Amelanchier arborea Downy serviceberry

Name: Amelanchier arborea

Common Name: Downy serviceberry

Description: Downy serviceberry is a deciduous, early-flowering, large shrub or small tree. Drooping clusters of showy, slightly fragrant, white flowers appear before the leaves emerge in early spring. Green berries turn red and finally mature to a dark purple-black in early summer. It also exhibits excellent orange to red fall color.

Growth habit: In the landscape it grows 15-25 feet tall, but will grow to 40 feet tall in the wild.

Growth habit and rate: Medium growth rate. It grows 5-6 feet high and 2-4 feet wide.

Landscape Uses: Best in shrub borders, or in woodland, naturalized or native plant gardens. A shaded backdrop will highlight the form, flowers and fall color of the plant. It’s also a good choice along stream banks and ponds. Grows best in full sun to part shade in well-drained acidic soil. It will thrive in a wet site.

Hardiness: USDA Hardiness Zones 4-9.