Sorbus commixta
Japanese rowan
A compact, broadly conical tree with erect branches and dark green, ash-like leaves that go yellow then red or purple in autumn. Creamy-white spring flowers in heads up to 15cm across are followed by clusters of red or orange-red berries
Synonyms
Sorbus commixta 'Nanakamado'Sorbus aucuparia 'Cooixta'
see moreSorbus reflexipetala misapplied
Sorbus discolor misapplied
Sorbus matsumurana misapplied
Sorbus randaiensis misapplied
Sorbus wilfordii
Sorbus americana subsp. japonica
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Size
Ultimate height
8–12 metresTime to ultimate height
20–50 yearsUltimate spread
4–8 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drainedpH
Acid, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Cream White | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | |||
| Autumn | Purple Red Yellow | Red | ||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or North–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H6Botanical details
- Family
- Rosaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- 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
- Plant range
- E Asia
How to grow
Cultivation
Prefers moist but well-drained acid or neutral soil in full sun or light dappled shade
Propagation
Propagate by seed sown in containers in a cold frame in autumn, taking semi-ripe cuttings in early summer, chip budding in summer or grafting in winter
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Wildlife gardens
- City and courtyard gardens
- Low Maintenance
Pruning
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
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.