Plant of the Month for December 2016

Sorbus reducta

Description and General Information:

This is one of the smallest mountain-ash species, rarely exceeding 100 cm.  It is a woody plant that suckers to forms a larger clump.  The dark green leaves are pinnately-compound, turning red to purple in autumn.  Clusters of white flowers develop into crimson then pearl-pink berries that often remain on the plants into the early winter months.

In the wild, the species is found as an understory shrub and on rocky slopes at an elevation of 2200-4000 m.  It is native to NW Yunnan and neighboring Sechuan. 

Cultivation:

This dwarf mountain-ash requires full sun and a well-drained soil.  It is not fussy about soil pH but does dislike excess heat and humidity making it best for coastal Pacific Northwest and northeastern North America.

Blooming Season:

April in milder regions but not until June in cooler areas.

Propagation:

Seeds, cuttings and division.

Seeds:

Seeds require a stratification period of about 3 months.  Sow seeds in fall, left outdoors for the winter.  They will germinate in spring.

Division:

Large plants with many suckering stems may be dug and divided but this is not commonly practiced.

Cuttings:

In July and August, suckers with a few roots may be cut from the parent plant and treated as a cutting.

 

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