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Martin, Edwin M.
Sorbus americana Marsh.
American mountain ash, American mountain-ash
Rosaceae (Rose Family)
Synonyms: Pyrus americana
USDA Symbol: SOAM3
USDA Native Status: Native to U.S.
American mountain-ash is a small, ornamental tree usually 15-20 ft., but reaching 30 ft. in favorable places. The tree may be reduced to a shrub in higher elevations. The crown is narrow, open and round-topped. Pinnately-compound, deciduous leaves occur on bright-red leaf stalks and turn golden-orange in the fall. The small white, flowers are held in flat-topped clusters and are followed by broad clusters of bright, coral-red berries. Small tree with spreading crown or a shrub with many stems, and with showy white flowers, and bright red berries.
Plant Characteristics
Duration: PerennialHabit: Tree
Size Class: 12-36 ft.
Leaf Color: Green
Autumn Foliage: yes
Fruit Color: Red, Orange
Bloom Information
Bloom Color: WhiteBloom Time: May , Jun
Distribution
USA: CT , GA , IL , ME , MD , MA , MI , MN , NH , NJ , NY , NC , PA , RI , SC , TN , VT , VA , WV , WICanada: NB , NL , NS , ON , PE , QC
Native Distribution: Nf. to Man., s. to PA & the Great Lakes region; also mts. to GA
Native Habitat: Cool, moist, open areas; granitic outcrops
USDA Native Status: L48(N), CAN(N), SPM(N)
Growing Conditions
Water Use: MediumLight Requirement: Sun , Part Shade , Shade
Soil Moisture: Moist , Dry
CaCO3 Tolerance: Low
Soil Description: Cool, moist, acid soils.
Conditions Comments: Mountain ash is usually short-lived due to fire blight, mildew, and borers as well as a number of other diseases and insects. In cultivation this species does best in the northern part of its range and at high altitudes. Young stems and thin bark need protection from winter browsers.
Benefit
Use Wildlife: Berries attract birds.Use Food: The fruits (fresh or dried) contain iron and vitamin C. They are also acidic and rich in tannins, however, and should be eaten in moderation. (Kershaw)
Warning: The seeds of this plant are reported to be poisonous, and those of its close relative Mescalbean (S. secundiflora) can be deadly. Sensitivity to a toxin varies with a person’s age, weight, physical condition, and individual susceptibility. Children are most vulnerable because of their curiosity and small size. Toxicity can vary in a plant according to season, the plant’s different parts, and its stage of growth; and plants can absorb toxic substances, such as herbicides, pesticides, and pollutants from the water, air, and soil.
Conspicuous Flowers: yes
Attracts: Birds
Propagation
Description: Plant seed in the spring. Germination is sporadic and probably will not take place until the following spring.Seed Collection: Clean as soon as collected.
Commercially Avail: yes
PlantWise: Native Alternatives to Invasive Plants
Sorbus americana (American mountain ash) is a PlantWise native alternative for:From the National Suppliers Directory
According to the inventory provided by Associate Suppliers, this plant is available at the following locations:LAMTREE FARM - Warrensville, NC
Bibliography
* Native Alternatives to Invasive Plants (2006) Burrell, C. C.Search More Titles in Bibliography
Recommended Species Lists
Find native plant species by state. Each list contains commercially available species suitable for gardens and planned landscapes. Once you have selected a collection, you can browse the collection or search within it using the combination search.
View Recommended Species pageAdditional resources
USDA: Find Sorbus americana in USDA PlantsFNA: Find Sorbus americana in the Flora of North America (if available)
Google: Search Google for Sorbus americana
Metadata
Record Modified: 2007-01-01Research By: TWC Staff
