Amelanchier alnifolia thrives best under full sun conditions, which ensures robust growth and plentiful flowering. Aim for locations that receive morning sunlight as it is less intense.

Western serviceberry (Amelanchier alnifolia)

Also known as: Juneberry, Pacific serviceberry, Western shadbush, Chuckley pear, Pigeon berry

The western serviceberry (Amelanchier alnifolia) is a versatile shrub known for its aesthetic appeal and tasty fruit. In spring, it showcases clusters of delicate white blossoms. As the season progresses, green foliage emerges, which transforms into striking yellow to red hues in autumn. By late summer, it yields small, sweet, dark purple berries that are enjoyed by both people and wildlife. In winter, its bare branches and smooth, grayish bark provide a subtle yet attractive landscape feature.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Western serviceberry

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Shrub, Tree

Plant Height

1 m to 10 m

Spread

3 m to 4.5 m

Leaf Color

Green Yellow Red Orange Bronze

Flower Size

2 cm to 3 cm

Flower Color

White

Images of Western serviceberry

Quickly Identify Western serviceberry

Compact clusters of white flowers appearing before leaves in spring.

Small, bluish-purple berries measuring 0.3 to 0.5 inches in diameter.

Light green leaves with red and yellow fall colors, 1.2 to 2.4 inches long.

Smooth, slender stems with greyish-brown color, branching frequently.

Berries' smooth texture and juicy, sweet interior suitable for preserves.

Scientific Classification of Western serviceberry

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Rosales

Family

Rose

Genus

Shadbushes

Species

Western serviceberry

Planting and Growing of Western serviceberry

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 3 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

4-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Western serviceberry?

When it comes to Amelanchier alnifolia, it requires a moderate amount of water, typically about 500 milliliters per session. The aim is to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. The plant thrives in well-drained soil where the top inch of the soil is allowed to dry out between waterings.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Western serviceberry? ›

What should I do if my Western serviceberry is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Western serviceberry? ›

How to save an overwatered Western serviceberry? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Western serviceberry?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6 to 8 hours daily

Amelanchier alnifolia prefers a light range of partial to full sun, with 6 to 8 hours of sunlight daily. This range supports optimal photosynthesis, encouraging healthy growth and abundant fruit production.

Optimal Sun Exposure ›

Balanced Light for Growth ›

Protection From Harsh Afternoon Sun ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Western serviceberry?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 75℉

Amelanchier alnifolia thrives in temperatures between 60°F and 75°F. This range ensures optimal physiological processes, like photosynthesis and nutrient uptake, which are temperature sensitive. Maintaining this range encourages healthy growth and fruit production.

What Soil is Best for Western serviceberry?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Amelanchier alnifolia thrives best in well-drained soil, which prevents root rot by allowing excess water to escape quickly. This drainage capability maintains the plant's root system healthy, ensuring optimal nutrient absorption and overall growth. While well-drained, the soil should also retain enough moisture to provide consistent hydration to the plant, especially in dryer climates. Adequate moisture retention helps to support the Amelanchier alnifolia during periods of drought and contributes to a more lush and robust plant. The addition of organic matter like compost enhances the nutrient content and overall health of the soil. This enrichment promotes vigorous growth of Amelanchier alnifolia and increases its resilience against pests and diseases.

How to Fertilize Western serviceberry?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

When fertilizing Amelanchier alnifolia, it's essential to use a balanced fertilizer. A typical amount is 1-2 tablespoons of granular fertilizer per plant, sprinkled evenly around the drip line and watered in well. For liquid fertilizers, follow the manufacturer's instructions, but generally, a diluted solution should be applied at the recommended frequency to avoid nutrient burn.

How to Prune Western serviceberry?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Start by inspecting the tree for any dead, damaged, or diseased branches. Use sharp, clean pruning shears to remove these as close to the main branch as possible. Next, thin out areas where branches are crowding each other, particularly those crossing and rubbing, which can cause wounds. Aim to maintain an open structure that allows light and air to penetrate the canopy. For thicker branches, use loppers or a pruning saw. Make sure to remove no more than a third of the wood in any single year to prevent stress to the tree. Focus on maintaining the bush's natural shape while removing the oldest stems from the base to keep the plant youthful and productive.

How to Propagate Western serviceberry plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early summer

Soak Amelanchier alnifolia seeds in water for 24 hours before planting. This helps to kickstart the germination process by softening the seed coat.

Select a healthy branch and cut a 6-8 inch segment. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a pot with well-draining soil.

Lift the plant gently from the ground and separate it into smaller sections, ensuring each section has roots attached. Replant the divisions immediately into prepared soil.

How to Repot Western serviceberry plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

It's time to repot Amelanchier alnifolia when you notice roots circling the bottom of the container or pushing through drainage holes. Additionally, if the plant's growth seems stunted, or water runs straight through the pot without being absorbed, it's a clear signal that repotting is necessary. These indicators are crucial as they ensure the plant has enough space and nutrients to thrive.

When selecting a pot for Amelanchier alnifolia, choose one that's an inch or two larger in diameter than the current pot. Opt for pots with adequate drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. A breathable material like terracotta is ideal, as it allows moisture to evaporate and air to circulate around the roots, supporting healthy growth.

Amelanchier alnifolia thrives in well-draining, organic-rich soil. A mix that retains moisture yet drains away excess water is ideal. Incorporating perlite or coarse sand can improve aeration, ensuring roots have enough oxygen. Good soil structure is vital for nutrient uptake and root health.

Toxicity of Western serviceberry

Is Western serviceberry toxic to cat?

The western serviceberry presents a moderate level of toxicity risk for cats. Ingesting portions of the plant, including its stems, leaves, or unripe fruit, may lead to signs of poisoning in felines. Affected cats may exhibit physical discomfort that signifies illness. Cat owners must take precautions to ensure their pets do not consume any parts of the western serviceberry. Should there be any suspicion of poisoning, seeking prompt veterinary attention is vital.

Is Western serviceberry toxic to dog?

Western serviceberry presents a moderate level of toxicity risk to dogs. Poisoning generally occurs when a dog consumes portions of the plant, particularly the stems, foliage, or unripe berries. Following the ingestion of these harmful components, dogs may display symptoms such as gastrointestinal distress, fatigue, or more serious indications based on the quantity ingested. It is vital for dog owners to vigilantly supervise their pets and restrict their access to western serviceberry, particularly during its growing season when fresh growth is most appealing. Should a dog ingest part of the western serviceberry, seeking immediate veterinary assistance is crucial for ensuring timely and appropriate treatment.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.