Serviceberry cultivars tested as street trees: Second report

Abstract

Through the Municipal Tree Restoration Program, cooperators planted eight serviceberry (Amelanchier spp.) cultivars in 15 communities for evaluation as street trees, typically comparing two in each community. Standardized measurements in years 1, 2, 3, 6, 9, and 12 revealed differences in trunk diameter, height, crown width, and health of foliage and branches. Among the four cultivars that have been tested most extensively, the main difference is that Cumulus® and Robin Hill are much taller in the twelfth year than Tradition® and Autumn Brilliance®. 'Cole's Select', 'Princess Diana', Reflection™, and Spring Glory® also have been performing well for 6 to 10 years, but they have been tested at just one or two locations. Survival, growth, and health have been superior on more spacious sites, but with proper care, serviceberry cultivars can do well even along downtown streets, All eight of these cultivars are appropriate for planting under overhead wires. © 2008 International Society of Arboriculture.