Allegheny Serviceberry
Among the most popular native shrubs of the Eastern U.S., Allegheny Serviceberry is a multiple-trunked tree or large shrub, with dense, fine-textured branching and smooth gray bark. It is distinguished from other serviceberries by the hairless foliage, purple-tinged new growth, and berries that are tastier and jucier.
| Soil Type | Clay, Loam, Sand |
|---|---|
| Soil Moisture | Medium, Moist |
| Sun Exposure | Full Sun, Partial |
| Height | 15' - 30' |
| Bloom Color | White |
| Bloom Time | Apr, May |
| Spacing | 15' - 20' |
| Zones | 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 |
| Root Type | Fibrous |
| Benefits | Birds, Butterflies, Pollinators, Host Plant |
Among the most popular native shrubs of the Eastern U.S., Allegheny Serviceberry is a multiple-trunked tree or large shrub, with dense, fine-textured branching and smooth gray bark. It is distinguished from other serviceberries by the hairless foliage, purple-tinged new growth, and berries that are tastier and jucier. In spring, a profusion of five-petaled white flowers appear before the leaves open. The short but showy bloom period is followed by summer berries that turn from red to blackish-purple. The edible fruit attracts many birds in to feast. The fall foliage is also remarkable, ranging in color from golden-orange to red.
Strong four-season interest and attractive overall form solidify the popularity of Serviceberry in the designed landscape. It works well as a small shade tree near the patio, it's commonly planted as a street tree, and it brings an elevated presence to the small shade garden. While often planted as an individual in open settings, the beauty of Allegheny Serviceberry is fully engaged when combined with other trees and shrubs for increased wildlife support.
Serviceberry typically reaches heights around 25 feet, but in the right conditions and with a long life can reach 30 – 40 feet high. The growth rate of Serviceberry is moderate, with height increases of 1 – 2 feet per year. A range of soil conditions are well tolerated, however, Serviceberry does not take well to dry, droughty settings. A moist, well-drained loam is ideal. Flowering is more abundant with full or partial sun, but full shade is also tolerated.
Allegheny Serviceberry is a host plant for the Viceroy (Leminitus archipus), Small eyed Sphinx (Paonias myops), Interrupted dagger moth (Acronicta interrupta), Red Spotted Purple (Leminitis arthemis), and the Eastern Tiger Swallow Tail (Papilio glaucus).
