Thiessen Saskatoon (Serviceberry) vs Shiny Cotoneaster (Hedge Cotoneaster)

Thiessen Saskatoon is a deciduous shrub that produces delicious edible fruit. It is one of the most productive saskatoon varieties. Its fruit is great in pies, preserves or eating fresh.

Thiessen Saskatoon is popular with U-Picks and home owners because of its taller tree-like shape and larger berries. But it is not the best choice for berry orchards as it is too tall for most mechanical harvesting equipment.

The Shiny Cotoneaster (Hedge Cotoneaster) is a dense, deciduous shrub that gets its name from the glossy dark green leaves that turn an eye-catching mix of red and purple in the fall.
It produces small, pink flowers in spring and by late summer they are followed by red berries that ripen to black. This plant is great for attracting wildlife as it is loved by both birds and butterflies.

While the Shiny Cotoneaster does produce berries, they are inedible to humans. This plant takes pruning and shearing well, making it easy to shape to your liking and is a great choice for a hedge or privacy screen in your yard.

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