.HenryDomke.com.

American Robin with serviceberry fruit in its mouth.

American Robin eating serviceberry. Photo: Mervin Wallace.

 

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Where Can I Find This Plant in Nature?

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