The Serviceberry (Amelanchier spp.) is a standout among native North American trees, prized for its resilience, beauty, and ecological value. But most of all, it is prized for its delicious berries, which ripen later in the spring or early summer.
The Serviceberry has many names. Many know this tree as the “Juneberry,” as the berries historically ripen in June. Though they often ripen earlier in the mid-Atlantic, and increasingly earlier in general due to warmer temperatures. Some know the tree as the “Shadbush,” as it was a Native American indicator of Shad runs in which fish were harvested. Similarly, it is also known as Saskatoon, an indigenous name for the tree. The Serviceberry is rooted in our history and the phenology of the world around it. This adaptable tree brings year-round interest to gardens and city streets alike.
A Four-Season Urban Gem
The serviceberry truly has something for all seasons. As one of the first trees to flower in early spring, the serviceberry offers a dazzling display of white or pinkish, star-shaped blossoms, often before most other plants have awakened. Then by late spring/early summer, the flowers give way to clusters of berries that ripen from pink to deep purplish-blue.
These fruits are a favorite of birds and small mammals, but humans can enjoy them too. They taste like a nutty blueberry and are excellent in jams, pies, and even smoothies. In fact, serviceberries are among the few native fruits in North America that are both edible and delicious, making them a sought-after treat for foragers and home gardeners alike. Even after the berries are gone, the serviceberry continues to shine. Its foliage remains a lush green through summer, then erupts in a vibrant display of burgundy, orange, and yellow in the fall, carpeting the ground with color.
A NATIVE & TASTY SUMMER FRUIT
Serviceberries are easy to spot in early spring when white blossoms stand out against bare branches. By late spring to early summer, the berries begin to ripen, transitioning from green to red, and finally to a deep purple or almost black when fully ripe. However, gardeners and foragers should watch for cedar-apple rust, a fungal disease that can affect the berries, especially in wet years or when planted near cedar or juniper trees.
The best time to harvest is when the berries are plump, dark, and come off the branch with a gentle tug.
Serviceberries taste like a cross between blueberries and cherries, with some describing hints of peach or almond. Perfectly ripe, they’re sweet, juicy, and slightly nutty. These berries are versatile in the kitchen: eat them fresh, or use them in pies, muffins, jams, jellies, cobblers, and smoothies. Their flavor and texture make them an excellent substitute for blueberries in most recipes.
FORAGE SAFELY & RESPONSIBLY
So where can you find serviceberries? All over DC! Serviceberry trees are often planted as street trees, and you can often find them in public parks. Casey Trees has made a handy map as well, where you can find a serviceberry near you.
When foraging, keep in mind these best practices to forage responsibly, respect nature, and stay safe:
- Only pick berries that are fully ripe (dark purple/blue); red berries are edible but less sweet and flavorful.
- Harvest gradually, as not all berries ripen at once. Return every few days for the best fruit.
- Practice ethical community foraging: Take only what you need and leave plenty for wildlife, neighbors, and future growth. If picking fruit from a tree in a public area, like a park or street, respect nearby homeowners and community members who may also want to forage.
- Respect property boundaries and local regulations. Do not trespass and always seek permission to forage on private land.
- The serviceberry has no native poisonous lookalikes in DC, but always confirm identification before eating wild berries.
- Wash all foraged berries well before eating.
PLANT A SERVICEBERRY
Serviceberries thrive in full sun or partial shade and are well-suited to urban environments, tolerating a range of soil conditions and even roadside planting. Most varieties mature at 20 to 25 feet, making them ideal for compact spaces.
If you want to forage in your own backyard, we’re here to help! This tree is available through our free residential planting program, or you can get up to $50 back for planting it yourself through our tree rebate program.
