Rowan (Mountain Ash) Hedge (Sorbus aucuparia)

Rowan Mountain Ash Hedging Description

A rowan hedge is a graceful, deciduous native, known in many gardens as Mountain Ash and botanically as Sorbus aucuparia.

Clusters of white flowers open in late spring, fresh green leaves fill out through summer, and bright orange-red berries follow in autumn, so the planting has something to offer in every season.

Hardy and easygoing, Rowan Mountain Ash copes with many soil types.

And does especially well in cooler climates, which is why a mountain ash hedge is a favourite in town and country gardens alike.

Benefits:

Seasonal beauty: White blossom in spring, lush green leaves in summer and glowing clusters of berries in autumn give a rowan hedge colour and interest across the whole year.

Wildlife-friendly: Birds and other wildlife rely on the berries through autumn and winter, while bees, butterflies and other pollinators visit the flowers when they bloom.

Hardy and adaptable: Sorbus aucuparia grows in soils ranging from well-drained loam to clay, and it tolerates poor ground and urban pollution, so it fits many different settings.

Low maintenance: Once settled in, it needs very little attention and is fairly resistant to pests and diseases, which suits gardeners who want an easy hedge.

Privacy and shelter: Dense foliage helps a rowan hedge screen views and break the wind, making it a good fit for boundaries and protective screens.

Pruning Advice

Regular pruning keeps a rowan hedge in shape and growing well. Aim for late winter or early spring, just before new growth begins.

Take out dead, damaged or crossing branches so air and light can reach the centre of the plant, then trim lightly to hold the shape. Avoid cutting too hard, as this can reduce flowers and berries.

An overgrown hedge can be cut back more firmly, but spread the work over a couple of seasons so the plant isn't stressed.

With seasonal colour and real benefits for wildlife, Rowan Mountain Ash is a great addition to any garden, offering beauty, practical screening and a welcoming habitat.

Further Information

Our rowan hedge plants are available bare root, root ball or pot grown. Spacing is flexible and depends on the look you want.

For bare root plants, 3 per metre is the minimum, 5 per metre is ideal, and 7 per metre in a double staggered row gives a thicker hedge faster.

As a rule, smaller plants go in closer together. Cell-grown plants do best at 4 per metre in a single row, or ideally 6 per metre in a staggered row.

Delivery & Returns – Terms & Conditions

We offer free delivery within 50 miles of our nursery, making it easy to have your rowan hedge plants delivered directly to your property within our local delivery area.

Delivery outside the 50-mile area may be available depending on your location and order. If you are unsure whether your address falls within our delivery area, please contact us before placing your order.

All plants are carefully prepared for dispatch and are covered by our 12-month plant guarantee, subject to the applicable terms and conditions.