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Japanese Rowan Flower Wikimedia Commons
Rosaceae

Japanese Rowan Flower

Sorbus commixta

Mountain courage and autumn splendor.

Family
Rosaceae
Genus
Sorbus
Native to
Japan, Korea, Sakhalin
Bloom season
Late Spring
Type
deciduous tree
Height
6–10 m
Sunlight
full sun to part shade
Soil
moist, well-drained, acidic to neutral
Water
medium
Hardiness
5–7
Lifespan
50–80 years

Did you know

  • Japanese rowan is one of the first trees to color in autumn, turning vivid scarlet and orange weeks before most other species.
  • Dense clusters of bright red berries persist into winter, providing critical food for thrushes and waxwings.
  • In Japan it grows naturally in mountain forests up to 2,000 meters elevation.
  • The species name 'commixta' means 'mixed,' referring to its variable leaf characteristics.
  • It is often planted in small urban gardens in Britain and Scandinavia because it stays compact and tolerates tough conditions.

Color meanings

White

highland purity

Cream

generous spirit

Uses

  • ornamental street tree
  • wildlife food source
  • small garden specimen
  • autumn color display