Sorbus sambucifolia
Sorbus sambucifolia
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Pl. 799B — Sorbus sambucifolia
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IOverview
Overview
Sorbus sambucifolia, commonly known as the Siberian serviceberry, is a deciduous shrub native to the cooler regions of Alaska and eastern Asia, including Japan, Kamchatka, Khabarovsk, Korea, Magadan, Primorye, and Sakhalin. This plant thrives in moist, well-drained soils ranging from light (sandy) to heavy (clay), preferring full sun to partial shade. It is hardy in USDA zones 5-9, making it suitable for gardens in temperate climates. The Siberian serviceberry is valued not only for its ornamental qualities but also for its edible fruit, which can be enjoyed fresh or used in jams and other culinary applications. Its distinctive feature lies in the shape of its leaves, which resemble those of a mulberry tree, adding to its unique appearance.
Quick answers
What is Sorbus sambucifolia?
Sorbus sambucifolia, commonly known as the Siberian serviceberry, is a deciduous shrub native to the cooler regions of Alaska and eastern Asia, including Japan, Kamchatka, Khabarovsk, Korea, Magadan, Primorye, and Sakhalin.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Sorbus sambucifolia thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 5-9 and can be propagated through seeds or cuttings. This shrub grows well in temperate regions and produces edible fruit.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
5-9
Habit
Shrub
For first-time growers
How to grow Sorbus sambucifolia for the first time
8steps
Start with planting Sorbus sambucifolia in a beginner-friendly environment.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Sorbus sambucifolia plant, well-draining soil, and a container or garden space.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early spring or late fall when the weather is cooler.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is light (sandy), medium, or heavy with good drainage. For containers, use a potting mix suitable for shrubs.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants into your prepared garden bed or container, ensuring they are at the same depth as in their original pot.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for any signs of stress or pests.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun to partial shade, and water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Prune lightly in late winter to maintain shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter to remove dead or weak branches and encourage new growth. Fruit can be harvested in autumn if edible.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy shade, neglecting regular pruning, and not providing enough sunlight.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The fruit of Sorbus sambucifolia is edible and can be eaten raw or used in various preparations. It is often consumed fresh but can also be dried for later use. Skip the detailed recipes; simply enjoying it as a snack or incorporating it into jams and preserves is common.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
8 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
8 native · 0 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 8 native
Asia2 regions
native (2)JapanSouth Korea
Americas1 region
native (1)United States
Broader regions
native:Kamchatka, Khabarovsk, Magadan, Primorye, Sakhalin
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 799b364e-46a2-42f4-b273-0c09c77c266c
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