This delightful woodland tree very similar to the wistful Downy Serviceberry but with a slightly more northern range. An alternative common name shadblow refers to the fact that this tree’s dark, purplish-black fruits (sometimes called juneberries) appear in June, which is also the time of year that a northern fish called shad begins to swim into the rivers to lay their eggs. Planting this tree against a backdrop of evergreens is particularly nice as a contrast with the early spring white blossoms, but it stands out and adds a soft sweetness to any space all on its own.
Conditions: Full sun to part shade; medium moisture soils; widely adaptable
Size: 25’ - 30’ tall, 15’ - 20’ wide
Zone: 4 - 8
Wildlife Value: Flowers attract bees and butterflies; fruits provide food for birds
Photo: Laura Cruz