Amelanchier laevis (Allegheny Serviceberry) Unity Grown

Amelanchier laevis, also called Allegheny serviceberry, is a deciduous small tree or large shrub which is native to thickets, woodland edges, and forest understory areas in eastern North America. Slightly larger than other serviceberry species, Allegheny serviceberry can grow to a mature size of 15-40' tall and wide, and typically grows in a multi-stemmed habit. Like other serviceberries, Amelanchier laevis produces showy, lightly fragrant, white flowers in the spring before the plant's leaves emerge; these flowers are attractive to a wide variety of pollinators including butterflies and bees.

In the late spring and early summer, Allegheny serviceberry produces its namesake fruits: small, blue to purple-black edible berries, with a taste similar to blueberry and blackberry. Berries are highly sought after by birds and small mammals, but are also delicious and usable raw or cooked in pies and jams. Somewhat sensitive to drought, Allegheny serviceberry prefers moist, acidic, well-drained loamy soils, but will tolerate a range of soil types and textures. Amelanchier laevis tolerates full sun and partial shade, and can be used in the home garden in a variety of ways mimicking its natural habitat.