About
A slow-growing deciduous shrub or small tree, with a branching habit and leaves divided into many small, narrowly oval, dark green leaflets with serrated edges. Clusters of white flowers in spring are followed by greenish-white berries, and leaves turn yellow, orange and bronze in 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 typeClay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs, Trees
HabitBushy, Spreading branched
FoliageDeciduous
Height2.5-4 metres
Spread2.5-4 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
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
CultivationThrives in moderately fertile, moist but well-drained, acidic to neutral soil in sun or light dappled shade
PruningPruning group 1
PropagationPropagate by seed, softwood cuttings or grafting
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids, scale insects, pear blister mite, red spider mite and sawfly larvae
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to fireblight, apple canker, silver leaf and honey fungus