Description
The Amelanchier alnifolia 'Northline', also known as the 'Northline' or Saskatoonberry, is a versatile deciduous shrub loved for its beautiful flowers, colorful fall foliage, and flavorful berries. This cultivar originates from Canada and is known for its easy care and abundant fruiting.
Features:
- Height and growth: The 'Northline' can eventually reach a height of 5 metres and spread out laterally up to 6 metres wide. Young plants have a compact, upright growth, while older specimens become wider.
- Leaves and autumn colour: In autumn, the leaves of this shrub turn a striking yellow with an enchanting glow, providing a beautiful contrast to the green of other garden plants.
- Bloom: Around mid-May, the 'Northline' blooms profusely with pure white flowers that cover the entire tree, which is a beautiful sight in any garden.
- Fruit: The shrub produces large, almost spherical berries up to 17 mm in diameter. These blue-black berries are juicy and sweet in taste, ripen in late June, and are ideal for fresh consumption, cooking, baking, and making jams and jellies.
Advantages:
- Nutritious and versatile: The berries of the 'Northline' are rich in antioxidants, flavonoids and polyphenols, similar to blueberries. They are not only delicious to eat fresh, but also suitable for a wide range of culinary applications such as compotes, pies, dried snacks, and even fermentation into wine, beer or cider.
- Easy to maintain: This shrub is easy to care for, requires minimal pruning, and has average deer resistance. It grows well in a variety of soil types as long as it is well-drained, and can be planted in either full sun or partial shade.
- Pollination and fruiting: The 'Northline' is self-pollinating, which means that one bush is enough to produce berries. The bush bears fruit from 2-3 years after planting.
Location and care:
- Light: Prefers a sunny to semi-shaded location.
- Bottom: Tolerates most soil types, but grows best in well-drained, moist soil.
- Water: Prefers a moist soil environment, which is conducive to good growth and fruit set.
Conclusion: The Amelanchier alnifolia 'Northline' is an ideal choice for gardeners looking for a graceful, low-maintenance shrub that offers both aesthetic and culinary benefits. With its beautiful blooms, colorful fall foliage, and nutritious berries, this currant bush is a valuable addition to any garden.