Fruit: Mostly spherical, up to ¼ inch in diameter, reddish-purple, capped by the persistent calyx, dry, 1- to 2-seeded.
Wood: Rather heavy, hard, close-grained, reddish-brown.
Uses: Fuel, tool handles; the fruit is edible.
Habitat: Wooded slopes; edge of cliffs.
Range: Quebec across to Minnesota, south to Nebraska, east to Louisiana and Florida.
Distinguishing Features: The Shadbush is recognized by its alternate, simple leaves which are usually heart-shaped at the base, and by its distinctive white flowers.
SMOOTH SHADBUSH
Amelanchier laevis Wieg.
Other Name: Smooth Serviceberry.
Growth Form: Small tree up to 15 feet tall; trunk diameter up to 6 inches; crown narrowly round-topped, with many slender branchlets.