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Sunday, March 2, 2025

Thicket shadbush, Amelanchier × spicata

Amelanchier × spicata, commonly known as dwarf juneberry or running serviceberry, is a small, multi-stemmed shrub in the Rosaceae family. It is a naturally occurring hybrid, likely derived from Amelanchier stolonifera and other species.

Key Features

  • Height & Spread: Grows 1.5–3 meters (5–10 feet) tall, spreading through suckers.
  • Leaves: Oval to oblong, finely serrated, emerging bronze in spring and turning green in summer.
  • Flowers: Small, white, five-petaled flowers bloom in early spring, attracting pollinators.
  • Fruit: Dark purple to black berries ripen in summer, edible and loved by birds.
  • Fall Color: Leaves turn shades of yellow, orange, and red in autumn.

    Growing Conditions

  • Sunlight: Prefers full sun to partial shade.
  • Soil: Adaptable to various soil types but thrives in well-drained, slightly acidic soil.
  • Water: Drought-tolerant once established but benefits from occasional watering.
  • Hardiness: Zones 3–7, making it ideal for cold climates.

    Uses in Landscaping

  • Excellent for hedgerows, wildlife gardens, and naturalized plantings.
  • Provides year-round interest with flowers, fruit, and fall color.
  • Great for erosion control due to its suckering habit.
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