Saskatoon berry
Amelanchier alnifolia
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Pl. 43C7 — Amelanchier alnifolia
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IOverview
Overview
Saskatoon berry (Amelanchier alnifolia) is a deciduous shrub or small tree known for its edible berries and ornamental flowers. Native to the western and central United States as well as parts of Canada, it thrives in various habitats from Alaska to Texas and from British Columbia to Wyoming. This plant is valued both for its light-colored, star-shaped flowers that bloom in early spring and its sweet, blue-black fruits that ripen in late summer. Saskatoon berries are appreciated for their culinary uses, often used fresh or dried in jams, pies, and other desserts. The plant prefers moist soil with a pH between 4.8 and 8.4, grows well in full to partial sun, and can reach heights of 4 meters with a width of 3 meters. Its adaptability makes it a versatile addition to gardens and landscapes.
Quick answers
What is Saskatoon berry?
Saskatoon berry (Amelanchier alnifolia) is a deciduous shrub or small tree known for its edible berries and ornamental flowers. Native to the western and central United States as well as parts of Canada, it thrives in various habitats from Alaska to Texas and from British Columbia to Wyoming.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Saskatoon berry thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist, well-draining soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 2-7, making it suitable for temperate regions. This perennial grows up to 4 meters tall and 3 meters wide, adapting as either a tree or shrub. For best fruit production, ensure the soil pH ranges between 4.8 and 8.4. Propagate via seeds or cuttings. Regular watering is essential, especially during dry periods.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
2-7
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Tree, Shrub
Mature size
4.0 m × 3 m
Soil pH
4.8–8.4
For first-time growers
How to grow Saskatoon berry for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple planting of Saskatoon berry for a rewarding beginner project.
- 1
What you'll need
Saskatoon berry plants, garden gloves, spade or shovel.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early spring or late fall when the soil is workable and temperatures are mild.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a location with well-draining soil that can be light, medium, or heavy. Ensure it gets full sun to partial shade.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants from the nursery into your garden or containers. Space them about 3 meters apart.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for any signs of pests or diseases.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide regular watering during dry spells and mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter before new growth starts. Harvest fruits when they turn a deep purple color.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too close together, neglecting to prune, and not providing enough sunlight.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:fruits
Edible uses: Tea
Other uses:Wind breakerErosion control
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
27 native · 3 introduced
Distribution
27 native · 3 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 27 native· 3 introduced
Europe1 region
introduced (1)Russia
Americas1 region
native (1)United States
Broader regions
native:Alberta, Arizona, British Columbia, Oregon, Saskatchewan, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Washington, Wyoming, Yukon, Kansas, California, Colorado, Idaho, Iowa, Manitoba, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Northwest Territorie, Ontario
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 43c73d3e-809d-40a4-aade-339addfad3cd
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