Saskatoon Serviceberry
Saskatoon Serviceberry is a large, multi-stemmed, mounding native shrub.
In spring, small white flowers appear briefly in clusters and are followed by fruit that turns from red to purple. Its fruit are similar to blueberries, great for fresh eating and attracting wildlife (especially birds).
Summer leaves are medium to dark green turning to shades of yellow and orange in the autumn. Saskatoon serviceberry is a common native shrub in Colorado, most often seen in mountain forests.
Saskatoon Serviceberry
Saskatoon Serviceberry is a large, multi-stemmed, mounding native shrub.
In spring, small white flowers appear briefly in clusters and are followed by fruit that turns from red to purple. Its fruit are similar to blueberries, great for fresh eating and attracting wildlife (especially birds).
Summer leaves are medium to dark green turning to shades of yellow and orange in the autumn. Saskatoon serviceberry is a common native shrub in Colorado, most often seen in mountain forests.
Plant details
Botanic Name
Amelanchier alnifolia
Pronunciation
am-uh-LAN-kee-er al-nee-FOH-lee-uh
Mature Height
10 to 15 ft.
Mature Spread
10 to 30 ft.
Water usage
One Droplet: Water twice per month or less, once established.
Two Droplets: Water about once per week, once established.
Three Droplets: Water about twice per week, once established.
Flower Color
white
Bloom time
mid- to late spring
Colorado Native
Yes
Natural Habitat
northwestern North America
Light Requirements
sun, part shade
Cold Hardiness
USDA zones 4-9
Elevation Limit
hardy to 10,000 ft.
Performance
Saskatoon serviceberry has grown at the Water Wise Demonstration Garden for many years. It is a tough, drought tolerant shrub that has great value due to its spring flowers, edible fruit and bright fall color.
Birds love the fruit. Grows best when spaced away from other plants.
Maintenance
Prune as needed to remove dead and damaged branches. May need to be pruned when young to achieve a desirable shape when mature.