treeN. America Native

Allegheny Serviceberry

Amelanchier laevis

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

Expertly Curated

Real-Time Pricing

Loved by Designers

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

240 inches

Width

240 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Medium

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

40-60 years

Native To

Eastern North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic, fruit is edible

The Story

Plant Bio

Amelanchier laevis is a small, often multi-stemmed deciduous tree or large shrub native to eastern North America. It is highly prized for its outstanding four-season interest, including delicate spring flowers, edible summer fruit, brilliant fall color, and handsome winter bark. A key identifying feature of this species is its new leaves, which emerge with a beautiful bronze-purple color in spring, contrasting wonderfully with the clouds of white flowers. The bark is a smooth, silvery-gray with darker vertical striations.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Allegheny Serviceberry is a premier four-season ornamental tree. It ushers in spring with a profusion of fragrant white flowers against emerging bronze foliage. Summer brings attractive green leaves and berries. The fall display is a stunning mix of orange, red, and yellow. In winter, the elegant, multi-stemmed structure and smooth, silvery bark provide a beautiful silhouette.

The small stature of this tree makes it an ideal choice for smaller residential landscapes, under power lines, or in courtyards. The fruit is edible and can be used in pies, jams, and jellies, similar to blueberries. It can be planted as a single specimen or in groups to form a lovely grove or screen.

This native tree is an ecological powerhouse. Its early flowers are a vital nectar and pollen source for native bees and other insects. The fruit is a favorite of over 40 species of birds, including cedar waxwings, robins, and orioles, as well as mammals like squirrels and chipmunks. It is also a larval host plant for several butterfly species.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

Select a site in full sun or light shade with good drainage.
Amend soil with compost to improve structure and moisture retention.
Dig a hole two to three times the width of the root ball.
Set the tree so the root flare is at or slightly above ground level.
Backfill with native soil and water thoroughly.
Mulch around the base, but do not let it touch the trunk.

Pro Tip

Plant in a location with good air circulation to help prevent fungal diseases like rust and powdery mildew, which can be common.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide consistent water, especially during establishment and dry periods.
Encourage a multi-stemmed habit by allowing some basal sprouts to develop.
Rake up and dispose of fallen leaves in autumn to reduce disease.
Enjoy the edible berries, which taste like a mild blueberry.

Don't

Do not plant in dry, compacted, or high pH soils.
Avoid planting near Eastern Red Cedars (Juniperus virginiana) to minimize cedar-apple rust.
Don't over-fertilize; a top-dressing of compost is usually sufficient.
Avoid heavy pruning, which can spoil its natural graceful form.

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Graceful specimen for small yardsNaturalistic woodland edge plantingFour-season interest focal point

Companion Plants

Cercis canadensis Cornus florida Fothergilla major Rhododendron Tiarella cordifolia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Allegheny Serviceberry questions

What zones can Allegheny Serviceberry grow in?

Allegheny Serviceberry is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Allegheny Serviceberry deer resistant?

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

When does Allegheny Serviceberry bloom?

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

Does Allegheny Serviceberry need full sun?

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