Hupeh Rowan – Sorbus hupehensis
Main interest of the plant
The Hupeh Rowan (Sorbus hupehensis) is a refined ornamental tree, prized for its airy silhouette, bluish-green pinnate foliage, delicate white flowers in late spring, and above all, for its striking pale pink berries with a silvery sheen in autumn. Native to the mountainous forests of central China (Hubei province), it offers year-round interest: spring blossoms attractive to pollinators, elegant foliage, stunning fruiting, and golden to copper autumn colours. Ideal for small gardens, urban landscaping, or as a specimen tree in refined plantings.
Origin and characteristics
Origin: Central China (Hubei), mountain forest areas
Family: Rosaceae
Special feature: Highly decorative tree with unusually light-coloured berries, valued in naturalistic and urban gardens
Botanical description
- Height at maturity: 3 to 5 m
- Spread: 2 to 3 m
- Habit: Upright to slightly spreading, open and light
- Foliage: Deciduous, pinnate with 13–19 oval leaflets, matte bluish-green with lighter undersides
- Bark: Smooth, silver-grey to pinkish
- Growth rate: Moderate
- Lifespan: 40+ years
- Hardiness: Very good (down to –20 °C)
Flowering and fruit
- Flowering period: May–June
- Flowers: White, in flat corymbs (8–15 cm), nectar-rich
- Fruits: Small berries (6–8 mm), soft pink with silvery tones, borne in autumn clusters
- Ecological value: Bird-friendly (blackbirds, thrushes), bee-friendly blossoms
Light and soil
- Light: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil: Well-drained, humus-rich, neutral to slightly acidic
- Notes: Avoid compacted or soggy soils
Planting
- Best period: Autumn or spring, or year-round in containers
- Advice:
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Loosen soil to 50 cm depth
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Mix with compost or leaf mould
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Mulch to retain moisture
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Plant spacing: 2.5–3.5 m depending on placement
Watering
- Young trees: Regular watering during the first two years
- Mature trees: Fairly drought-tolerant when established
Pruning
- Routine: Rarely needed
- If needed: Light formative pruning in late winter
- Tip: Remove dead wood or poorly placed branches
Propagation
- Methods: Seed (slow to germinate), or grafting onto Sorbus aucuparia
- Notes: May self-seed naturally in loose woodland settings
Use in the garden
- Specimen tree in a lawn or mixed border
- In rows along paths or driveways
- Naturalistic gardens, small urban green spaces, or forest edges
Uses and ornamental value
- Berries are highly decorative, valued in floral arrangements
- Not toxic, but astringent for humans – popular with birds
- Autumn foliage glows yellow to copper-orange
Pests and diseases
- Low susceptibility to disease
- Rarely affected by fire blight or rust
- Avoid prolonged drought or waterlogging
Tips for success
- Choose a sheltered spot, away from drying winds
- Feed yearly with compost in spring
- Combine with groundcovers or bulbs for added effect
The Hupeh Rowan – Sorbus hupehensis is an exceptional ornamental tree, which combines lightness, honey-producing flowers and spectacular fruiting. Highly appreciated in urban or natural gardens, it combines grace and biodiversity without the hassle of maintenance.
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