Identification:
Leaves—simple, alternate, 2-inches long, and oval to elliptical shaped.
Twigs—slender with narrow appressed buds that are twisted with a tapered point, and typically have 5 scales
Flowers—small, white flowers from pink buds in spring
Fruit—small, red to purple, edible fruits
Bark—smooth, silver-gray bark
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Natural History:
Lifespan—N/A
General description—A small deciduous flowering tree or large shrub, a hybrid of garden origin between the pepper vine and Alleghany serviceberry.
Natural distribution and habitat—North America; is a hybrid species derived from 2 native North American species.
Conservation status—N/A
Uses—The fruits are used in pies, jams and jellies, fruit rolls, and for making syrup. Native Americans are known to have eaten the berries fresh and dried, and often mixed with other foods for sweetener and flavor. Dried/dehydrated berries were also added to dried vegetables in soups and puddings.