Cusick's Serviceberry
Amelanchier alnifolia cusickii
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Pl. F126 — Amelanchier alnifolia cusickii
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IOverview
Overview
Cusick's Serviceberry, scientifically known as Amelanchier alnifolia cusickii, is a deciduous shrub native to the Pacific Northwest of North America, including regions such as British Columbia, California, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and Washington. This plant thrives in light to partial sun with moist soil that can be either sandy, medium, or clayey. It grows to an average height of 3 meters and is valued for its edible fruit, which ripens in late spring to early summer. Its distinctive features include small white flowers in the spring followed by clusters of sweet, blueberry-like berries, making it a delightful ornamental choice as well as a valuable source of food.
Quick answers
What is Cusick's Serviceberry?
Cusick's Serviceberry, scientifically known as Amelanchier alnifolia cusickii, is a deciduous shrub native to the Pacific Northwest of North America, including regions such as British Columbia, California, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and Washington.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Cusick's Serviceberry 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 temperate regions and grows up to 3 meters tall. For cultivation, ensure the soil remains consistently moist but not waterlogged. Propagation can be done through seed or by dividing established plants. The fruit is edible and a delightful addition to your garden.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Mature size
3.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Cusick's Serviceberry for the first time
8steps
Start with Cusick's Serviceberry as a simple, low-maintenance addition to your garden.
- 1
What you'll need
Cusick's Serviceberry saplings or seeds, gardening gloves, trowel.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early spring or late fall when the soil is moist and workable.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is well-draining with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5; amend as needed.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant saplings in spring, or sow seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before last frost.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not soggy; avoid overwatering.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun to partial shade, water when dry, and mulch around the base for moisture retention.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter before new growth starts to maintain shape; harvest fruit after they turn a deep purple.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soil, neglecting regular pruning, not providing enough sunlight.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The fruit of Cusick's Serviceberry is edible and can be eaten raw or used in various preparations. It is often picked when ripe and enjoyed fresh, but can also be dried for later use. The berries can add a sweet flavor to jams, jellies, and pies.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
6 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
6 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 6 native
Broader regions
native:Idaho, Montana, Washington, British Columbia, California, Oregon
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · f1267cd8-ad37-4e22-b82d-ecb78b2e9fd1
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