Family: Rosaceae
Author: (Lam.) K.Koch
Bibliography: Unknown
Year: Unknown
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Amelanchier
Vegetable: Unknown
Observations: Unknown
Description
Garden shadblow, scientifically referred to as Amelanchier spicata, is a species that grace gardens and natural landscapes with its delicate beauty and robust adaptability. As a beloved member of the Rosaceae family, this deciduous shrub brings aesthetic appeal and ecological benefits to various environments.
Characterized by its distinctive white to slightly pinkish blossoms, garden shadblow flowers in early spring, typically from April to May, creating a picturesque spectacle. The blooms are often among the first to appear in the garden, offering a welcome sign of the changing seasons and providing early nectar sources for pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
The foliage of Amelanchier spicata undergoes a captivating transformation throughout the year. Fresh, green leaves emerge in spring, maturing into a deep green hue by summer. Come autumn, the leaves shift to stunning shades of yellow, orange, and red, making the garden shadblow a centerpiece in any fall landscape.
This plant thrives best in well-drained soils and can adapt to a variety of conditions, from full sun to partial shade. Its hardy nature makes it a fine choice for temperate climates, where it can withstand cold winters and flourish through the warmth of summer. Additionally, garden shadblow has moderate tolerance to drought and can be a resilient component of sustainable gardening practices.
In the wild, Amelanchier spicata forms thickets that provide excellent cover and nesting sites for birds. Its small, blue-black berries, which mature in early summer, are not only edible but also a favorite among wildlife. Birds, such as cedar waxwings and robins, as well as small mammals, eagerly consume the fruit, thus aiding in seed dispersal.
Gardeners and landscapers highly value garden shadblow for its versatility and multi-seasonal interest. Whether planted as a standalone specimen, in mass plantings, or as part of a naturalized garden, it offers enduring charm and ecological contribution.
Though specific historical and observational data may be lacking presently, the legacy of Amelanchier spicata in horticulture and natural ecosystems underscores its enduring importance. This shrub’s ornamental and environmental value continues to make it a cherished choice for anyone looking to enhance their garden with a plant that celebrates the full cycle of the seasons.
Common Names
En: Garden shadblow, Low juneberry, Low serviceberry, Running serviceberry, Thicket shadbush, Dwarf Serviceberry, Running chuckleypear, Running juneberry
Cs: Muchovník klasnatý
Da: Aks-bærmispel
Et: Tähk-toompihlakas
Fi: Isotuomipihlaja
Fr: Amélanchier, Amélanchier en épis
De: Besen-Felsenbirne, Ausläufertreibende Felsenbirne, Ährige Felsenbirne
Lv: V
Lt: Varpinė medlieva
Nb: Blåhegg
Nn: Blåhegg
Pl: Świdośliwka kłosowa
Sv: Häggmispel, Isotuomipihlaja, Blåhägg, Småblommig häggmispel, Vanlig häggmispel
Synonyms
Distribution
Additional Images
Flower
Taken May 15, 2022 by Frode Hansen (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 19, 2022 by francoise cloteau (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 19, 2022 by manuseitz (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 25, 2022 by Nataliya Volkova (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 19, 2022 by manuseitz (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Jul 11, 2020 by Barnim23 (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 7, 2021 by bsp25 (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 9, 2020 by Richard (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 23, 2020 by Richard (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 19, 2022 by manuseitz (cc-by-sa)
Other
Taken Apr 19, 2022 by manuseitz (cc-by-sa)
Leaf
Taken May 31, 2021 by Błażej Nowak (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 26, 2022 by Rachel Burton (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 21, 2021 by Alain Sillard (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 25, 2022 by Nataliya Volkova (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 14, 2021 by Annette annettebeguin (cc-by-sa)
Bark
Taken Oct 16, 2021 by Douglas Scofield (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 8, 2020 by Robin Gugelot (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 17, 2021 by Юрий Басов (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 26, 2022 by Rachel Burton (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 31, 2021 by Błażej Nowak (cc-by-sa)
Fruit
Taken Aug 3, 2022 by Halen Soila (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 16, 2020 by Rane (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 11, 2020 by Barnim23 (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 3, 2021 by Ewidenta P (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 3, 2019 by Вячеслав (cc-by-sa)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Amelanchier spicata (Lam.) K.Koch)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3023852)