Sorbus aria | Whitebeam

The Sorbus aria is native to southern England, but found in parks and gardens throughout the UK. This is a medium-sized, deciduous tree that is domed-shaped with a broad leaf. Easily identified by its oval leaves with an irregular serrated edge; shiny green on top with white, felt-like hairs underneath. The leaves turn russet-yellow before falling in early autumn. In May after the leaves have emerged clusters of small, white, five-petalled flowers appear. Once pollinated the flowers turn into scarlet-red berries in late summer and autumn. The Sorbus aria is an undemanding tree that thrives in most soil, including chalk. It can tolerate exposure, windy sites, dry and urban environments. There are different cultivars of the Sorbus aria, all of which are great for wildlife. The nectar and pollen is particularly attractive to bees and the berries are enjoyed by the birds.