Key features
Final size6 x 3 metres in 20 years
FoliagePinnate leaves turn fiery colours in autumn (deciduous)
FlowersCorymbs of flowers followed by white/pink berries
FruitOrnamental berries
SoilPrefers moist yet well-draining soil
Description
A splendid ornamental Mountain Ash tree, Sorbus hupehensis has mid-green, pinnate foliage that turns vivid red and orange autumn colours. As with many Sorbus, a cloud of fluffy corymbs of white flowers appear in May-June that are popular with bees.
The flowers are followed in the autumn by white berries, often marbled with a little pink. Birds love the berries on Sorbus trees but will often eat the red first, then orange, yellow, pink and finally white so these berries will be left to give you a good show in the garden until well into winter.
The tree itself is quite upright in form with ascending branches and will grow in the toughest of conditions including exposed positions. Expect Hupeh Mountain Ash trees to reach a height and spread of 6 x 4 metres. A really lovely variety of Rowan tree that is ideal specimen planting or use in an avenue.
AKA Chinese Mountain Ash, Chinese Rowan, Hupeh Rowan
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.
