Common Saskatoon (Serviceberry) vs Sitka Alder - TreeTime.ca

Common Saskatoon (Serviceberry) vs Sitka Alder

Amelanchier alnifolia

Alnus alnobetula subsp. sinuata

NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON - MIGHT RETURN

CUSTOM GROW

Common Saskatoon (Serviceberry)
Sitka Alder

Common Saskatoon is a native shrub that's famous for its great-tasting fruit. The berries are terrific for fresh eating and cooking. The Saskatoon bush itself can be quite large and produces an abundance of fruit. Saskatoons are hardy and can tolerate partial shade and a variety of growing conditions.

Sitka Alder is a native deciduous shrub or small tree that often forms dense thickets. Its extensive root system stabilizes slopes and streambanks. Nitrogen-fixing capabilities and nutrient-rich leaf litter improve soil fertility, creating better growing conditions for surrounding plants. These qualities make it especially effective in disturbed or erosion-prone sites.
Often found in moist, high-elevation mountain environments, Sitka Alder also enhances habitat by providing cover and structure in both riparian and upland areas. Birds and small mammals utilize it for nesting, and its seeds serve as a food source.
Note: We use Sitka Alder for Alnus alnobetula subsp. sinuata. This species is also known by many other common names, including Mountain Alder, Green Alder, and others. Please confirm the scientific name to ensure you are ordering the correct plant.

Common Saskatoon (Serviceberry) Quick Facts

Sitka Alder Quick Facts

Zone: 1a
Zone: 2a
Height: 4 m (13 ft)
Height: 5 m (15 ft)
Spread: 2.7 m (9 ft)
Spread: 3 m (10 ft)
Light: partial shade, full sun
Light: partial shade, full sun
Moisture: normal
Moisture: wet
Growth rate: medium
Growth rate: medium
Life span: short
Life span: medium
Growth form: upright to prostrate, thicket-forming
Spreading: seed - medium, layering - medium
Suckering: medium


Bark: redish-brown to grey, smooth
Berries: purple-blue
Firmness: firm
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: no
Catkins: yes


Native to: AB, BC, SK, MB, ON, YT, NT
Native to: AB, BC, YT, NT
Other Names: common serviceberry, wild saskatoon, wild serviceberry
Other Names: wavy leaf alder