Amelanchier parviflora
Amelanchier parviflora
Educational content — not medical, botanical, or professional advice. Plant identification, safety, and edibility depend on local conditions, cultivars, and correct identification. Consult a qualified botanist or forager before consuming or handling wild specimens. How we source & review →
Pl. 2748 — Amelanchier parviflora
Amelanchier parvifloraAmelanchier parvifloraAmelanchier parvifloraAmelanchier parvifloraAmelanchier parvifloraAmelanchier parvifloraAmelanchier parvifloraAmelanchier parvifloraAmelanchier parvifloraAmelanchier parvifloraAmelanchier parvifloraAmelanchier parvifloraAmelanchier parvifloraAmelanchier parviflora
IOverview
Overview
Amelanchier parviflora, commonly known as downy serviceberry, is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to the northeastern and north-central United States and southeastern Canada. It thrives in moist, well-drained soils ranging from light (sandy) to heavy (clay), with a hardiness zone of 4-8. This plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Known for its edible fruit, which ripen in late spring or early summer, it is also valued for its ornamental value, featuring clusters of white flowers in the spring and attractive red to purple berries that attract birds. Its adaptability and beauty make it a popular choice for gardens and landscapes.
Quick answers
What is Amelanchier parviflora?
Amelanchier parviflora, commonly known as downy serviceberry, is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to the northeastern and north-central United States and southeastern Canada. It thrives in moist, well-drained soils ranging from light (sandy) to heavy (clay), with a hardiness zone of 4-8.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Amelanchier parviflora thrives in full sun and prefers moist, well-drained soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 4-8 and grows to a height of about 2 meters. For cultivation, ensure the soil remains consistently moist but not waterlogged. This shrub is native to several northeastern and midwestern states and provinces, making it well-adapted to temperate regions. Propagation can be done through seeds or softwood cuttings. The fruit is edible and a delightful addition to your garden.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
4-8
Mature size
2.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Amelanchier parviflora for the first time
8steps
Start with planting Amelanchier parviflora in a sunny spot and follow these beginner-friendly steps.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Amelanchier parviflora plant, garden gloves, a spade or trowel, and some compost.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early spring before new growth starts or in fall after leaves have fallen off.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is well-draining with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5, 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 of your plant.
- 5
First two weeks
Water the newly planted tree regularly to keep the soil moist, and mulch around the base.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun for at least 6 hours a day. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, especially in summer.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter to maintain shape and remove any dead or diseased branches.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too deep, neglecting regular pruning, and not providing enough sunlight.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The fruit of Amelanchier parviflora is edible and can be eaten raw or cooked. Typically, the berries are used in jams, jellies, and pies. They can also be dried for later use. SKIP
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 30 native
Europe1 region
native (1)Greece
Asia1 region
native (1)Georgia
Broader regions
native:Alabama, Connecticut, 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 I., Québec, Rhode I., South Carolina, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
About this entry
- Last updated
- Citation
- How to cite this entry · Submit a correction
Back to the cataloguePlant id · 27483400-ad19-4e2c-a481-7e8f8aa533cb
Decision aid
Choosing between Amelanchier parviflora and something else?
Continue reading
❦❦❦❦
Endpaper · archive updates
Get archive updates
Occasional email when substantial new content lands — plant profiles, seasonal growing notes, folk-remedy additions. Free, no tracking, unsubscribe anytime.