juneberry

Juneberry, also known as serviceberry or Saskatoon, refers to several species in the genus Amelanchier. These deciduous trees and shrubs are native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere and are valued for their edible fruit as well as ornamental spring blossoms. Common cultivated species include Amelanchier alnifolia (saskatoon), Amelanchier canadensis (Canadian serviceberry), and Amelanchier lamarckii (European serviceberry).

Description and use: Juneberries are typically small to medium-sized plants, often reaching 3 to 12 meters in height. They have smooth gray bark, oval to elliptical leaves, and produce large clusters of white to pale pink flowers in early spring before leafing out. The fruit is a small pome, usually 6 to 12 millimeters in diameter, ripening to dark blue or purple-black. The berries are sweet-tart and can be eaten fresh or used in jams, jellies, pies, wines, and desserts. Flavor is commonly described as a combination of blueberry and apple.

Cultivation and ecology: Juneberries prefer well-drained soils and full sun to partial shade and are hardy to cold climates (often suitable for USDA zones 2–6). They can be grown as woodland understory plants, ornamentals, or small orchard trees. Flowers attract pollinators, and ripe fruit provides food for birds and mammals. Because several Amelanchier species share common names, local selection and identification influence fruit size, flavor, and hardiness.