Amelanchier canadensis

Serviceberry / Shadbush

One of the first native trees with showy flowers to bloom, serviceberry has slightly fragrant, white flowers in drooping clusters that are quite conspicuous because they appear before the leaves emerge. The nectar attracts butterflies and other pollinators. Flowers give rise to very flavorful, purple-black, berrylike fruits relished by both songbirds and people. Edible berries resemble blueberries in size and color and can be used in jams, jellies and pies. The colorful fall foliage is a blend of orange, gold, red and green.

Benefits

	Very early to bloom
	Nectar attracts butterflies and other pollinators
	Provides first crop of native berries for robins, bluebirds and other fruit eating birds
	Handsome landscape plant that grows well in moist soil
	Good fall color

Homeowner Growing and Maintenance Tips

Easy to grow in full sun or part shade.

Plant in medium wet, well-drained soil. Adapts to moist or dry conditions but performs best in moist, well-drained soil.

Root suckers are common, and if not removed, will result in a shrubby growth habit for the plant.

Removal of smaller shoots allows for training as a small tree.

Height 15-20 Feet

Spread 8-12 Feet

Native Range Within 200 miles of the Atlantic Coast from Newfoundland to Mississippi. Distribution Maps by State and County

Native Trivia Researchers have documented at least 26 different types of wildlife feed on this plant. It is especially popular with songbirds starting in June when it's fruit reaches maturity.

USDA Hardiness Zone 4-9

"This plant thrives in the moist areas where us frogs live, but it's very adaptable."

Good Companions Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis), Pennsylvania Sedge (Carex pensylvanica), Labrador Violet (Viola labradorica)

Characteristics & Attributes

Plan Sub Group • Deciduous Trees	Exposure • Filtered Shade • Sun	Soil Moisture Preference • Moist but well-drained • Moist • Average	Attracts Wildlife • Songbirds • Amphibians • Butterflies
Bloom Time • Early Spring	Habitat Collection • Butterfly • Wet Sun • Songbird	Foliage Color • Green