Positive identification may be difficult, but the species itself is easy to recognize. Bark is light gray streaked with darker vertical lines. The smooth young bark becomes more flaked with age. Serviceberry is one of our first shrubs to flower, with striking white flowers in May before the leaves have even fully developed. In July and August, edible berries turn dark purple and are sweet and juicy.
Leaves are oval to round and usually toothed.
Slender twigs bear long, pointed buds. Serviceberry can be found growing in most conditions, except where extremely wet or the deepest shade. It grows best in full sun and on moist, well-drained soil but can be found along roadsides, invading abandoned fields, in existing windbreaks and in woodlands. While serviceberry can be grown from cuttings, it is seldom worth the effort. Seeds are easily collected and germination is usually quite good.