Cusick's Serviceberry

Amelanchier alnifolia cusickii

Physical Characteristics

Amelanchier alnifolia cusickii is a deciduous Shrub growing to 3 m (9ft 10in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 2 and is not frost tender. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and can grow in heavy clay soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

Western N. America

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Edible Uses: Fruit - raw or cooked[161, 177]. Ripening in mid summer, the fruit is soft and juicy with a few small seeds in the centre, it has a very nice sweet flavour with a hint of apple in the taste[K]. The fruit can also be dried and used as raisins or made into pemmican[101, 183]. The fruit is about 10mm in diameter, it is rich in iron and copper[226]. The leaves are a tea substitute[161].

Medicinal Uses

Ophthalmic An infusion of the inner bark is used as a treatment for snow-blindness[172].

Known Hazards

None known