Sorbus torminalis
Sorbus torminalis
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Pl. 1A23 — Sorbus torminalis
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IOverview
Overview
Sorbus torminalis, commonly known as the Service Tree, is a deciduous tree native to Europe and parts of Asia. This member of the Rosaceae family thrives in various climates across its extensive range, from Albania and Bulgaria to Turkey and Ukraine. Known for its edible fruit, which can be used fresh or dried, it also serves ornamental purposes with its attractive white flowers and red berries. One distinctive feature is its ability to grow in a variety of soil types, including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay) soils, making it adaptable to different environments. It requires full sun to partial shade and prefers moist conditions, reaching heights of up to 20 meters.
Quick answers
What is Sorbus torminalis?
Sorbus torminalis, commonly known as the Service Tree, is a deciduous tree native to Europe and parts of Asia. This member of the Rosaceae family thrives in various climates across its extensive range, from Albania and Bulgaria to Turkey and Ukraine.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Sorbus torminalis 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 grow up to 20 meters tall. Propagate through seeds or cuttings. The fruit of this plant is edible and native to regions including Albania, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, and more.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
5-9
Mature size
20.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Sorbus torminalis for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple planting of Sorbus torminalis to enjoy its fruit and ornamental value.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Sorbus torminalis sapling, well-draining soil, and a large pot or garden space.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early spring when the ground is workable or in late summer for established plants.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is well-draining, with a mix of light (sandy), medium, or heavy clay. For containers, use a pot at least 1 meter wide and deep.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young saplings from nurseries directly into the ground or large pots filled with well-draining soil.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for pests and diseases, treating if necessary.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun to partial shade, regular watering during dry spells, and prune in late winter or early spring to maintain shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune the tree annually in late winter to encourage fruiting and remove dead branches. Harvest fruits when they turn a deep red color.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soil without drainage, neglecting regular pruning, and not providing enough sunlight.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The fruit of Sorbus torminalis is edible and can be eaten raw or used in various preparations. It is often picked when ripe and consumed fresh, though it can also be dried for later use. The fruit can add a unique flavor to jams and preserves due to its tartness.
Other uses:Lumber
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across3 continents· 30 native
Europe18 regions
native (18)AlbaniaAustriaBelgiumBulgariaDenmarkFranceGermanyGreeceHungaryItalyPolandPortugalRomaniaRussiaSpainSwitzerlandUkraineUnited Kingdom
Asia2 regions
native (2)IranTurkey
Africa2 regions
native (2)AlgeriaMorocco
Broader regions
native:Yugoslavia, Czechoslovakia, Lebanon-Syria, Transcaucasus
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 · 1a231674-2935-4f4f-bbdb-eabd4dd0c40c
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