High Quality Sorbus Trees For Sale

New Zealand’s Best Sorbus Trees

Growing colourful trees in your garden delivers a vast range of benefits:

• They are visual plants that add impact to a space
• They attract birds and bees
• Street appeal can be greatly enhanced
• They can provide shelter and screening
• Children can learn the plants and become more involved with nature
• These plants will bring you pleasure for many years to come

We have the largest variety of Whitebeam and Mountain Ash trees, and we have the right one for your space. Our Sorbus trees have been selected to thrive in NZ’s climate. We grow and stock only the highest quality plants, sourcing them locally, and from NZ’s leading nurseries. Each plant is packed and transported with extreme care, ensuring it arrives to you in the same condition it was in when it left the nursery. If you are wanting to buy Sorbus trees, shop with confidence from the best in the industry.

Common questions about growing Sorbus

1. What are the benefits of Sorbus?

There are many potential health benefits associated with Sorbus species, including:

1. Antioxidant Properties: Sorbus berries are rich in antioxidants, which can help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. This may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and neurodegenerative diseases.
2. Anti-inflammatory Effects: Sorbus berries contain compounds that have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. This may help reduce inflammation associated with conditions such as arthritis, gout, and irritable bowel syndrome.
3. Cardioprotective Effects: Some studies suggest that Sorbus berries may help improve heart health by lowering blood pressure, reducing cholesterol levels, and improving blood vessel function.
4. Antiviral Properties: Some Sorbus species have been shown to have antiviral properties. This suggests that they may help protect against or treat viral infections.
5. Digestive Health Benefits: Sorbus berries are a good source of fiber, which can help promote digestive health by adding bulk to stool and preventing constipation.
6. Immune System Support: Sorbus berries contain vitamin C, an antioxidant that is essential for immune system function. They also contain other nutrients that may help support the immune system, such as vitamin K and iron.
7. Potential Cancer-Fighting Properties: Some studies suggest that Sorbus berries may have anti-cancer properties. This is due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, as well as their content of certain phytochemicals that may help protect against cancer cell growth.
8. Potential Weight Management Benefits: Sorbus berries are a low-calorie, high-fiber snack that may help promote feelings of fullness and reduce overall calorie intake.
9. Potential Skin Health Benefits: Sorbus berries contain vitamin C, which is important for collagen production and skin health. They also contain other nutrients that may help protect the skin from damage, such as vitamin E and anthocyanins.
10. Potential Cognitive Health Benefits: Some studies suggest that Sorbus berries may help improve cognitive function and protect against neurodegenerative diseases. This is due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as their content of certain phytochemicals that may promote brain health.

It is important to note that most of the research on the health benefits of Sorbus comes from animal studies and in vitro studies. More research is needed to confirm these benefits in humans. Additionally, some Sorbus species may contain high levels of sorbitol, a sugar alcohol that can cause digestive problems in some people. If you are considering using Sorbus berries for their potential health benefits, it is important to talk to your doctor first.

2. What is the common name for a Sorbus tree?

The most common names for Sorbus trees are:

• Rowan: This is the most common name for Sorbus trees in the United Kingdom and parts of Europe.
• Mountain-ash: This name is more common in Ireland, North America, and Australia.
• Service tree: This name is less common, but it is still used for some Sorbus species, particularly those with edible fruits.
• Whitebeam: This name is used for a group of Sorbus trees with white or woolly leaves.

Other less common names for Sorbus trees include:

• Witchwood: This name is due to the tree's association with witchcraft in some cultures.
• Quickbeam: This name is due to the tree's fast-growing habit.
• Keirn: This name is a Scottish Gaelic word for rowan.
• Cuirn: This name is a Manx word for rowan.

3. How do you identify Sorbus leaves?

dentifying Sorbus leaves can be done by observing their distinct characteristics:

1. Leaf Arrangement: Sorbus leaves are arranged alternately along the stem, meaning they grow one at a time, not in pairs or clusters.
2. Leaf Shape: Sorbus leaves are pinnate, meaning they are divided into multiple leaflets along a central stalk. The leaflets are typically oval or elliptical in shape, with serrated edges.
3. Number of Leaflets: The number of leaflets on a Sorbus leaf varies depending on the species. Most Sorbus species have between 5 and 15 pairs of leaflets, with a single terminal leaflet at the tip.
4. Leaf Texture: Sorbus leaves are typically smooth or slightly hairy. The upper surface of the leaf is usually dark green, while the underside may be paler or have a slightly reddish tint.
5. Autumn Foliage: Sorbus trees are known for their vibrant autumn foliage. The leaflets turn shades of yellow, orange, and red before falling off the tree.

In addition to these characteristics, you can also identify Sorbus trees by their overall appearance. They are typically small to medium-sized trees with slender trunks and narrow, oval crowns. The bark is often gray or brown and has a smooth or slightly fissured texture.

4. Is a Sorbus the same as a rowan?

Sorbus is the scientific genus for the rowan tree. The common name "rowan" is specifically used for the species Sorbus aucuparia, which is the most widespread and well-known member of the genus. However, the name "rowan" is also sometimes used for other Sorbus species, particularly those with similar characteristics to Sorbus aucuparia.

So, in general, you can use the terms "Sorbus" and "rowan" interchangeably to refer to the same tree. However, if you want to be more specific, you can use the scientific name "Sorbus aucuparia" to refer to the common rowan tree.

5. Which Sorbus is best for a small garden?

Several Sorbus varieties are well-suited for small gardens, offering stunning foliage, delicate flowers, and vibrant autumn colors. Here are some of the most popular choices for compact spaces:

1. Sorbus vilmorinii: Also known as Vilmorin's rowan, this graceful tree features delicate, fern-like pinnate leaves with numerous small leaflets. In spring, it produces hanging clusters of white flowers, followed by attractive deep-crimson-pink fruits.
2. Sorbus aucuparia 'Autumn Spire': This columnar variety of the common rowan grows to a height of 4-5 meters and a spread of 3-4 meters, making it ideal for smaller gardens. It boasts creamy-white flowers in spring, followed by clusters of vibrant red berries in autumn.
3. Sorbus hupehensis: This charming tree showcases distinctive pink flowers in spring, transitioning to clusters of orange-red berries in autumn. Its autumn foliage turns a stunning shade of orange-red, adding a vibrant splash of color to the garden.
4. Sorbus 'Joseph Rock': This compact variety reaches a height of 4 meters and a spread of 3 meters, making it a suitable choice for even the smallest gardens. It produces clusters of creamy-white flowers in spring, followed by orange-red berries in autumn.
5. Sorbus commixta 'Embley': This ornamental tree is renowned for its spectacular autumn foliage, turning shades of scarlet, orange, and crimson. Its flowers are creamy-white in spring, followed by clusters of red berries in autumn.

6. How fast growing is a Rowan tree?

Rowan trees (Sorbus aucuparia) are known for their fast growth rate, typically adding 20-40 cm in height per year. This rapid growth allows them to quickly reach their mature size of 8 to 15 metres (26 to 50 feet) tall.

While Rowan trees are fast growers, their growth rate can vary depending on several factors, including:

• Soil conditions: Rowan trees prefer well-drained, loamy soil with a slightly acidic pH. Poor soil conditions can slow down their growth rate.
• Sunlight exposure: Rowan trees thrive in full sun or partial shade. Too much shade can hinder their growth.
• Watering and fertilization: Adequate watering and fertilization can help Rowan trees reach their full growth potential.
• Pest and disease control: Keeping Rowan trees free of pests and diseases can promote healthy growth.

Despite their fast growth rate, Rowan trees are considered relatively short-lived trees, typically reaching an age of 50 to 60 years. However, some individual trees have been known to live for over 100 years.