Sorbus aria - Whitebeam

A lovely native tree, most often seen growing wild in the south of England, but now commonly planted as a street tree all over Britain. Its compact habit of growth and long season of interest make it a popular choice for amenity planting. The large leaves with their silvery undersides open along with the flowers, giving the impression that the whole tree is a mass of blossom. The dark red berries and yellow autumn colour are an added bonus.

Site and soil

Will grow well in most soils but does best in chalky conditions. Tolerant of salt and exposed sites, and can cope with shade and moderate levels of pollution.

Height and spread

Below are the approximate stages of growth, assuming sited in suitable conditions for this species;

After 10 years: 5m x 3m
After 20 years 9m x 5m

Leaf and bark

The leaves are large, to 12cm, ovate and toothed. In spring the whole leaf is covered in white down (hence the Anglo-Saxon name Whitebeam) but this wears off the heavily veined upper surface which becomes glossy green before turning yellow and brown in autumn. The bark is fissured and grey, showing a reddish tinge on young wood.

Flower, seed and fruit

The creamy white flowers are borne in 8cm clusters in spring, and are followed by dark red berries, each bearing a single seed.

Uses

Woodland, gardens, specimen tree, street planting. The Whitebeam was once planted as a boundary marker in country hedges. The wood is very strong and hard and was once used to make cogs in machinery. The berries can be used to make a preserve for eating with meat.

Wildlife

Insects are attracted to the flowers and a number of bird species, including blackbirds, Mistle Thrushes and Redwings eat the berries.