Saskatoon Serviceberry - "Northline"

Serviceberry (Amelanchier alnifolia) is a beloved native shrub or small tree, known for snowy white spring blossoms, luscious summer berries, and brilliant fall foliage. A four-season beauty, it brings ornamental grace and edible abundance to gardens and wild landscapes alike [1][2][8]. The Northline cultivar was selected in Beaverlodge, Alberta for the superior size and flavor of its berries.

Edible Uses

Serviceberries are among the finest native fruits, long celebrated for sweet, versatile berries enjoyed fresh, baked into pies and muffins, dried for trail snacks, or simmered into jams, syrups, and wines. They are nutritionally dense, with fiber, protein, and antioxidants noted in the literature [5][9][10], putting them in the same category as other medicinal-edible berries like Blueberry, Aronia, and Seaberry.

***NOTE: When planted in areas with Incense Cedar (Calocedrus decurrens) or Juniper spp., Serviceberries can develop a rust that can significantly reduce fruit viability.  Organic fungal sprays, applied early and regularly, can reduce or eliminate the problem.

Ornamental Qualities

Clouds of early white flowers, attractive bark, edible fruit, and glowing orange-red autumn foliage make Serviceberry a standout specimen, hedgerow anchor, or native orchard companion [4][7]. Pairs well as an understory for trees like Oregon White Oak, or as an overstory for smaller berries like Salal or Salmonberry. 

Environment and Culture

Ranging from Alaska to California and across much of the northern U.S., Serviceberry thrives in open woods, streambanks, and dry hillsides [1][2][8]. Its fruit feeds birds and mammals while flowers support early pollinators [6]. Indigenous communities continue to value Serviceberry as a staple fruit and cultural resource, drying berries and incorporating them into traditional foods. Honoring Indigenous stewardship acknowledges the relationships and knowledge that sustain both plant and place [5][9]. (Learn more & how to help on our Charitable Giving page.)

Harvest, Care, and Preparation

Grow in acidic, well-drained soil with partial sun to light shade. Choose cooler sites if possible and mulch with organic matter. Provide consistent moisture during dry spells. Harvest when fully colored and flavorful — often later than blueberries, depending on elevation [4][7]. Berries ripen in early to mid-summer and can be harvested over several weeks.

Native Range: AK-CA; east to UT/CO and the Upper Midwest (IA/MN); across BC→Prairies→ON/QC→NWT.
USDA Zones: 2-8 (some nurseries list 3; Canadian listings as low as 2a-1).
Ease of Care: Easy
Deer Resistance: Moderate
Light Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
Soil Type: Best in well-drained loam; adaptable; pH ~5.5–7.5.
Water Requirements: Keep evenly moist for best crops; limited drought tolerance.
Pollination: Self-fertile; bigger yields with a second Saskatoon cultivar.
Bearing Age: ~2–4 years from planting (seedlings can take longer).
Size at Maturity: Typically 6–10 ft (can be maintained ~5–7 ft); suckers to form thickets.
Bloom Time: April–June (region-dependent).
Harvest Time: Early–mid summer; often mid-July for ‘Northline’.

References
[1] USDA PLANTS Database — species profile.
[2] Flora of North America — taxon treatment.
[3] Jepson eFlora / Calflora — distribution & habitat.
[4] Oregon State University Landscape Plants — horticultural notes.
[5] Moerman, Native American Ethnobotany — Indigenous food use.
[6] USFS/NRCS Plant Guides — wildlife value.
[7] Native Plant Network & Extension publications — garden care.
[8] Pojar & MacKinnon, Plants of the Pacific Northwest Coast — ecology & natural history.
[9] Turner, ethnobotany works — cultural tending & food use.
[10] Peer‑reviewed nutrition/phytochemistry — antioxidants, vitamins.

Pot Sizing Guide