Sorbus aria Lutescens – Whitebeam

A popular cultivar of the native or long-established whitebeam, ideal for medium-sized gardens, Sorbus aria Lutescens is a medium-sized, deciduous tree, with an upright habit when young, rounding out as it ages. The oval leaves emerge silver in spring, becoming a distinctive grey-green as the juvenile downiness wears away, and turning yellow to russet in autumn. Flat clusters of foamy, creamy-white flowers are borne in May, a good nectar source for pollinators. These are followed by orange-red berries, a food source for birds. Whitebeam Lutescens holds the RHS Award of Garden Merit.

Site: Tolerates coastal exposure
Soil: Any well-drained soil
Position: Full sun or partial shade
Season of interest: Spring to autumn
Hardiness: Fully hardy
Height: 26-40’ (8-12m) Spread: 13-26’ (4-8m) in 20 years