Serviceberry

The tree I will discuss is the Apple Serviceberry tree, which is also known as Autumn Brilliance. The technical name of the tree is Amelanchier x grandiflora, and the Apple Serviceberry is a hybrid between Amelanchier canadensis and Amelanchier laevis. The native habitat of the Apple Serviceberry is in many places of the country due to different species existing and includes, but not limited to, from Maine to Iowa, south to northern Florida as well as Louisiana. According to my research, this tree does best in the hardy zones 4 to 9 (see USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map).

The Apple Serviceberry can be grown as either a multi stemmed shrub, or a tree. A lot of people use this tree as a unique piece of landscape. The Autumn Brilliance is typically placed in front of a darker backdrop because of its beautiful blooming colors.

Some unique uses of the tree are fishing rods, handles, and walking sticks. Another unique feature, that also ties into species that rely on it, is that the tree grows berries. These berries feed songbirds as well as small and large mammals. It is a host plant for the Red-Spotted Purple and Viceroy butterflies. Insects and butterflies also nectar at the blooms of this tree.

Like most trees, the Amelanchier x grandiflora tree provides shade, filters air pollutants, sequesters carbon, manages and filters rainwater, maintains soil health, provides food and shelter to living organisms, improves aesthetics, and improves the mood of people around it. 

The serviceberry is not native to the United States. This tree does occur naturally, however since it is a crossbreed, many of them are cultivated. The breed is a cross breed between Alleghany Serviceberry or Amelanchier laevis and Downy Serviceberry or Amelanchier arborea.

The suggested uses of this tree according to piedmontmastergarderns.org are as follows:

• Plant the tree form as a single specimen and dress it with a simple mulch to allow the tree to take center stage.

• Under plant with low growing annuals, perennials, bulbs, or ground covers. Serviceberries cast light shade and their roots are not invasive. As a result, plants that prefer partial shade generally do well planted under them.

• Plant as an accent or anchor in a foundation planting, keeping the mature size in mind when judging how far away from other plants and building foundations to site the plant.

• Group several of them together to form a small grove. They look best planted in odd-numbered clusters.

• Incorporate into a mixed border with other small trees and shrubs. Again, keep in mind the mature size of all the plantings.

• Plant against a backdrop of evergreens. The heavier “weight” of the evergreens will provide a striking contrast with the serviceberries’ open, airy form, flowers, and foliage.

• Plant as a border or along property lines, paths or walkways.

• Plant as a windbreak. It is wind resistant and can help protect other plantings on windy sites.

• Use as a privacy screening around a deck or patio.

• Plant in a rain garden to help slow storm runoff. The roots will withstand soggy soil for a short while as long as the soil does drain.

• Plant along a stream as a buffer plant.

• Plant as a host plant for Lepidoptera, songbirds, pollinators, and as habitat for wildlife.

• Use in a naturalized setting, such as at the edge of a wooded area.

• Plant near black walnut trees if you are looking for small trees or large shrubs that can tolerate the alleopathic effects of juglone.

• Plant under or near power lines, where the tree’s small size will not be a hindrance.

According to the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Native Americans and early settlers used the berries the Amelanchier x grandiflora tree produces. Some people today still cultivate these trees, especially in areas where fruit trees don’t grow. These berries are similar in size and shape as huckleberries and blueberries and they look pretty similar. Everything you use blueberries or huckleberries for, serviceberries can also be used, such as pies, jellies, muffins, dessert toppings etc. Fruit begins to grow on this tree 2-3 years after initial planting.

“A number of insects, such as aphids, borers, Japanese beetles, scale and spider mites, may be pests of serviceberry.” (Chadwick)

Serviceberries are related to apples and pears and are susceptible to the same diseases within this family. Blight and fungal diseases are known to be a problem for this tree. Specifically, witches broom, leaf blight, fire blight, powdery mildew, fruit rot, and cedar rust are issues associated with Amelanchier x grandiflora. 

Many sources listed the specific species (Amelanchier x grandiflora) as a very resilient species when it comes to disease and threats to the tree. There are no concerns in terms of conservation when it comes to the Apple Serviceberry, and it has been in cultivation since 1870.