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Whitebeam Mountain Ash

Sorbus aria

 

 
Whitebeam Mountain Ash (Sorbus aria) at Southwest Garden Supplies

Whitebeam Mountain Ash in bloom

Whitebeam Mountain Ash in bloom

(Photo courtesy of NetPS Plant Finder)

Height:  40 feet

Spread:  30 feet

Sunlight:  full sun 

Hardiness Zone:  6a

Description:

A phenomenal accent tree that's covered in clusters of creamy white flowers in spring followed by scarlet-red berries in fall; dusty green leaves with silvery undersides are single, unlike other species; needs well drained soil, resistant to fireblight

Ornamental Features

Whitebeam Mountain Ash features showy clusters of white flowers held atop the branches in mid spring. The orange fruits are held in abundance in spectacular clusters from early to late fall. It has dark green deciduous foliage. The glossy oval leaves turn an outstanding gold in the fall. The smooth silver bark adds an interesting dimension to the landscape.

Landscape Attributes

Whitebeam Mountain Ash is a deciduous tree with a shapely oval form. Its relatively fine texture sets it apart from other landscape plants with less refined foliage.

This is a relatively low maintenance tree, and is best pruned in late winter once the threat of extreme cold has passed. It is a good choice for attracting birds to your yard. Gardeners should be aware of the following characteristic(s) that may warrant special consideration;

  • Disease

Whitebeam Mountain Ash is recommended for the following landscape applications;

  • Accent
  • Shade

Planting & Growing

Whitebeam Mountain Ash will grow to be about 40 feet tall at maturity, with a spread of 30 feet. It has a low canopy with a typical clearance of 4 feet from the ground, and should not be planted underneath power lines. It grows at a medium rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for 50 years or more.

This tree should only be grown in full sunlight. It is very adaptable to both dry and moist locations, and should do just fine under average home landscape conditions. It is not particular as to soil type, but has a definite preference for acidic soils. It is highly tolerant of urban pollution and will even thrive in inner city environments. This species is not originally from North America.

 
 
Hardiness Zone Plant Height Minimum Sunlight Soil pH Preference
Characteristics
Accent  Shade 
Applications
Flowers  Fruit  Fall Color  Bark  Winter Value  Attracts Wildlife 
Ornamental Features