Hybridization: There are wide differences in ecotypes of Saskatoon serviceberry . 

 Some have proven much more resistant to juniper rust than others. No doubt resistance 

 to disease and other desired characteristics can be improved through intraspecif ic and 

 interspecific hybridization. Amelanahier is noted for its inter gradation between 

 species (Jones 1946; Hitchcock and others 1961; Cruise 1964). 



Observations to date indicate that stigmas mature before anthers. Thus, artificial 

 hybridization by mass pollination should be possible without having to emasculate 

 flowers, particularly if they prove to be self-incompatible. 



Distribution and Habitat: Saskatoon serviceberry grows under a variety of environ- 

 mental conditions. It is a fairly important shrub throughout the juniper-pinyon type 

 and is sometimes common in big sagebrush lowlands. This species is most prolific in 

 relatively moist, sloping habitats in openings within or just below the ponderosa pine 

 (Pinus ponderosa) type. Its range extends from California eastward throughout the 

 Rocky Mountains to Nebraska and Michigan and as far north as Alaska. 



Use: Serviceberry is a valuable browse plant due to its fair-to-high palatability 

 and ready availability to livestock and big game. It is browsed by cattle after mid- 

 summer when the more palatable grasses and forbs have been grazed or have dried up. Big 

 game show varying preference for this shrub. They use it chiefly in the fall and winter. 

 The fleshy fruits (pomes) are sought by a wide variety of birds and mammals. Some people 

 harvest them for jams and jellies. 



Amelanchier utahensis (Utah serviceberry) 



Utah serviceberry is a shrub 0.5 to 5 m tall (fig. 7), with numerous branched, 

 pubescent, ash-gray twigs. 



Figure 7.— A Utah 

 serviceberry bush 

 near Canaan Mountain, 

 Washington County, 

 Utah. 



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