About

This robust small tree or large shrub features young leaves that start as a bronzed hue, transitioning to shades of orange and purple-brown in the fall. In spring, it produces sizable white flowers that hang in graceful clusters, which are succeeded by small red berries that ripen to a deep purple.

About the genus

Amelanchier comprises small deciduous trees or shrubs that produce prominent white blossoms in early spring. These plants bear red to purple fruits and often exhibit appealing foliage in autumn.

Growing conditions

Sunlight
Full sun, Partial shade
Soil type
Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained, Well-drained
Aspect
South-facing, West-facing, East-facing, North-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H7

Plant details

Plant type
Shrubs, Trees, Fruit Edible
Habit
Bushy
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
4-8 metres
Spread
4-8 metres
Time to full height
10-20 years
Suggested uses
City and courtyard gardens, Wildlife gardens
Toxicity
The berries are edible, but this tree is usually grown as an ornamental plant rather than to provide a crop of fruit in the UK

Care notes

Cultivation
Grow in moist, lime free, well-drained soil. The best autumn colour is achieved when grown in full sun
Pruning
Pruning group 1
Propagation
Propagate by softwood cuttings or layering
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free
Disease resistance
May be susceptible to fireblight and honey fungus