Description
Sorbus decora / Showy Mountain Ash
Planting Points: Although it is not in the ash family (Fraxinus), the common name showy mountain ash is due to its leaves which look like ash leaves. This smaller deciduous tree features beautiful white flowers in the spring, red fruit in late summer, and good fall color making it a appealing tree year-round. This tree is good for bringing birds to the landscape. Birds and small mammals will eat the fruits.
Siting This Tree: Mountain ash is often used in small landscapes as a decorative lawn tree or as a shade tree because of its small size and showy flowers and fruits. Showy mountain ash prefers full sun and acidic, moist, well-drained soils. It is slightly intolerant of urban pollution.