Sorbus torminalis (Wild Service Tree)
Availability
Bareroot from November to April
We recommend
Rootgrow
Boost growth & increase survival rates
Non-trade pricing
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Price £ each (ex. VAT) | |||||
| Height | Age | 1+ | 25+ | 100+ | 500+ | 1000+ |
| 40-60cm | 1u1 | Unavailable for the 2016-2017 season. | ||||
Trade / wholesale enquiries
Discounted trade / wholesale prices are available upon request.
Please contact the office for a quotation or a trade price list.
Minimum order values
Please note that there is a minimum order value of £50.00 + VAT, excluding delivery, for existing customers and £75.00 + VAT, excluding delivery, for new customers. Orders under those values can be placed via Trees & Hedging, our online webshop.
Delivery
Delivery to UK mainland is included for stock orders over £750 + VAT (subject to postcode surcharges). For full details on delivery, please view our delivery page.
Description
A native, deciduous tree, the Wild Service Tree is a relatively rare sight in Britain, despite its attractiveness, and is primarily found in pockets of ancient woodland and occasionally within hedgerows.
The Wild Service Tree has lobed leaves, similar to that of the Maple, which turn a rich, purply-red colour prior to falling in autumn.
Site and soil
The Wild Service Tree will grow on most soil types.
Height and spread
After 10 years: 4m x 2m
After 20 years 6m x 3.8m
Leaf and bark
Lobed leaves, similar to the Maple, but more deeply toothed, in pairs, and usually doubly serrated. The bark is patterned with cracked, square plates, and the twigs are shiny, slender and straight.
Flower, seed and fruit
Both male and female reproductive parts are contained within each flower. Forming in clusters in late spring, they are pollinated by insects. The flowers develop into green/brown oval fruits, sometimes referred to as 'chequers', which have a diameter of between 10-15mm and are patterned with small, pale spots when mature.
Uses
A popular desert fruit in some areas up to the beginning of the 20th century, the fruits were eaten once softened, or ‘bletted’ by frost, and have a taste similar to dried apricot. The brown fruits were used in beer brewing prior to the use of hops.
Wildlife
The Wild Service Tree is a good species for insects, providing pollen and nectar, with the leaves eaten by caterpillars. The fruits are consumed by birds.
Pruning
Light pruning, if required, should be undertaken in late winter or early spring.
