About
Sorbus pseudofennica, the Arran service tree, is a small, deciduous tree producing slightly glossy, dark-green leaves divided into leaflets at the base with a larger lobed leaflet at the tip, white flower clusters in spring and rounded red berries in autumn. A rare and precious native tree found only in Scotland, and a rewarding choice for a sheltered, 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, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeTrees
HabitColumnar upright, Bushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height4-8 metres
Spread2.5-4 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
Native toScotland
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, well-drained soil in sun or light dappled shade. See tree cultivation for further advice
PruningMinimal pruning required, see pruning group 1
PropagationPropagate by seed, sown fresh in autumn, or by softwood cuttings in early summer
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