Serviceberry serviceberry Serviceberry is a hardy, multi-stemmed shrub or small tree grown for abundant white spring blossom and sweet, blueberry-like berries rich in anthocyanins. Amelanchier alnifolia (Saskatoon) is most used for fruit, with cultivars like ‘Smoky’ and ‘Thiessen’; A. lamarckii (Juneberry) and A. spicata also bear edible fruit. Extremely winter-hardy and reliable across much of Scandinavia. It tolerates a range of soils but performs best in well-drained, moderately fertile ground with slightly acidic to neutral pH. Birds love the fruit—netting or timely harvest is often necessary. Left unpruned it forms a graceful thicket; light renewal pruning maintains productivity and airflow. Growing conditions LightFull sun to light shade; best fruiting in 6–8 hours of direct sun. Soil typeWell-drained loam or sandy loam; tolerates clay if drainage is good. Benefits from organic matter. Water requirementModerate. Keep evenly moist the first 1–2 seasons; drought-tolerant once established but yields improve with regular moisture during flowering and fruit swell. Nutrient requirementModerate. Avoid heavy nitrogen; favor slow-release organic matter and light spring feeding. Back to plant list
