Low serviceberry
Amelanchier humilis
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Pl. 9CEE — Amelanchier humilis
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IOverview
Overview
Low serviceberry, Amelanchier humilis, is a low-growing shrub native to the central and northeastern United States and parts of Canada. Found in habitats ranging from Illinois to Wisconsin, it thrives in light or partial sun with moist soil that can be sandy, medium, or clay-like. Hardy in zones 4-8, this plant reaches heights of about 1.8 meters. Known for its edible fruit, the low serviceberry is also appreciated for its ornamental value, featuring clusters of white flowers in spring and small, sweet berries in summer. Its adaptability to various soil types makes it a versatile addition to gardens and landscapes.
Quick answers
What is Low serviceberry?
Low serviceberry, Amelanchier humilis, is a low-growing shrub native to the central and northeastern United States and parts of Canada. Found in habitats ranging from Illinois to Wisconsin, it thrives in light or partial sun with moist soil that can be sandy, medium, or clay-like.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Low serviceberry thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 4-8 and grows up to 1.8 meters tall. For propagation, use seeds or softwood cuttings. This plant is native to several Midwestern states and Canada, making it well-adapted to temperate regions.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
4-8
Mature size
1.8 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Low serviceberry for the first time
8steps
Start with a low serviceberry for its easy care and edible fruit.
- 1
What you'll need
A Low serviceberry sapling, garden gloves, a trowel.
- 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 spot with light to partial sun. Ensure the soil drains well, as it prefers moist conditions but not waterlogged.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant saplings directly into the garden. Dig a hole twice as wide and deep as the root ball.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil consistently moist, especially during dry spells. Monitor for pests and diseases.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water deeply once or twice a week, depending on rainfall. Fertilize lightly in early spring with compost.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter to maintain shape and remove dead branches. Harvest fruit when they turn from green to red.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soil, neglecting winter protection in colder zones.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The low serviceberry's fruit is edible and can be eaten raw or used in various preparations such as jams, jellies, and pies. The berries also make a tasty addition to salads when ripe.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
22 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
22 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 22 native
Broader regions
native:Indiana, Iowa, Manitoba, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Ontario, Pennsylvania, Québec, Saskatchewan, South Dakota, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Illinois, New Jersey, Kansas
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 9cee6a45-d1bd-4b95-9647-8dd966fb9ba8
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