Japanese Rowan 'Embley'

'Embley' is an exceptional form of the Japanese Rowan, renowned for having perhaps the most reliable and spectacular autumn colour of all the Sorbus species. As the nights cool, the pinnate leaves turn from a dark, glossy green to unbelievable shades of neon scarlet, orange, and deep crimson. This display is accompanied by heavy, drooping clusters of bright red-orange berries that persist well into winter. In late spring, it bears flat-topped clusters of creamy-white flowers. It has an upright, slightly spreading habit, making it an excellent choice for a specimen tree in a medium-sized garden. It is fully hardy (H6) and, like most Rowans, prefers a slightly acidic to neutral soil that is well-drained but moist. It should be avoiding very dry or thin chalky soils. 'Embley' is often cited by horticulturalists as the "gold standard" for autumn foliage. It is a relatively slow-growing tree, reaching about 7-10 metres over several decades. Its bark is smooth and grey, becoming slightly fissured with age.

Sun: Full sun to partial shade.

Soil: Moist, well-drained acidic to neutral soil.

Hardiness: H6 — down to −20°C.

Flowering: May, Jun.