Amelanchier laevis (Allegheny Serviceberry)

Amelanchier laevis (Allegheny Serviceberry) is a large deciduous shrub or small multi-trunked tree of dense, fine-textured branching habit with purplish to bronze young leaves. In mid-spring, abundant sprays of small, slightly fragrant, white flowers emerge as the leaves unfurl. Attractive to pollinators, they are followed by small, round, tasty, dark purplish-black berries in early summer. The berries are often used in jams, jellies, and pies if not eaten by the birds. The foliage of smooth, lustrous dark green, oval leaves, turns to brilliant shades of orange and red in the fall. The smooth, gray bark is adorned with white, longitudinal stripes that can be admired in winter. Very easy to grow, Allegheny Serviceberry provides year-round interest in the garden.

• Usually grows up to 15-25 ft. tall and wide (4-8 m) but can reach 40 ft. where happy (12 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. Tolerant of a somewhat wide range of soils.
• 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, and screens. Great in naturalized or native plant gardens.
• Propagate by seed and semi-hardwood cuttings.
• Native to eastern North America.