European Mountain Ash Sorbus aucuparia var. xanthocarpa

Names

• Family

  Rosaceae

• Synonyms

  Yellow-Berried Rowan, Yellow-Fruited Rowan, Yellow Berry Mountain Ash

• Common names

  Sorbus aucuparia f. xanthocarpa, Pyrus aucuparia var. xanthocarpa

Toxicity

• To humans

  Rowan, specifically the variety Sorbus aucuparia var. xanthocarpa, can be toxic to humans if ingested in large quantities. The raw berries contain parasorbic acid, which can convert into hydrocyanic acid (cyanide) in the human body. Symptoms of mild poisoning might include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps. Severe poisoning, although rare, can cause dizziness, weakness, excessive perspiration, dilation of the pupils, and increased heartbeat. To reduce toxicity, the berries are usually cooked which breaks down the parasorbic acid.

• To pets

  Rowan, or Sorbus aucuparia var. xanthocarpa, can also be toxic to pets if parts of the plant, particularly the raw berries, are consumed. The berries contain compounds that can lead to cyanide poisoning, though generally, a pet would need to ingest a large amount to experience severe toxicity. Symptoms of poisoning in pets can resemble those in humans, which may include vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, lethargy, seizures, and potentially coma. More commonly, pets might experience gastrointestinal upset if they consume rowan berries. If you suspect your pet has ingested a toxic plant, it's important to consult a veterinarian immediately.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Deciduous

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Flower color

  White

• Height

  20 feet (6 meters)

• Spread

  20 feet (6 meters)

• Plant type

  Tree

• Hardiness zones

  3

• Native area

  Europe

General Benefits

• Wildlife attraction: Bright-colored berries serve as a food source for various birds, particularly through autumn and winter.
• Ornamental value: Vibrant yellow berries and autumn foliage provide visual interest in gardens and parks.
• Erosion control: Deep root systems stabilize soil on slopes and prevent erosion.
• Adaptability: Rowan trees are hardy and can thrive in a range of soil types and climatic conditions.
• Biodiversity support: Acts as a host plant for various insect species, which in turn support local ecosystems.
• Shade provision: Offers shade in landscaped areas, creating cooler microclimates during warmer months.
• Windbreak: When planted in groups, they can act as windbreaks, protecting smaller plants and reducing wind erosion.

Medical Properties

• Rich in Vitamin C: The berries of Sorbus aucuparia, commonly known as Rowan, are known to contain high levels of Vitamin C.
• Astringent qualities: Traditionally, the fruit might have been used for its astringent properties to treat diarrhea and dysentery.
• Diuretic effects: The berries may have been used for their diuretic effect to help promote urine production and alleviate fluid retention.
• Antioxidant content: The high levels of antioxidants in the berries could help in protecting cells from damage by free radicals.
• Improvement of capillary health: The plant has been thought to have bioflavonoids that might improve the health and integrity of capillaries.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• The berries of the Rowan tree can be used to make a natural dye, with the color varying depending on the mordant used during the dyeing process.
• Rowan wood is strong and resilient, making it suitable for crafting small wooden tools such as handles for tools and walking sticks.
• In some cultures, the Rowan tree is believed to harbor protective qualities and is planted near homes to ward off evil spirits.
• The tree's dense foliage can provide habitat and shelter for various bird species, enhancing biodiversity in gardens.
• Rowan berries can be used as a food source for birds in the winter when other food is scarce, helping them survive the cold months.
• The flowers' nectar and pollen attract bees and other pollinators, supporting the local ecosystem's health.
• Rowan wood can be used in turnery to create intricate woodworking pieces, such as bowls and decorative items.
• The tree is sometimes used in urban landscaping for its ornamental qualities, particularly for its vibrant autumn foliage and bright berries.
• Rowan berries can be used in the preparation of homemade wines and liqueurs, offering a unique tart flavor.
• Traditionally, some cultures have used the wood of Rowan to smoke fish and meat, imparting a distinct flavor to the food.

Feng Shui

The Rowan is not used in Feng Shui practice.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

The Rowan is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Protection: The Rowan Tree, which is another name for Sorbus aucuparia, is often associated with protection from enchantment and harmful magic. In folklore, people believed that having a piece of the tree or its red berries in the house would protect against malevolent forces.
• Wisdom: The tree is thought to represent knowledge and wisdom, embodying an essence of learning and understanding, in part due to its longstanding presence in mythology as a tree of life or world tree.
• Courage: Ancient lore sometimes credits the Rowan Tree with the ability to inspire strength and bravery in challenging situations, perhaps because it thrives in harsh conditions and elevations.
• Healing: Traditionally, the berries of the Rowan Tree were used in medicines, which gives the tree a symbolic connection to healing and health.
• Mysticism: With its rich folklore, the Rowan is often seen as a mystical tree, bridging the connection between the earthly world and the spiritual realm.