Amelanchier laevis

Description

Native to the eastern half of the United States, this rarely offered serviceberry is admired for its showy white flowers that appear as the leaves begin to unfurl, usually in mid to late April. Each single white blossom resembles those of cherry, apple or hawthorne, all with whom it is related. In mid summer, the purple/black fruits ripen and are eagerly eaten by birds. Pick your berries before the birds take them and make a first-class serviceberry pie – considered by many to be superior to blueberry pie! Fall color completes the year with firey shades of orange-reds. Amelanchier laevis prefers to grow in those partial sun/shade situations along woodland edges, against large conifers, or planted in informal groupings. Tolerant of many soil types, it thrives in moist, well-drained soils that do not dry out. Pruning is rarely required. The Allegheny seviceberry is reportedly resistant to fireblight.