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Description
Sorbus Californica, commonly known as the Californian Mountain Ash, is a small deciduous tree native to California. It belongs to the Rosaceae family and is known for its beautiful white flowers that bloom in spring, followed by bright red berries in summer. The tree can grow up to 30 feet tall and has a spread of up to 20 feet.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Sorbus |
Appearance
Sorbus Californica has dark green leaves that are pinnately compound, with each leaflet ranging from 2-4 inches long. The tree’s bark is gray and smooth, becoming rough and furrowed with age. In spring, the tree blooms with clusters of white flowers that attract bees and other pollinators. The flowers are followed by small, bright red berries that ripen in summer and persist into fall. The tree’s fall foliage is a mix of orange, red, and yellow, adding to its ornamental value.
Care Guide
Water
Sorbus Californica prefers moist, well-draining soil and should be watered deeply once a week during the growing season. In hot, dry weather, it may require more frequent watering.
Fertilization
Fertilize Sorbus Californica in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive vegetative growth at the expense of flowering.
Soil
Sorbus Californica prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH range of 5.5-6.5. The soil should be well-draining and rich in organic matter.
Sunlight
Sorbus Californica prefers full sun to part shade. In hot, dry climates, it may benefit from some afternoon shade.
Hardiness Zones
Sorbus Californica is hardy in USDA zones 7-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Sorbus Californica is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but may occasionally be affected by powdery mildew, fire blight, or leaf spot. Regular pruning to improve air circulation can help prevent these issues.
Habitat
Sorbus Californica is native to California and can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, canyons, and mountain slopes. It is often found at elevations between 2,000-6,000 feet and prefers moist, well-draining soil.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Sorbus Californica deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Sorbus Californica is generally deer-resistant.
Q: Can Sorbus Californica tolerate drought?
A: While Sorbus Californica prefers moist soil, it is somewhat drought-tolerant once established.
Q: How often does Sorbus Californica need to be pruned?
A: Sorbus Californica benefits from annual pruning to remove dead or damaged branches and promote a healthy, attractive shape.
Q: Can Sorbus Californica be grown in a container?
A: While Sorbus Californica can technically be grown in a container, it is not well-suited to this environment and may not thrive.
Related Plants
- Sorbus aucuparia (European Mountain Ash)
- Sorbus americana (American Mountain Ash)
- Sorbus scopulina (Greene’s Mountain Ash)
References
- “Sorbus Californica.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed June 15, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d449.
- “Sorbus Californica.” Plant Lust. Accessed June 15, 2021. https://www.plantlust.com/plant-finder/sorbus-californica/.
- “Sorbus Californica.” UC Master Gardener Program of Contra Costa County. Accessed June 15, 2021. https://ccmg.ucanr.edu/Plant_of_the_Month/Sorbus_californica/.
