Amelanchier canadensis
Shadblow, Serviceberry
General
Amelanchier canadensis is most often found as an upright, tightly multi-stemmed shrub. The serviceberries are among the earliest shrubs to flower, and the abundant white flowers are a harbinger of spring. The flowers are valuable to native bees. The black fruits, which ripen in June, are quickly devoured by birds.
Plant Description
Leaves are alternate, simple, oblong 1 ½ to 2 ½” long, ½ to 1 ¼” wide, finely serrated. White flowers in early to mid-spring, and late spring fruits.
Height (ft)
6-20
Spread (ft)
10-20
Soil moisture
Moist, Wet
Soil types
Naturally occurring in bogs and swamps, but adaptable
Wetland indicator
FAC
Shade tolerance
Intermediate
Bloom color
White
Bloom period
Mid Spring
Fall conspicuous
Yes
Anaerobic tolerance
Medium
Drought tolerance
Low
Salinity tolerance
Medium
Self-Pollinating?
Yes
Range
Commonly found along the Eastern seaboard, from Maine to Mississippi.
Kartesz, J.T. 2024. Floristic Synthesis of North America, Version 1.0. Biota of North America Program (BONAP) [website http://bonap.org/]
Additional Information
According to BRIT - Native American Ethnobotany Database, a compound decoction of the inner bark as a disinfectant and the berries are eaten fresh or dried for winter use. When this species blossoms, it has been used as an indicator for when to plant corn.