Botanical profile

Sorbus aucuparia 'Cardinal Royal'

Latin name
Sorbus aucuparia 'Cardinal Royal'
Common name
'Cardinal Royal' European Mountain Ash
Type
Leafy
Family
Rosaceae

Sorbus aucuparia ‘Cardinal Royal’, known as royal mountain ash ‘Cardinal’, is a compact and highly ornamental tree particularly appreciated for its abundant white spring blossoms, followed by clusters of bright red berries in summer-autumn that attract birds and add a dynamic splash of color to the garden. Its soft green, slightly cut foliage offers a light and elegant texture that harmonizes well with beds, borders, or small Quebec gardens. Moderately sized and well-proportioned, it is perfectly suited as a standalone tree, at the back of a flower bed, or in a free-standing hedge, providing seasonal visual interest and biodiversity thanks to its melliferous flowers and fruits appreciated by wildlife, all while remaining easy to maintain.

Care guide

Growing conditions

Light, soil, water and hardiness

Hardiness zone
Zone 2
Exposure
Sun
Watering
Low to medium
Fertilization
Balanced spring salad
Soil type
Well drained, fertile
Minimum temperature
-40°C
Plant appearance

Blooming, foliage and shape

Blooming period
May
Flower color
White
Fruiting
Decorative red berries for birds
Foliage color
Green (summer) ? sometimes yellow (autumn)
Foliage type
Obsolete
Shape
Rounded
Garden structure

Size and growth

Height
8 m (26 ft)
Width
15-20 ft (4.5-6 m)
Growth rate
Average
Pet friendly
Safe for pets

Pets

Butterflies
Plants that attract butterflies

Butterflies

The availability of our plants varies depending on arrivals, seasons, nursery production and supplier availability. Some varieties may be offered for a limited time only, depending on their natural cycle or current stock. These plant profiles are designed to guide and inspire you when choosing plants for the garden, landscaping projects, containers or long-lasting outdoor arrangements.