Hupeh Rowan

(Sorbus hupehensis)

Hupeh Rowan (Sorbus hupehensis)

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Summary

Sorbus hupehensis, commonly known as Hupeh Rowan or Chinese Mountain Ash, is a small deciduous tree native to forest margins, thickets, and riverbanks in central and western China, including regions from Qinghai and Gansu to Yunnan, Jiangxi, and Shandong. It typically grows to a height of 16-33 feet (5-10 meters) and is noted for its grey-brown to purplish-brown bark, slender branches, and pinnate leaves that turn a striking orange or red in the autumn. The tree produces clusters of white flowers in late spring to early summer, which are moderately showy and attract pollinators. By late autumn, these flowers give way to bright pink pomes (berry-like fruits) that are particularly ornamental and persist into winter.

The Hupeh Rowan is valued in cultivation for its attractive fruit and vibrant autumn foliage. It is often used in urban planting, border planting, and as a specimen tree in gardens. This tree prefers full sun to part shade and can adapt to a variety of soil types, provided they are well-drained. It is relatively low-maintenance but can be susceptible to fireblight and other diseases common to the Rosaceae family. The tree is not known for aggressive roots or significant invasiveness issues. When planting, it is important to provide ample space for its canopy to develop and to avoid overly wet soils to prevent root rot.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree
  • Height: 20-25 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

Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Forest margins, thickets, and riverbanks in central and western China

Other Names

Common Names: Hubei rowan, Chinese rowan, Hupeh Rowan

Scientific Names: , Sorbus hupehensis, Pyrus ailanthoides, Pyrus aperta, Pyrus hupehensis, Pyrus mesogea, Pyrus mesogea var. laxa, Pyrus mesogea var. syncarpa, Sorbus aperta, Sorbus hupehensis var. aperta

GBIF Accepted Name: