American mountain-ash (Sorbus americana)

American mountain-ash

Also known as: European Mountain Ash, American servicetree, Quickbeam, Winetree, Life-Of-Man, Moose-Misse, Missey-moosey, Small-Fruited Mountain Ash, American Rowan

American mountain-ash trees (Sorbus americana) grow native in eastern Canada and New England. They grow clusters of tiny berries that remain on the tree through winter, making american mountain-ash an important food source for wildlife. Moose and deer like to eat its foliage and bark, and various birds are fond of its sour fruits. Its small size and attractive appearance make it a good ornamental tree.

Scientific classification

Species

American mountain-ash (Sorbus americana)

Roses, elms, figs, and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Tree

Plant Type

Spring, Summer

Bloom Time

Fall, Winter

Harvest Time

Red, Burgundy, Orange

Fruit Color

White

Flower Color

Green, Red, White, Yellow

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

0 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of American mountain-ash

Attributes of American mountain-ash

Growth Rate

With a moderate growth rate, american mountain-ash exhibits steady development during spring and summer. This progress is apparent in its continual height increase and leaf production. However, the plant's blossoming is most notably impacted, with blooms intensifying over the active growing seasons, reflecting its growth pace. Minor growth variations may occur between different seasons.

Culture

Garden Use

American mountain-ash is a multi-stemmed, compact tree that delivers a range of colors as the seasons change - from white flowers to bright red berries to rusty orange Autumn foliage. It is an attractive specimen tree in cottage gardens, informal gardens, and city gardens. It can also look great as an ornamental tree on front yard lawns. Because it requires moist soil, it also does excellent in boggy landscapes near water bodies.

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Toxicity

American mountain-ash is mildly toxic to cats and dogs. Consumption of its fruits in high amounts can cause digestive upsets, lethargy, vomiting, or diarrhea. Monitor pets and seek veterinary care if symptoms occur after ingestion to ensure proper treatment and recovery.

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Quickly Identify American mountain-ash

Deciduous tree or shrub reaching 15-30 feet (4.5-9 meters) in height with an open rounded crown.

White urn-shaped flowers with 4 petals, blooming from June to July in dense corymbs.

Bright red-orange 1/4 inch (6 mm) fruit persisting on bare branches, peaking in September to October.

Compound leaves with 9-17 dark yellow-green leaflets, transitioning to vibrant yellow in autumn.

Smooth gray trunk with distinctive scaly patches, developed from small lenticels in youth.

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Care Guide for American mountain-ash

Every 2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

0 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Originating from cool, moist regions, american mountain-ash prefers evenly moist soil and shows moderate drought tolerance when established. Water every two weeks, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings. As a deciduous species, american mountain-ash sheds leaves annually, influenced by water availability and seasonal changes.

Fertilize: For american mountain-ash, use a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) in early spring and late summer, adhering to label rates to prevent over-fertilization. Adjust feedings for young plants and opt for slow-release types. Always water soil before and after fertilizing to minimize root burn risk.

Pruning: Prune american mountain-ash in early spring to remove dead branches and thin crowded areas, improving air circulation and light access. Trim long branches to encourage new growth. This practice enhances the plant’s health, structure, and aesthetics while preventing disease.

Propagation: American mountain-ash can be propagated via hardwood cuttings, layering (air), and autumn or winter seed sowing. Its propagation difficulty is intermediate, with success indicated by root growth and new leaves. Important tips: maintain proper soil moisture and consistent temperatures.

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Images of American mountain-ash

Attributes of American mountain-ash

Culture

Toxicity

Quickly Identify American mountain-ash

Care Guide for American mountain-ash

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