About
Sorbus reducta, the Chinese dwarf mountain ash, is a dwarf, suckering, deciduous shrub producing pinnate leaves of up to 15 toothed, glossy, dark-green leaflets turning purple in autumn, small clusters of white flowers and pink to white fruits. A charming and rewarding dwarf ornamental Sorbus for a sunny, well-drained rock garden or raised bed.
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, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitSuckering
FoliageDeciduous
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesRock garden, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
Native toChina
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 moderately fertile, humus-rich soil. Tolerant of atmospheric pollution
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