Common & scientific name
Serviceberry, Amelanchier alnifolia
Family
Rose, Rosaceae
Location
Above winter gate, 8,600’
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. Anecdotally speaking, we appear to be having a stellar Serviceberry year throughout the valley!
A. alnifolia, in fruit, July 28, 2020