Amelanchier arborea aka Allegheny Serviceberry

Taxonomy

Amelanchier arborea, also known as downy serviceberry or common serviceberry, is a deciduous tree or large shrub that is native to eastern North America, ranging from the Gulf Coast to Thunder Bay in Ontario and Lake St. John in Quebec, and west to Texas and Minnesota. It can grow up to 20 meters tall and has a smooth, gray bark. Its ovate or elliptical leaves are finely serrated with pointed tips and emerge downy on the underside. In early spring, it produces 5-petaled, white flowers in drooping clusters before the leaves appear. These are followed by small, green berries that turn red and eventually mature to a dark purplish-black in early summer. The edible fruit resembles blueberries in size and color and is popular in pies, jams, and jellies. Over 40 species of birds and various mammals also enjoy the fruit. Other common names for Amelanchier arborea include "shadberries" due to their blossoming coinciding with the shad runs in New England, and "Juneberries" because the berries usually set on in June. The tree is also called "Service" or "Sarvice" berries because their blooms mean that the muddy back roads into the "coves and hollers" of Appalachia will soon be passable for circuit-riding preachers and the communities will be able to have Sunday services again. It is a popular houseplant that requires regular watering and well-draining soil. Propagation is by seed, divisions, and grafting.

Common names

Allegheny Serviceberry, Apple Shadbush, Common Serviceberry

How to care for Allegheny Serviceberry

Difficulty

Allegheny Serviceberry presents a moderate level of care, which allows plant enthusiasts with some experience to expand their skills and knowledge.

Water

Allegheny Serviceberry should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Allegheny Serviceberry loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

To ensure optimal growth, the Allegheny Serviceberry prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Toxicity

The toxicity level of this plant has not been officially confirmed by Ploi. If there is a possibility of ingestion of plant material with an uncertain toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a medical professional.

Fertilizer

The growth rate of Allegheny Serviceberry is slow and it doesn't necessitate additional fertilizing. By changing the soil in its pot annually, the plant should be provided with adequate nutrition. It is crucial to keep in mind that plants derive their energy from the sun, not fertilizers.

Region of origin

Allegheny Serviceberry’s native range is Eastern N. America - New Brunswick to Florida, west to Minnesota and Texas.


More info:
Wikipedia