May 3, 2007
Shadbush, Amelanchier arborea
This lovely flowering understory tree is an American classic.
It bears sweet-tasting fruit and many names: Shadbush, Juneberry,
Serviceberry, hinting at when the fruit ripen. Although the flavor is
beloved by humans, birds, and other animals, the berries are too
delicate to ship, and they have never become commercialized.
At Fresh Pond Reservation, during the few days between when
the fruit ripen and when birds polish off every last one, a human
can enjoy a few handfuls while walking around the Pond.