15 Serviceberry Seeds – Amelanchier arborea | Edible Berries & Spring Blooms | Native Tree
Serviceberry (Amelanchier arborea) is a native North American tree that offers year-round interest. In spring, it produces delicate white flowers that attract pollinators, followed by sweet, edible berries in early summer. The berries are enjoyed fresh, baked into pies, or made into jams and jellies. In fall, the foliage turns vibrant shades of orange and red, adding seasonal color to the landscape. This versatile tree is also valued for its wildlife benefits, providing food and cover for birds and other animals.
Serviceberry is adaptable to a range of growing conditions and is drought-tolerant once established. It can be grown as a multi-stemmed shrub or a small tree, making it suitable for hedgerows, woodland gardens, or as a specimen plant. Its manageable size and attractive features make it a great choice for home landscapes.
Plant Features
- Produces edible, sweet berries in early summer
- Showy white flowers in spring
- Attracts pollinators and wildlife
- Fall foliage provides colorful interest
- Drought-tolerant once established
Growing Information
- Botanical Name: Amelanchier arborea
- Plant Type: Deciduous tree or large shrub
- Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil: Well-drained, moist, acidic to neutral soil
- Water Requirements: Moderate; drought-tolerant once established
- Growth Habit: Upright, multi-stemmed or single trunk
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 4-9
- Bloom Season: Spring
- Mature Height: 15-25 feet
- Spacing: 10-15 feet apart
Planting & Care
To grow serviceberry from seeds, start by stratifying the seeds to break dormancy. Mix seeds with moist peat moss or sand and refrigerate for 90-120 days. After stratification, sow seeds in a well-draining seed-starting mix, barely covering them with soil. Keep the medium consistently moist but not waterlogged, and maintain a temperature around 65-70°F. Germination can be slow and uneven, taking several weeks to months. Once seedlings have developed true leaves, transplant them into individual pots and grow them on in a sheltered spot until they are large enough to plant in their permanent location.
Serviceberry prefers full sun to partial shade and adapts to various soil types, though it thrives in moist, well-drained soil. Water regularly during the first year after planting to help establish a deep root system. Once established, it is relatively low-maintenance and drought-tolerant. Prune as needed to maintain shape and remove dead or crossing branches. Mulch around the base to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
What's Included
15 Serviceberry (Amelanchier arborea) seeds.