European Mountain Ash (Sorbus aucuparia)

Description from Cold Stream Farm

Latin: Sorbus aucuparia

Other common names: rowan-tree

Mature Height: 65 ft

Soil / Climate: Grows in dry rocky areas, to moist rich woods.  Avoid hot locations. Good in cooler climates. Prefers full sun.

Notes: Grayish, yellow-brown smooth bark.  Long, compound leaves with sharp toothed edges.  Leaves turn orange-red in autumn.  Flowers are white or pink. Buds are pubescent, in contrast with the American version’s shiny buds.  More commonly planted than American Mountain Ash. European Mountain Ash produces small, 1/4 inch in diameter, orange-red fruits ripen in late August and September. Makes a good smaller shade tree. It has been used for medicinal purposes and the fruit is used to make rowanberry wine.

Wildlife: Fruit is a favorite food of the ruffed grouse.  Also highly prized by the red-headed woodpecker, gray catbird, robin, bluebird, and oriole.