Description of Amelanchier alnifolia (Nutt.) Nutt. ex M. Roemer var. oreophila (A. Nels.) R.J. Davis
Amelanchier alnifolia, commonly known as the Saskatoon berry or western serviceberry, is a species of deciduous shrub or small tree that belongs to the Rosaceae family. Varieties of this shrub are available, and one of the most popular is the var. oreophila.
Origin
Saskatoon berry is a plant native to North America, specifically found in the Western United States and Western Canada. It's often found growing along stream banks, lake shores, and in forest clearings.
General Appearance
Saskatoon berry shrubs typically grow up to 6 meters tall, with a spread of up to 3 meters. They have a multi-stemmed growth pattern that forms bushy clumps and has smooth, grey bark. The leaves are oval-shaped with finely serrated edges, and their color ranges from green to blue-green.
Saskatoon berries are attractive to wildlife, including birds and small mammals. In the spring, the shrub produces clusters of white flowers that turn into dark berries in mid-summer. These berries are about 1 cm in diameter, with a slightly tart and sweet flavor.
Common uses
The Saskatoon berry is popular for its fruit, which has high nutritional value. It can be eaten fresh, cooked, or dried and can be used in various baking recipes, such as pies and muffins. The fruit can also be made into jams, jellies, and syrups.
In addition to its food uses, Saskatoon berry has medicinal properties. Indigenous communities have traditionally used the plant for treating various ailments, such as diarrhea, stomachaches, and respiratory issues.
Saskatoon berry shrubs are also used in landscaping due to their attractive appearance, hardiness, and low-maintenance requirements.
Overall, Amelanchier alnifolia var. oreophila is an intriguing shrub that offers both aesthetic and practical benefits.Light Requirements
Amelanchier alnifolia var. oreophila grows best in full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate more shade than other varieties of Amelanchier alnifolia.
Temperature Requirements
This variety of Amelanchier alnifolia does well in a wide range of temperatures, from cold winter climates to hot, summer regions. It is drought-tolerant and can handle short periods of extreme heat or extreme cold.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-draining soils that are moist and fertile. The pH level should range from slightly acidic to slightly alkaline. It can tolerate some salt but not in high concentrations. This variety of Amelanchier alnifolia is well-suited to grow in rocky or gravelly soils with low organic matter content.
Cultivation Methods
Amelanchier alnifolia (Nutt.) Nutt. ex M. Roemer var. oreophila (A. Nels.) R.J. Davis, commonly known as Snowy Mespilus, can grow in a variety of soils but prefers well-drained soils with a slightly acidic pH. It can grow in full sun or partial shade and is resistant to droughts and frost. It can be propagated through seeds or cuttings.
Watering Needs
The Snowy Mespilus requires moderate watering but is tolerant of drought conditions. Watering should be done deeply when the soil becomes dry to the touch. Overwatering should be avoided as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Fertilization should be done during the early spring with a balanced fertilizer. Organic fertilizers like compost can also be used, and should be applied at the base of the plant.
Pruning
Pruning should be done during the early spring before the plant begins to grow. It is important to remove any dead or diseased branches, as well as any branches that cross or rub against each other. Pruning can also be done to shape the plant or to promote growth in specific areas.
Propagation of Amelanchier alnifolia var. oreophila
Amelanchier alnifolia var. oreophila, also known as the mountain serviceberry, can be propagated through various methods including seeds, cuttings, and layering.
Seeds
Seeds can be collected in the late summer or early fall once the fruit has ripened. The seeds should be scarified to increase germination by nicking the seed coat with a knife or rubbing the seeds with sandpaper. The seeds can then be soaked in water for 24 hours and planted in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist and warm (around 70°F) until germination occurs which can take up to 3 months. Once the seedlings have grown large enough, they can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Cuttings
Softwood cuttings can be taken in the early summer from new growth that has not yet hardened. The cuttings should be around 4-6 inches in length and taken from the current year's growth. The bottom of the cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining soil. The cuttings should be kept moist and out of direct sunlight until roots have formed, which usually takes 4-6 weeks. Once the cuttings have rooted, they can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Layering
Layering is a method where a branch from the mother plant is bent down and buried in soil while still attached to the parent plant. Once roots have formed, usually within a year or two, the new plant can be separated from the parent plant and transplanted to its permanent location. This method is particularly useful for plants with brittle branches that may not successfully root from cuttings.
Disease Management
Amelanchier alnifolia var. oreophila is vulnerable to various diseases, including:
- Cedar Apple Rust (Gymnosporangium juniperi-virginianae): This fungus causes yellow spots or lesions on leaves. Infected berries appear distorted and orange or yellow.
- Entomosporium Leaf Spot (Entomosporium mespili): This fungus leads to purple or reddish-brown spots on leaves, causing them to drop prematurely.
- Fire Blight (Erwinia amylovora): This bacterial disease causes foliage and limbs to wilt and turn black. Bark damage can occur, and branches may look like they have been scorched by fire.
To manage these diseases, it's necessary to clear away and destroy infected plant debris, keep foliage dry, and improve air circulation around the plant. Applying fungicide sprays when new growth begins can also assist in disease prevention.
Pest Management
Pests can also pose a threat to the health of Amelanchier alnifolia var. oreophila. Some of the pests are:
- Aphids: These sap-sucking pests can cause leaves to curl and yellow. Applying insecticidal soap sprays or releasing beneficial insects like ladybugs can control the population.
- Spider Mites: These pests are hard to see but their presence can result in yellowed leaves. The application of insecticidal soap sprays or introducing predatory insects like lacewings can control the infestation.
- Scale: Small, waxy brown bumps on the plant's stems or leaves may be a sign of scale insects. Heavy infestations may result in leaf yellowing and twig dieback. Applying horticultural oil sprays or introducing predatory insects can help control the problem.
Regularly inspecting the plant for the presence of pests, providing adequate nutrients and water, and pruning out heavily infested portions can help prevent the spread of pests. The early identification and treatment of pests are crucial in maintaining the plant's health.
