Sorbus alnifolia
Sorbus alnifoliafam. Rosaceae
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Pl. 2126 — Sorbus alnifolia
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IOverview
Overview
Sorbus alnifolia, commonly known as the Manchurian service tree, is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to China and Japan. It thrives in moist soil and prefers partial sun to full sun exposure. This plant can grow up to 15 meters tall and is hardy in zones 4-7. Known for its edible fruit, which can be used fresh or dried, Sorbus alnifolia also boasts distinctive white flowers that appear in spring followed by clusters of small, red berries in autumn. Its adaptability to various soil types makes it a valuable addition to gardens and landscapes in suitable climates.
Quick answers
What is Sorbus alnifolia?
Sorbus alnifolia, commonly known as the Manchurian service tree, is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to China and Japan. It thrives in moist soil and prefers partial sun to full sun exposure. This plant can grow up to 15 meters tall and is hardy in zones 4-7.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Sorbus alnifolia thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist soil that is well-draining or clayey. It grows best in light (sandy), medium, or heavy soils and is hardy in zones 4-7. The plant can reach a height of 15 meters and produces edible fruit. For propagation, consider seed sowing or grafting.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
4-7
Mature size
15.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Sorbus alnifolia for the first time
8steps
Start with planting Sorbus alnifolia in a sunny spot and follow these steps for success.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Sorbus alnifolia plant, garden gloves, a spade or trowel.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a location with well-draining soil. Amend heavy clay soils with sand for better drainage.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants from containers into your garden, spacing them about 3-4 meters apart.
- 5
First two weeks
Water the plant regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for any signs of stress.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun or partial shade and regular watering, especially during dry spells. Prune in late winter to maintain shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune the plant in late winter to remove dead or weak branches and encourage new growth.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soil without amending, not providing enough sunlight, neglecting winter protection in colder zones.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The fruit of Sorbus alnifolia is edible and can be eaten raw or used in various preparations. It is often consumed fresh but may also be dried for later use. Skip the specific preparation details as they are not provided.
Other uses:Lumber
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
8 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
8 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 8 native
Asia4 regions
native (4)ChinaJapanSouth KoreaTaiwan
Broader regions
native:Primorye
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Rosaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Rosaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 212622c5-05da-4023-8b17-a4f4db3959fc
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