About
This deciduous tree, 7-10m high, with an open crown of ascending branches and pinnate leaves with 11-15 partly-serrated, dark green leaflets, richly-coloured in autumn. White flowers in late spring or early summer are followed by loose clusters of rounded, pink-tinged, creamy-yellow fruit, on red stalks, in late summer and early autumn.
About the genus
Sorbus can be deciduous trees or shrubs with simple or pinnate leaves and clusters of small white or pink flowers, followed by white, yellow, pink, red or brown berries; some have fine autumn colour
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, East-facing, North-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeTrees
HabitSpreading branched
FoliageDeciduous
Height8-12 metres
Spread4-8 metres
Time to full height20-50 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
FragranceFlower
ToxicityFruit 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
CultivationGrow in moisture-retentive, humus-rich, well-drained soil in sun or light dappled shade
PruningNo pruning required / Pruning group 1
PropagationPropagate by seed
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids, scale insects, pear blister mite, red spider mite, sawfly larvae, leaf weevils, and leopard moth
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to fireblight, apple canker, silver leaf and honey fungus