Sorbus aucuparia subsp. maderensis
Madeira rowan
A large shrub or small tree with sea-green leaves, composed of 13 to 17 leaflets, turning russet in autumn. Heads of small, fluffy, creamy-white flowers in spring are followed by large, conspicuous clusters of orange berries that mature to red
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Size
Ultimate height
2.5–4 metresTime to ultimate height
10–20 yearsUltimate spread
2.5–4 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Cream White | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | |||
| Autumn | Orange Red | Orange Red | ||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or North–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H6Botanical details
- Family
- Rosaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Bushy
- Potentially harmful
- Fruit 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
- 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
- Plant range
- Madeira
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in moderately fertile, humus-rich soil in full sun or light, dappled shade
Propagation
Propagate by seed sown in containers in a cold frame in autumn, taking semi-ripe cuttings in early summer, chip budding in summer or grafting in winter
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Wildlife gardens
- Coastal
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
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
Get involved
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