European Mountain Ash
Sorbus aucuparia
Also listed as Mespilus aucuparia, Pyrus aucuparia
Also known as Rowan, European Rowan, Rowan Mountain Ash
Climate Match for your location
See how well European Mountain Ash grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
A deciduous tree valued for delicate white flowers in spring and brilliant orange-red berries in fall that persist into winter. Hardy and adaptable, it provides excellent ornamental interest and wildlife food.
Why grow it
European mountain ash offers reliable hardiness and adaptability across a wide range of climates and soil conditions, making it a practical choice where other ornamental trees struggle. Compared to native Sorbus species in North America, it provides similar seasonal interest with white spring flowers and persistent berries, though regional natives may offer better ecological integration. Its moderate growth rate and relatively compact size suit smaller landscapes where larger shade trees would be impractical.
Watch out for
The tree is susceptible to several fungal diseases, including fire blight and ash scab, particularly in humid climates; choose planting locations with good air circulation. Birds and wildlife attracted to the berries may disperse seeds into adjacent areas, so site selection near sensitive native plant communities warrants consideration.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Rosaceae
Native Range
Europe and western Asia
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Harvest Season
Edible Parts
Season of Interest
Canopy
The tallest trees that form the overstory.
Sub-canopy
Smaller trees living beneath the canopy.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Flood Tolerance
pH Range
Soil Texture
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Years to Bearing
- Propagation
A deciduous tree valued for delicate white flowers in spring and brilliant orange-red berries in fall that persist into winter. Hardy and adaptable, it provides excellent ornamental interest and wildlife food.
Climate Match for your location
See how well European Mountain Ash grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
European mountain ash offers reliable hardiness and adaptability across a wide range of climates and soil conditions, making it a practical choice where other ornamental trees struggle. Compared to native Sorbus species in North America, it provides similar seasonal interest with white spring flowers and persistent berries, though regional natives may offer better ecological integration. Its moderate growth rate and relatively compact size suit smaller landscapes where larger shade trees would be impractical.
Watch out for
The tree is susceptible to several fungal diseases, including fire blight and ash scab, particularly in humid climates; choose planting locations with good air circulation. Birds and wildlife attracted to the berries may disperse seeds into adjacent areas, so site selection near sensitive native plant communities warrants consideration.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Rosaceae
Native Range
Europe and western Asia
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Harvest Season
Edible Parts
Season of Interest
Canopy
The tallest trees that form the overstory.
Sub-canopy
Smaller trees living beneath the canopy.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Flood Tolerance
pH Range
Soil Texture
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Years to Bearing
- Propagation
Similar sub-canopy trees you might consider:
Enter your ZIP code to see top native species and strong climate fits for you.