Snowy Mespilus
Amelanchier ovalis
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Pl. BB80 — Amelanchier ovalis
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IOverview
Overview
Snowy Mespilus, scientifically known as Amelanchier ovalis, is a small deciduous shrub or tree native to northeastern and north-central United States and southeastern Canada. Thriving in moist, well-drained soils ranging from light (sandy) to heavy (clay), this plant has a hardiness zone of 5-7. The Snowy Mespilus is valued for its edible fruit, which ripens in late summer and can be enjoyed fresh or used in jams, jellies, or pies. Native to states such as Alabama, Connecticut, Georgia, Illinois, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New Brunswick, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Newfoundland, North Carolina, North Dakota, Nova Scotia, Ohio, Ontario, Pennsylvania, Prince Edward Island, Québec, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, and Wisconsin, this plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Its distinctive white flowers in spring and attractive fall foliage make it a desirable ornamental choice for gardens and landscapes. Given its adaptability to temperate regions, Snowy Mespilus is well-suited for cultivation in hardiness zones 5-7.
Quick answers
What is Snowy Mespilus?
Snowy Mespilus, scientifically known as Amelanchier ovalis, is a small deciduous shrub or tree native to northeastern and north-central United States and southeastern Canada. Thriving in moist, well-drained soils ranging from light (sandy) to heavy (clay), this plant has a hardiness zone of 5-7.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Snowy Mespilus thrives in full sun and prefers moist, light to heavy soil. It is hardy in zones 5-7 and can grow up to 5 meters tall. Propagate via seeds or cuttings. Ensure the plant has adequate moisture while avoiding waterlogged conditions. Given its native range across northeastern and midwestern states, it adapts well to temperate regions. Its fruit is edible and adds a delightful touch to gardens in hardy areas.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
5-7
Mature size
5.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Snowy Mespilus for the first time
7steps
Start with a Snowy Mespilus in your garden for a beginner-friendly project.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Snowy Mespilus sapling, well-draining soil, and a container if planting indoors.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early spring or late fall when the ground is workable but not too wet.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure your soil is light (sandy), medium, or heavy with good drainage. Containers should be at least 30 cm wide and deep.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant the sapling carefully, ensuring not to damage the roots. Water thoroughly after planting.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid direct sunlight for a few days and place in partial shade.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly during dry spells, especially when fruiting. Fertilize once a year with compost or a balanced fertilizer.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter to maintain shape and remove dead branches. Harvest the fruits in mid-summer after they turn white.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The Snowy Mespilus fruit is edible and can be enjoyed fresh or used in various preparations. It is commonly eaten raw but can also be cooked into jams, jellies, or pies. The fruits can also be dried for later use.
Other uses:Lumber
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
58 native · 2 introduced
Distribution
58 native · 2 introducedDistribution across3 continents· 58 native· 2 introduced
Europe17 regions
native (16)AlbaniaAustriaBelgiumBulgariaFranceGermanyGreeceHungaryItalyPolandPortugalRomaniaRussiaSpainSwitzerlandUkraine
introduced (1)Norway
Asia3 regions
native (3)GeorgiaIraqTurkey
Africa2 regions
native (2)AlgeriaMorocco
Broader regions
native:Alabama, Connecticut, East Aegean Is., Illinois, Iowa, Kriti, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New Brunswick, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Newfoundland, North Carolina, North Dakota, Nova Scotia, Ohio, Ontario, Pennsylvania, Prince Edward I., Québec, Rhode I., South Carolina, Transcaucasus, Turkey-in-Europe, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Yugoslavia
introduced:Czechoslovakia
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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