Spring brings on some mighty powerful bloomers, like the flashy Saucer Magnolias and Kwanzan Cherries, but some spring gems are over-shadowed by these flamboyant bloomers and Serviceberry is one of them.

We feel Serviceberry (Amelanchier x grandiflora) is anything but generic. First – the light gray, smooth bark is highlighted in a winter landscape, especially noticeable in clump forms. Second – early spring brings white flower clusters at the branch’s tips covering the canopy in a white cloud. Third- small green clusters of fruit appear after flowering then turn red, purple and finally blue when ripe. Lastly, cold autumn nights bring on great fall color in shades of yellow-orange and red, rivaling the Cherries and surpassing Magnolias. Other features: the flower fragrance is slightly sweet, it’s a wildlife magnet as birds love the fruit (and so do people!), and it’s a dappled shade thriver and provider creating a haven for Hellebores, Heuchera and Hostas!

Autumn Brilliance is a small tree growing about 20′ high with an upright habit and uncongested branching on a multi-stemmed plant. It can be used in foundation plantings, in the shrub/mixed borders, along property lines, for naturalizing and in large island beds. It grows naturally along streams as an understory tree, so moist soil in partial shade is preferred – too much shade though can squelch flowering, fruit production and the fall color.

Wondering what the fruit tastes like? It is similar in taste to blueberries – perfect for pie!