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Sorbus aucuparia var. edulis (F)
  • RHS Plants for pollinators

An upright, deciduous tree with ascending branches forming a pyramidal to oval crown. Leaves are divided into widely spaced leaflets with margins toothed in the upper halves and turn from green to shades of orange, red and yellow in autumn. Large, hanging clusters of white spring flowers form orange-red, autumn fruits up to 1.3cm in diameter

Synonyms
Sorbus aucuparia 'Moravica'
Sorbus aucuparia 'Edulis'
see moreSorbus aucuparia 'Dulcis'
Sorbus aucuparia var. rossica Koehne
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Size
Ultimate height
8–12 metres
Time to ultimate height
20–50 years
Ultimate spread
4–8 metres
Growing conditions
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drained
pH
Acid, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Cream White Green
Summer Green
Autumn Orange Red Yellow Orange Red
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

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

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H6
Botanical details
Family
Rosaceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Columnar upright
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 moderately fertile, humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil in sun or light dappled shade; will grow in a wide range of soils but prefers acidic or neutral soil. See tree cultivation for further advice

Propagation

Propagate by softwood cuttings or grafting

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Wildlife gardens
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Coastal
Pruning

Pruning group 1

Pests

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

Diseases

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

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