European Mountain Ash Tree Seeds

European Mountain Ash Tree Seeds (Sorbus aucuparia) produce an attractive deciduous tree known for its clusters of creamy-white spring flowers, bright orange-red berries, and colorful fall foliage. Also called Rowan Tree, this hardy ornamental tree provides valuable food for birds and adds year-round interest to landscapes, woodland gardens, and naturalized areas.

Botanical Information

• Botanical Name: Sorbus aucuparia
• Common Name: European Mountain Ash, Rowan Tree
• Family: Rosaceae
• Plant Type: Deciduous flowering tree
• Life Cycle: Perennial
• Native Range: Europe and parts of western Asia
• Mature Height: 20–40 feet
• Mature Spread: 15–25 feet
• Growth Rate: Moderate
• USDA Zones: 3–6
• Sun: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil Preference: Moist, well-drained, fertile soil
• Soil pH: Slightly acidic to neutral
• Water Needs: Moderate
• Drought Tolerance: Low to moderate once established
• Salt Tolerance: Low
• Deer Resistance: Moderate
• Wildlife Value: Berries provide an important food source for birds
• Container Friendliness: Suitable for containers when young
• Landscape Uses: Specimen tree, woodland garden, wildlife garden, naturalized planting, cottage garden, and ornamental landscape
• Germination Rate: 60–80%
• Pre-treatment: 30–60 days warm stratification followed by 90–120 days cold stratification

Germination Instructions

Place the seeds in a moist growing medium, such as peat moss, sand, or vermiculite. Keep them at approximately 65–75°F for 30–60 days to complete the warm stratification period.

After warm stratification, place the seeds in a refrigerator at approximately 34–41°F for 90–120 days. Keep the growing medium consistently moist but not waterlogged throughout both stratification periods.

Following cold stratification, sow the seeds approximately 1/4 inch deep in a quality seed-starting mix. Keep the soil evenly moist and place the containers in a bright location. Use a humidity dome to help maintain consistent moisture during germination.

Germination may be gradual and uneven. Some seeds may require additional seasonal temperature cycles before sprouting.

Growing Information

• Plant seedlings in full sun to partial shade
• Choose moist, fertile soil with good drainage
• Water regularly during the first several growing seasons
• Apply mulch around the root zone to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature
• Avoid planting in extremely hot, dry locations
• Provide adequate spacing for mature growth
• Produces clusters of white flowers during spring
• Develops colorful orange-red berries that attract birds
• Displays yellow, orange, or reddish foliage during fall
• Suitable for cool climates and naturalized landscapes

Seed Quantities Available

• 1 oz. – 7,812 Seeds
• 1/4 lb. – 31,248 Seeds
• 1 lb. – 124,992 Seeds