Key features
AwardsRHS Award of Garden Merit
Final size4 x 3 metres in 20 years
FoliageDark green leaves with autumn colour (deciduous)
FlowersCorymbs of spring flowers, large white berries in autumn/winter
FruitOrnamental berries
PositionFull sun to part shade
SoilPrefers moist yet well-draining soil
Description
Sorbus cashmiriana has corymbs of pinkish white flowers appearing in spring to early summer that are popular with the bees. They are followed by pearl like white berries that are up to an inch in diameter. Adorning the tree like bunches of snowy white marbles, they remain mostly untouched by birds and hang on to branches for longer than many of the other Rowan trees.
Dark green pinnate foliage is made up of pretty, oblong leaflets. The foliage turns subtle shades of russet, orange and yellow in winter, but it is the large white berries that are the real star of the show in autumn and winter.
This stunning small tree has an elegant spreading habit and will grow to 4 x 3 metres in 20 years., making it a wonderful choice for a smaller space. Kashmir Rowan will grow in most soils including loam, sand and clay, preferring slightly acidic so where possible. It is a tough variety of Rowan that will tolerate pollution and exposed sites.
AKA Sorbus cashmiriana, Kashmir Rowan, White-Berried Mountain Ash
Planting Steps
1Preparation
- Pot-grown plants can be planted at any time of year, whereas bare roots need to be planted between November and March.
- Clear weeds and grass within a metre of the planting hole.
- Dig a hole as deep as the root mass and twice as wide.
- To help your plant establish more effectively, sprinkle Rootgrow in the hole.
2Planting
- Gently loosen the roots and place into the planting hole.
- Ensure the top of the plant’s compost is flush with the level of the surrounding soil and the graft union or collar of the tree is above ground level.
- Mix 50% of the original soil with 50% compost.
- Fill in the hole, firming the soil gently.
3Last Steps
- Water generously around the base of the plant.
- If you are planting either a single stem tree or mature standard tree, we recommend adding a staking kit and rabbit guard.
Aftercare Advice
Rowan require a good watering regime for a couple of years whilst they establish. Water well and regularly through spring and summer, increasing in hot or dry weather. If planting in autumn, you may only need to water a little. It is advisable to keep the area free of competing weeds and grass during this period.
Rowan trees require a strong framework to support their many berries, so it is good to encourage this by raising the crown in summer. Simply prune the lower branches and any crossing, damaged or diseased branches within the crown. Hard pruning can be carried out in the dormant season, from autumn to winter.
For more detailed advice and video guides, please visit our Help & Advice section.
