Rowan (Mountain Ash) Hedge (Sorbus aucuparia)

Rowan Hedge Plants Description

Rowan (Sorbus aucuparia), also known as Mountain Ash, is a beautiful native British tree that makes an excellent wildlife-friendly hedge or mixed countryside boundary. Valued for its changing seasonal display, Rowan produces clusters of creamy-white flowers in late spring, attractive green foliage throughout summer, and vibrant orange-red berries in autumn that provide an important food source for birds.

A Rowan hedge is ideal for gardeners looking to create a natural, informal hedge with year-round interest. Its upright growth and attractive foliage make it suitable for both rural and urban gardens, while its berries attract blackbirds, thrushes, waxwings and other wildlife.

Growth Rate: Rowan is a moderate-growing native hedge, typically producing 20–40cm of growth each year under suitable conditions. It performs well in most well-drained soils, including loam and clay, and thrives in full sun or partial shade. Once established, it is hardy, tolerant of exposed locations and suitable for both inland and coastal gardens.

Pruning Advice

Prune Rowan hedges during late winter or early spring before new growth begins.

Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches first, then lightly trim to maintain the desired height and shape. Avoid excessive pruning if you wish to maximise flowering and autumn berry production, as flowers develop on older wood.

Established Rowan hedges require relatively little maintenance, with an annual trim usually sufficient to keep growth tidy while preserving their natural character and wildlife value.

Further Information

Planting distances depend on how quickly you would like your hedge to establish.

For bare root Rowan hedge plants, plant 3 plants per metre for a standard hedge, 5 plants per metre for faster establishment, or 7 plants per metre in a double staggered row for a denser screen.

For cell-grown plants, we recommend 4 plants per metre in a single row or 6 plants per metre in a staggered double row for a fuller hedge.

Rowan is an excellent choice for mixed native hedging, wildlife gardens, boundary planting and ornamental screening, offering attractive flowers, colourful berries and excellent seasonal interest throughout the year.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Rowan hedge?

A Rowan hedge is created using Sorbus aucuparia, a native British tree known for its spring flowers, colourful autumn berries and excellent wildlife value.

How fast does a Rowan hedge grow?

Rowan is a moderate-growing hedge, typically growing around 20–40cm per year in suitable conditions.

Does Rowan produce berries?

Yes. Bright orange-red berries appear in autumn and provide an important food source for birds throughout autumn and winter.

Is Rowan suitable for wildlife gardens?

Yes. Rowan attracts bees and other pollinators with its spring flowers, while its berries support many native bird species.

Can Rowan grow in coastal gardens?

Yes. Rowan is hardy and tolerant of exposed and many coastal locations, provided the soil drains well.

When should a Rowan hedge be pruned?

Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth starts, removing damaged branches and lightly shaping the hedge while preserving flowering and berry production.

Delivery & Returns

Free delivery is available on most orders (except Premium Products) providing they meet the minimum spend criteria for the size of box or pallet. Pallet deliveries and large box deliveries for tall plants are indicated by icons on the product table listings. Delivery costs and minimum order details for each packaging type are as follows:

* Standard Sized Boxes (Bare root up to 1.2m tall & pots up to 7.5L) | Free UK Mainland Delivery for orders over £250 | or £9.98 charge.

* Tall Sized Boxes (Bare roots 1.2m & over) | Free UK Mainland Delivery for orders over £250 | or £24.99 charge.

* Pallets (Root balls, large pots 10L+, trees etc | Free UK Mainland Delivery for orders over £350 | or £82 charge.

* Pleached Trees (Specialist Delivery) | Free UK Mainland Delivery for orders over £1500 | or £450 charge.