Downy serviceberry is a small tree or shrub up to about 32 feet in height. The white flowers bloom in early spring and the fruits are small and red to purple in color. The leaves are elliptic, sometimes rounded or heart-shaped where they meet the stem. Downy serviceberry grows in a variety of habitats, from moist to dry areas.

It is said the trees common name, serviceberry, comes from the days of circuit riding preachers. The preachers would arrive in spring around the time the tree bloomed - that's when "services" began again. Downy serviceberry is a popular ornamental tree/shrub and there are many different varieties. The fall color is often a variety of orange, red, and yellow.