Product description
If you are struggling to find a tree that can tolerate difficult conditions like wind, exposure, chalky soils, lime or dry soils, the Whitebeam tree will come to the rescue. Add this delightful ornamental tree to your garden and create all-year round interest, no matter how challenging your landscape is.
Sorbus aria 'Lutescens' offers a lovely striking, silvery white young foliage in spring that is covered with creamy white down. As the weather warms, the foliage develops into corrugated green-grey rounded leaves with a paler underside. Corymbs of pretty scented white flowers appear in May and later change into scarlet autumn fruits. The fruits are very attractive to bees, insects and birds, bringing movement and sound into your garden.
In autumn, the Whitebeam tree puts on a spectacular display of yellow gold leaves before they fall. Winter offers new interest - the ornamental bark will delight with tones of orange and beige.
In autumn, the Whitebeam tree puts on a spectacular display of yellow gold leaves before they fall. Winter offers new interest - the ornamental bark will delight with tones of orange and beige.
Whitebeam Tree
Sorbus 'Lutescens'
Sorbus 'Lutescens'
Product description
If you are struggling to find a tree that can tolerate difficult conditions like wind, exposure, chalky soils, lime or dry soils, the Whitebeam tree will come to the rescue. Add this delightful ornamental tree to your garden and create all-year round interest, no matter how challenging your landscape is.
Sorbus aria 'Lutescens' offers a lovely striking, silvery white young foliage in spring that is covered with creamy white down. As the weather warms, the foliage develops into corrugated green-grey rounded leaves with a paler underside. Corymbs of pretty scented white flowers appear in May and later change into scarlet autumn fruits. The fruits are very attractive to bees, insects and birds, bringing movement and sound into your garden.
In autumn, the Whitebeam tree puts on a spectacular display of yellow gold leaves before they fall. Winter offers new interest - the ornamental bark will delight with tones of orange and beige.
In autumn, the Whitebeam tree puts on a spectacular display of yellow gold leaves before they fall. Winter offers new interest - the ornamental bark will delight with tones of orange and beige.
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.
