Serviceberry Companion Plants: How to Create a Beautiful Garden

Are you looking for a way to add beauty and diversity to your garden? Look no further than the serviceberry tree! This easy-to-grow tree is not only stunning on its own, but it also makes a wonderful companion plant. By pairing serviceberries with other plants that complement their unique qualities, you can create a beautiful, thriving garden. In this blog post, we'll explore some of the best companion plants for serviceberries, as well as tips for planting and caring for these trees.

What are Serviceberry Trees?

Before we delve into serviceberry companion plants, let's first take a closer look at what serviceberry trees actually are. Also known as Amelanchier, serviceberries are deciduous trees or shrubs native to North America. They grow in a range of climates and are prized for their delicate white flowers and edible berries, which resemble blueberries.

In addition to their aesthetic appeal, serviceberries are also beneficial to wildlife. Their berries provide food for birds and small mammals, while their foliage serves as a host plant for several butterfly species.

Companion Plants for Serviceberries

Now, let's discuss some of the best companion plants for serviceberries. These plants not only complement the serviceberry tree's beauty, but they also improve soil health, attract pollinators, and deter pests.

1. Wild Columbine (Aquilegia canadensis)

Wild columbine is a perfect companion plant for serviceberries because they thrive in similar growing conditions. Both plants prefer partial shade and moist, well-drained soil. Wild columbine's bright red and yellow flowers also provide a striking contrast to the serviceberry's white blooms.

How to Plant Wild Columbine with Serviceberries

To plant wild columbine with serviceberries, choose a spot in your garden that receives partial shade. Dig a hole for the serviceberry tree and plant it according to its specific instructions. Then, scatter wild columbine seeds around the base of the tree. Water both plants regularly and watch as they grow together in harmony.

2. Blue Star (Amsonia tabernaemontana)

Blue star is another excellent companion plant for serviceberries because it attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies. This hardy perennial features clusters of blue, star-shaped flowers in the spring and summer. Its foliage turns a stunning golden-yellow color in the fall, adding visual interest to your garden.

How to Plant Blue Star with Serviceberries

To plant blue star with serviceberries, choose a sunny location in your garden. Dig a hole for the serviceberry tree and plant it according to its specific instructions. Then, dig a separate hole for the blue star and plant it nearby. Water both plants regularly and enjoy watching them thrive together.

3. Spicebush (Lindera benzoin)

Spicebush is a native shrub that makes an excellent companion plant for serviceberries. Its fragrant yellow flowers attract pollinators, while its leaves provide food for several butterfly species. Spicebush also repels deer and other pests, making it a great choice if you live in an area with high wildlife pressure.

How to Plant Spicebush with Serviceberries

To plant spicebush with serviceberries, choose a spot in your garden that receives partial shade to full sun. Dig a hole for the serviceberry tree and plant it according to its specific instructions. Then, plant the spicebush nearby. Water both plants regularly and watch as they grow into a beautiful, wildlife-friendly pair.

4. Virginia Bluebells (Mertensia virginica)

Virginia bluebells are another excellent companion plant for serviceberries. These hardy perennials feature clusters of pink or blue bell-shaped flowers in the spring. They prefer moist, well-drained soil and partial shade, making them a great choice to plant under the canopy of a serviceberry tree.

How to Plant Virginia Bluebells with Serviceberries

To plant Virginia bluebells with serviceberries, choose a spot in your garden that receives partial shade. Dig a hole for the serviceberry tree and plant it according to its specific instructions. Then, scatter Virginia bluebell seeds around the base of the tree. Water both plants regularly and enjoy their beauty year after year.

5. Foamflower (Tiarella cordifolia)

Foamflower is a low-growing perennial that makes an excellent ground cover under serviceberry trees. Its delicate white or pink flowers bloom in the spring, while its heart-shaped leaves turn a bright red color in the fall. Foamflower prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial to full shade.

How to Plant Foamflower with Serviceberries

To plant foamflower with serviceberries, choose a spot in your garden that receives partial to full shade. Dig a hole for the serviceberry tree and plant it according to its specific instructions. Then, plant foamflower nearby, spacing each plant about 8-12 inches apart. Water both plants regularly and enjoy their beauty year after year.

Tips for Planting and Caring for Serviceberries

Now that you know some of the best companion plants for serviceberries, let's discuss some tips for planting and caring for these trees.

Choose the Right Location

When selecting a spot to plant your serviceberry tree, choose a location that receives partial shade and well-drained soil. Serviceberries also prefer slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.0 and 6.5.

Plant at the Right Time

Serviceberries should be planted in the spring or fall, when the soil is cool and moist. Avoid planting them during periods of drought or extreme heat.

Water Regularly

Serviceberries prefer moist soil, so water them regularly, especially during the first few years after planting. Aim to provide about 1 inch of water per week.

Fertilize Annually

Serviceberries benefit from an annual application of fertilizer in early spring. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer according to the package instructions.

Prune Correctly

To promote healthy growth, prune your serviceberry tree annually in late winter or early spring. Remove any dead or diseased branches and thin out crowded growth.

FAQs

1. Are Serviceberries Easy to Grow?

Yes, serviceberries are relatively easy to grow. They prefer partial shade and well-drained soil, but they can tolerate a range of growing conditions.

2. Do Serviceberry Trees Have Invasive Roots?

No, serviceberry trees do not have invasive roots. They are shallow-rooted and unlikely to damage nearby structures.

3. Are Serviceberry Berries Edible?

Yes, serviceberry berries are edible and taste similar to blueberries. They can be eaten raw or used in pies, jams, and other desserts.

4. Do Serviceberry Trees Attract Wildlife?

Yes, serviceberry trees are beneficial to wildlife. Their berries provide food for birds and small mammals, while their foliage serves as a host plant for several butterfly species.

5. How Tall Do Serviceberry Trees Grow?

Serviceberry trees typically grow to be 15-25 feet tall, although some varieties can reach up to 40 feet in height.



In serviceberry trees make wonderful companion plants when paired with the right plants. By choosing plants that complement the serviceberry's unique qualities, you can create a beautiful, thriving garden that attracts pollinators and benefits wildlife. Remember to choose the right location, water regularly, fertilize annually, and prune correctly to keep your serviceberry tree healthy and vibrant for years to come.