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Sorbus mougeotii

Sorbus mougeotii
Educational content — not medical, botanical, or professional advice. Plant identification, safety, and edibility depend on local conditions, cultivars, and correct identification. Consult a qualified botanist or forager before consuming or handling wild specimens. How we source & review →
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Sorbus mougeotii (Sorbus mougeotii) — botanical photograph
Pl. D6DA — Sorbus mougeotii
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Overview

Sorbus mougeotii, commonly known as Mougeot's whitebeam, is a deciduous tree native to the mountainous regions of Austria, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Switzerland, and Yugoslavia. This tree thrives in moist conditions and prefers light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soils, growing up to 18 meters tall. It requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth and is hardy in USDA zones 5-9. Known for its edible fruit, Mougeot's whitebeam is a valuable addition to gardens and landscapes due to its distinctive appearance and utility. Its light green leaves and white flowers make it an ornamental choice as well. The fruit, which can be eaten raw or cooked, is often used in jams and preserves due to its tart flavor. The tree is also introduced into Czechoslovakia, Denmark, Norway, and Sweden, highlighting its adaptability and ornamental value. While the fruit is safe to consume, it is advisable to exercise caution and ensure proper identification before using any part of the plant for culinary purposes.

Quick answers

What is Sorbus mougeotii?

Sorbus mougeotii, commonly known as Mougeot's whitebeam, is a deciduous tree native to the mountainous regions of Austria, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Switzerland, and Yugoslavia. This tree thrives in moist conditions and prefers light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soils, growing up to 18 meters tall.

Growingconditions · propagation · uses
V

Cultivation

Sorbus mougeotii thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist, well-drained soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 5-9 and can grow up to 18 meters tall. For cultivation, ensure the soil remains consistently moist, and the plant receives adequate sunlight. Propagation can be done through seeds or by dividing the roots in early spring. The fruit is edible and can be enjoyed fresh or used in various culinary applications.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
5-9
Mature size
18.0 m tall
For first-time growers

How to grow Sorbus mougeotii for the first time

8steps

Start with planting Sorbus mougeotii in a sunny spot and follow these beginner-friendly steps.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    A young Sorbus mougeotii plant, garden gloves, a spade or trowel.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant in spring after the last frost or fall before the first freeze.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Ensure soil is well-draining with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5; prepare by loosening the soil and adding compost if needed.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Transplant young plants into a hole larger than their root ball, backfill with native soil, and water thoroughly.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Keep the soil moist but not soggy; mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Water regularly during dry spells, especially in summer. Prune lightly in late winter to maintain shape.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune in late winter to remove dead or weak branches; no fruit is harvested from this species.

  8. 8

    Common mistakes

    Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soil, and not providing enough sunlight are common issues.

VI

Edible & utility

Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The fruit of Sorbus mougeotii is edible and can be eaten raw or cooked. It is often used in jams and preserves due to its tart flavor. The fruit can also be dried for later use.
Contextrange · companions · related
VII

Distribution

7 native · 4 introduced
Distribution across1 continent· 7 native· 4 introduced
Europe9 regions
native (6)AustriaFranceGermanyItalySpainSwitzerland
introduced (3)DenmarkNorwaySweden
Broader regions
native:Yugoslavia
introduced:Czechoslovakia
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Specimen gallery

1 image
Sorbus mougeotii (Sorbus mougeotii) — botanical photograph
Sorbus mougeotii (Sorbus mougeotii)
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