Rowan (sorbus aucparia)

• Native deciduous tree (up to 15–20m tall), extremely hardy and tolerant of poor, acidic, or exposed sites, including uplands, coastal areas, and windy locations.
• Spectacular seasonal interest: clusters of white flowers in spring (nectar for pollinators), bright red/orange berries in late summer (vital winter food for birds like thrushes and blackbirds).
• Supports wildlife extensively – flowers attract bees/butterflies, berries feed birds, leaves host moth caterpillars.
• Pinnate leaves turn fiery red-orange in autumn; attractive creamy bark and compact form make it an excellent ornamental specimen or street tree.
• Low-maintenance, wind-resistant, and pollution-tolerant.
• Known as Mountain Ash due to its ability to grow in upland areas.

Planting Guide

• Best time: Bare-root November–March (dormant season); container-grown autumn or spring.
• Location: Full sun to partial shade; moist but well-drained, preferably acidic to neutral soil (tolerates poor/gravelly sites but dislikes heavy wet clay) -unsuitable for tiny gardens.
• Preparation: Dig hole twice root width; add organic matter to very poor soils.
• Planting: Set at original depth (check trunk soil mark); stake young trees in exposed sites; firm in, water well, mulch base (keep clear of trunk) to control weeds and conserve soil moisture.
• Aftercare: Water regularly first few years in dry spells; minimal pruning (remove dead/damaged in winter); protect young trees from rabbits/deer; self-fertile so one tree berries well.