American Rowan (Sorbus americana) – Submitted by AKÈNE
🌿 A majestic and nourishing native tree 🌿
The American rowan is a slender and resilient tree that can reach 10 meters in height . It is distinguished by its smooth, gray bark , which flakes slightly with age, and by its bright green foliage , offering a striking autumn spectacle with its golden and orange hues.
In spring, it is adorned with clusters of small white flowers , followed in autumn by bright red berries , which attract a multitude of birds and pollinators . Hardy and adaptable , it grows as well in forests as on the roadside , in well-drained soil and in sunny or semi-shaded exposure .
💡 A perfect choice for a garden that is both ornamental and ecological!
Characteristics of the variety
📅 Flowering : May to June
📏 Height : Up to 10 meters
🌱 Spacing : 400 cm
☀️ Exposure : Sun, partial shade
🌿 Life cycle : Perennial
🌾 Soil type : Sandy to clayey, well drained, tolerates acidic soils
💧 Soil moisture content : Dry to moist
🦌 Deer Resistance : Low
📦 Seeds per packet : 75
Sowing and cultivation
American rowan seeds require 90 days of cold stratification to improve germination. Mix them with moist sand or vermiculite in a sealable bag and refrigerate.
After stratification, sow seeds on the surface in a light, well-drained potting soil. Once the seedlings are established, regular watering may be necessary during the first few seasons. Relatively drought-resistant , it adapts well but prefers slightly moist soil.
This species multiplies naturally by seed, gradually forming colonies. To limit seed production, light pruning after flowering can be carried out.
Medicinal and ecological uses
🍵 Medicinal properties : Its inner bark is traditionally used in infusion for its astringent and antiseptic properties . The berries, rich in iron and vitamin C , are diuretic, digestive and antiscorbutic .
🍇 Culinary use : The fruits are used to make jellies, jams and drinks , although their high tannin content requires moderate consumption in the raw state .
🐦 A food tree for wildlife : Its nutrient-rich berries are an essential food source for birds in the fall and winter. Its root system stabilizes the soil and helps prevent erosion , contributing to the health of forest ecosystems .
Why grow American rowan?
🍂 Colorful and decorative foliage in the fall
🐝 A refuge for pollinators and a food source for wildlife
🌿 Hardy, undemanding and disease resistant
🍇 Nutrient-rich berries for homemade preparations
Add a native tree with unique charm to your garden while supporting local biodiversity!
