Rowan

Sorbus aucuparia

Layer 2 · Understorey
Edible companion

Status by region

No restrictions recorded in the lists we checked.

Checked against the European Union list (Regulation 1143/2014) · Portugal's national invasive species list (Decreto-Lei 92/2019).

Information based on the cited sources, not legal advice — always confirm your local rules.

About

The rowan is a small mountain tree, with compound leaves and red fruits in showy clusters. The fruits, acidic and rich in vitamin C, are edible after cooking and much sought after by birds. In the food forest it occupies the tree layer, with nectar-rich flowering and strong attraction for beneficial wildlife.

It is harvested now — September is one of the harvest months.

See which trees rowan grows well with

We have no trees recorded with this species yet. Start from the tree on your land.

See the central trees

No account needed.

Needs

Water: Medium
Light: Full sun
Size: Small tree up to 10 m
Mature diameter: 5 m
Soils: Clay, Loam, Sandy
Climates: Hot, dry Mediterranean, Atlantic coast, Inland / Continental, Mountain / cold

Calendar

January — Planting
February — Planting
March
April
May
June
July
August — Harvest
September — Harvest
October
November — Planting
December — Planting

Harvest
Planting

Medicinal use: The cooked berries are rich in vitamin C and traditionally consumed in jellies or infusions to relieve throat inflammation.

Where to buy

May grow well with

Suggestions worked out from growing conditions — same soil and climate, complementary layers and functions. These are not observed guilds; treat them as a starting point to try on your own land.