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| Amelanchier laevis
Allegheny serviceberryCulture: Preferring moist, well-drained, acidic soils, this species can tolerate full sunlight to partial shade and most types of soils. It should be transplanted balled and burlapped and requires little maintenance. Like other serviceberries, plants may fail in extremely dry or compacted sites. Like most members of Rosaceae, the Allegheny serviceberry has a potential for numerous problems, mainly in the form of rusts, fire blight, powdery mildews, and leaf miners. Other problems could include borers, mites, scales, and sawflies. Despite this list, this species is trouble-free in most seasons. Usage: The amelanchiers in general are some of my favorite landscape plants -- they offer interest in all seasons with spring flowering, summer fruiting, excellent fall color, and often exhibit interesting bark. In addition, their site tolerance and lack of maintenance needs make them seem ideal. Gardeners interested in this genus should also consider the smaller shrubby forms such as A. stolonifera and A. humilis. In general, the flowers and fall color show best against dark backgrounds or in dark corners. Plantings in front of Canadian hemlock, pines and spruce are very effective in flower. This species is ideal for naturalization, on building corners, or in small groves when space is plentiful. |
