Amelanchier ovalis aka Serviceberry
Taxonomy
Amelanchier ovalis, also known as snowy mespilus or serviceberry, is a deciduous shrub or small tree that belongs to the Rosaceae family. Native to central and southern Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East, this compact plant can reach heights of up to 1.5m. Its leaves start off as woolly white when young, gradually maturing to a grey-green color and transforming into shades of orange and red during the autumn season. In spring, upright clusters of white flowers emerge, followed by red berries that eventually ripen into a blue-black hue. These pome fruits are edible and can be enjoyed raw or cooked. Irga round-leaved, another name for Amelanchier ovalis, is a hardy plant that can withstand frost as low as -40 to -50°C, and even tolerate temperatures as low as -5 to -7°C during flowering. It thrives in various soil compositions and acidity levels, preferring sunny locations. Irga round-leaved reproduces through seeds, green cuttings, and root shoots. It has been cultivated since the 16th century for its ornamental qualities and is often used in hedges. This deciduous shrub or small tree has an elongated shape, with young branches covered in whitish, slightly pubescent bark that darkens as it ages. Its ovate leaves have petioles measuring 8-15 mm in length. The straight racemes of snowy white flowers, ranging from 3 to 10 per inflorescence, bloom in late April to May, preceding the emergence of leaves. Insects pollinate the flowers, making it a valuable nectar source for various butterfly species. The plant bears black-blue berries with a bluish waxy coating, which reach diameters of 5-15 mm and ripen between August and September.
Common names
Serviceberry, Snowy MespilusHow to care for Serviceberry
Difficulty
Serviceberry presents a moderate level of care, which allows plant enthusiasts with some experience to expand their skills and knowledge.
Water
Serviceberry should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
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
Serviceberry thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Serviceberry.
Toxicity
Ploi does not possess verified information regarding the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event that you, a member of your family, or a pet ingests plant material with an unclear toxicity level, it is highly recommended to seek the advice of a medical professional.
Fertilizer
The growth of Serviceberry is gradual and it doesn't necessitate any additional fertilizers. Replacing the soil in its pot once a year should suffice to provide the plant with sufficient nutrition. It's important to keep in mind that plants derive their energy from the sun's rays, not fertilizers.
Region of origin
Serviceberry’s native range is C. and S. Europe.
More info:
Wikipedia
More Species in Amelanchier Genus

Amelanchier intermedia Intermediate Shadbush
Amelanchier parviflora

Amelanchier alnifolia Saskatoon

Amelanchier laevis Smooth Shadbush

Amelanchier Shadbush
Amelanchier ovalis integrifolia

Amelanchier sanguinea Huron Serviceberry

Amelanchier stolonifera Running Serviceberry

Amelanchier lamarckii Juneberry
