ExploreTrees

showy mountain-ash

Sorbus decora

The showy mountain-ash is a beautiful tree with bright orange berries and lovely white flowers. It grows tall and provides food for birds and other animals in the forest.

Habitat: Forests

Appearance

The showy mountain-ash has smooth grey bark, large compound leaves, and vibrant clusters of red-orange berries. Its foliage turns brilliant scarlet in autumn, making it stand out visually in northern forests.

KingdomPlantaePhylumTracheophytaClassMagnoliopsidaOrderRosalesFamilyRosaceaeGenusSorbus
showy mountain-ash
deciduous trait badgeornamental trait badgebroadleaf_tree trait badgefragrant_flower trait badge
showy mountain-ash

Category

Trees

Rarity

Common

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Snaps

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Interesting facts

Despite its name, it’s not a true ash tree; it's actually related to roses and apples!

Indigenous peoples traditionally used the tart berries for food and even made medicines.

Its scientific name, 'decora', means 'ornamental' or 'beautiful', which perfectly describes it.

The berries are packed with Vitamin C, but taste quite sour to humans when eaten raw!

Special abilities

Ability

Winter Food Cache

The showy mountain-ash's bright berries persist through winter, providing crucial food for birds when other sources are scarce.

Ability

Cold Resistor

Showy mountain-ash can survive harsh northern winters thanks to its strong cold hardiness, thriving where others cannot.

Ability

Berry Broadcast

Showy mountain-ash produces abundant, colorful berries, attracting birds that help disperse its seeds far and wide.

Measurements & details

Height
4-10 m
Canopy Spread
3-6 m
Edible
Yes
Trunk Diameter
15-30 cm
Lifespan
50-150 years
Fruit Type
Pome
Growth Rate
Medium
Leaf Type
Deciduous

Ecological connections

Traits

Also known as

Decorative Mountain AshShowy Sorbus

Collections

Safety

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Always stay close to a grown-up when exploring near trees.

Frequently Asked Questions

How tall is showy mountain-ash?

4-10 m

How wide does showy mountain-ash spread?

3-6 m

Is showy mountain-ash edible?

Yes

How big is showy mountain-ash?

15-30 cm

How long does showy mountain-ash live?

50-150 years

Where is showy mountain-ash usually found?

Forests

What kind of fruit does showy mountain-ash produce?

Pome

How fast does showy mountain-ash grow?

Medium

Snap Map

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