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American Mountain Ash

Name: American Mountain Ash
Brand: Akène
SKU: AKE-SEMGR1
Price: 4.99 CAD
Availability: InStock

Common name American Mountain Ash

Latin name Sorbus americana

Quantity per packet Minimum 25 seeds

American Mountain Ash greatly enhances biodiversity by supporting pollinators in spring and feeding numerous bird species with its persistent berries. It also provides spectacular autumn color and outstanding landscape value.

Product information

Product
identification

Common nameAmerican Mountain Ash

Latin nameSorbus americana

FamilyRosaceae

TypeTree

CyclePerennial

Quantity per packMinimum 25 seeds

Code produitAKENE-0050

Product
description

American Mountain Ash (Sorbus americana) is an elegant native tree valued for its abundant spring bloom, clusters of orange-red fruit, and exceptional hardiness. Its light, finely divided foliage adds refined texture to the garden, while its creamy white flowers attract many bees, hoverflies, butterflies, and other pollinating insects. In autumn, the foliage turns brilliant shades of color, and the persistent fruits add remarkable ornamental appeal. This native tree is an excellent choice for wildlife gardens, hedgerows, and naturalization projects in Canada.

American Mountain Ash thrives in full sun to partial shade and cool, well-drained, slightly acidic soil. Very well adapted to northern climates, it withstands harsh Canadian winters and maintains vigorous growth even in relatively challenging conditions. Once well rooted, it requires little maintenance beyond occasional watering during prolonged drought and light formative pruning when needed. Its graceful silhouette and moderate size make it an excellent accent tree for residential gardens as well as larger naturalistic landscapes.

Beyond its ornamental beauty, American Mountain Ash plays an important ecological role by providing spring nectar for pollinators and food for many bird species in autumn and winter. Its fruits can also be cooked into jellies, syrups, or preserves, although they are especially valued by wildlife. Combined with Shadblow Serviceberry, Viburnums, Dogwoods, and other native shrubs, Sorbus americana helps create biodiversity-rich landscapes with strong seasonal interest. With its exceptional hardiness, nectar-rich flowers, and abundant fruiting, American Mountain Ash remains an essential tree for natural Canadian landscapes.

Sowing
guide

Sowing periodAutumn or spring after soaking and cold stratification

Best time

Spring after the last frost

Sowing depth3 mm (0.1 in)

Spacing / density

3 to 5 m (10 to 16 ft)

Germination temperature18 to 22°C (64 to 72°F)

Germination time8 to 22 days

Propagation

Propagate primarily by seed after cold stratification or by transplanting young naturally established seedlings.

Growing
method

Sow the seeds after soaking followed by cold stratification to overcome natural dormancy. Use a light, well-drained growing medium and maintain consistent moisture throughout germination. American Mountain Ash prefers full sun to partial shade and slightly acidic soils. Once established, this hardy native tree requires little maintenance and withstands harsh Canadian winters with ease. Its spring flowers attract numerous pollinators, while its long-lasting berry clusters provide valuable food for wildlife well into winter.

Soil
and care

ExposureFull sun to partial shade

Soil

Well-drained soil; thrives in slightly acidic to acidic conditions

Soil pH5.0 to 6.8

Watering

Moderate watering is recommended during establishment. Once rooted, the tree tolerates short periods of drought.

Fertilization

A light annual application of compost or organic soil amendment in spring is generally sufficient. Rich soils are unnecessary for this species, which naturally thrives in nutrient-moderate environments.

Care levelModerate

In spring, apply a layer of compost around the base and remove any damaged branches. Water during prolonged dry periods while the tree is becoming established. In autumn, leave the berries on the tree to provide food for wildlife. Light structural pruning during dormancy helps maintain a healthy, attractive canopy.

Container
growing

Recommended pot size

45 to 60 cm (18 to 24 in)

American Mountain Ash can be grown in a large, deep container during its first years. Use a rich, slightly acidic growing medium with excellent drainage and maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging. Full sun to partial shade encourages healthy development. As the tree matures, transplanting into the ground is recommended to allow full root development and long-term vigor.

Bloom,
harvest
and garden

Its abundant orange-red berry clusters provide exceptional ornamental interest while feeding birds through autumn and winter. Its outstanding hardiness makes it one of the finest native trees for northern landscapes.

Garden use

American Mountain Ash is ideal for wildlife hedgerows, naturalized landscapes, and ecological restoration projects. Its spring flowers attract pollinators, while its abundant berries feed birds for many months. Its graceful foliage and brilliant fall color make it an outstanding accent tree for Canadian landscapes.

Bloom period

May to June

Flower colorCreamy white

Foliage colorGreen

Harvest

August to October

Fruiting

Clusters of orange-red berries ripen from late summer into autumn and often persist after leaf drop.

Wildlife appealBirds, bees, and pollinators

Size
and facts

Height6 to 10 m (20 to 33 ft)

Spread3 to 5 m (10 to 16 ft)

Growth rateModerate

Hardiness zoneUSDA Zones 2–6

Minimum temperature-40°C (-40°F)

Foliage typeDeciduous

Papillonstrue

Insectes utilestrue

Planting
partners

Good companions

Shadblow Serviceberry, Wild Raisin Viburnum, Alternate-leaf Dogwood, Bunchberry

Avoid planting with

Lavender, Santolina, Rockrose, Yucca

Recipe
and inspiration

Fresh American Mountain Ash berries are highly astringent but become suitable for jellies, jams, syrups, and preserves after cooking. They have long been used in traditional northern recipes. Their greatest ecological value, however, lies in providing an abundant food source for birds throughout autumn and winter. Harvesting is often delayed until after the first frosts to improve their flavor.

Frequently asked questions

When should I sow American Mountain Ash seeds? +

American Mountain Ash seeds are typically sown in spring after several weeks of cold stratification to improve germination.

Does American Mountain Ash produce edible berries? +

Yes. The berries can be cooked into jellies, jams, and syrups, although they are especially valued as an important food source for wild birds.

Where should I plant American Mountain Ash? +

Choose a location in full sun to partial shade with cool, well-drained, slightly acidic soil for the healthiest growth.

Is American Mountain Ash good for wildlife? +

Yes. Its spring flowers attract pollinators, and its persistent berry clusters provide valuable food for many bird species throughout autumn and winter.

Is American Mountain Ash hardy in Canada? +

Absolutely. American Mountain Ash is exceptionally hardy and thrives in the cold climates found throughout most of Canada.

The availability of our seeds varies depending on seasonal availability, production schedules and supplier inventory. Certain varieties may only be offered for a limited time based on their natural growth cycle, sowing period or available stock. These product pages are designed to help and inspire gardeners in choosing the right seeds for vegetable gardens, flower beds, pollinator gardens, container growing, naturalization projects and sustainable outdoor spaces.