Sorbus aria (Whitebeam) seeds

Fine ornamental native British tree which being small to medium sized is ideal for most gardens. Very tolerant of a wide range of conditions including wind, heat & drought. Whitebeam has pretty leaves, dark green on top and silvery-white underneath. Bears fluffy heads of white flowers in May followed by orange-red berries in September which persist well into winter. As an added bonus, the foliage turns a lovely yellow-brown in autumn. Brilliant for Bonsai.

Hardy Tree
Height: 8-12m but can be pruned
Flowers: May
Position: Full sun to semi-shade

Packet of 20 seeds.

Caution: Berries can cause stomach upset if eaten.

RHS Plants for Pollinators. 

The RHS Plants for Pollinators mark is only given to plants that support pollinating insects. Find out more at rhs.org.uk/plantsforpollinators

GROWING GUIDE

Sowing Instructions: Sow at any time of the year. Sow thinly* on the surface of a moist seed compost mixed with a little vermiculite. Do not cover the seed and do not exclude light which is beneficial to germination. Place in the fridge or other cold place between 2-5C for 12 weeks. Then move to a propagator or seal in a polythene bag and maintain an optimum temperature of 18-21C. Germination can be slow and erratic but should occur after 2-4 months. As the seedlings emerge, gradually increase ventilation by opening the bag or propagator vents.

Growing Instructions: Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle into 7.5cm pots. Grow on in cooler conditions with plenty of light, but shaded from direct sun. In the spring, gradually acclimatise to outdoor conditions and grow on until mature enough to be planted out in the garden. Likes a sunny to semi-shaded position in any reasonable soil and keep well-watered until established.

*Sow seeds thinly as germination can be erratic and seedlings can then be removed without disturbing the rest of the compost too much.