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Description
Amelanchier Alnifolia Obelisk is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is also known as Saskatoon Berry, Pacific Serviceberry, Western Serviceberry, or Western Juneberry. It is native to North America and can be found in the western and central parts of the continent. The shrub can grow up to 15 feet tall and 10 feet wide, and it is popular for its ornamental value as well as its edible berries.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Amelanchier |
Appearance
The Amelanchier Alnifolia Obelisk has an upright growth habit and can be pruned to be more tree-like. It has dark green leaves that turn into a vibrant shade of yellow, orange, or red in the fall. In the spring, the shrub produces clusters of white or pink flowers that are followed by small, edible berries. The berries are blue-black in color, sweet, and slightly tart. The shrub’s bark is smooth and gray when young, but it becomes rough and brownish-gray as it ages.
Care Guide
The Amelanchier Alnifolia Obelisk is a low-maintenance shrub that can thrive in a variety of soil conditions. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water the shrub regularly during its first growing season to help it establish its roots. After that, it can tolerate drought.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the shrub in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing, as it can lead to excessive growth and weaker branches.
- Soil: The shrub can grow in a variety of soil types, but it prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic.
- Sunlight: The shrub prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The shrub can grow in USDA hardiness zones 2-7.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Amelanchier Alnifolia Obelisk is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to cedar-apple rust, fire blight, powdery mildew, and aphids. To prevent these issues, ensure that the shrub has good air circulation and is not planted in a crowded area.
Habitat
The Amelanchier Alnifolia Obelisk is native to North America and can be found in the western and central parts of the continent. It grows in a variety of habitats, including open woods, slopes, and stream banks. The shrub is popular for its ornamental value as well as its edible berries, which are used in pies, jams, and juices.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Amelanchier Alnifolia Obelisk be grown in containers?
A: While the shrub can be grown in containers, it may not reach its full size and may require more frequent watering and fertilization.
Q: How often should I prune the Amelanchier Alnifolia Obelisk?
A: Prune the shrub in the late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead or diseased branches, and thin out any crossing or crowded branches.
Q: Are the berries of the Amelanchier Alnifolia Obelisk poisonous?
A: No, the berries are edible and are often used in pies, jams, and juices.
Q: Can the Amelanchier Alnifolia Obelisk be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, the shrub can be propagated from softwood or hardwood cuttings taken in the summer or fall.
Related Plants
- Amelanchier arborea (Downy Serviceberry)
- Amelanchier canadensis (Canadian Serviceberry)
- Amelanchier laevis (Allegheny Serviceberry)
- Amelanchier stolonifera (Running Serviceberry)
References
- “Amelanchier alnifolia.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 22 Feb. 2022. <http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/plants/detail.aspx?kempercode=c960>.
- “Pacific serviceberry.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 22 Feb. 2022. <https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/156264/i-amelanchier-alnifolia-i/Details>.
- “Amelanchier alnifolia (Saskatoon Serviceberry).” North Carolina Cooperative Extension. Accessed 22 Feb. 2022. <https://content.ces.ncsu.edu/amelanchier-alnifolia-saskatoon-serviceberry>.
