Sorbus domestica – Service tree

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Rosaceae

Sorbus domestica – Service tree

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Slow grower with an undulating ovoid crown. Later the branches bend making the tree broader to spherical. S. domestica has low branches, a fact that causes the trunk to be short and the tree to end up as broad as it is tall. After some years the grey bark develops deep grooves. The imparipinnate leaves are approx. 20 cm long and have 11 - 21 leaflets. These have a somewhat felt-like underside and a sharply serrated edge: they are oval to ovoid and 3 - 8 cm long. The autumn colour is yellow to yellowish-orange. Flowering is followed by the emergence of apple- or pear-shaped edible fruits. The fruits are yellowish-green in colour and have a red blush on the sunny side. S. domestica can attain a great age but it is very sensitive to canker. The tree produces very hard wood that is used in furniture making. Ideal for natural parks or as a forage tree for bees.

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Specifications
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Height
10 - 15 (20) m
Width
8-10m
Crown
ovoid to spherical, half-open crown
Bark and branches
grey, deeply grooved, twigs glossy brown
Leaf
imparipinnate, approx. 20 cm, 11 - 21 leaf segments, dark green, feathered leaf
Autumn colour
yellow, orange
Flowers
white, in umbels with felt-like hairs, Ø 12 cm, May/June
Fruits
apple- or pear-shaped, 2.5 - 3 cm long, yellowish-green, red on the sunny side, edible fruits
Spines/thorns
None
Toxicity
usually not toxic to people, (large) pets and livestock
Soil type
makes few demands, suitable for extremely hard soils
Soil moisture
suitable for dry soil
Paving
tolerates partial paving
Winter hardiness zone
5b (-26,0 to -23,4 °C)
Wind resistance
good
Other resistances
resistant to frost (WH 1 - 6), can withstand wind
Fauna tree
valuable for bees (honey plant), valuable for butterflies, provides food for birds
Shape
clearstem tree, multi-stem treem
Origin
Southern Europe, North Africa, Asia Minor
Clear stem tree Multi-stem tree calcareous soil loamy soil nutrient-poor soil peaty soil sandy soil tolerates partial paving resistant to frost (WH 1 - 6) suitable for dry soil can withstand wind 1st size , taller than 12 metres half-open crown green white May early sprout average growing Conspicuous bloom Feathered leaf Attractive autumn colour valuable for bees (honey plant) valuable for butterflies provides food for birds non-toxic (usually) Ornamental fruit Edible fruits
Frequently asked questions
Sorbus domestica

Sorbus domestica can eventually reach a height of 10 - 15 (20) m, depending on the site and climate conditions.

Sorbus domestica is average growing and can eventually reach a height of 10 - 15 (20) m, depending on the site and climate conditions.

The leaves of Sorbus domestica turn yellow, orange in autumn.

The right time to plant Sorbus domestica is during the dormancy period. In Western Europe, Sorbus domestica with root balls can generally be planted from mid-November to late April, although this depends strongly on the climatic conditions and the species of tree.

Sorbus domestica blooms in may.
General

Yes, we deliver to the UK. Delivery costs depend on the region and the total order value. Below, you’ll find all the details.

Delivery charges for private customers are calculated based on your region and are visible during the checkout process. We also offer discounts based on the total value of your order:

  • Orders over £1,000: Receive a 50% discount on delivery costs.
  • Orders over £2,000: Delivery is completely free.

Yes, for trees with a size of 50-60 cm girth or larger, additional delivery charges apply due to the need for specialised transport. These costs will be calculated separately and shared with you after your order is placed. We will contact you to discuss the transport options and costs.

Once you add items to your basket and proceed to the checkout, the system will calculate the delivery charges for your region. If your order qualifies for any discounts, they will automatically be applied.

For any questions or specific delivery requests, feel free to contact our customer service team. We’re happy to help arrange the best delivery solution for your order.