Serviceberry, Downy Serviceberry, Shadbush, Shadblow Serviceberry, Snowy Mespilus
Amelanchier arborea
🌿 Morphology
🌞 Growing conditions
🌍 Origin and family
🌾 Uses
Warning: Despite the care taken in writing this sheet, it is essential to cross-reference sources before using or consuming any plant. When in doubt, consult a qualified professional
Permaculture uses
Serviceberries produce edible fruits that can be eaten fresh, dried, or used in jams, pies, and other baked goods. The fruits are a good source of vitamins and antioxidants. The trees are also valuable for attracting pollinators and wildlife, providing early spring nectar for bees and food for birds and other animals. They can be used in forest gardens or as an understory tree in larger permaculture systems. Some cultivars are selected for superior fruit production or ornamental value.
Permapeople description
Downy Serviceberry is a small tree or large shrub known for its beautiful white flowers in spring and edible berries in summer.
Botanical description
Amelanchier arborea is a deciduous tree or large shrub, typically reaching heights of 15-40 feet. It features smooth, gray bark when young, becoming furrowed with age. The leaves are alternate, simple, oval to oblong-shaped, 2-4 inches long, with finely serrated margins. Young leaves are downy, becoming smooth as they mature. The flowers are white, fragrant, and borne in drooping racemes in early spring. The fruit is a small, round pome, initially red, ripening to dark purple or nearly black in early summer. It prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soil and full sun to partial shade.
Companion planting
Serviceberries benefit from companion planting with nitrogen-fixing plants such as legumes. Avoid planting near plants susceptible to fire blight.
Propagation methods
Serviceberries can be propagated by seed, cuttings, or grafting. Seed propagation requires stratification. Softwood cuttings can be taken in late spring or early summer. Grafting is often used to propagate desirable cultivars.
History and traditions
Native Americans traditionally used serviceberries as a food source, both fresh and dried. The wood was also used for tool handles and other implements. The flowering of serviceberries coincided with the shad runs in rivers, hence the name 'Shadbush'. It has been used in traditional medicine by some cultures.
Usage calendar
Flowering: April-May; Fruit ripening: June-July; Planting: Spring or Fall; Pruning: Late winter or early spring before new growth begins.