Also known as Japanese Rowan
Sorbus commixta, the Silvery Mountain Ash, is an attractive deciduous tree known for its vibrant autumn foliage and clusters of red berries.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
75% intensity
Prefers full sun for best flowering and fruit production, but tolerates partial shade.
Regularly
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist, especially during establishment and dry spells. Ensure good drainage.
Well-drained, fertile soil
50% intensity
Hardy
25% intensity
Adaptable to a range of temperatures. Tolerates cold winters and moderate summer heat.
Moderate
50% intensity
Apply balanced fertilizer in spring and amend soil with compost annually.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly, especially during dry periods, to maintain consistently moist soil. Avoid waterlogged conditions.
Once established, Sorbus commixta is moderately drought-tolerant but benefits from occasional deep watering during prolonged heatwaves for optimal health and fruit production.
Prune in late winter or early spring while the tree is dormant. Remove any dead, diseased, or crossing branches to maintain a strong structure and good air circulation.
Light shaping can be done to encourage a desirable form, but avoid heavy pruning.
Propagate from seeds collected in autumn, which require a period of cold stratification before sowing. Alternatively, semi-hardwood cuttings can be taken in summer and rooted under mist.
Grafting is also an effective method for cultivar maintenance.
Young plants benefit from repotting every 2-3 years in early spring to refresh the soil and provide more space for root growth. Mature trees generally do not require frequent repotting and are best planted directly in their final location.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Silvery Mountain Ash (Sorbus commixta)
Where Silvery Mountain Ash (Sorbus commixta) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Sorbus |
| Species | Sorbus commixta |
Similar in genus Sorbus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
