Mountain Ash and Whitebeam: A Closer Look

The Mountain Ash and Whitebeam trees are two closely related species that belong to the Rosaceae family, widely found in Europe, Asia, and North America. These trees are known for their attractive foliage, beautiful flowers, and colorful fruits, making them a popular choice among gardeners and landscapers. In this article, we will take a closer look at these two amazing trees and learn more about their characteristics, growth habits, and other interesting facts.

Mountain Ash (Sorbus aucuparia)

The Mountain Ash, also known as Rowan, is a deciduous tree that can grow up to 60 feet in height. It is native to Europe and western Asia, where it is commonly found in woodlands, hedgerows, and rocky hillsides. The tree has a slender trunk with smooth, gray-brown bark, and its branches form an irregular and rounded crown. Its leaves are pinnate, with 9-15 leaflets, which turn a beautiful bright red or orange color in autumn.

One of the most striking features of the Mountain Ash is its flowers. The tree produces clusters of creamy white flowers in late spring to early summer, which attract bees and other pollinators. These flowers are followed by small, bright red berries that ripen in late summer and early fall. The berries are inedible when raw but can be cooked and eaten in jellies, jams, and sauces. They are an excellent source of food for birds and other wildlife, which is why the Mountain Ash is often planted for conservation purposes.

Mountain Ash is a relatively fast-growing tree, and it is easy to grow in a variety of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils. It prefers a well-drained location and can tolerate full sun to partial shade. The tree is resistant to most pests and diseases, making it a low-maintenance tree for gardens and parks.

Whitebeam (Sorbus aria)

The Whitebeam, also known as Wild Service, is a small to medium-sized tree that is native to Europe and western Asia. It is found in woodlands, scrublands, and on rocky slopes. The tree can grow up to 75 feet in height, with a broad and spreading crown. It has smooth, grayish bark, which becomes fissured with age, and its branches have a distinctive zigzag pattern.

The leaves of the Whitebeam are also pinnate, with 5-11 leaflets, and they have a silvery-white underside, giving the tree its common name. In autumn, the leaves turn shades of yellow, orange, and pink, adding a splash of color to the landscape. The tree produces small white flowers in late spring, which are followed by red to orange-colored fruits in the fall. These fruits have a bitter taste and are not consumed by humans, but they are a valuable food source for birds and small animals.

Whitebeam is a hardy tree that can tolerate a wide range of soil conditions, including chalky or poor soils. It prefers a sunny to partially shaded location and is drought tolerant once established. The tree is also resistant to most pests and diseases, making it a popular choice for urban landscaping and street planting.

Growing Mountain Ash and Whitebeam Trees

Both the Mountain Ash and Whitebeam trees are relatively easy to grow and can thrive in a variety of growing conditions. Here are a few tips to help you grow these trees successfully:

Planting

Both trees can be planted in the fall or early spring, as long as the ground is not frozen. Choose a location that receives full sun to partial shade and has well-drained soil. Dig a hole twice the size of the tree’s root ball and mix in some compost or organic matter to improve the soil’s quality. Plant the tree at the same depth as it was in the container, and water thoroughly.

Watering and Fertilizing

Both trees should be watered regularly, especially during the first year after planting. They prefer moist but not waterlogged soil. Fertilizing can be done in late winter or early spring, using a balanced fertilizer specifically formulated for trees.

Pruning

Prune the trees in late winter or early spring to remove any damaged or diseased branches. You can also prune to shape the tree or control its size, but be cautious not to remove too much of the canopy, as it can affect the tree’s health.

In Conclusion

The Mountain Ash and Whitebeam trees are two stunning species that are perfect for adding color and interest to any landscape. These trees are not only beautiful but also provide food and shelter for wildlife, making them an excellent choice for conservation purposes. With proper care and maintenance, these trees can thrive and add value to your garden or park for many years to come.