Key features
AwardsRHS Award of Garden Merit
Final size4 x 3 metres in 20 years
FoliageGreen leaves turn red in autumn (deciduous)
FlowersCream flowers in late spring, orange red berries in autumn-winter
FruitOrnamental berries
PositionFull sun to part shade
SoilPrefers moist yet well-draining soil
Description
Sorbus sargentiana is a magnificent, tough and slow growing tree ideal for small gardens. Reaching just 4 x 3 metres in 20 years, Sargent’s Rowan is certainly not short on features though and provides interest through spring to autumn.
From among the deep green, pinnate foliage, corymbs of creamy white flowers emerge in May-June that are particularly popular with foraging bees. For autumn, the green leaves turn striking shades of scarlet, providing an intense, seasonal display. Following this are bunches of orangey red berries that hang onto the branches into winter until the birds devour them.
Sorbus sargentiana can cope with most soils and conditions, including partial sun and exposed positions. With the RHS Award of Garden Merit, this Mountain Ash is a great choice when there is room for only one tree as it really does have it all.
AKA Sargent’s rowan, Sargent’s mountain ash, Chinese 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.
