Sorbus aucuparia subsp. pohuashanensis, commonly known as Chinese Mountain Ash, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the family Rosaceae. This tree is native to China, specifically in the provinces of Sichuan, Yunnan, and Tibet. The plant is a popular ornamental tree, grown for its beautiful flowers and fruit.
Contents
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Sorbus |
Appearance
Chinese Mountain Ash can grow up to 30 feet tall and 20 feet wide. It is a small tree that has an oval or round shape with a dense canopy of dark green leaves. The leaves are pinnate, with 13-17 leaflets that are serrated on the edges. The tree produces small, white flowers in the spring, which are followed by bright red berries that ripen in the fall. The berries are small, about 0.3 inches in diameter, and are a favorite food source for birds.
Care Guide
Chinese Mountain Ash is an easy plant to care for. Here are some tips:
- Water: The plant needs regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the tree once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The tree thrives in full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Sorbus aucuparia subsp. pohuashanensis is hardy in USDA zones 5-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Like many trees, Chinese Mountain Ash is susceptible to pests and diseases. Here are some of the most common:
- Aphids: These tiny insects can cause leaves to curl and become distorted. Treat aphids with insecticidal soap.
- Fire Blight: This bacterial disease can cause leaves and branches to turn black and die. Remove infected branches and use a copper fungicide.
- Cedar Apple Rust: This fungal disease can cause orange spots on leaves and fruit. Use a fungicide in the spring to prevent infection.
Habitat
Sorbus aucuparia subsp. pohuashanensis is native to China and is commonly found in mountainous regions, at elevations of 7,000-13,000 feet. The tree prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, from -13°F to 104°F.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Chinese Mountain Ash a good plant for a small garden?
A: Yes, Chinese Mountain Ash is a great choice for a small garden. It is a small tree that doesn’t take up too much space and has a beautiful shape and foliage.
Q: Can Chinese Mountain Ash tolerate drought?
A: No, Chinese Mountain Ash needs regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather. It is not drought tolerant.
Q: How often should I fertilize Chinese Mountain Ash?
A: Fertilize the tree once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can I eat the berries of Chinese Mountain Ash?
A: The berries of Chinese Mountain Ash are edible, but they are not very tasty and can be bitter. They are mostly used by birds as a food source.
Related Plants
- Sorbus aucuparia (Common Mountain Ash)
- Sorbus cashmiriana (Kashmir Rowan)
- Sorbus torminalis (Wild Service Tree)
References
- Flora of China: Sorbus aucuparia subsp. pohuashanensis
- RHS: Sorbus aucuparia subsp. pohuashanensis
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Sorbus aucuparia subsp. pohuashanensis
