Sorbus torminalis – Wild Service Tree

Wild Service Tree (Sorbus torminalis) is a large, slow-growing deciduous tree appreciated for its noble timber, elegant habit and distinctive foliage. Its leaves are somewhat reminiscent of maple or plane leaves, giving the tree an attractive and unusual appearance.

This species belongs to the Rosaceae family and to the genus Sorbus, making it a particularly interesting tree in woodland and naturalistic planting schemes. It is native across much of Eurasia and is valued both for biodiversity and long-term landscape planting.

Sorbus torminalis can naturally hybridise with Sorbus aria, in the same way as other rare Sorbus hybrids such as the Bollwiller Pear.

At maturity, the Wild Service Tree can eventually reach around 20 to 25 metres in height, although growth is relatively slow. It can also be managed by pruning, pollarding or traditional “têtard” training to maintain a more moderate size.

Our Wild Service Tree plants are available as young nursery plants, generally from one to three years old depending on current stock.