Serviceberry or Juneberry (Amelanchier alnifolia) (gallon pot)

Description

This is the native serviceberry/juneberry, also known as Saskatoon. The berries are referred to as Saskatoons. There are many species and cultivars of Serviceberries/Juneberrie; A. alnifolia is known for its prolificness and the quality of the berries – large and tasty and juicy!

Serviceberries are gorgeous spring flowering shrubs or small trees (around 8-10 feet tall) getting masses of white flowers. Berries start ripening in June or July. Berries look like blueberries, I suppose, but taste very different – but delicious. Best eaten fresh, store Ok frozen.

Super Hardy to at least -40°F. Birds do LOVE the berries – they are waiting for them to ripen just as you are … so keep an eye on them or cover with floating row cover or bird netting.

Grows best in full sun – likes plenty of compost/humus and well-drained soil.

Robin Wall Kimmerer has written a delightful book, The Serviceberry: Abundance and Reciprocity in the Natural World – that is definitely an inspiration for planting a Serviceberry bush or two!