SafePlants

Gaspe Serviceberry (Amelanchier sanguinea var. gaspensis)

The Gaspe serviceberry is a shrub or small tree found in northern regions. It is listed as Special Concern in Maine.

Considerations for Pets and Children

• The text mentions that the fruit is edible and readily consumed by birds.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Amelanchier sanguinea var. gaspensis
• Common Names: Gaspe serviceberry, Gaspe shadbush, Gasp serviceberry
• Synonyms: Amelanchier gaspensis (Wiegand) Fernald &amp Weath.
• Family: Rosaceae (Rose Family)
• Genus: Amelanchier
• Species: sanguinea
• Taxonomic Rank: Subspecies (var. gaspensis)

Distribution and Habitat

• The Gaspe serviceberry is found in the Gaspé Peninsula of Quebec and extends from Nova Scotia and the Gaspé Peninsula of Quebec south to Minnesota, Iowa, and eastern Kansas. Its natural range extends from south-central Saskatchewan to the Gaspé Peninsula of Quebec and New England.
• Specific locations mentioned include Maine, Quebec (Gaspe Peninsula), and regions around Lake Superior.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Amelanchier sanguinea is a deciduous shrub that grows up to 3 meters (approximately 9 feet 10 inches) tall.
• It flowers in April and is hardy to zone (UK) 4, meaning it is not frost tender.

Ecological Role

• The text indicates the serviceberry is consumed by black bears in the Gaspésie Park.

Quirky Facts

• The text suggests that large-scale cultivation of the serviceberry in the Gaspé region could lead to the creation or consolidation of approximately twenty agricultural businesses.
• Historically, the Gaspé region has seen cultivation of serviceberry in combination with other crops like winter squash.

Further Information

• Encyclopedia of Life is referenced as a resource for information on Amelanchier gaspensis.