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Photos © Kim Hosen; Merrimac Farm Wildlife Managemen Area, Nokesvile VA; April 2015 |
Serviceberry This small tree grows in sun or shade in a variety of habitats, from wooded slopes to the edges of swamps. Serviceberry may grow up to 25 feet, but heights vary. This pretty tree has smooth gray bark and white flowers that open in early April, making it an important early nectar source for pollinators. It is also known as shadbush because the blooms signalled the start of the shad run in rivers. The purplish-red fruits ripen in June and are well loved by the Cedar Waxwing, Hairy Woodpecker, Hermit Thrush, Baltimore Oriole and many other birds as well as people who use the berries for jam and pies. Serviceberry is a host plant for Red-Spotted Purple and Viceroy butterflies. |