Northline Saskatoon
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USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database / Britton, N.L., and A. Brown. 1913. An illustrated flora of the northern United States, Canada and the British Possessions. 3 vols. Charles Scribner's Sons, New York. Vol. 2: 293.
Jeff McMillian @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database
Names: Northline Saskatoon (English); Amelanchier alnifolia (Latin); Mis-sask-qua-too-mina (Cree)
Other Common Names: Saskatoon Berry, Pacific Serviceberry, Western Serviceberry, Alder-Leaf Shadbush, Dwarf Shadbush, Chuckley Pear, Western Juneberry
Habitat and Origin: Commonly found throughout BC and across North America in mainly dry to mesic soils on open rocky slopes and open forests/ forest margins. Can be found in lowlands to subalpine areas.
Characteristics: A deciduous shrub or small tree with vertical tap roots and lateral roots that can spread by rhizomes to form dense colonies. Produces small white flowers and oval alternating leaves. Very cold-hardy
Edible Portion: Produces initially dull red berries that turn dark purple, nearly black.
Optimal Growing Conditions: Survive in most soil conditions except for that which is poorly drained and hard clays. Require large amounts of sunshine for fruit ripening and are susceptible to frost.
Aboriginal Peoples Uses: Berries are eaten fresh or dried and are used to make pemmican.