Sorbus arranensis
Arran whitebeam
A small deciduous tree, up to around 6m high, with deeply lobed and toothed, glossy deep green leaves with downy grey undersides. Clusters of creamy white flowers are produced in spring, followed by clusters of small, long red berries in autumn. A rare natural hybrid, with a small wild population found only in Scotland
Size
Ultimate height
4–8 metresTime to ultimate height
10–20 yearsUltimate spread
2.5–4 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | White Cream | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | |||
| Autumn | Green | Red | ||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H6Botanical details
- Family
- Rosaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- Yes
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Columnar upright, Bushy
- 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
How to grow
Cultivation
Thrives in cooler summers, in moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil in sun or light dappled shade. See tree cultivation for further advice
Propagation
Propagate by seed, sown fresh in autumn, or by softwood cuttings in early summer
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Wildlife gardens
- Low Maintenance
Pruning
Minimal pruning required, see 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
Get involved
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