Showy Mountain Ash
(Sorbus decora)
Showy Mountain Ash (Sorbus decora)
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daryl_mitchell
CC BY-SA 2.0
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daryl_mitchell
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CC BY-SA 2.0
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Photo by: daryl_mitchell | License Type: CC BY-SA 2.0 | License URL: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/ | Uploader: daryl_mitchell | Publisher: Flickr
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Sorbus decora, commonly known as Showy Mountain Ash, is a deciduous tree or large shrub native to cool temperate regions, including the northern United States, eastern Canada, and parts of Greenland. It is typically found in moist woods, forest edges, and along streams. This species grows 4–10 meters (13–33 ft) tall and features a rounded crown with odd-pinnately compound leaves that turn yellow to red in the fall. The Showy Mountain Ash blooms in late spring to early summer, producing large clusters of white flowers that are quite attractive to pollinators. Following the flowering season, it bears large clusters of small, red berry-like pomes that are favored by birds and other wildlife.
The Showy Mountain Ash is valued for its cold-hardiness, making it suitable for northern climates. Its attractive white flowers and bright red fruits add ornamental value, while its modest size makes it suitable for urban planting, border planting, and as a specimen tree in residential gardens. It requires full sun to part shade, medium amounts of water, and prefers well-drained soils. While generally low-maintenance, it can be susceptible to fire blight and borers. Gardeners should be aware of these potential issues and monitor the plant for signs of disease or pest infestation.CC BY-SA 4.0
The Showy Mountain Ash is valued for its cold-hardiness, making it suitable for northern climates. Its attractive white flowers and bright red fruits add ornamental value, while its modest size makes it suitable for urban planting, border planting, and as a specimen tree in residential gardens. It requires full sun to part shade, medium amounts of water, and prefers well-drained soils. While generally low-maintenance, it can be susceptible to fire blight and borers. Gardeners should be aware of these potential issues and monitor the plant for signs of disease or pest infestation.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Tree, Shrub
- Height: 20-30 feet
- Width: 15-20 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: White
- Flowering Season: Spring
- Leaf Retention: Deciduous
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
- Water: Medium
- Drainage: Medium
Common Uses
Bank Stabilization, Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Fire Resistant, Fragrant, Salt Tolerant, Showy Flowers
Natural Habitat
Moist woods, forest edges, and along streams
Other Names
Common Names: American Mountain Ash, Showy Mountain Ash, Dogberry, Praktrönn
Scientific Names: , Sorbus decora, Pyrus decora, Pyrus americana var. decora, Sorbus subvestita, Sorbus americana var. decora, Aucuparia subvestita, Pyrus sambucifolia, Pyrus sitchensis, Pyrus subvestita
GBIF Accepted Name: Sorbus decora (Sarg.) C.K.Schneid.