SafePlants

Saskatoon Serviceberry (Amelanchier alnifolia)

The Saskatoon serviceberry, scientifically known as Amelanchier alnifolia, is a versatile and attractive deciduous shrub or small tree. It is prized for its hardiness and adaptability to various environments.

Common Names

• Saskatoon
• Pacific Serviceberry
• Western Serviceberry
• Alder-leaf Shadbush
• Dwarf Shadbush
• Chuckley Pear
• Western Juneberry

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Amelanchier alnifolia (Nutt.) Nutt. ex M. Roem.
• Family: Rosaceae (Rose Family)
• Kingdom: Plantae
• Taxonomic Rank: Species; also mentioned: Subspecies (var. semiintegrifolia)
• Synonyms: Amelanchier florida Lindl., Amelanchier interior E.L. Nielsen

Considerations for Pets

• The text mentions berries that are sweet and juicy.
• The plant can grow into a shrub with multiple trunks.

Considerations for Children

• The text mentions berries that are sweet and juicy.
• The plant can grow into a shrub with multiple trunks.

Distribution and Habitat

• The Saskatoon serviceberry is extremely hardy, ranging from the Pacific coast to the prairies.
• It is native to western and central North America.
• It is often found on dry sites, near salt water, and in moist forests in the Pacific Northwest.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• It is a deciduous shrub, growing to approximately 3 meters (9-10 feet), though sometimes larger, reaching 18 feet in height.
• It exhibits a slow growth rate.
• Roots spread out, forming colonies of gray to reddish-brown branched bushes.
• Leaves are alternate and simple.
• The plant features star-shaped white flowers in clusters.

Ecological Role

• The text suggests the presence of *Gymnosporangium* (possibly *nelsonii*) on serviceberry, indicating its role as a host for this fungus.

Ethnobotanical Information

• Saskatoon serviceberry was used by native populations and early settlers.