Product description
Mountain Ash trees are wonderful for smaller or restricted gardens, due to their tall, upright and elegant shape and narrow spread. They will bring a enchanting look into a limited space as well as an abundance of colour and all year round interest.
The ascending branches of this Mountain Ash are covered in mid-green leaves which are accompanied by fluffy corymbs of white flowers in April to May. In autumn the leaves burst into a lovely orange hue before falling. Autumn also sees the flowers turning to clusters of orange-red fruits which are very attractive to birds. The fruits remain well into the winter season, bringing the sweet sounds of birds into your garden when it is otherwise bare and uninteresting.
Sorbus aucuparia 'Sheerwater Seedling' trees will attain heights of 6m and spreads of around 2.5m They have a lovely upright habit, pleasing to the eye. When the tree is laden with berries, the weight may pull some branches down, disturbing the perfect upright look. Birds will soon peck at the berries and the branches will return to their original position.
Being fully hardy, the Sheerwater Seedling can be planted in full sun. It thrives best in moist but well-drained soil. Try to avoid chalky soil where possible. Plant one alone as an ornamental statement, it is sure to be a talking point when guests come to visit. You can also plant many in a row to uplift an uninspired or unsightly boundary wall.
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.