Product description
Finding the perfect tree for a smaller garden can be a challenge! Let us recommend the lovely Vilmorins Rowan Tree for all year round interest and amazing autumn colours.
Vilmorins Rowan trees are small and compact, reaching heights of 5m and spreads of 5m within a 20 year period, They are easy to grow with little or no maintenance. Plant in full sun or light shade, the tree is full hardy and tolerant of most soil types but do avoid shallow chalky sites.
Your Sorbus vilmorinii will catch the eye with its summer display of feathery dark green leaves. The leaves have a fine, fern-like shape and rustle and dance in the lightest summer breeze, creating a wonderful relaxing ambience in a garden. The foliage turns to a vivid palette of deep purple and red in autumn, putting on a delightful show.
Spring sees the arrival of frothy clusters of small white flowers which are attractive to bees and butterflies. Later in the year, the flowers give rise to luscious, heavy bunches of rose pink berries which slowly become paler pink, before turning to almost white in winter. Because white berries are the last be be eaten by birds, they remain on the tree long after the red and pink varieties are gone.
If you only have room for one ornamental tree in a small, restricted garden, this must be your choice. It is a holder of the RHS Award of Garden Merit.
Vilmorin's Rowan
Sorbus vilmorinii
Sorbus vilmorinii
Product description
Finding the perfect tree for a smaller garden can be a challenge! Let us recommend the lovely Vilmorins Rowan Tree for all year round interest and amazing autumn colours.
Vilmorins Rowan trees are small and compact, reaching heights of 5m and spreads of 5m within a 20 year period, They are easy to grow with little or no maintenance. Plant in full sun or light shade, the tree is full hardy and tolerant of most soil types but do avoid shallow chalky sites.
Your Sorbus vilmorinii will catch the eye with its summer display of feathery dark green leaves. The leaves have a fine, fern-like shape and rustle and dance in the lightest summer breeze, creating a wonderful relaxing ambience in a garden. The foliage turns to a vivid palette of deep purple and red in autumn, putting on a delightful show.
Spring sees the arrival of frothy clusters of small white flowers which are attractive to bees and butterflies. Later in the year, the flowers give rise to luscious, heavy bunches of rose pink berries which slowly become paler pink, before turning to almost white in winter. Because white berries are the last be be eaten by birds, they remain on the tree long after the red and pink varieties are gone.
If you only have room for one ornamental tree in a small, restricted garden, this must be your choice. It is a holder of the RHS Award of Garden Merit.
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.
