Serviceberry, Shadblow Serviceberry
amelanchier canadensis
Also known as: ["Shadblow","Shadbush","Juneberry","Saskatoon"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub or small tree native to eastern North America, valued for its edible fruits, attractive flowers, and autumn foliage.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","seasonal color change"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Genus: | Amelanchier |
| Botanical Name: | Amelanchier canadensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: mixed borders, woodland edges, or as a specimen plant in a garden
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–34–43°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if grown in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Moderate to fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter. Tolerates sandy or clay soils if amended.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate to heavy, depending on plant age and condition.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates more shade but may produce fewer flowers and fruits.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to full sun if moved from shade. Protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates. Indoor placement requires bright, indirect light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid placing near heat sources.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep roots; avoid waterlogging; prioritize soil moisture over frequent light watering.
Soil
well-drained, loamy, slightly acidic soil
pH: Acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds; avoid compacting soil around roots; test pH every 2–3 years.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 4–8. Prefers temperate climates with cold winters and moderate summers. Tolerates temperatures down to -30°F (-34°C).
Protect from late frosts; water adequately before freezes; avoid placing near drafty windows or heat vents.
Fertilizing
annually in early spring with balanced slow-release fertilizer
Test soil before fertilizing; apply fertilizer to moist soil; water lightly after application.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood cuttings in early summer or seed propagation in fall.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Transplant when rooted.
Best Time: Early summer for cuttings; fall for seeds after fruit ripening.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (65–75°F), and indirect light for cuttings; cold stratification required for seeds.
Medium
Peat and perlite mix for cuttings; well-draining seed starting mix for seeds.
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended for cuttings to improve success rate.
Timeline
Cuttings root in 4–8 weeks; seeds may take 1–2 years to germinate and establish.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, peat/perlite mix, humidity dome, heat mat.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems for cuttings; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of branches; heading back to control size; removal of crossing or crowded stems.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead or diseased wood, and encourage fruiting and flowering. Renewal pruning can rejuvenate older plants.
Tools
Hand pruners, loppers, pruning saw, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune before bud break; remove dead/diseased wood first; make clean cuts just above buds or branches.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim roots if necessary; place in new pot with fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Not typically required for outdoor planting. Container-grown plants may need repotting every 2–3 years to refresh soil and accommodate growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage holes; use fresh soil mix; water after repotting; place in shade for a few days.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal issues. Allow water to drain freely from the soil.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during the growing season, reducing frequency in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to improve structure and fertility; incorporate sand or perlite for drainage in heavy soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch in excessive heat; delayed bud break or flower drop in late frosts; leaf drop or dieback in extreme cold.
Cold Stress
Leaves may curl or turn brown; buds may not open; growth may slow or stop. Generally hardy but prolonged extreme cold without snow cover can damage roots.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base in fall; protect young plants with burlap screens in exposed locations; ensure proper winter hydration.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or premature leaf drop; reduced flowering and fruiting; stunted growth.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering during heatwaves; use mulch to retain soil moisture; avoid fertilizing during extreme heat.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check soil pH; apply fertilizer in spring; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; water after fertilizing.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring before new growth emerges. Avoid over-fertilizing, as Amelanchier is not heavy feeder.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicAmelanchier canadensis berries are not toxic to cats. However, ingestion of large amounts may result in mild gastrointestinal distress due to the fruit's fiber and sugar content.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Dogs
Non-toxicThe berries of Amelanchier canadensis are not considered toxic to dogs. However, large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal upset due to the fruit's natural sugars and fiber content.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Humans
Non-toxicAmelanchier canadensis berries are generally considered non-toxic to humans when consumed in moderation. However, excessive consumption may lead to mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to the high fiber content and natural sugars present in the fruit.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are the fruits of Amelanchier canadensis edible?
A: Yes, the fruits are edible and often used in jams, pies, and other culinary preparations.
Q: Does Amelanchier canadensis attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds, making it a valuable addition to wildlife gardens.
Q: How should I care for Amelanchier canadensis?
A: It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Regular watering is needed, especially during dry periods.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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