Downy Serviceberry

Amelanchier arborea
Rosaceae
Multi-trunked understory tree/shrub with showy spring flowers and edible fruits. Tolerates restricted root space. In cultivation, Amelanchier species are frequently misidentified and/or of hybrid origin. Use caution if seeking a particular species.

Summary

Climate Tolerance
Very Poor
Wildlife Benefits
Fruit preferred food of many birds, mammals; early nectar/ pollen source for bees
Pollination Type
Pollinator
Plant Hardiness Zones
4 to 9
# Butterfly/Moths that use as host
105
Bloom Time
Spring (Apr-May)
Shade/Sun Tolerance
Full Sun to Shade: Receives less than 2 to 6 or more hours of direct sunlight
Maximum Height
Small (15-40 ft)
Growth Rate
Slow: 1 ft or less per year
Soil Type
Clay: Small sized particles. Long moisture retention and low nutrient availability.
Loam: Equal mix of clay, sand, and silt. Moderate moisture retention and high nutrient availability.
Sand: Large/coarse particles. Short moisture retention and low nutrient availability.
Soil Moisture Tolerance
Dry: Soil normally retains little to no water
Root - Fungal Association
Ectomycorrhizae: Symbiotic relationship with fungi that exist on outside of plant root cells, facilitating nutrient uptake
Pest & Pathogen Risks
Very Low
Urban Stress Tolerance
High: Tree can adapt to a variety of urban conditions and will grow well
Drought Tolerance
Sensitive: Tree will become stressed during periods of drought
Coefficient of Conservatism
5
Native Status
OH-Native: Species is native to Ohio
NatureServe G-rank
G5
Plant Community Type
  • Beech Mixed: Occasional
  • Oak Mixed: Occasional
  • Alluvial: Occasional
  • Red Maple Mixed: Occasional
  • Ruderal: Rare
  • Urban Tree Cover: Common
Bloom Color
White
Form
Tree
Shrub
Lifespan
Short: Less than 100 years
Soil pH
Acidic (pH<6.8)
Wetland Indicator Status
FACU: Facultative Upland, usually occurs in non-wetlands, but may occur in wetlands
Soil Compaction Tolerance
Tolerant: Tree will not become stressed from soil being compacted
Heat Tolerance
Tolerant: Tree will not become stressed for increased temperature due to urban heat island effects
Salt Tolerant
Sensitive: Intolerant to either aerial salt spray and/or salt present in soil
Native County Status
Cuyahoga
Geauga
Lake
Lorain
Medina
Portage
Summit
IUCN Red List Assessment
Least Concern