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Sorbus discolor (Maxim.) Maxim.

A 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

Synonyms
Sorbus aucuparia 'Discolor'
Sorbus hupehensis C.K. Schneid.
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Size
Ultimate height
8–12 metres
Time to ultimate height
20–50 years
Ultimate spread
4–8 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring White Green
Summer White Green Cream Yellow Pink
Autumn Red Cream Yellow Pink
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

South–facing or East–facing or North–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H6
Botanical details
Family
Rosaceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Spreading branched
Potentially harmful
Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
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

Name status

Correct

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in moisture-retentive, humus-rich, well-drained soil in sun or light dappled shade

Propagation

Propagate by seed

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Low Maintenance
  • Hedging and screens
Pruning

No pruning required / Pruning group 1

Pests

May be susceptible to aphids, scale insects, pear blister mite, red spider mite, sawfly larvae, leaf weevils, and leopard moth

Diseases

May be susceptible to fireblight, apple canker, silver leaf and honey fungus

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