Also known as Alder-Leaf Serviceberry · Juneberry · Northwestern Serviceberry
Saskatoon (Amelanchier alnifolia) is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to western North America, known for its edible berries.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
75% intensity
Thrives in full sun for best fruiting, but tolerates partial shade.
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers consistently moist soil, especially when young and during fruiting. Drought tolerant once established.
Well-drained, adaptable
50% intensity
High
25% intensity
Very cold hardy and tolerates a wide range of temperatures.
Low to Moderate
25% intensity
Benefits from annual feeding in spring; avoid excessive nitrogen.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
The ripe berries are edible and widely consumed. Seeds contain small amounts of cyanogenic glycosides, but are generally not harmful when consumed with the fruit in typical quantities.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly, especially during establishment and dry periods, to maintain consistently moist soil. Once established, Saskatoon tolerates occasional drought.
Aim for deep watering to encourage robust root development, avoiding waterlogged conditions which can lead to root rot.
Prune in late winter or early spring before bud break. Remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches. To encourage fruit production and maintain shape, thin out older stems from the base.
Light pruning after fruiting can also be beneficial.
Propagate through seed, which requires cold stratification, or by root cuttings taken in late winter. Division of suckers in spring is also effective.
Grafting onto rootstock can be used for specific cultivars or to control size.
Repot young plants every 2-3 years in early spring before new growth appears. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one. Ensure good drainage.
Mature plants generally do not require frequent repotting and can be transplanted into the ground.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Saskatoon (Amelanchier alnifolia)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Amelanchier |
| Species | Amelanchier alnifolia |
Similar in genus Amelanchier
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
