Canadian Serviceberry

Since the time of the first settlers, the Canadian Serviceberry has forged a close relationship with death. Often referred to in English as “Serviceberry” in connection with funeral services, colonists interpreted its early blossoms as an indicator that the ground was thawed enough to bury the dead from the long winters. Serviceberry was also used by the First Nations to make their fishing rods, because its wood is hard and flexible.

The Canadian Serviceberry is native to North America. It grows in small, tight sizes that can reach 8 to 10 meters. It offers a bloom of small simple flowers with five whitish petals. It plays an important role for pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, who benefit from its flowers. Serviceberry is an extremely used tree in our ornamental gardens because of its simple beauty, but it is also appreciated in our kitchens because, like birds and small mammals, we can enjoy its delicious little berries.

This tree represents remembrance and appreciation.