About

Sorbus aucuparia Cardinal Royal ('Michred') is a small to medium-sized deciduous tree characterized by its upright growth habit. Its foliage consists of mid- to dark green leaves that are divided into sharply serrated leaflets, which transform into vibrant shades of yellow, orange, and red as autumn approaches. In spring, the tree produces clusters of creamy-white flowers, which give way to bright red berries in the fall.

About the genus

Sorbus encompasses both deciduous trees and shrubs characterized by either simple or pinnate foliage. These plants produce clusters of small flowers that can be white or pink, which are succeeded by berries that may be white, yellow, pink, red, or brown. Certain species also exhibit notable autumn foliage.

Growing conditions

Sunlight

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil type

Clay, Loam, Sand

Soil pH

Acid, Neutral

Soil moisture

Moist but well-drained, Well-drained

Aspect

East-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing

Exposure

Exposed, Sheltered

UK hardiness

H6

Plant details

Plant type

Trees

Habit

Columnar upright

Foliage

Deciduous

Height

8-12 metres

Spread

2.5-4 metres

Time to full height

20-50 years

Suggested uses

Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens, Coastal

Toxicity

Fruit are ornamental, not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets: Fruit are ornamental, not to be eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers

Care notes

Cultivation

Grow in moderately fertile, humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil in sun or light dappled shade; will grow in a wide range of soils but prefers acidic or neutral soil. See tree cultivation for further advice

Pruning

Pruning group 1

Propagation

Propagate by softwood cuttings or grafting

Pest resistance

May be susceptible to aphids, scale insects, pear blister mite, red spider mite and sawfly larvae

Disease resistance

May be susceptible to fireblight, apple canker, silver leaf and honey fungus