Sorbus torminalis (Wild Service Tree)

A grand sight in almost every season, Sorbus torminalis (Wild Service Tree) is a spreading deciduous tree adorned with upright sweeping branches and a rounded canopy of broad, pinnately lobed, maple-like, bright glossy green leaves, 3-5 in. long (7-12 cm), that turn rich, coppery red in the fall, before falling to the ground, revealing the brown and patterned bark. In late spring, a profusion of tiny white flowers held in loose inflorescences are produced. They are quickly followed by abundant clusters of small, brown, berrylike fruits, also known as Chequers, which ripen in the fall. The fruits are said to taste like dates and were given to children as sweets. They provide a welcoming feast for various types of weary, migrating birds and seldom last very long. Attractive in form, elegant in flower, colorful in fruit and foliage, Sorbus intermedia stars in almost every season of the year.

• Grows up to 50-70 ft. tall (15-21 m) and 35-50 ft. wide (10-15 m).
• This tree is easily grown in full sun to part shade in moderately fertile, humus-rich, well-drained soils. Drought tolerant once established.
• Propagate by seed, softwood cuttings or grafting.
• No routine pruning necessary. Remove diseased, damaged, congested or crossing shoots.
• Keep an eye out for aphids, blister mites, silver leaf and fireblight.
• Native to Europe, Africa, Asia.