Saskatoon Berry Amelanchier alnifolia 'Obelisk' (PBR)

Names

• Family

  Rosaceae

• Synonyms

  Saskatoon Berry, Serviceberry, Juneberry, Shadbush, Indian Pear, Pacific Serviceberry, Western Serviceberry, Alder-leaf Shadbush

• Common names

  Amelanchier alnifolia 'Obelisk' (PBR)

Toxicity

• To humans

  Serviceberry is generally not considered toxic to humans. In fact, the berries of serviceberry are edible and can be consumed raw or used in cooking. There is no well-documented toxicity associated with the ingestion of any part of the serviceberry plant, and it is commonly grown for its edible fruit.

• To pets

  Serviceberry is not known to be toxic to pets either. The berries and other parts of the plant are not typically associated with poisoning in domestic animals like dogs and cats. As with any non-typical food items, pets may experience gastrointestinal upset if they consume large amounts of serviceberry fruit or plant material, but there is no specific toxicity associated with this plant.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Deciduous

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Flower color

  White

• Height

  15 feet (4.5 meters)

• Spread

  2 feet (0.6 meter)

• Plant type

  Shrub

• Hardiness zones

  4

• Native area

  North America

General Benefits

• Compact Growth: 'Obelisk' is ideal for small gardens due to its narrow, upright growth habit.
• Ornamental Appeal: Produces beautiful white blossoms in the spring, adding aesthetic value to the landscape.
• Edible Fruit: Bears edible berries that are tasty and can be used in jams and jellies.
• Wildlife Attraction: The berries attract birds and other wildlife, supporting local biodiversity.
• Adaptability: It is adaptable to a range of soils, including clay and loam, and can tolerate different moisture levels.
• Low Maintenance: Requires minimal pruning and care once established, making it a good choice for low-maintenance landscaping.
• Four-Season Interest: Offers year-round visual interest with flowers in spring, fruit in summer, colorful foliage in autumn, and a striking form in winter.
• Drought Tolerance: Once established, it has good drought tolerance, reducing the need for frequent watering.
• Cold Hardy: It is hardy in cold climates, making it suitable for northern gardeners.
• Non-Invasive: Unlike some ornamental plants, 'Obelisk' is non-invasive, preventing issues with unwanted spread.

Medical Properties

This plant is not used for medical purposes.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

1. The young stems of the Saskatoon berry can be used to craft small, decorative items such as wreaths and dried flower arrangements.
2. Due to its narrow, upright growth habit, Saskatoon berry can function as a natural privacy screen when planted in tight spaces or along property lines.
3. The tree's bright fall foliage can be used as a natural dye for fabrics, yielding colors that range from yellow to orange depending on the mordant used.
4. Woodworkers may use the hard, dense wood of the Saskatoon berry to make small wooden objects, such as handles for tools and kitchen utensils.
5. The plant's durable wood is suitable for creating stakes and supports for garden plants, as it is naturally rot-resistant.
6. Saskatoon berries can be infused in vinegars or oils, providing a unique, fruity flavor for culinary uses and salad dressings.
7. Its fibrous roots can be utilized for introductory lessons in plant biology or horticulture due to the plant's hardiness and fast growth.
8. In the past, the bark and branches may have been used in traditional smoking ceremonies by indigenous peoples to create aromatic and purifying smoke.
9. The dense foliage and branching pattern make the Saskatoon berry an excellent habitat for birds, beneficial insects, and other wildlife to nest or seek shelter.
10. During winter, the distinctive branching structure provides visual interest in a snow-covered garden, often being used to create a 'winter interest' landscape design element.

Feng Shui

The Serviceberry is not used in Feng Shui practice.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

The Serviceberry is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Renewal and New Beginnings: As a plant that blossoms in spring, Serviceberry is often associated with new starts and the refreshing presence of a new cycle in nature.
• Protection and Safety: Native Americans used parts of the Serviceberry tree to make arrows and for medicinal purposes, which symbolize the plant's role in offering protection and safety.
• Peace and Calm: The delicate white flowers of the Serviceberry promote a feeling of peace and calm, representing tranquility and purity in various cultures.
• Adaptability: Capable of growing in different soil conditions, the Serviceberry showcases adaptability to life's varying circumstances.
• Balance and Harmony: The Serviceberry's need for sun and partial shade reflects the balance in nature and emphasizes the importance of harmony in life.