Sorbus commixta 'Olympic Flame' Tree

Tree Information

Specialities

Tolerances

Wet Soil: Medium

Dry Soil: Medium

Lime: Low

Sorbus commixta ‘Olympic Flame’, commonly known as Scarlet Rowan, originates from the island Ulleungdo in South Korea. It is also known as Sorbus commixta ‘Dodong’ which is the name of the harbour on Ulleungdo. Seeds were raised in Sweden by a botanist in 1976.

During spring and summer, Japanese Scarlet Rowan showcases glossy green pinnate leaves, comprised of serrated leaflets. These provide an attractive backdrop to the clusters of small white flowers that are borne in corymbs. Come late summer, flowers will give way to dark red berries, which are glazed with orange, and very attractive to birds.

The autumn foliage truly sets the Olympic Flame apart. As the weather cools, the leaves undergo a dramatic transformation, turning vibrant shades of oranges, scarlets and blazing reds. This display is particularly eye-catching against a backdrop of evergreen trees or a clear blue sky.

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Size

Small

5m high x 4m wide after 25 years

Environment

A perfect tree for gardens and housing estates. Will also look good in a parkland or urban settings.

Canopy

Broadly conical and columnar.

Foliage

Glossy green foliage, pinnate leaves with serrated leaflets. Turns vibrant shades of oranges and reds in autumn.

Flowers

Creamy white flowers borne in corymbs in spring.

Fruit

Red berries glazed with orange in late summer.

Resilience

Thrives in fertile, well-drained soil such as chalk, sand, clay, and loam. While it prefers full sunlight, it can tolerate some dappled shade. however, it doesn't fare well in consistently waterlogged conditions.