Product description
Hupeh Rowan Trees delight with a luscious display of pearly white berries tinged with pink - a fabulous addition to a garden that needs a touch of something unique to create a wow-factor.
This splendid ornamental tree offers all year round interest. In spring, the new foliage appears with a distinctive blue-green tinge which matures to a deep glossy green in summer. As autumn approaches, the leaves put on a spectacular display in vivid shades of red and orange. Spring sees corymbs of fluffy white flowers that attract bees. The flowers are followed by drooping clusters of berries which are white marbled with pink.
Sorbus hupehensis requires little maintenance or effort to grow. It is fully hardy and enjoys full sun. Plant in moist but well-drained soil. It is tolerant of both city pollution and difficult exposed sites. To get the best autumn colour, a slightly more acidic and less alkaline soil will be ideal. The tree has an upright habit and reaches heights of 6m with a spread of 4m with ascending branches that maintain the tall, columnar shape. Because the berries are white, they are the last ones to be taken by birds and will remain on the tree way past Christmas, when others are bare and uninteresting.
The Hupeh takes its name from the Hupeh province in Western China where it grows in abundance. It was introduced into Britain by the renowned plant collector E.H. Wilson in 1910. Plant next to the lovely Sorbus aucuparia 'Cardinal Royal' which offers bright red berries. The bold contrast of the white and red berries on the two trees will create a wonderful display in your dream garden.
Hupeh Rowan Tree
Sorbus hupehensis
Sorbus hupehensis
Product description
Hupeh Rowan Trees delight with a luscious display of pearly white berries tinged with pink - a fabulous addition to a garden that needs a touch of something unique to create a wow-factor.
This splendid ornamental tree offers all year round interest. In spring, the new foliage appears with a distinctive blue-green tinge which matures to a deep glossy green in summer. As autumn approaches, the leaves put on a spectacular display in vivid shades of red and orange. Spring sees corymbs of fluffy white flowers that attract bees. The flowers are followed by drooping clusters of berries which are white marbled with pink.
Sorbus hupehensis requires little maintenance or effort to grow. It is fully hardy and enjoys full sun. Plant in moist but well-drained soil. It is tolerant of both city pollution and difficult exposed sites. To get the best autumn colour, a slightly more acidic and less alkaline soil will be ideal. The tree has an upright habit and reaches heights of 6m with a spread of 4m with ascending branches that maintain the tall, columnar shape. Because the berries are white, they are the last ones to be taken by birds and will remain on the tree way past Christmas, when others are bare and uninteresting.
The Hupeh takes its name from the Hupeh province in Western China where it grows in abundance. It was introduced into Britain by the renowned plant collector E.H. Wilson in 1910. Plant next to the lovely Sorbus aucuparia 'Cardinal Royal' which offers bright red berries. The bold contrast of the white and red berries on the two trees will create a wonderful display in your dream garden.
Give your tree the best start
Plant specs, care guide & tips
Key features
Specifications
When to plant
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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.
