Species mountain ash
red fruits with yellow-green leaves and brown branches

mountain ash

Sorbus decora

Mountain Ash (Sorbus decora) is a tall deciduous shrub or small tree found in northern regions around the world. It is well-adapted to cold climates and can reach heights of up to 49 ft. The bark is reddish-brown and scaly, while the leaves are green and shaped like long ovals. Its flowers are white and produced in clusters, while its fruits are bright red berries. Mountain Ash is a popular ornamental plant and is widely cultivated for its attractive shape and colorful foliage. It is either planted alone or as part of a larger group of plants in public parks and gardens. The Mountain Ash is tolerant to drought and shows good resistance to diseases.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

Grafting Propagation,Cutting,Layering Propagation,Seed Propagation,Air Layering Propagation,Tissue Culture

Hardiness Zone:

2 - 6

Flowers:

White Flowers In Spring

Sun:

Full sun

Soil:

Sandy Loamy Clay Rocky

Fruits:

red,yellow,orange Fruits Ready In

Edible:

Yes

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,red,yellow

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

watering

Mountain ash plants should be watered once a week, and the soil should be kept moist at all times. When watering, thoroughly soak the soil to a depth of 8 to 10 inches - this is deep enough to reach the entire root system. During the hot summer months, water more frequently, possibly twice a week. Make sure to monitor the soil’s moisture level. In dry weather, soil that is excessively dry may not absorb moisture quickly enough, so add water in small amounts at a time. Be sure to water the leaves as well as the soil to keep the plant hydrated.

sunlight

Mountain ash (Sorbus decora) grows best in full sun, so these trees should receive 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day. In very hot climates, when temperatures average more than 85°F, some afternoon shade may be beneficial to protect against leaf scorch and sunburn. Plant them in an area with morning sun and afternoon shade, or filtered sun throughout the day if temperature and humidity are high.

pruning

Pruning for mountain ash (Sorbus decora) is best done early in the season, typically during the dormant period before the buds break in late winter or early spring. Before pruning, ensure the plant is in good health by evaluating the branches for signs of disease or pests, and removing any dead or damaged branches. When pruning mountain ash, wait until there are 3-5 growth points on the new growth before pruning. Prune no more than 1-third of the foliage from the center of the crown, and avoid pruning young and vigorous branches as this can reduce fruit production. Remove any branches that are creating a congested or typically shaped tree. Annual pruning helps to keep a mountain ash healthy and in shape, and will also encourage the production of more of its unique white flowers.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Harvest Fruit

Harvesting of Sorbus decora fruits typically begins in late summer or early fall, usually in August or September.

Starts Flowering

Mountain ash typically start flowering in May.

Harvest Fruit

Harvesting of Sorbus decora fruits typically begins in late summer or early fall, usually in August or September.

Hardiness Map