What is the differences between huckleberry and saskatoon berries?

Answer 1

There are many varieties of berries known as "huckleberry" found throughout the US. In the east/southeast, the varieties are from the genus "gaylussacia" and in the west, from the genus "vaccinium". Huckleberries are not generally a cultivated plant, and from what I can ascertain, most huckleberry products in the US are still gathered from wild bushes. Huckleberries are blue/purple/black in colour.

The Saskatoon berry (also known as serviceberry in the US) is native to the Canadian prairies, and is of the genus/species "amelanchier alnifolia". The berry has a blue/red/purple colour tone, and can be found growing wild, coming into fruit in mid summer. Several different cultivars have also been developed for yard/garden production.

The plants look very similar, and have a similar flavour, though Saskatoons tend to be a little more tart and are somewhat smaller. Both berries can be used for numerous products, including pies, jams and jellies, in addition to eating fresh.