SafePlants

Cusick's Serviceberry (Amelanchier alnifolia var. cusickii)

Cusick's serviceberry, scientifically known as Amelanchier alnifolia var. cusickii, is a variety of the Saskatoon serviceberry. It is also known by the scientific name Amelanchier cusickii and several common names.

Considerations for Pets

• The plant is a deciduous shrub.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Amelanchier alnifolia (Nutt.) Nutt. ex M. Roem. var. cusickii (Fernald) C.L. Hitchc.
• Synonyms:
  • Amelanchier cusickii Fernald
  • Amelanchier basalticola Piper
  • Amelanchier florida Lindl. var. cusickii (Fern.) M.E. Peck
• Common Names: Cusick's serviceberry, Saskatoon serviceberry, Cusick's shadbush, Western serviceberry
• Family: Rosaceae (Rose Family)
• Genus: Amelanchier
• Species: alnifolia
• Taxonomic Rank: Variety (var. cusickii)

Distribution and Habitat

• Cusick's serviceberry can be found along the Hells Canyon Rim Road in the Hells Canyon National Recreation Area (NRA).
• It is also observed along the Goldendale-Glenwood Road.
• Amelanchier alnifolia var. humptulipensis, a related variety, occurs on the western slope of the Cascade Range in British Columbia and Washington.
• It is native to the United States, including Idaho.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Cusick's serviceberry is a deciduous shrub that typically grows up to 3 meters (approximately 9 feet 10 inches) in height.
• It has pale green leaves on both sides.
• It produces hermaphrodite flowers.

Ecological Role

• It exhibits good to very good fire tolerance and excellent regrowth capabilities, readily resprouting and suckering.

Growing Conditions

• Suitable for light (sandy), medium (loamy), and heavy (clay) soils.
• Tolerant of heavy clay soils and fairly lime-tolerant.