Forrest's Rowan Sorbus forrestii

Names

• Family

  Rosaceae

• Synonyms

  Forrest's Rowan, Forrest's Mountain Ash, Chinese Mountain Ash

• Common names

  Pyrus forrestii, Sorbus koehneana.

Toxicity

• To humans

  Sorbus forrestii, commonly known as Forrest's rowan, does not have well-documented toxicity to humans. However, as with many plants in the Sorbus genus, it is generally advised to avoid ingesting parts of the plant without proper knowledge and preparation, as they may contain compounds that could be harmful if not processed correctly. There's no specific information suggesting that Forrest's rowan is highly toxic to humans, but it is always best to exercise caution and not consume parts of ornamental plants unless they are known to be edible.

• To pets

  Sorbus forrestii, more commonly known as Forrest's rowan, is not typically listed among plants that are highly toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. While there's limited specific information on this species' toxicity to pets, members of the Sorbus genus are generally not considered to be dangerously poisonous. Nonetheless, ingestion of non-food plants by pets can sometimes lead to gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting or diarrhea. Therefore, it is always a good practice to prevent pets from ingesting plants not intended for consumption to avoid potential digestive issues.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Deciduous

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Flower color

  White

• Height

  20 feet (6 meters)

• Spread

  15 feet (4.5 meters)

• Plant type

  Tree

• Hardiness zones

  6

• Native area

  China

General Benefits

• Ornamental Value: Sorbus forrestii is known for its aesthetic appeal due to its white or pink flowers, bright red fruits, and vibrant autumn foliage.
• Habitat Support: It provides food in the form of berries for birds and mammals, especially during colder months when food is scarce.
• Biodiversity Enhancement: Its presence supports various species of insects, which in turn attract birds and contribute to a diverse ecosystem.
• Erosion Control: The root system of Sorbus forrestii helps stabilize the soil, thereby preventing erosion, especially in hilly areas where it is commonly found.
• Shade Provision: It offers a pleasant shade in gardens and parks, making outdoor spaces more comfortable during sunny days.

Medical Properties

• This plant is not used for medical purposes.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• Sorbus forrestii, commonly known as Forrest's Rowan, can be used as a natural dye source; the bark and berries may provide dyes for fabrics or crafts.
• The wood of Forrest's Rowan is fine-grained and could be utilized in small woodworking projects, such as carving utensils or decorative objects.
• Young leaves from Forrest's Rowan can be employed in the preparation of leaf molds for casting decorative items or detailed garden stepping stones.
• The dried branches of Forrest's Rowan serve as support stakes in gardening, helping maintain the shape and growth direction of other plants.
• The berries of Forrest's Rowan are sometimes used as feed for certain livestock, especially when other food sources are scarce.
• Forrest's Rowan's spring blossoms can be collected for making natural potpourris or for use as a scented decoration in homes.
• In rural crafts, the flexible twigs of Forrest's Rowan can be woven to create small baskets or decorative pieces.
• Dense shrubberies of Forrest's Rowan may provide refuge and nesting habitats for various species of birds, contributing to biodiversity in gardens.
• Forrest's Rowan trees create captivating natural canopies that can be used to design living tunnels or archways in landscape gardens.
• The tree can act as a natural windbreak or privacy screen when planted in rows or clusters, due to its dense foliage.

Feng Shui

The Chinese Mountain Ash is not used in Feng Shui practice.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

The Chinese Mountain Ash is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Endurance: Sorbus forrestii, commonly known as Forrest's Rowan, is part of the rowan family, which often symbolizes endurance due to their ability to survive in harsh climates and poor soils.
• Protection: Rowans are traditionally thought to ward off evil, and Forrest's Rowan shares this symbolism, being used in folklore to protect against witchcraft and enchantment.
• Wisdom: The Rowan tree is sometimes associated with wisdom, arising from its connection to the ancient Druids who regarded it as sacred.
• Life and Vitality: With its bright berries and resilient nature, Forrest's Rowan represents life force and vitality, celebrating the energy of nature and the cycle of life.