European mountain ash
ExplorePlants
European mountain ash
Sorbus aucuparia
The European mountain ash is a tall tree with beautiful clusters of bright orange berries. It grows in cool, hilly areas and is loved by birds who eat its tasty fruits.
Habitat: Mountain regions
Appearance
The European mountain ash has striking clusters of small, five-petaled white flowers in spring, followed by abundant bright orange-red berries that persist into winter. Its leaves are distinctive, made up of many small, toothed leaflets arranged like a feather, giving a delicate appearance.
KingdomPlantaePhylumTracheophytaClassMagnoliopsidaOrderRosalesFamilyRosaceaeGenusSorbus
Category
PlantsRarity
Common
Danger
1/5 · Very low
Snaps
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Interesting facts
Ancient cultures believed its wood protected against evil, often planting it near homes!
Its scientific name, 'aucuparia', comes from Latin for 'bird-catching', due to its irresistible berries.
The berries are packed with more Vitamin C than oranges, but taste best after frost or cooking!
This resilient tree can sprout back from its base even after being cut down, making it very tough.
Special abilities
Ability
Bird Magnet Berries
European mountain ash produces abundant, bright red berries that attract birds, helping it spread its seeds far and wide.
Ability
Tough Pioneer
European mountain ash can grow in poor soils and harsh, exposed mountain environments, making it a natural colonizer of challenging sites.
Ability
High-Altitude Hero
This tree can thrive at high altitudes where other trees struggle, using its flexible branches to withstand strong winds and cold.
Measurements & details
- Height
- 800-1500 cm
- Spread
- 400-700 cm
- Flower Size
- 0.8-1 cm
- Bloom Season
- Spring to Summer
- Edible
- Yes
- Toxicity
- Mild
- Lifecycle
- Perennial
- Pollination Method
- Insect
Ecological connections
eaten by
Blackbird
Turdus merula
Blackbirds feast on its energy-rich berries.
eaten by
Waxwing
Bombycilla garrulus
Waxwings migrate to feed on its plentiful fruit.
eats
Honeybee
Apis mellifera
Honeybees collect nectar and pollen from its spring flowers.
shelters
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Great Tit
Parus major
Great Tits often nest among its branches in spring.
Traits
Deciduous
Deciduous plants periodically shed all their leaves, typically during autumn or dry seasons.
Broadleaf Tree
Broadleaf trees are angiosperms characterized by flat, wide leaves that are typically shed annually in temperate climates.
Cold Hardy
Cold hardy plants are able to withstand low temperatures and freezing conditions without significant damage.
Fruit Tree
A fruit tree is a perennial tree that produces fruit, which is edible to humans or animals.
Edible
Edible plants are those parts of a plant that are considered safe for human consumption.
Fall Color
Fall color refers to the seasonal change in foliage pigmentation, primarily in deciduous plants, displaying vibrant hues.
Timber
Timber refers to wood that has been prepared for use in building and carpentry.
Mountain
This habitat trait identifies species found in mountainous regions, characterized by high elevation, steep slopes, and varying climate zones.
Longevous
This trait characterizes organisms with an exceptionally long lifespan compared to others of their kind.
Also known as
Quickbeam
Collections
Safety
Danger
1/5 · Very low
Do not eat the berries without asking an adult, as they can be sour!
Frequently Asked Questions
How tall is European mountain ash?
800-1500 cm
How wide does European mountain ash spread?
400-700 cm
How big are the flowers on European mountain ash?
0.8-1 cm
When does European mountain ash bloom?
Spring to Summer
Is European mountain ash edible?
Yes
Is European mountain ash toxic?
Mild
What is European mountain ash's lifecycle?
Perennial
How is European mountain ash pollinated?
Insect
Snap Map
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