Sorbus Aucuparia - Rowan

Sorbus aucuparia, commonly known as Rowan or Mountain Ash, is one of the prettiest native British trees. Its delicate pinnate leaves form a light canopy, complemented by clusters of creamy-white flowers in spring, scarlet-orange berries in autumn, and striking autumn foliage. Hardy and adaptable, Rowan thrives even in the far north of Scotland and exposed sites, making it equally suitable for woodland, urban gardens, and avenues.

Rowan provides excellent wildlife value, supporting insects, birds, and mammals. Its timber has traditional uses for small tools and handles, and its berries have been used for preserves, spirits, and medicinal purposes. Folklore regards Rowan as protective, often planted in cottage gardens and churchyards.

This is the size and type we sell:

Sorbus aucuparia Mountain Ash/Rowan 20–60cm Cell Grown

Sorbus aucuparia Mountain Ash/Rowan 40–60cm 1+0

Sorbus aucuparia Mountain Ash/Rowan 40–60cm 1u1

Professionally grown and suitable for woodland, gardens, avenues, specimen planting, and wildlife-friendly projects.

Features & Benefits

Native British tree with delicate pinnate leaves and light canopy

Creamy-white flowers in spring; scarlet-orange berries in autumn

Hardy and adaptable, thriving in exposed and high-altitude sites

Supports insects, birds (fieldfares, redwings), mammals (deer, hares), and many moths and butterflies

Timber used for cart wheels, handles, and small items; berries used for preserves and spirits

Pioneer species and good host for lichens in wetter regions

Applications

Woodland and urban garden planting

Specimen tree or avenue planting

Wildlife-friendly planting and conservation schemes

Ornamental and cultural/folklore planting

Height & Spread (Approximate)

After 10 years: 8m height x 3m spread

After 20 years: 12m height x 5m spread

Growth assumes suitable site conditions.

Botanical Name | Sorbus aucuparia

Common Name | Rowan / Mountain Ash

Plant Type | Deciduous tree

Growth Rate | Moderate

Mature Height | Up to 15m

Mature Spread | Up to 8m

Soil Type | Most soils; tolerates acidic and lighter soils

Aspect | Full sun to partial shade

Hardiness | Fully hardy in the UK; tolerates exposed and high-altitude sites

Plant Size & Type | 20–60cm Cell Grown; 40–60cm 1+0; 40–60cm 1u1

Maintenance | Not normally pruned; tidy damaged branches as required

Wildlife Value | Flowers attract bees and insects; berries eaten by birds; foliage eaten by deer and hares; supports moths, butterflies, and lichens