Amelanchier (Snowy Mespilis)
Amelanchier lamarckii
A graceful, upright, deciduous tree-like shrub. In spring, pinkish buds open into spectacular star-shaped white blossom. Growing to about 5m (15ft) tall, a mature Amelanchier is perfect for the back of a border or as a specimen multi-stemmed small tree.
In spring, copper foliage emerges alongside or shortly after the blossom, with the leaves turning mid-green as they mature. When planted in a sunny position, Amelanchier produces fiery scarlet autumn foliage.
It can be planted in most soils including clay, but not in waterlogged or chalky soils. If pruned after flowering, Amelanchier makes an attractive and unusual hedging option.
