Serviceberry : Amalanchier

Colorful in all seasons, these deciduous shrubs and trees are especially showy in the early spring. Their plentiful white flowers bloom before or with the unfolding leaves.

Colorful in all seasons, these deciduous shrubs and trees are especially showy in the early spring. Their plentiful white flowers bloom before or with the unfolding leaves. Young leaves are covered with soft, wooly, white hairs. The oval, finely-toothed, grayish new leaves mature to deep green. Fall color is yellow, red, or orange. They gray bark is streaked with reddish fissures. The edible red or purple fruits (which taste like blueberries) attract birds. Commonly called Shadbush, Shadblow, Serviceberry (often pronounces "sarvisberry"). Tolerates a wide variety of soils. Makes an excellent alternative to the dogwood tree.
HOW THE SEVICEBERRY GOT IT'S NAME:
"When I was a young boy growing up in Stinkin' Creek, Kentucky, all the folks knew the circuit preachers would soon be arriving when a certain tree began blooming white. Why you ask? Because that meant spring was arriving and the ground was thawing enough for burial services that were nigh impossible during the frozen winter months. Hence, the name "Serviceberry" !"