Allegheny Shadberry
Amelanchier laevis
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Pl. F877 — Amelanchier laevis
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IOverview
Overview
The Allegheny Shadberry (Amelanchier laevis) is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to eastern North America, ranging from Maine and Quebec south to Georgia and Tennessee. Known for its edible fruit and ornamental value, it thrives in moist, well-drained soils with a pH between 4.8 and 7. Preferring full sun to partial shade, this plant grows up to 9 meters tall and is hardy in zones 5-8. Its light-colored flowers appear early in spring, followed by small, sweet berries that are enjoyed by both wildlife and humans. One distinctive feature of the Allegheny Shadberry is its ability to grow in various soil types, from sandy to clay, making it adaptable to different environments.
Quick answers
What is Allegheny Shadberry?
The Allegheny Shadberry (Amelanchier laevis) is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to eastern North America, ranging from Maine and Quebec south to Georgia and Tennessee. Known for its edible fruit and ornamental value, it thrives in moist, well-drained soils with a pH between 4.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
The Allegheny Shadberry thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist, well-draining soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 5-8 and can grow up to 9 meters tall, making it a versatile tree or shrub. For optimal growth, maintain consistent moisture levels and ensure the soil pH ranges between 4.8 and 7. Propagate through seeds or softwood cuttings.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
5-8
Habit
Tree, Shrub
Mature size
9.0 m tall
Soil pH
4.8–7
For first-time growers
How to grow Allegheny Shadberry for the first time
7steps
Start with planting an Allegheny Shadberry in a sunny spot and follow these beginner-friendly steps.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Allegheny Shadberry tree, garden gloves, a spade or shovel.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early spring before new growth starts or in fall after leaves have fallen.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is well-draining with a pH between 4.8 and 7, and loosen it to about 30 cm deep.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Dig a hole twice as wide but not deeper than the root ball, then place the tree and backfill.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist. Avoid letting it dry out completely.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water deeply once a week during dry spells. Fertilize in early spring with compost or well-rotted manure.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter to maintain shape and remove dead branches; wait for fruiting before harvesting.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The Allegheny Shadberry's fruit is edible and can be eaten raw or cooked. The fruits are often used in jams, jellies, and pies. They can also be dried for later use. SKIP
Other uses:Lumber
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 30 native
Asia1 region
native (1)Georgia
Broader regions
native:Massachusetts, Alabama, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, New Brunswick, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Nova Scotia, Ohio, Ontario, Prince Edward I., Québec, Rhode I., South Carolina, Tennessee, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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