Low serviceberry

Amelanchier humilis

Physical Characteristics

Amelanchier humilis is a deciduous Shrub growing to 1.8 m (6ft) by 3 m (9ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4 and is not frost tender. It is in flower in April, and the seeds ripen from June to July. 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, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

Eastern N. America - Vermont to Alberta and south to New York and Iowa..

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Edible Uses: Edible fruit - raw or cooked[105, 159, 177]. Sweet[43]. A very pleasant flavour, the fruit is juicy with a hint of apple in the taste and contains a few small seeds at the centre[K]. The fruit is rich in iron and copper[226].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known