Juneberry, Serviceberry, Snowy Mespilus, Amelanchier
Amelanchier lamarckii
🌿 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
Edible berries are used in jams, pies, and fresh eating. The plant attracts pollinators and beneficial insects. It can be used as a windbreak or hedgerow. Certain cultivars are known for larger, sweeter berries. The wood can be used for small woodworking projects.
Permapeople description
A deciduous shrub or small tree with showy white flowers in spring, followed by edible red berries in summer. It has attractive bronze-red new foliage.
Botanical description
Amelanchier lamarckii is a deciduous shrub or small tree, typically reaching 20-30 feet in height. It features smooth gray bark when young, becoming more furrowed with age. The leaves are elliptical, finely toothed, and bronze-colored when they emerge, turning green in summer and red and orange in the fall. White, star-shaped flowers appear in spring in drooping racemes. The fruits are small, round, and red, ripening to dark purple or nearly black in early summer. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
Companion planting
Generally compatible with other woodland plants. Avoid planting near plants susceptible to cedar-apple rust, as Amelanchier can be an alternate host. Benefits from planting with pollinator-attracting plants.
Propagation methods
Seed propagation requires stratification. Softwood cuttings can be taken in summer. Root suckers can also be used for propagation. Grafting onto related rootstock is also possible.
History and traditions
Native to eastern North America, Amelanchier species were used by Native American tribes for food and medicine. The berries were an important part of their diet, and the bark was used for medicinal purposes. European settlers adopted the plant for ornamental and culinary uses.
Usage calendar
Flowering occurs in April-May. Fruit ripens in June-July. Planting is best done in fall or early spring. Pruning can be done in late winter or early spring to remove dead or crossing branches.