J20160414-0091—Amelanchier utahensis—RPBG (26549042995)

Description:

Amelanchier utahensis—Utah service berry. Grows throughout the western United States from Montana south to Texas and into Baja California. It is found in a wide range of habitats from 200 meters to 3400 meters or so. It prefers sunny locations although it does grow in light shade. Mule deer, elk, and Bighorn sheep like to browse the leaves. Many species of birds just love the tasty fruit. Native Americans use the fruit fresh, cooked, or dried. Their are many tales about the origin of the common name of service berry, I wouldn't put much faith in any of them. Photographed at Regional Parks Botanic Garden located in Tilden Regional Park near Berkeley, CA.