SafePlants

Snowy Mespilus (Amelanchier ovalis)

Amelanchier ovalis, commonly known as snowy mespilus, is a deciduous shrub also known as serviceberry, shadbush, shadwood or shadblow, wild pear, juneberry, or saskatoon. Its pome fruits are edible and can be eaten raw or cooked.

Considerations for Pets

• The plant is a shrub.
• Fruits can be small enough to be a choking hazard.

Considerations for Children

• The plant is a shrub.
• Fruits can be small enough to be a choking hazard.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Amelanchier ovalis Medik.
• Family: Rosaceae (Rose family)
• Synonyms:
  • Amelanchier vulgaris Moench
  • Amelanchier rotundifolia Dum. Cs.
  • Aronia rotundifolia Pers.
  • Mespilus amelanchier L.
  • Sorbus
  • Amelanchus ovalis (Medik.) T.Mll. ex Vollm.
• Taxonomic Rank: Species. Subspecies: Amelanchier ovalis subsp. ovalis. Subvariety: Amelanchier ovalis subvar. comafredensis O.Bols & Vigo.

Distribution and Habitat

Amelanchier ovalis is native to Europe and is widely distributed in Central Europe. It prefers a rich, loamy soil and a sunny or semi-shaded position. It is found in various locations, including Tempio Pausania (SP51) and is suitable for hardiness zone (UK) 5.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Amelanchier ovalis is a deciduous shrub that grows to a height of approximately 5 meters (16 ft 5 in) at a slow rate.
• It flowers in May, producing clusters of white flowers.
• The plant's leaf epidermis structure has been studied using light and scanning electron microscopy.