Species

Amelanchier x grandifloraApple Serviceberry

tree

Robin Hill Serviceberry

The Story

Plant Bio

Amelanchier x grandiflora is a naturally occurring hybrid deciduous tree or multi-stemmed shrub celebrated for its four-season interest, including spring flowers, summer berries, and autumn color.

'Robin Hill' is distinguished by its flower buds, which are a delicate pink before opening to abundant white blossoms. It also has a more upright, uniform habit than the species.

Uses & Benefits:

A superb four-season tree, offering delicate pink buds opening to white spring flowers, attractive summer foliage, edible berries, brilliant fall color, and elegant gray bark in winter.

The small stature makes it suitable for a wide range of garden sizes, including urban settings. The berries are edible and can be used in jams, jellies, and pies.

An excellent wildlife plant. Its early spring flowers provide nectar for pollinators, and the summer berries are a favorite food source for cedar waxwings, robins, and other songbirds.

SpeciesAmelanchier x grandifloraApple Serviceberry

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

300 inches

Width

240 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Medium

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

40-60 years

Native To

North America (Hybrid)

Toxicity

Fruits are edible for humans

Bloom period

Early spring – Mid-spring

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a site in full sun or part shade with moist, well-drained soil.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep.
Gently tease out circling roots before placing in the hole.
Ensure the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil.
Backfill with native soil and water deeply to settle.
Apply a 2-inch layer of mulch, avoiding the trunk.

Pro Tip

Minimal pruning is needed; just remove suckers and crossing branches in late winter to maintain its elegant natural form.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry spells.
Mulch to keep the shallow root system cool and moist.
Plant in slightly acidic soil for best performance.
Enjoy the edible berries or leave them for the birds.

Don't

Do not plant in soggy, poorly drained soil.
Avoid high pH soils, which can lead to nutrient deficiencies.
Don't over-fertilize; a spring compost application is usually sufficient.
Avoid heavy pruning, which can spoil its natural shape.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Harvest
Mulch
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Graceful understory tree for woodland gardensStunning four-season specimen plantWildlife-friendly garden accent

Companion Plants

Helleborus orientalis Athyrium niponicum 'Pictum'Brunnera macrophylla 'Jack Frost'Phlox divaricata

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Robin Hill Serviceberry questions

What zones can Robin Hill Serviceberry grow in?

Robin Hill Serviceberry is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Robin Hill Serviceberry deer resistant?

Yes — Robin Hill Serviceberry is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Robin Hill Serviceberry bloom?

Robin Hill Serviceberry typically blooms in early spring through mid-spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Robin Hill Serviceberry need full sun?

Robin Hill Serviceberry does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.