Contents
Description
Sorbus Domestica, also known as the service tree or true service tree, is a deciduous tree that is native to Europe and Western Asia. It can grow up to 15 meters tall and has a broad, spreading crown. The leaves are pinnate, with 13-21 leaflets that are serrated and have a glossy, dark green color. The tree produces white flowers in the spring, which are followed by small, orange-red fruits in the autumn. The fruit is edible and has a sour taste, making it popular for making jams and liqueurs.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Sorbus |
Appearance
The service tree has a distinctive appearance, with its broad, spreading crown and pinnate leaves. The leaves are glossy and dark green, and have a serrated edge. The tree produces white flowers in the spring, which are followed by small, orange-red fruits in the autumn. The bark is smooth and grey, with shallow fissures.
Care Guide
Sorbus Domestica is a relatively low-maintenance tree, but it does require some care to thrive.
- Water: The tree should be watered regularly, especially during dry spells. It prefers moist soil, but can tolerate some drought.
- Fertilization: The tree does not require much fertilization, but can benefit from a balanced fertilizer applied in the spring.
- Soil: The tree prefers well-drained, loamy soil, but can tolerate a range of soil types.
- Sunlight: The tree prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Sorbus Domestica is hardy to USDA zones 5-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Sorbus Domestica is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be affected by a few common problems.
- Aphids: These small insects can infest the leaves and cause damage. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Canker: This fungal disease can cause sunken lesions on the bark and cankers on the branches. It can be treated with fungicides, but prevention is key.
- Fire blight: This bacterial disease can cause the leaves and branches to wilt and turn black. It can be treated with antibiotics, but prevention is key.
Habitat
Sorbus Domestica is native to Europe and Western Asia, where it grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, woodlands, and scrubland. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Sorbus Domestica a good tree for a small garden?
A: Yes, Sorbus Domestica is a relatively small tree that is well-suited to a small garden.
Q: Can Sorbus Domestica be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Sorbus Domestica can be grown in a container, but it may not reach its full size or produce as much fruit.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Sorbus Domestica tree?
A: Sorbus Domestica does not require much fertilization, but can benefit from a balanced fertilizer applied in the spring.
Q: How do I prune my Sorbus Domestica tree?
A: Sorbus Domestica should be pruned in late winter or early spring, before new growth appears. Dead or diseased branches should be removed, and the tree can be shaped as desired.
Related Plants
- Sorbus aucuparia (European mountain ash)
- Sorbus torminalis (wild service tree)
- Sorbus commixta (Japanese rowan)
References
- “Sorbus domestica.” Plants For A Future. Web. 22 May 2021.
- “Sorbus domestica.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Web. 22 May 2021.
- “Service Tree.” Royal Horticultural Society. Web. 22 May 2021.
