Sorbus Aucuparia Tree

Sorbus aucuparia also known as Mountain Ash as it grows at fairly high altitudes and the leaves look similar to those of the Ash Fraxinus excelsior but they are not related. Native to this country and found around the cool temperate parts of the northern hemisphere.

In tree terms its small growing to 15m or so with a 4-8 m spread. It likes sun to dappled shade with its roots in loam or sand providing it is acid to neutral. Rowan’s are deciduous with thin toothed leaves arranged in pairs off a central stalk. Shallow domes of white flowers come out in the spring and orangey red berries in late summer into the autumn.

An attractive robust native tree, suitable for smaller gardens, Sorbus aucuparia produces masses of creamy white flowers in Spring through to early Summer turning to red/orange berries in Autumn, which provide food for many species through Winter. A versatile tree capable of growing on thin nutrient-poor soils, or deep rich dry soils.

Site: Tolerates some exposure

Soil: Any well drained soil

Position: Full sun, partial shade

Season of Interest: Spring flowers, Autumn colour, Winter berries and bark

Hardiness: Fully hardy

Height: 33ft (10m) Spread: 16ft (5m)