Serviceberry, Allegheny (Amalanchier laevis)

Amelanchier laevis, aka Allegheny serviceberry, is a small, deciduous, multi-stem understory tree or tall shrub which is native to thickets, open woods, sheltered slopes and wood margins in Eastern North America. Showy, 5-petaled, slightly fragrant, white flowers in drooping clusters which appear in early spring, giving way to small, round, edible berries which ripen in June (hence the other common name of Juneberry) resembling blueberries in size and color but taste more like a gummy bear. Berries are often eaten raw, used in jams, jellies and pies. The sweet, juicy fruits are edible and rich in iron and copper. Finely-toothed dark green leaves turn a lovely red-orange in fall. Very easy to grow and provides year-round interest. Attractive understory tree for lawns, shrub borders, woodland margins or native plant areas. Shrub forms can be grown as tall informal hedges or screens. Good plant for bird gardens (birds love the berries)