Key features
AwardsRHS Award of Garden Merit
Final size6 x 3.5 metres in 20 years
FoliagePinnate leaves turn fiery colours in autumn (deciduous)
FlowersSpring flowers, red berries for autumn interest
FruitOrnamental berries
PositionFull sun to part shade
SoilPrefers moist yet well-draining soil
Description
The name for this spectacular Mountain Ash tree was inspired by its columnar habit and dramatic fiery autumnal colours that resemble the Olympic Flame. The attractive pinnate foliage emerges in spring and transforms from green to dazzling reds and oranges in autumn. The autumn leaves compliment the orange – red berries, whilst in the spring time, creamy flowers sit prettily upon the bronze – green leaves.
Sorbus commixta ‘Olympic Flame’ is well suited to avenue or street planting as the columnar habit of this Sorbus variety maintains a neat, slender profile. Expect a height and spread of 6 x 3.5 metres in 20 years. Sorbus ‘Olympic Flame’ is tolerant of clay and prefers an acidic soil but can be planted in most well-drained sites.
AKA Sorbus ulleungensis ‘Olympic Flame’, Sorbus dodong Olympic Flame, Scarlet Japanese Rowan, Scarlet Rowan, Scarlet 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.
