General information: The genus “Sorbus” comprises around 100 species that occur throughout the northern hemisphere. The rowan is widespread throughout most of Europe, as it is a pioneer tree that is very undemanding and adaptable. It grows in both moist, nutrient-rich and dry, poor locations and tolerates acidic to calcareous soils. As a small to medium-sized tree, however, it tends to settle on forest edges, field margins, pastures and in bushes. In the mountains, it can also be found at altitudes of up to 2000 meters. The rowan reaches an average height of 12 meters. The leaves are pinnate and turn a magnificent orange-red or yellow in the fall. The typical and usually countless fruits are round, bright red and are particularly popular with blackbirds. For this reason, the tree is also known as the rowan tree.
Care as a bonsai: Mountain ash trees can easily be turned into bonsai. The plants are very vigorous, tolerate pruning and the branches are flexible enough to be shaped with wire. New shoots should always be cut back early. This allows the plant to sprout several times a year and the desired fine branching of the crown is achieved more quickly. Rowanberries tolerate a sunny to semi-shady location and grow optimally if they are sufficiently watered and fertilized. Drying out of the substrate should be avoided.
