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Canadian Serviceberry

Name: Canadian Serviceberry
Brand: Akène
SKU: AKE-SEMENCES
Price: 4.99 CAD
Availability: OutOfStock

Common name Shadblow Serviceberry

Latin name Amelanchier canadensis

Quantity per packet Approximately 25 seeds

This native tree feeds pollinators in spring and produces nutritious berries prized by birds, wildlife, and gardeners. Amelanchier canadensis enhances biodiversity while providing an abundant edible harvest.

Product information

Product
identification

Common nameShadblow Serviceberry

Latin nameAmelanchier canadensis

FamilyRosaceae

TypeNative fruit tree

CyclePerennial

Quantity per packApproximately 25 seeds

Product
description

Shadblow Serviceberry (Amelanchier canadensis) is a beautiful native fruit tree admired for its spectacular display of white spring blossoms and its graceful beauty throughout the seasons. Growing 5 to 10 m (16 to 33 ft) tall, it develops a light, elegant form that blends naturally into edible landscapes, wildlife gardens, and naturalistic plantings. In April and May, its abundant white flowers brighten the landscape while providing an important early source of nectar for bees and other pollinators. By early summer, the blossoms give way to delicious purple to blue-black berries, and in autumn its foliage often turns brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold, extending its ornamental appeal well into the season.

Shadblow Serviceberry thrives in full sun to partial shade in fertile, organically rich, well-drained sandy to loamy soil. Adaptable and easy to grow, it tolerates a wide range of soils provided they remain moderately moist. Sow Amelanchier canadensis seeds in autumn or after approximately 90 days of cold stratification to break their natural dormancy. During the first few years, moderate watering encourages strong root development, particularly during extended dry periods. A yearly application of mature compost in spring is usually all that is needed to maintain vigorous growth and abundant fruit production, while occasional light pruning helps preserve an attractive, well-balanced structure.

Perfect for edible hedgerows, pollinator gardens, and ecological landscapes, Shadblow Serviceberry pairs beautifully with Dogwoods, Viburnums, Elderberries, and Purple Coneflowers. Its spring blossoms attract native bees, bumblebees, and many other beneficial insects, while its nutritious berries provide an important food source for a wide variety of birds. Highly prized by gardeners, the sweet fruit has a flavor reminiscent of blueberries with a hint of almond and can be enjoyed fresh or transformed into jams, jellies, pies, muffins, and fruit sauces. Combining outstanding ornamental beauty, abundant harvests, and exceptional ecological value, Amelanchier canadensis is one of the finest native trees for Canadian and North American gardens.

Sowing
guide

Sowing periodAutumn or after 90 days of cold stratification

Best time

Spring or autumn

Sowing depth0.3 cm (0.1 in)

Spacing / density

3 to 5 m (10 to 16 ft)

Germination temperature18 to 22°C (64 to 72°F)

Germination time30 to 60 days

Propagation

Propagate by seed, suckers, or cuttings.

Growing
method

Sow Amelanchier canadensis seeds in autumn or after approximately 90 days of cold stratification to break dormancy. Use a light, well-drained growing medium and maintain consistent moisture during germination. Young seedlings prefer bright conditions without excessive drying. Transplant into fertile, well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. Shadblow Serviceberry produces spectacular spring blossoms followed by abundant edible berries in summer. Once established, this hardy native tree requires little maintenance and is an outstanding choice for wildlife gardens, edible landscapes, and ecological restoration.

Soil
and care

ExposureFull sun to partial shade

Soil

Well-drained sandy to loamy soil. Tolerates a wide range of soils but performs best in fertile, organically rich conditions.

Soil pH5.5 to 7.0

Watering

Moderate. Water regularly during establishment and during prolonged periods of drought.

Fertilization

A yearly application of mature compost in spring is generally sufficient to maintain healthy growth and abundant fruit production. Avoid excessive fertilization, which encourages foliage growth at the expense of fruit.

Care levelModerate

In spring, apply a layer of compost and remove any dead or damaged branches. Water during prolonged dry periods throughout summer to encourage healthy fruit production. In autumn, enjoy its brilliant fall foliage before applying organic mulch around the base. During winter, this hardy native tree requires very little care, although light pruning can be done to maintain an attractive structure.

Container
growing

Recommended pot size

30 to 50 L

Shadblow Serviceberry can be grown in a large, deep container during its early years, provided excellent drainage is maintained. Use a rich, organic potting mix and keep the soil consistently moist without becoming waterlogged. Place the container in full sun to partial shade to encourage abundant flowering and fruit production. Container culture also allows you to enjoy its ornamental beauty while attracting pollinators to patios and terraces.

Bloom,
harvest
and garden

Shadblow Serviceberry combines spectacular spring flowers, delicious edible berries, and exceptional ecological value. Brilliant fall foliage extends its ornamental appeal well into autumn.

Garden use

Shadblow Serviceberry is ideal for wildlife hedgerows, edible landscapes, native gardens, and ecological plantings. Its spectacular spring bloom brightens the landscape while its berries feed both birds and people. It pairs beautifully with native shrubs and pollinator-friendly perennials, and its vibrant autumn foliage extends seasonal interest well into fall.

Bloom period

Abundant spring blossoms provide an important early nectar source for bees and other pollinators.

Flower colorWhite

Foliage colorGreen

Harvest

June to July

Fruiting

Purple to blue-black berries highly valued by birds and gardeners.

Wildlife appealPollinators and birds

Size
and facts

Height5 to 10 m (16 to 33 ft)

Spread3 m (10 ft)

Growth rateModerate

Hardiness zoneUSDA Zones 3–8

Minimum temperature-40°C (-40°F)

Foliage typeDeciduous

Papillonstrue

Insectes utilestrue

Planting
partners

Good companions

Dogwood, Viburnum, Elderberry, Purple Coneflower

Avoid planting with

Lavender, Cotton Lavender, Yucca, Rockrose

Recipe
and inspiration

The sweet berries of Shadblow Serviceberry are delicious fresh or can be used to make jams, jellies, pies, muffins, syrups, and fruit sauces. Their flavor is often described as a blend of blueberry and almond. The fruit freezes and dries well for long-term storage and is equally appreciated by wildlife and gardeners seeking nutritious native foods.

Frequently asked questions

When should I sow Amelanchier canadensis seeds? +

Sow Amelanchier canadensis seeds in autumn or after a winter cold stratification period to significantly improve germination.

When does Shadblow Serviceberry produce fruit? +

Shadblow Serviceberry generally begins producing fruit a few years after planting, depending on growing conditions and plant maturity.

Can Shadblow Serviceberry grow in partial shade? +

Yes. Amelanchier canadensis grows well in partial shade but produces more flowers and fruit in sunnier locations.

Are the berries edible? +

Yes. The berries are edible and highly prized for their sweet, fruity flavor. They can be enjoyed fresh or used in many recipes.

Is Amelanchier canadensis good for biodiversity? +

Yes. Its spring flowers provide nectar for pollinators, while its berries feed many species of birds and other wildlife, making it one of the best native trees for supporting biodiversity.

The availability of our seeds varies depending on seasonal availability, production schedules and supplier inventory. Certain varieties may only be offered for a limited time based on their natural growth cycle, sowing period or available stock. These product pages are designed to help and inspire gardeners in choosing the right seeds for vegetable gardens, flower beds, pollinator gardens, container growing, naturalization projects and sustainable outdoor spaces.