Amelanchier lamarckii

Common name: Juneberry

Description: This beautiful multi-stemmed tree or large shrub is one of the finest choices for year-round garden interest, offering something special in every season. In early spring, before most trees have leafed out, the branches become covered in masses of pure white star-shaped flowers that create a spectacular cloud-like display. The flowers coincide with the emergence of young copper-bronze foliage, creating a stunning colour combination. Following the flowers, small purple-black berries ripen in early summer - these sweet, edible fruits have a delicious flavour similar to blueberries and are excellent fresh, in preserves, or for attracting birds. In autumn, the foliage puts on a magnificent show, transforming into brilliant shades of orange, red, and burgundy that rival any Japanese maple. The smooth grey bark and elegant multi-stemmed habit provide excellent winter structure. This is an exceptionally easy and rewarding tree that thrives in British conditions and requires minimal maintenance. The combination of profuse spring blossom, edible fruits, spectacular autumn colour, and graceful form makes this an outstanding four-season specimen.

Other benefits: spectacular spring blossom, edible berries, exceptional autumn colour, attractive bark, multi-stemmed habit, very easy to grow, multi-season interest

Wildlife attraction: bees, pollinators, birds (berries and nesting)

Height & spread (approx.) at 10 years: 4m x 3m

Position: full sun to partial shade; flowers and autumn colour best in good light

Soil pH: prefers neutral to acidic conditions; adaptable to most soils

Moisture: moderate watering required; prefers consistently moist but well-drained soil; tolerates some drought once established

Winter hardiness: very cold hardy to -30°C