About
Sorbus lancastriensis, the Lancastrian mountain ash, is a deciduous shrub or small tree to 6 m, endemic to the UK and found only around Morecambe Bay, producing oval, white-felted, mid-green leaves, creamy-white spring blossom and bright orange-red berries. A rare native tree of outstanding conservation value for a sunny, well-drained garden.
About the genus
Sorbus, the mountain ashes, rowans and whitebeams, are deciduous trees or shrubs producing simple or pinnate leaves and clusters of small, white or pink flowers followed by white, yellow, pink, red or brown berries; many provide excellent autumn colour. Rewarding and ornamental trees and shrubs for a sunny, well-drained garden.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, North-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs, Trees
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height4-8 metres
Spread2.5-4 metres
Time to full height20-50 years
Suggested usesCoastal, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
Native toEngland
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
CultivationGrows best in moderately fertile, humus-rich soil but tolerates poor, thin soil
PruningPruning group 1
PropagationPropagate by softwood cuttings in early summer, chip budding in summer or grafting in winter. Propagate by seed sown outdoors in autumn
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