TreesSorbus aucuparia
Rowan
Rowan is a graceful native tree with pinnate leaves, white flower clusters in late spring and stunning orange-red berry clusters in autumn. The tree is one of the most important food sources for birds in winter. The foliage turns beautiful orange and red in autumn.
Characteristics
- Sun
- Full sun
- Water
- Medium
- Height
- 600–1200 cm
- Spread
- 400–700 cm
- Hardiness zone
- 3–7
- Family
- Rosaceae
- Evergreen
- No
- Flower colors
- white
- Wildlife value
- birds, bees, butterflies
Bloom period
Care guide
Plant in full sun in well-drained, not too calcareous soil. The tree grows quickly and requires little maintenance. Water during dry periods, especially young trees. Rowan is exceptionally hardy and tolerates wind and cold well.
Pruning tips
Prune in winter when the tree is dormant. Remove crossing and dead branches for an open crown. Avoid heavy pruning — the tree has a naturally attractive shape. Remove root suckers as they appear.
Good companions
TreesBetula pendula
Silver Birch
Silver Birch is a graceful, fast-growing tree with striking white bark that peels in thin layers over the years. The fine, pendulous branches give the tree an airy, elegant silhouette. In autumn, the small triangular leaves turn bright yellow.
TreesCorylus avellana
Common Hazel
The hazel is a native large shrub or small tree that enlivens the garden as early as February and March with long, golden-yellow catkins — one of the first food sources for bees after winter. In autumn, hazelnuts follow in their characteristic green husks. Hazel grows multi-stemmed and makes a beautiful native hedge or specimen.
ShrubsViburnum opulus
Guelder Rose
The Guelder Rose is a native shrub with broad, flat white flower clusters in May and June, followed by bright red berries in autumn. The foliage turns spectacular orange to red in the fall. The shrub provides food and shelter for birds and is a valuable addition for biodiversity.