True Service Tree (Sorbus domestica)
The Service Tree is also known as the Sorb. Its flowers are white and decorative. The tree grows to heights of 20-25 metres in forest stands; it may be damaged by drought. The fruit resembles apples or pears in shape and has a sour taste.
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Appearance
The Service Tree is also known as the Sorb. Its flowers are white and decorative. The tree grows to heights of 20-25 metres in forest stands; it may be damaged by drought. The fruit resembles apples or pears in shape and has a sour taste.
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Leaves
Odd-pinnate leaves, 15-20cm long, 6-14cm wide. Slender lance-like leaflets. Leaves are dull green above, pale green below, turn yellow or orange in autumn.
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Fruits
Yellow-green or bright red apple fruits. Fruit is edible.
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Bark
Pale grey-brown bark with small scales. Branches are olive green, sometimes reddish brown.
Application
Open country, open fields, forage for honey-bees, public areas, parks, private parks, front gardens, very high demands, fruit drop
Native regions
Central Europe
Location parameters
Light: full sun to semi-shady, temperature: warm to normal, soil: dry to fresh, soil structure: heavy to loose, soil depth: deep, compaction: to be avoided, soil quality: medium pH value: 6.5 to 8.5
Demands
Roots are exceedingly susceptible to dryness, therefore only use ball-rooted or container plants; may be damaged by deicing salt and late frosts.
Growth
Height of growth: 10m to 15m, spread: 8m to 10m, very slow growth potential, growth habits: wide, upright, overhanging
Leaves
Odd-pinnate leaves, 15-20cm long, 6-14cm wide. Slender lance-like leaflets. Leaves are dull green above, pale green below, turn yellow or orange in autumn.
Flowers
Flowering period: V-VI, very attractive, white panicles up to 10cm wide.
Fruits
Yellow-green or bright red apple fruits. Fruit is edible.
Bark
Pale grey-brown bark with small scales. Branches are olive green, sometimes reddish brown.
Roots
Deep-rooting.