Britannica AI Icon

Saskatoon serviceberry

plant
Also known as: Amelanchier alnifolia

Quick Summary

The Saskatoon serviceberry, scientifically known as Amelanchier alnifolia, is a species of flowering shrub or small tree belonging to the rose family (Rosaceae). It is native to northwestern parts of the United States and western Canada.12

Serviceberries are deciduous plants with simple, alternately arranged leaves. Their flowers typically have five white petals and appear in terminal clusters of up to 20 blossoms. The plant produces fruit that are pomes, resembling small apples, and range in color from reddish to purple-black. These fruits are a food source for birds and other wildlife. The name "Saskatoon" for the fruit is derived from the Cree word misaskwatomina.12

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.
2 Britannica Sources
  1. serviceberry
  2. saskatoon

Ask Britannica AI about this topic

Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.