Product description
Rocks Mountain Ash trees are an outstanding choice to add colour and interest to a small garden. They also have a special feature - the berries are amber yellow and birds do not realise that they can be eaten, leaving them on the tree as decoration for the entire season!
Sorbus 'Joseph Rock' has pinnate foliage which is a light to mid green in summer and matures to a stunning display of red, orange, copper, scarlet and purple in autumn. This truly amazing colour palette will have the children collecting leaves for their autumn school projects and art classes. The tree offers corymbs of creamy white flowers in April and May which turn into the luscious berries as the weather cools down. The contrast between the yellow berries and scarlet leaves create an awe-inspiring focal point in a garden.
Plant your tree in full sun. It is fully hardy and enjoys moist but well-drained sites. It has a tall, neat, upright form and can reach heights of 6m with a spread of 3m in a 20 year period.
As a holder of an RHS Award of Garden Merit, this tree is an excellent choice for a small to medium garden that needs some uplifting, interest and colour. Plant as a stand alone ornamental specimen or plant in a row to create a screen along a wall or to line a driveway.
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.