Sorbus discolor (Maxim.) Maxim.

Synonyms

Sorbus aucuparia 'Discolor'
Sorbus hupehensis C.K. Schneid.

Trees

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

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

8-12 metres

Max Spread

4-8 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
20–50 years
Max Spread
4-8 metres
Max Height
8-12 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Clay Loam Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained or Well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or East–facing or North–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H6

Colour & Scent

Fragrance Flower
Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Rosaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Spreading branched
Potentially harmful
Fruit are ornamentalnot to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets: Fruit are ornamentalnot to be eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
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