Key features
AwardsRHS Award of Garden Merit
Final size5 x 3 metres in 20 years
FoliagePinnate leaves turn red and yellow in autumn
FlowersCream flowers in spring
FruitOrnamental copper-coloured berries in autumn/winter
PositionFull sun to part shade
Description
Sorbus ‘Copper Kettle’ is named for its wonderful coppery-orange coloured berries. They stand out against the green, finely pinnate foliage that turns to shades of orange and red in autumn. The copper berries can remain a feature on the tree into winter if the birds don’t eat them first. Small cream coloured flowers in spring create interest at the start of the year.
With a gently upright and compact habit, Sorbus ‘Copper Kettle’ will grow to around 5 x 3 metres in 20 year. This Mountain Ash can tolerate coastal positions, clay soil and some damp.
AKA Mountain Ash Copper Kettle, Copper Berried Rowan tree
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.
