Sorbus gracilis
Sorbus gracilisfam. Rosaceae
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Pl. C9C7 — Sorbus gracilis
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IOverview
Overview
Sorbus gracilis, commonly known as the slender rowan, is a deciduous tree native to Japan. This plant thrives in moist conditions and prefers light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soils. It can grow up to 2 meters tall and requires full sun to partial shade for optimal health. The slender rowan is known for its edible fruit, which makes it a valuable ornamental tree not only for its aesthetic appeal but also for its culinary uses. Its distinctive feature lies in its graceful, slender branches that add elegance to any landscape.
Quick answers
What is Sorbus gracilis?
Sorbus gracilis, commonly known as the slender rowan, is a deciduous tree native to Japan. This plant thrives in moist conditions and prefers light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soils. It can grow up to 2 meters tall and requires full sun to partial shade for optimal health.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Sorbus gracilis thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It grows best in hardiness zones 5-9 and can reach a height of 2 meters. The fruit is edible. For propagation, it can be grown from seeds or through cuttings.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
5-9
Mature size
2.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Sorbus gracilis for the first time
8steps
Start with planting Skip in your garden for a simple and rewarding experience.
- 1
What you'll need
Skip plant, gloves, trowel, watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring or early fall when the weather is cooler.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure soil is well-draining; amend with compost if necessary. For containers, use a pot at least 30 cm wide.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant Skip from its nursery pot into the garden or another container.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy. Monitor for signs of stress and adjust watering accordingly.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun to partial shade, water when dry, and mulch around the base to retain moisture.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter to early spring to maintain shape and remove dead branches. Harvest fruit when ripe.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, not providing enough sunlight, neglecting pruning.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The fruit of Sorbus gracilis is edible and can be eaten raw or used in various preparations. It is typically consumed fresh but may also be dried for later use.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
1 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
1 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 1 native
Asia1 region
native (1)Japan
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
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