Species Running Serviceberry
lime-green leaves with ruby-lime fruits and green-brown branches

Running Serviceberry

Amelanchier humilis

Also Known As - Juneberry,Shadbush
Running Serviceberry (Amelanchier humilis) has a low-growing, spreading, deciduous shrub form that grows up to 4 feet in height. Its leaves are oval-shaped and light green in the springtime, changing to yellow, orange, and red in the fall. In mid-spring, white and pink flowers appear before the showy fruits are produced, ripening to a purplish-black color in the summer. Its edible fruits can be eaten fresh or used in desserts or preserves. In addition to being a food source, this species is known for its exceptional ornamental value, making it an attractive addition to wildlife and residential landscapes.

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Cutting,Layering Propagation,Grafting Propagation,Division

Hardiness Zone:

Flowers:

White/Cream Flowers

Sun:

Sun, Partial Shade

Soil:

Sand, Loam

Fruits:

blue,purple Fruits Ready In Fall

Edible:

Yes

Leaf:

Yes

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Moderate

watering

When watering Running Serviceberry (Amelanchier humilis), water deeply and consistently. Water newly planted Running Serviceberry during the first season until the soil is consistently moist. After the first season, water only when the soil starts to dry out, usually every 7-14 days. Keep the soil slightly moist, but not soaked. To check if the plant needs water, push your finger into the soil up to your knuckle. If the soil is dry, it's time to water. After the first season, adjust the watering frequency and duration depending on the weather. During hot and dry periods you may need to water more often, while cooler and wetter weather may require less frequent watering. Always avoid overwatering to reduce the risk of root rot.

sunlight

Running Serviceberry (Amelanchier humilis) is a beautiful and hardy shrub that requires full sunlight for optimal growth. It is native to North America, and it prefers warm, sunny days and cooler nights for optimal health. For maximum growth, Running Serviceberry should receive at least 6 hours of sunlight each day, spread out over the full day. Generally speaking, this means that the shrub should receive full sunlight in the early morning, as well as late afternoon and early evening. Avoiding the hottest, middle part of the day will help reduce stress on the shrub and allow it to receive the optimal amount of sunlight. In some cases, running serviceberry may require more than 6 hours of sunlight. During the hottest months of the year when temperatures are above 90 ℉, running serviceberry may require up to 8 hours of sunlight to thrive. Providing the shrub with extra shade during these months, as well as an abundance of water, will help keep it healthy and happy.

pruning

The best time for pruning Running Serviceberry (Amelanchier humilis) is in late winter or early spring while the plants are still dormant. This applies to both young and established plants. Pruning should be minimal, since this species is naturally a low, shrub-like plant and doesn’t need a lot of upkeep. If pruning is needed, only remove dead or damaged branches. You can also trim the branches back slightly to control the size and shape of the plant. This species tends to put out more rapid growth in the spring, so light pruning right after flowering can be beneficial for controlling the size of the shrub. The ideal time for renewal pruning is in late winter or very early in the spring. When pruning, make sure to sterilize your tools and avoid trimming any healthy branches.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Amelanchier humilis typically starts flowering in April.

Harvest Fruit

The best time to start harvesting the fruits from the species Amelanchier humilis is typically in late June or early July.