Sorbus species
Family: Rosaceae
What it is like
Sorbus species is a deciduous Tree growing to 10 m (32ft) by 7 m (23ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in flower in May, and the seeds ripen in October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil. The plant can tolerates strong winds but not maritime exposure.
Height (m): 10
Where it is found
Not known in the wild
A range of hybrids of garden origin
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 2
Fruit - raw or cooked. Up to 15mm in diameter.
Medicine
Rating: 0
Other
Rating:
How it is grown
This record is to cover a series of hybrids of garden origin that belong to the whitebeam section of the genus but have not been placed in a distinct species. The following notes are based on the general needs of this group of plants. Succeeds in most reasonably good soils in an open sunny position. Tolerates light shade, though it fruits better in a sunny position. Plants are susceptible to fireblight. A very ornamental tree. Plants are apt to die back without any warning.
Propagating it: Seed - best sown as soon as it is ripe in a cold frame. If you have sufficient seed it can be sown in an outdoor seedbed. Stored seed germinates better if given 2 weeks warm then 14 - 16 weeks cold stratification, so sow it as early in the year as possible. Prick out the seedlings into individual pots when they are large enough to handle. Seedlings are very slow to put on top-growth for their first year or two, but they are busy building up a good root system. It is best to keep them in pots in a cold frame for their first winter and then plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring. This is a hybrid and so is unlikely to breed true from seed.
Best place to grow:
Habit: Tree
Hardiness: 6-9
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: Semi-shade, no shade
Moisture: Moist
Things to keep in mind
The seeds probably contain hydrogen cyanide. This is the ingredient that gives almonds their characteristic flavour. Unless the seed is very bitter it should be perfectly safe in reasonable quantities. In small quantities, hydrogen cyanide has been shown to stimulate respiration and improve digestion, it is also claimed to be of benefit in the treatment of cancer. In excess, however, it can cause respiratory failure and even death.