TreesAmelanchier lamarckii
Snowy Mespilus
The snowy mespilus is a versatile ornamental tree with something to offer in every season. In April, cloud-like white blossom appears, followed by copper-bronze emerging foliage. In summer, dark purple edible berries ripen. The highlight is autumn, when the leaves turn spectacular shades of orange and red. A perfect tree for small gardens.
Characteristics
- Sun
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Water
- Medium
- Height
- 300–600 cm
- Spread
- 300–500 cm
- Hardiness zone
- 4–8
- Family
- Rosaceae
- Evergreen
- No
- Flower colors
- white
- Wildlife value
- bees, birds, butterflies
Bloom period
Care guide
Plant in full sun to partial shade in well-drained, moist soil. The snowy mespilus is adaptable but prefers slightly acidic to neutral ground. Water regularly in the first year. Feeding is rarely needed. The tree is hardy and virtually disease-free.
Pruning tips
Prune in winter by removing crossing branches and dead wood. The tree naturally develops a beautiful crown shape and needs little pruning. Remove suckers at the base if you prefer a tree form over a multi-stemmed shrub.
Good companions
ShrubsBuxus sempervirens
Boxwood
Boxwood is an evergreen shrub with small, glossy dark green leaves that is ideal for topiary and hedging. The plant grows slowly and can live for hundreds of years. Small green-yellow flowers appear in April and May, attracting early bees.
PerennialsHosta sieboldiana
Hosta
Hosta is the quintessential shade plant, valued for its large, blue-green, ribbed leaves. Light purple or white bell-shaped flowers appear on tall stems in July and August. Over the years the plant forms substantial clumps that give a shaded border a lush character.
ShrubsHydrangea macrophylla
Hydrangea
Hydrangea is a popular garden shrub with large, globe-shaped flower heads blooming from June through September. The flowers turn blue in acidic soil and pink in alkaline soil. A sturdy plant that thrives in sheltered spots with partial shade.