Autumn Brilliance Serviceberry (Amelanchier × grandiflora ‘Autumn Brilliance’)

Looking for a small tree/shrub with brilliant fall color to liven up the landscape this autumn? Consider the aptly named serviceberry, ‘Autumn Brilliance,’ which sports gorgeous orange/red fall color and is disease resistant. Read on to find out how to grow an Autumn Brilliance serviceberry and information on general care for serviceberry trees.

I. Appearance and Characteristics

‘Autumn Brilliance’ serviceberries (Amelanchier x grandflora) are a cross between A. canadensis and A. laevis. Its genus name stems from the French provincial name for Amelanchier ovalis, a European plant in this genus and, of course, its cultivar name is reminiscent of its brilliant orange/red fall hues. It is hardy in USDA zones 4 through 9.

The serviceberry ‘Autumn Brilliance’ has an upright, highly branching form that grows from between 15 and 25 feet (4-8 m.) in height. This particular cultivar tends to sucker less than others, tolerates drought, and is adapted to a variety of soil types.

While it is named for its notable fall color, Autumn Brilliance is just as spectacular in the spring with its display of large white flowers. These flowers are followed by small edible fruit that taste much like blueberries. The berries can be made into preserves and pies or left on the tree for the birds to devour. Leaves emerge tinged purple, mature to dark green from late spring through the summer, and then go out in a blaze of glory come fall.

II. How to Grow and Care

Sunlight

Prefers full sun to partial shade for optimal growth and flowering. Best berry production and fall color occur in full sun.

Watering

Water regularly after planting. Once established, moderate watering is needed, but ensure consistent moisture, especially in dry periods.

Soil

Thrives in well-draining soil but is adaptable to various soil types. Slightly acidic to neutral pH is ideal.

Fertilizing

Apply a general-purpose fertilizer in early spring before new growth starts.

Pruning

Prune your serviceberries once a year in late winter or early spring before new leaves emerges. Remove dead, diseased or crossing branches. Leave plenty of the previous year’s growth (the plants flower on this wood).

Propagation

Propagate by layering or by semi-ripe cuttings in summer

Pests and Diseases

Generally resistant to most pests and diseases. This cultivar supposedly resists leaf spot. Watch for aphids, spider mites, rust, fire blight, powdery mildew, and honey fungus.

III. Uses and Benefits

For those areas that need a showy privacy shrub, the Autumn Brilliance serviceberry is a superb choice. You can even use this tree as an ornamental element in your landscape. The Autumn Brilliance serviceberry adds a touch of architectural appeal to any outdoor space.

The Autumn Brilliance serviceberry is a perfect highlight for those courtyards. By adding some lights at the base of the tree, you will have the ideal outdoor display. A little light can give a dramatic flair to those beautiful lush canopies. In the winter, the bare branches catch the falling flakes of snow for an added boost to your holiday decor.

In a grouping, the Autumn Brilliance serviceberries really stand out in your yard. You can even plant these trees near a water feature or pond. For more definition in a rustic woodland, add these particular trees throughout the open space. If you want to have a natural landscape, make sure to vary the spacing and plant them in a triangular pattern.

While you might think that the Autumn Brilliance is a delicate tree, it is a tough variety of serviceberry. With its hardy nature, it is ideal as a street tree. If you need a backdrop for smaller perennials, you want to add the Autumn Brilliance. Since the berries ripe at the same time as those cherry trees, plant these trees together for a backyard orchard. You can harvest both varieties or allow them to be picked over by the local wildlife.