A beary important berry

Amelanchier alnifolia, June 6, 2023

Common & scientific name

Serviceberry, Amelanchier alnifolia

Family

Rose, Rosaceae

Location

Difficult Traill, 8,100’

Fun, weird, helpful, or little known fact

Like all members of the Rose family, the flowers of Serviceberry shrubs have five petals. Its berries are eaten by wildlife including birds, rodents, and bears, and the larva of the distinctive, yellow and black Swallowtail butterfly is frequently found here.