Sorbus aria, commonly known as Whitebeam, is a deciduous tree native to a variety of habitats including woodland edges, limestone pavements, and cliffs in Europe and Western Asia. It typically grows to a height of 20-30 feet (6-9 meters) and a width of 15-20 feet (5-6 meters). The Whitebeam is notable for its simple, oval leaves that are green on top with a distinctive white, felt-like underside, giving the tree its common name. It produces clusters of cream-colored flowers in late spring that are moderately showy, followed by red or orange berries in the fall that are popular with birds.

Whitebeam trees are valued for their compact size, making them suitable for urban and residential planting where space is limited. They are also appreciated for their attractive foliage, which provides visual interest throughout the growing season, and their fruit, which supports local wildlife. Whitebeam trees are relatively low-maintenance, requiring minimal pruning and care once established. They are adaptable to a range of soil types, provided the soil is well-drained, and they can tolerate both full sun and partial shade. While generally disease-resistant, they can be susceptible to fireblight and leaf scorch in stressful conditions. There are several cultivars available, such as ’Lutescens’ with yellowish leaves and ’Majestica’ with larger leaves and fruits, which offer additional ornamental qualities for gardeners.CC BY-SA 4.0