Product description
Sorbus 'Chinese Lace' brings a unique look into your garden with its unusual foliage. The leaves are deeply-cut with incised edges, giving them an attractive lacy look. The young leaves are mid-green through the spring and summer. As autumn approaches, they put on a special show, turning to vibrant shades of orange, russet, yellow, red and purple.
Summer sees the appearance of domes heads of lovely fluffy white flowers that are popular with bees, butterflies and other insects, attracting sound and movement into your garden. The flowers are followed by dark bunches of orange-red berries that appear in the autumn, adding to the show. The berries attract birds into your garden, who feast on them through the winter, when other trees are bare and lifeless.
This small tree has a rounded head and will grow to a height of 6m and a spread of 4m in a 20 year period. It is ideal for a smaller garden or for a restricted space. The shape of the leaves create a dappled shade, making a wonderful cover for a picnic bench and table or a garden time-out seat.
Plant your Cut leaved Mountain Ash tree in moist, well-drained soil. It will do best in full sun that will enhance the colours of the autumn foliage. This lovely tree is a must-have for an ornamental garden.
Plant specs, care guide & tips
Key features
Specifications
When to plant
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
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Planting and period of interest times are general guidelines and may vary based on your location and conditions. For best results, consult local gardening resources.
Instructions
Top Tip
Prune Sorbus in late winter or early spring to remove dead, damaged, or overcrowded branches and to maintain a healthy shape. Avoid heavy pruning, as this can reduce flowering and berry production. Encourage wildlife to your garden by leaving the berries to ripen fully—they are a favourite for birds and add vibrant colour to your outdoor space during autumn. Regular care will keep your Sorbus tree thriving year-round.
How to Water
Water Sorbus deeply after planting and continue to water regularly during the first year to help establish strong roots. During dry spells, ensure the soil remains consistently moist but not waterlogged. Once established, Sorbus trees are relatively drought-tolerant but will benefit from occasional deep watering during prolonged dry periods. Water early in the morning or late in the evening to minimise evaporation and provide the tree with the moisture it needs.
How to Plant
To plant Sorbus, select a sunny or partially shaded spot with well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil. Dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball, ensuring the roots have enough room to spread. Position the tree so the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Backfill the hole with the removed soil, firm gently, and water thoroughly. Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds, leaving a gap around the trunk to prevent rot. Space trees at least 3–4 metres apart to allow for mature growth.