Lancashire Whitebeam Sorbus lancastriensis
ABOUT
The plant known as Sorbus lancastriensis, commonly referred to as the Lancashire whitebeam, is recognized for its distinctive appearance. Typically found in garden and landscape settings, this plant contributes an ornamental appeal throughout different seasons of the year. The leaves of the Lancashire whitebeam are broad and prominently veined, with a rich green color that turns into vivid shades of reds and oranges during the autumn season, providing a spectacular display. These are often oval to oblong in shape and may have fine serrations along the edges, giving them a somewhat toothed appearance. The flowers of this plant are quite showy when they appear in clusters, generally around late spring. They are small and white with multiple petals that attract a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies. Following the flowering period, the Lancashire whitebeam produces fruit which is typically berry-like in nature, starting off as green and maturing into a deep red or sometimes orange color. These berries are known to be a food source for birds and other wildlife. The Lancashire whitebeam also has an attractive smooth bark that adds to its overall visual appeal, with a grayish or silvery tint. The branches extend outward, forming a rounded canopy that is dense with leaves, making it a pleasing component of parks, gardens, and natural landscapes. Its presence can add aesthetic value to the environment throughout the year, due to its changing foliage, delicate flowers, and colorful fruit.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Rosaceae.
Synonyms
Lancastrian Whitebeam, Westmorland Whitebeam.
Common names
Sorbus lancastriensis
ToxicityTo humans
The plant commonly known as the Lancashire whitebeam is not typically known for its toxicity to humans. However, it is always advised to be cautious with the ingestion of any plant material unless it is known to be safe. There are no well-documented cases of poisoning by this specific species, Sorbus lancastriensis, in humans.
To pets
The Lancashire whitebeam, similar to its toxicity to humans, is not commonly known to be toxic to pets. However, individual animals may have sensitivities or allergic reactions to plants that are not widely recognized as poisonous. It is always best to prevent pets from ingesting plants that are not confirmed to be non-toxic. There are no specific symptoms of poisoning associated with this plant for pets as it is not commonly recognized as toxic.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
15-20 feet (4.6-6 meters)
Spread
15-20 feet (4.6-6 meters)
Plant type
Tree
Hardiness zones
6
Native area
UK
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic appeal: Sorbus lancastriensis, commonly known as Lancashire whitebeam, adds visual interest to landscapes with its attractive foliage, white spring blossoms, and autumn berries.
- Wildlife support: It provides food for birds and other wildlife through its berries, which can help support local biodiversity.
- Shade provider: With its medium-sized canopy, the Lancashire whitebeam offers shade to gardens and parks, which can be beneficial in urban environments.
- Erosion control: The root system helps stabilize the soil, reducing erosion on slopes and in other vulnerable areas.
- Adaptability: The Lancashire whitebeam adapts well to different soil types, including those that are less fertile or somewhat contaminated, making it suitable for urban landscaping.
- Seasonal interest: This tree showcases a variety of seasonal changes from spring flowers, lush summer foliage, to autumnal color changes and winter berries, offering year-round interest in the landscape.
- Low maintenance: Once established, Sorbus lancastriensis generally requires minimal upkeep, making it an attractive option for areas where resources for gardening and maintenance are limited.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- The wood of the Lancashire Whitebeam can be used in woodworking and carving projects, as it provides a hard, dense timber suitable for detailed work.
- The tree's ornamental value makes it an excellent choice for residential and commercial landscaping, providing aesthetic enhancement with its foliage and form.
- Birds are attracted to the tree for its fruit, so planting a Lancashire Whitebeam can help support local avian populations and increase biodiversity.
- The tree can be used in urban environments to provide shade in parks and streets, contributing to the reduction of urban heat islands.
- The deep root system of the Lancashire Whitebeam can help in stabilising soil and preventing erosion on slopes and banks.
- Bees and other pollinators benefit from the flowers of the tree, making it a useful plant for pollinator-friendly gardens and landscapes.
- The tree's resilience to wind and pollution makes it valuable as a windbreak and a natural means of improving urban air quality, beyond just purification.
- The Lancashire Whitebeam's berries can be used to make jelly and jams, although they are not very palatable when eaten raw.
- During the fall, the colorful foliage of the tree can be used for decoration and crafting, adding natural elements to home decor.
- In rural areas, the tree can act as a boundary marker or hedging plant, providing a natural fence line that requires minimal maintenance.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Rowan tree is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Rowan tree is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: Sorbus lancastriensis, commonly known as the Lancashire Whitebeam, often thrives in harsh conditions and stony ground, symbolizing the ability to endure and overcome difficulties.
- Protection: Whitebeams have been thought to ward off evil spirits, with their strong wood and dense foliage offering metaphorical protection from harm.
- Hope and Rebirth: The tree's fresh green leaves in spring are symbols of new beginnings, hope, and the renewal of life.
WaterLancaster Whitebeam should be watered deeply, with the goal of keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. During the growing season, water the tree with about 15-20 gallons once a week, especially if there has been no significant rainfall. In the winter months, reduce watering to once every two weeks or less, depending on the rainfall and temperature. Young trees require more frequent watering, about twice a week, until they're well-established. Monitor the soil moisture regularly; overly dry soil can lead to stress, while too much water can cause root rot.
LightLancaster Whitebeam thrives in full sun to partial shade. The best spot for this tree would be an area where it receives at least four to six hours of direct sunlight daily. However, it can tolerate light shade, especially in the hotter parts of the day, which can help protect the tree from excessive heat stress.
TemperatureLancaster Whitebeam is hardy and adaptable to a range of temperatures but performs best when the temperature is between 50°F and 70°F. It can withstand minimum winter temperatures down to around -20°F. However, the ideal temperature range for promoting healthy growth and flowering is between 60°F and 70°F during the growing season.
PruningPruning Lancaster Whitebeam is mainly for shape, removing dead or diseased wood, and promoting good structure and air circulation within the canopy. The best time for pruning is late winter to early spring before new growth starts. It is usually done annually or as needed to remove any crossing or rubbing branches and to maintain a strong tree framework.
CleaningNot needed
SoilThe Lancashire Whitebeam prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH of around 6.0 to 7.0. The best soil mix for this tree would be loamy soil enriched with organic matter to facilitate proper drainage and nutrient availability.
RepottingLancashire Whitebeam trees, being large and primarily outdoor plants, do not require frequent repotting. If grown in a container, young trees may need repotting every 2-3 years or when roots become pot-bound.
Humidity & MistingLancashire Whitebeam trees are adaptable and can tolerate a wide range of humidity levels, typical of outdoor environments; they do not have specific humidity requirements.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Not ideal for indoor growth due to size.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, well-drained soil, and shelter from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
5-8 USDA
Life cycleSorbus lancastriensis, commonly known as Lancashire Whitebeam, begins its life with seed germination, which occurs when environmental conditions are favorable, typically in spring. The seed develops into a seedling, which then grows into a juvenile plant demonstrating increased leaf size and branch development. As it matures, it enters the adult stage, characterized by the ability to flower and produce fruits, which usually takes several years. The flowering phase occurs in spring, with the tree producing white flowers that are pollinated by insects. Following pollination, the flowers develop into red berries towards the end of summer, which contain seeds that are dispersed by birds and other animals. The Lancashire Whitebeam can live for many decades, and during its life, this cycle of growth, flowering, fruiting, and seed dispersal repeats annually.
PropogationPropogation time
Early spring
The Rowan tree, Sorbus lancastriensis, can be propagated through seeds, which is its most popular method. To achieve propagation by seed, it is essential to collect berries when they are fully ripe, typically from late fall to early winter. Clean the seeds by removing the pulp and then subject them to a cold stratification process, which involves mixing the seeds with moist sand or peat moss and refrigerating them at about 34 to 41 degrees Fahrenheit (1 to 5 degrees Celsius) for approximately 90 to 120 days to break their dormancy. After cold stratification, sow the seeds in well-draining soil, either in outdoor seedbeds or pots, at a shallow depth since the seeds require some light to germinate. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged and expect the seedlings to emerge the following spring. Once the seedlings have grown to a sufficient size and are strong enough, they can then be transplanted to their final growing location.
