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common serviceberry

Scientific Name: Amelanchier arborea

Family: Rosaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Tree, Shrub

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Downy Serviceberry (Amelanchier arborea)

Considerations for Pets

  • The text mentions the presence of fruits (Juneberries), which, while generally considered edible for humans, might pose a choking hazard or digestive upset for pets if consumed in large quantities.

Considerations for Children

  • The text mentions the presence of fruits (Juneberries), which, while generally considered edible for humans, might pose a choking hazard for young children.

Amelanchier arborea, commonly known as downy serviceberry or common serviceberry, is a deciduous tree or tall shrub appreciated for its early spring blooms and attractive form.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Amelanchier arborea (Michx. f.) Fernald
  • Family: Rosaceae (Rose family)
  • Synonym: Mespilus arborea F.
  • Common Names: Downy serviceberry, common serviceberry, shadblow, shadbush, juneberry, sugarberry, sarvis, Indian cherry, Alabama serviceberry, downy juneberry, shadblow, shadberry, sarvisberry, bilberry, Indian pear, sugar plum.
  • The name "arborea" is Latin for "tree-like." The genus name *Amelanchier* is derived from an old French name for *Amelanchier ovalis* (snowy mespilus).

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to eastern North America, ranging from the Gulf Coast north to Thunder Bay in Ontario.
  • Widely distributed across the eastern United States.
  • Frequently found in upland woods.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Typically a tall shrub or small tree, usually 15-25 feet tall, but can grow to 40 feet.
  • Can spread to 20 feet.
  • Deciduous, losing its leaves in the fall.
  • Known for its white flowers that appear early in the spring. The 5 petaled flowers are about 2 inches across and the petals are slightly twisted so that the flower is not flat.
  • Root suckers are common.

Quirky Facts

  • The common name "serviceberry" is said to refer to memorial services held in the spring, coinciding with the tree's blooming period.
  • Serviceberries were an important part of the deities of many Native American tribes.

Cultivation

  • Easily grown in average, medium, well-drained soil in full sun to part shade.
  • Tolerant of a somewhat wide range of soils.
  • Hardiness zones: 2-8, cultivar dependent.