Smokey Saskatoon Berry

Species: Amelanchier alnifolia

History: Smokey (sometimes spelled Smoky) likely originated in Alberta. This productive variety was once the main cultivar grown in Canada commercially.

Why We Grow It: Smokey saskatoon berries are optimal for the fresh eating market with a mild sweet flavour. These berries are a great substitute for blueberries. Smokey is one of the best yielding varieties, and grows up to 12 feet tall. Saskatoons by nature are slow growing, and while they will bear fruit in 3-5 years, it can take up to 15 years for a full crop.

Canadian Hardiness Zone: 2

Soil Preference: Anything but clay

Growth Habits: Shrub grows about 3.5m tall, has an upright and spreading growth habit, low vigour, low precocity

Sun/Shade: Full sun to partial shade (approx. 6-10 hours of sun daily)

Pollination: Self-pollinating, this variety will produce fruit without a different variety of Saskatoon berry but will produce more and better fruit if one is present

Bloom Colour: White

Ripens: June

Storage: Keeps 1-2 weeks when stored in the fridge

Recommended Use: Fresh eating, baking, cooking, preserving, juice, drying

Size: 

Photo by Cindy Malette from Burst