Description

The serviceberries of the genus amelanchier have just three representatives in California. All are found in mountainous regions, growing in seasonally moist areas as rounded upright shrubs with rounded dark green leaves, white spring flowers and purple berries in late summer and fall. The Saskatoon serviceberry is widespread in the western North America. In California it grows in the northern coast ranges, the Sierra Nevada foothills and a few spots in southern California. In the SF Bay Area, its range includes the counties of the North Bay. An ideal planting site would include some protection from the afternoon sun and fine textured soil of at least medium drainage. Saskatoon serviceberry’s bright white flowers attract a variety of pollinators and the edible berries are relished by birds. The berries are said to be among the best tasting native fruit.