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Description
Sorbus Sitchensis, commonly known as Sitka mountain ash or Sitka rowan, is a deciduous tree native to the western coastal regions of North America. It belongs to the Rosaceae family and produces stunning clusters of white flowers in spring, followed by bright red, round berries in fall. The tree can grow up to 50 feet tall and 30 feet wide, making it an excellent choice for landscaping and garden use.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Sorbus |
Appearance
Sorbus Sitchensis has a unique appearance, with a broad, round canopy and a straight trunk that can have a diameter of up to 2 feet. The leaves are pinnate and can be up to 8 inches long, with serrated edges and a glossy green color. The flowers are white and grow in clusters up to 6 inches wide, giving way to the bright red berries that ripen in fall. The bark is gray-brown and has a smooth texture when young, becoming rougher and more fissured with age.
Care Guide
Sorbus Sitchensis is a hardy tree that can thrive in a variety of soil types and climates. Here are some tips for caring for this beautiful tree:
Water: Water your tree regularly during the growing season, making sure to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering during the dormant season.
Fertilization: Fertilize your tree in early spring with a balanced fertilizer, following the package instructions. Avoid over-fertilization, as this can damage the tree.
Soil: Sorbus Sitchensis can grow in a range of soil types, but prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Amend soil with compost or other organic matter if necessary.
Sunlight: This tree prefers full sun to partial shade, and can tolerate some shade in hotter climates.
Hardiness Zones: Sorbus Sitchensis is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Sorbus Sitchensis is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but can be susceptible to fire blight, powdery mildew, and canker. Regular pruning and good sanitation practices can help prevent these issues.
Habitat
Sorbus Sitchensis is native to the coastal regions of western North America, from Alaska to California. It can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, meadows, and along streams and rivers.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Sorbus Sitchensis suitable for small gardens?
A: It can grow up to 50 feet tall and 30 feet wide, so it may not be suitable for very small gardens. However, it can be pruned to maintain a smaller size.
Q: Can Sorbus Sitchensis be grown in containers?
A: It is not recommended to grow this tree in containers, as it can grow quite large and may become root-bound.
Q: How often should Sorbus Sitchensis be pruned?
A: Prune your tree in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. Remove any dead or diseased branches, and shape the tree as desired.
Q: How often should Sorbus Sitchensis be fertilized?
A: Fertilize your tree once a year in early spring, using a balanced fertilizer. Follow the package instructions for application rates.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants that you may be interested in:
- Sorbus aucuparia
- Sorbus aria
- Sorbus cashmiriana
- Sorbus commixta
- Sorbus domestica
References
- “Sorbus sitchensis.” Plant Finder. Missouri Botanical Garden, n.d. Web. 26 Aug. 2021.
- “Sorbus sitchensis.” Royal Horticultural Society, n.d. Web. 26 Aug. 2021.
- “Sitka Mountain Ash.” Oregon State University, n.d. Web. 26 Aug. 2021.
