Cardinal Royal Mountain Ash
Sorbus aucuparia 'Michred'
Height: 30 feet
Spread: 20 feet
Sunlight:
Hardiness Zone: 2
Other Names: Rowan, Rowan Tree
Description:
A narrowly oval accent tree with clusters of white flowers in spring followed by bright red berries that persist into winter; compound leaves with silver undersides turn flaming red in fall; ideal for small properties; needs well drained soil
Ornamental Features
Cardinal Royal Mountain Ash features showy clusters of white flowers held atop the branches in mid spring. The red fruits are held in abundance in spectacular clusters from early fall to late winter. It has dark green deciduous foliage. The oval compound leaves turn an outstanding orange in the fall. The smooth olive green bark adds an interesting dimension to the landscape.
Landscape Attributes
Cardinal Royal Mountain Ash is a deciduous tree with a shapely oval form. Its relatively fine texture sets it apart from other landscape plants with less refined foliage.
This tree will require occasional maintenance and upkeep, and usually looks its best without pruning, although it will tolerate pruning. It is a good choice for attracting birds to your yard. It has no significant negative characteristics.
Cardinal Royal Mountain Ash is recommended for the following landscape applications;
- Accent
- Shade
- Vertical Accent
Planting & Growing
Cardinal Royal Mountain Ash will grow to be about 30 feet tall at maturity, with a spread of 20 feet. It has a low canopy with a typical clearance of 4 feet from the ground, and should not be planted underneath power lines. It grows at a medium rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for 50 years or more.
This tree should only be grown in full sunlight. It is very adaptable to both dry and moist locations, and should do just fine under average home landscape conditions. It may require supplemental watering during periods of drought or extended heat. It is not particular as to soil type or pH. It is highly tolerant of urban pollution and will even thrive in inner city environments. Consider applying a thick mulch around the root zone in both summer and winter to conserve soil moisture and protect it in exposed locations or colder microclimates. This is a selected variety of a species not originally from North America.
