Amelanchier canadensis
Shadblow Serviceberry, Serviceberry
Commonly known as Shadblow Serviceberry, this is a small tree grown for its spring flowering and impressive autumn colours. The leaves emerge a light green in spring, age to become dark green, then turn brilliant shades of red and orange in autumn before falling. Masses of pretty, white flowers coat the tree in spring before the leaves emerge. The mildly fragrant flowers are followed by edible, blue-black berries which are great for attracting birds. It grows with a rounded crown to about 4 m tall and 3 m wide, performing best when planted in full sun or partial shade on a well-drained site. It is tolerant of frost, cool climates, and most soil conditions except the extremes of wet and dry. This tree is commonly grown as a specimen, maintained in a courtyard garden, included in a mixed planting, or planted alongside water features. This is both a versatile and easy tree to grow that is highly rewarding.
