Serviceberry

Since the time of the first settlers, the Serviceberry has had a close link with the dead. Often called "Serviceberry" in reference to funeral services, settlers interpreted its early blooms as an indicator that the ground was sufficiently thawed to bury the deceased over the long winters. The saskatoon tree was also used by the First Nations to make their fishing rods, as its wood is hard and flexible.

Serviceberry is native to North America. It grows in small, tight clumps that can reach 8 to 10 meters. It blooms with small, single flowers with five whitish petals. It plays an important role for pollinators such as bees and butterflies, which benefit from its flowers. Canada Shadbush is an extremely popular 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 commemoration and appreciation.