Juneberry

The Juneberry or Saskatoon Berry (Amelanchier alnifolia) is a serviceberry found in western North America. It is a shrub or small tree reaching 4 m tall, densely twiggy with reddish brown twigs. The leaves are oval to often nearly circular, 3-5 cm long, with small teeth on the tip end. Large numbers of white flowers, about 2-3 cm across, appear in early spring while the new leaves are still growing. The small purple berries, actually pomes, ripen in June and July. This large perennial shrub may grow up to 5 meters in height; it is often found in clusters.

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The name Saskatoon Berry derives from the Cree word "misaskwatomin". The city of Saskatoon, Saskatchewan is named after this plant. The Native American food pemmican was flavored by serviceberry fruits in combination with dried meats, and the stems were made into arrow shafts.

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The edible berry, with a taste similar to blueberry, is also often made into several types of foodstuffs, including pies, jams, wines and beers.

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Serviceberry: About 25; see text...

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