Sorbus Joseph Rock

Sorbus Joseph Rock

Why Buy Me?

• Autumn foliage
• Medium sized tree
• Flowering in Spring

Growing Conditions

Light:
Full sun to partial shade. Best flowering, berry production, and autumn colour in full sun. Tolerates light shade but with reduced berry display and leaf colour intensity.

Soil:
Prefers moist, well-drained, fertile soil. Adaptable to a variety of soils including loam, sandy, and clay soils, provided drainage is good. Prefers neutral to slightly acidic pH.

Exposure:
Thrives in sheltered to moderately exposed locations. Hardy, tolerates frost, wind, and urban pollution well.

Drought Tolerance:
Moderate. Benefits from regular watering during dry periods, especially when young or during flowering and fruiting phases.

Cultivation & Care

Planting Time:
Plant in autumn or early spring when soil is moist and workable. Choose a location with good sunlight and air circulation.

Spacing:
Allow 5–7 metres (16–23 feet) between trees. Grows to a medium size of approximately 8–10 metres (26–33 feet) tall with a similar spread. Forms a dense, rounded crown.

Watering & Fertilization:
Water regularly to establish roots, then as needed during droughts. Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer or compost mulch in early spring to support growth and berry development.

Mulching & Pruning:
Mulch annually in spring to conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Prune in late winter or early spring to remove dead or crossing branches and maintain shape. Minimal pruning is generally required.

Seasonal Interest

Spring:
Clusters of creamy-white flowers bloom in late spring, attracting pollinators.

Summer:
Glossy, pinnate green foliage with a somewhat leathery texture forms a dense canopy.

Autumn:
Brilliant displays of orange to red berries in late summer and autumn. Leaves often turn shades of yellow or orange before leaf fall, adding seasonal interest.

Winter:
Berries may persist into winter, providing food for birds. Branches offer an attractive bare silhouette in the dormant season.

Wildlife & Garden Use

Wildlife:
Excellent for attracting bees, butterflies, and birds. Berries are a favoured food source for thrushes, waxwings, and other birds.

Garden Use:
Ideal specimen tree for parks, large gardens, and wildlife gardens. Suitable for mixed borders and naturalistic plantings. Provides multi-season interest with flowers, foliage, berries, and autumn colour.

Companion Plants:
Works well with woodland perennials and shrubs such as Cornus, Hydrangea, Ferns, and spring bulbs like Narcissus and Crocus. Complements other Sorbus species and small ornamental trees.