How to Grow and Care for Sorbus

Sorbus aucuparia, also known as european mountain-ash, is a deciduous tree native to Europe. It grows a slim trunk with upward-curving branches as it matures. Its admirable upright and dense branching gives the plant an oval crown. The juicy and soft clustered fruits are an excellent source of food for birds, while its yellow to plum foliage adds to its overall aesthetic appeal.

Whitebeam (Sorbus aria) is a deciduous tree that will grow to 15 m tall. Clusters of white flowers bloom from spring to summer. Flowers turn into edible berries that ripen to bright red in late summer. Leaves fade to a rich russet brown in fall before falling off. Thrives in full sun to partial shade. Attracts bees butterflies and birds.

Sorbus intermedia is a deciduous tree that is native to Sweden and has become naturalized in other areas of northern Europe. In early summer it produces clusters of white flowers that mature into brownish-red berries. Swedish whitebeam is often planted in urban environments for its attractive fall foliage.

True service tree, or sorb tree, (Sorbus domestica) is an endangered fruit tree from Europe and northern Africa that lives up to 400 years. It can grow as tall as 20 m and has dense wood that's good for woodworking. The fruit is used in cider and jam and is sometimes eaten directly if allowed to over-ripen slightly.

Wild service tree is a medium-size deciduous tree that is becoming increasingly rare. It is sometimes found in Britain, where it is an important food source to birds and mammals. Historically, this tree was used in beer-making.