Amelanchier is a woodland genus of shrubs and small trees, many with suckering growths creating small colonies. Their star-shaped, flat to saucer-shaped flowers are usually white with some pink blushing. Leaves turn a nice yellow-orange in fall and are accompanied by fruit that ripens in summer and is edible in some species. Birds will feast on the berries if not picked soon after ripening.
Noteworthy CharacteristicsNoted for their fine five-petaled showy racemes of white-to-pink-flushed flowers in spring. Also prized for beautiful fall foliage and fruit.
CareGrow in acidic, moist soil in sun to partial shade. Needs minimal pruning. Prune in autumn to avoid excessive sap loss.
PropagationRoot greenwood or semi-ripe cuttings in summer.
ProblemsFireblight and a variety of fungal leaf spots. Rust and powdery mildew are common.
