Sorbus japonica

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Sorbus japonica is one of the less well-known Rowan species, and arguably belongs with the Whitebeams. It is grown mainly for its attractive upright appearance, and good autumn colours.

The leaves are particularly attractive. They are deeply veined, bright green, with serrated edges, and have a downy appearance when young.

The small white flowers appear in late spring.

The red fruitlets are large by rowan standards, and can be cooked.

Sorbus japonica rowan trees for sale

All our pot-grown trees are grown for us to our specification by the Frank P Matthews nursery.

All pot-grown trees are suitable for planting out in the garden, some are suitable for growing in containers.

Sorry we have not produced any trees of this variety this season.

How to grow

Sorbus japonica is easy to grow and will suit most situation.

We usually graft this variety on a rootstock of Sorbus intermedia (the Swedish Whitebeam) for consistency.

Sorbus japonica characteristics

• Gardening skillBeginner
• Attractive featuresAttractive tree / plantAttractive foliageAutumn foliage colour
• Growth habitUpright
• Height after 10 years3m-5m / 10ft-16ft
• SunlightTolerates shadePrefers full sun
• PruningLight prune
• Growth rateAverage
• Site conditionsCoastal siteOccasional floodingWindy site
• WildlifeAttractive to birds
• Flower colourWhite
• Flowering monthMay
• Leaf colourGreen
• Leaf colour - autumnMultiple tints
• Fruit colourRed
• Country of originJapan
• Annual cycleDeciduous

How to choose a Rowan or Whitebeam tree

We list more than 50 Sorbus (rowan and whitebeam) trees. Choosing can be difficult! Our article explaining the different berry and leaf colours might help narrow down the selection.