Sorbus domestica
service tree
A tree, up to 20m high, with a domed, open crown and level, spreading branches and orange-tinged brown bark which cracks into small rectangles. Pinnate leaves, 15-22cm long, with 13-21 oblong, partly-serrated, dark yellowish-green leaflets, turn orange-red or yellow in autumn. Domed clusters, about 10cm across, of greyish-cream flowers appear in early summer and are followed by green fruits, 2-3cm long, which are tinged brownish-red on the sunny side and shaped like small apples or pears, in late summer and early autumn
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Size
Ultimate height
Higher than 12 metresTime to ultimate height
20–50 yearsUltimate spread
Wider than 8 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Brown Orange | Green Yellow | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Brown Orange | Cream Grey Silver | Green Yellow | Green Brown Red |
| Autumn | Brown Orange | Orange Red Yellow | Green Brown Red | |
| Winter | Brown Orange |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
West–facing or East–facing or South–facing or North–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H6Botanical details
- Family
- Rosaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- Yes
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Spreading branched
- Potentially harmful
- Fruit are ornamental, not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets: Fruit are ornamental, not to be eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
- Genus
Sorbus can be deciduous trees or shrubs with simple or pinnate leaves and clusters of small white or pink flowers, followed by white, yellow, pink, red or brown berries; some have fine autumn colour
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Europe Africa Asia M
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in moisture-retentive, humus-rich, well-drained soil in sun or light dappled shade
Propagation
Propagate by seed
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Coastal
- Cottage and informal garden
- Wildlife gardens
- Architectural
- City and courtyard gardens
- Low Maintenance
- Hedging and screens
Pruning
No pruning required / Pruning group 1
Pests
May be susceptible to aphids, scale insects, pear blister mite, red spider mite and sawfly larvae
Diseases
May be susceptible to fireblight, apple canker, silver leaf and honey fungus
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