Sorbus Hupehensis Tree (12L, 5-6ft)

Hupeh Rowan Trees delight with a luscious display of pearly white berries tinged with pink – a fabulous addition to a garden that needs a touch of something unique to create a wow-factor.

This splendid ornamental tree offers all year round interest. In spring, the new foliage appears with a distinctive blue-green tinge which matures to a deep glossy green in summer. As autumn approaches, the leaves put on a spectacular display in vivid shades of red and orange. Spring sees corymbs of fluffy white flowers that attract bees. The flowers are followed by drooping clusters of berries which are white marbled with pink.

Sorbus hupehensis requires little maintenance or effort to grow. It is fully hardy and enjoys full sun. Plant in moist but well-drained soil. It is tolerant of both city pollution and difficult exposed sites. To get the best autumn colour, a slightly more acidic and less alkaline soil will be ideal. The tree has an upright habit and reaches heights of 6m with a spread of 4m with ascending branches that maintain the tall, columnar shape. Because the berries are white, they are the last ones to be taken by birds and will remain on the tree way past Christmas, when others are bare and uninteresting.

The Hupeh takes its name from the Hupeh province in Western China where it grows in abundance. It was introduced into Britain by the renowned plant collector E.H. Wilson in 1910. Plant next to the lovely Sorbus aucuparia 'Cardinal Royal' which offers bright red berries. The bold contrast of the white and red berries on the two trees will create a wonderful display in your dream garden.