Rosaceae
Serviceberry: Edible Plant
Amelanchier
Grow in full sun to part shade with consistently moist, well-drained loamy soil. Established plants tolerate short dry spells. Low-maintenance and cold-hardy across USDA zones 3-8.
Every 7 days
Bright indirect
-30° - 35°C
40% - 70%
Categories
What is Serviceberry?
Serviceberry (Amelanchier) is a easy-care plant from the Rosaceae family. Amelanchier, commonly known as serviceberry or juneberry, is a genus of deciduous shrubs and small trees in the rose family (Rosaceae), native mainly to North America. It is prized for its clouds of white spring flowers, sweet edible summer berries, and fiery orange-red fall foliage.
Serviceberry grows up to 9.0m, spread of 450cm, watering every 7 days, -30°C – 35°C, 40–70% humidity. It is not suitable for indoor environments and safe for pets.
Unlike many tropical plants, Serviceberry tolerates watering mistakes. Best for beginners. Unlike many popular species, Serviceberry is safe to keep around pets.
How to Care for Serviceberry?
TLDR: Serviceberry needs Bright indirect, watering every 7 days, and temperatures between -30-35°C with 40-70% humidity.
How Often Should You Water Serviceberry?
Water deeply so the top 15-20cm of soil stays moist but never waterlogged; once established it handles brief drought well.
How Much Light Does Serviceberry Need?
Give at least 6 hours of sun daily for the best flowering and fruit set, though it tolerates partial shade.
What Is the Best Soil for Serviceberry?
Plant in well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral loamy soil (pH 5.5-7.0); amend heavy clay with organic matter.
Care Schedule
Fertilize
Every 14 days
Misting
Every 3 days
Rotate
Every 7 days
Repot
Every 365 days
What Is Serviceberry and Where Does It Come From?
Amelanchier, commonly known as serviceberry or juneberry, is a genus of deciduous shrubs and small trees in the rose family (Rosaceae), native mainly to North America. It is prized for its clouds of white spring flowers, sweet edible summer berries, and fiery orange-red fall foliage.
How Big Does Serviceberry Grow?
TLDR: Serviceberry can reach up to 9.0m tall with Medium growth rate.
Max height
9.0m
Spread
4.5m
Growth rate
Medium
Foliage
Deciduous
Plant Uses
Ornamental
Great for decoration
Edible
Can be consumed
Is your plant showing symptoms?
Click on the symptom to discover possible causes:
What Diseases Commonly Affect Serviceberry?
TLDR: Serviceberry is susceptible to 7 known diseases. Monitor regularly for early detection.
Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew is a common fungal disease caused by various fungi species including Erysiphe, Podosphaera, Oïdium, and Leveillula. It affects over 10,000 plant species worldwide. The disease thrives in warm, dry climates with high humidity and appears as a distinctive white powdery coating on plant surfaces.
Root Rot
Root rot is a serious fungal disease that affects the root system of plants, causing them to decay and die. It is primarily caused by overwatering, poor drainage, or soil-borne fungi such as Pythium, Phytophthora, Rhizoctonia, and Fusarium. The disease thrives in waterlogged conditions where roots are deprived of oxygen, making them susceptible to fungal infection.
Rust
Rust is a common fungal disease caused by fungi in the order Pucciniales that affects a wide variety of plants. The disease gets its name from the characteristic orange, yellow, or reddish-brown pustules that appear on leaves, resembling metal rust. This obligate fungal parasite requires living plants to survive and can cause significant economic losses in agricultural crops.
Leaf Spot
Leaf spot is a common fungal disease caused by various pathogens including Alternaria, Ascochyta, Colletotrichum, Septoria, and Venturia. It primarily affects leaves, causing discolored spots that can lead to premature leaf drop if left untreated.
Compare with similar plants
| Attribute | Difficulty | Light | Watering | Pet Safe |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Field Maple | Easy | Bright indirect | 14d | ✓ |
| Silver Birch | Easy | Direct sun | 14d | ✓ |
| Common Blanketflower | Easy | Direct sun | 10d | ✓ |
| Cushion Bush | Easy | Direct sun | 14d | ✓ |
Choose & Compare
Sources & References
- Greg - Serviceberry Water & Light Guide
- Almanac - Serviceberries (Juneberries): Planting, Growing & Care
- NC State Extension - Amelanchier genus profile
- PNW Plant Disease Handbook - Serviceberry Rust
- CT CAES Plant Pest Handbook - Shadbush/Serviceberry (Amelanchier)
- ForwardPlant - Allegheny Serviceberry Care Guide