Quick Guide: spring, hardy, full sun, height: 7.5m/25ft, width: 4.5m/15ft
Amelanchiers are very hardy trees, easily grown and as beautiful as their common name, snowy mespilus. Not only do they bear spectacular spring flowers, followed by round, edible fruits, but the autumn colour of the attractive oval leaves is exceptionally vivid.
GROWING Plant from autumn to spring in any type of moisture-retentive soil. A position in partial shade is tolerated. No pruning is required.
PROPAGATION Sow seed in summer in pots of compost in a cold frame. Transfer to a nursery bed when large enough to handle. Grow on for 2-3 years before planting in permanent positions. Alternatively, layer suitable branches in early autumn
SPECIES A. x grandiflora syn A. x lamarckii (above), hybrid between A. canadensis, whose woolly leaves turn yellow in autumn, and A. laevis, coloured red in autumn; leaves purple, downy when young, beautiful red in autumn; large racemes of white flowers. A pink-flowered form, A. x grandiflora rubescens, is also available.
POSSIBLE PROBLEMS fireblight.
