Amelanchier ovalis
Etymology
In French, it is called amélanchier, derived from the Occitan amelavier, which itself comes from the Gaulish word aballo, meaning “apple.”
Habitat and Distribution
The Snowy Mespilus also known as the round-leaved juneberry, is a small tree or shrub in the Rosaceae family. While most species of Amelanchier are native to North America, A. ovalis is the only species native to Europe.
It naturally grows in France along the Lorraine–Pyrenees diagonal, as well as in North Africa and parts of Central Europe. It thrives in open woodlands, forest edges, and hedgerows, particularly on rocky, calcareous soils at elevations between 300 and 2500 m. It is self-fertile and adaptable to both full sun and partial shade, and it is highly tolerant of drought and heat.
Ecological Value
In April and May, its white, nectar-rich blossoms provide valuable food for many species of butterflies and pollinators. By July, its round fruits ripen from red to black and are a favorite among birds.
Culinary and Medicinal Value
The fruit, commonly called a juneberry, is juicy and sweet with a taste similar to blueberries. It can be eaten fresh or dried and used in jams, syrups, juices, desserts, or sauces.
Teas made from the leaves, flowers, and fruits are considered astringent, purifying, and rich in minerals. The berries are nutritionally dense, containing about 20% sucrose, 10% reducing sugars, proteins, fats, fiber, vitamin C, magnesium, iron, calcium, zinc, and vitamin A.
Like blueberries, juneberries are powerful antioxidants that may help lower bad cholesterol and support cardiovascular health.
Some recipes:
https://www.bio-enligne.com/produits/847-amelanchier.html#recettes
Sources
https://www.aujardin.info/plantes/amelanchier-ovalis.php