AMELANCHIER LAEVIS / ALLEGHENY SERVICEBERRY

AMELANCHIER LAEVIS / SMOOTH SERVICEBERRY

A Graceful Native Tree with Year-Round Interest

Amelanchier laevis, commonly known as Smooth Serviceberry, is a beautiful small tree or large shrub prized for its four-season appeal. In early spring, it produces masses of delicate white flowers before the foliage emerges, followed by edible, blueberry-like fruits in early summer. Smooth, blue-green leaves turn brilliant shades of orange, red, and yellow in fall, making this an outstanding ornamental and native landscape plant. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and adapts well to a variety of well-drained soils.

Why Choose Smooth Serviceberry?

Native Beauty: A native species that supports local ecosystems and wildlife.
Multi-Season Interest: Spring flowers, summer berries, stunning fall color, and attractive winter form.
Wildlife Friendly: Fruits are highly attractive to birds and other wildlife.
Edible Berries: Sweet, juicy berries can be eaten fresh or used in baking and preserves.

Key Features:

Foliage Color: Smooth, blue-green leaves with vibrant fall colors of orange, red, and yellow.
Flower Color: Showy white flowers in early spring.
Height and Spread: Typically grows 20–30 feet tall and 15–25 feet wide.
Hardiness: Hardy to USDA Zones 4–8.
Sunlight: Prefers full sun to partial shade.
Soil Requirements: Moist, well-drained soil; adaptable to loam and sandy soils.

Specifications:

Plant Size: 20–30 feet tall, 15–25 feet wide.
Growth Habit: Upright to spreading, with a graceful branching structure.
Hardiness: USDA Zones 4–8.
Flowering: Early spring blooms before leaf-out.
Fruit: Edible purple-black berries in early summer.

Ideal Uses:

Native & Pollinator Gardens: Supports birds, pollinators, and native wildlife.
Residential Landscapes: Excellent as a specimen tree or small shade tree.
Naturalized Areas: Perfect for woodland edges and natural plantings.
Edible Landscapes: Adds beauty and function with its delicious berries.

Smooth Serviceberry is an exceptional native plant that combines ornamental beauty with ecological value. Its elegant form, seasonal interest, and wildlife benefits make it a standout choice for gardens, landscapes, and restoration projects alike.