Rowan or Mountain ash, Sorbus aucupariaMany cultivars are available, including erect forms and those with foliage and berries that differ from the normal. Sources of seed and plants Grows throughout Britain but is less common in Lincolnshire and East Anglia. It is found at elevations exceeding 800 metres and up to 1000 metres. Rowan reaches its best development in the valleys of the Scottish rivers Dee, Spey and Tay. Seed should be collected from trees with erect habit and stiff upward pointing shoots that can bear the heavy crops of berries. Silviculture A light-demanding pioneer which can also tolerate shade. It commonly forms the understorey in older plantations of` Scots pine and is found naturally in the native pinewoods of Scotland. Soil types Prefers light-textured, acid brown earths and can grow on the more fertile peats, but does not tolerate waterlogged conditions. Rate of growth and yield Young trees grow quickly to give a much branched and rounded crown. In woodlands the stem is occasionally straight and cylindrical but browsing usually prevents this. It can grow to 10 metres and occasionally 17 metres in height with stems 30 to 40 cms diameter. A short-lived tree, the maximum age recorded is 120 years. Protection and resistance The leaf rust, Gynosporangium juniperi can shorten the life of leaves. Hardy to late spring frosts and early autumn frosts and can withstand droughts. Very tolerant of wind and one of the most valuable species for shelter. It is moderately resistant to atmospheric pollution and can be planted in towns and industrial areas. It is severely browsed by deer. Establishing and tending All common sizes of planting stock establishes well. Fruits regularly and coppices strongly. Timber properties A diffuse porous wood, the sapwood is reddish-white in colour and broad in width, while the heartwood is light brown. The texture is fine and even. The timber is heavy (average 725 kgs/m3 seasoned) and hard. Rowan dries slowly. The timber is good for turnery. It does not split easily and is perishable. Amenity value One of the most beautiful native trees, attractive in leaf, flower and fruit. Conservation The berries are taken by birds, especially of the thrush family. Timber value Rowan is usually available in small sizes and rarely in large sizes. It is used in furniture and for turnery and carving and makes good firewood. Economic appraisal Not a timber tree, but excellent in shelterbelts and as an understorey tree. It also has a special place in providing amenity in towns and cities, along waterways and on the edges of' plantations. Also considered to be a soil improver. |
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