Mougeot's Whitebeam
sorbus mougeotii
Also known as: ["Mougeot's Whitebeam","Whitebeam Tree"]
Overview
A deciduous tree native to Europe, known for its white flowers and red berries.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Genus: | Sorbus |
| Botanical Name: | Sorbus mougeotii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–7"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter such as compost or peat moss.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth starts.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate pruning to remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright, indirect light for 6–8 hours daily. Can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot summer months.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate the plant gradually to brighter light to avoid leaf scorch. Protect from direct afternoon sun, especially in summer. Indoors, place near an east or north-facing window.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate the plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct sunlight during peak hours.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry slightly between waterings, and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of loam, peat, and perlite; ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures, ideally between 50–65°F (10–18°C). Can tolerate cooler temperatures down to 40°F (4°C) but avoid prolonged exposure to frost.
Avoid placing near drafty windows or heating vents; maintain consistent temperatures; protect from sudden temperature fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Always water before fertilizing to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing in winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or hardwood cuttings taken in late winter or early spring.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting with at least two nodes.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist propagation medium.
- Maintain humidity and warmth.
Best Time: Late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light and consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix such as a mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth may appear in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil mix, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, sterile tools to prevent infection; maintain high humidity with a plastic cover; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective pruning to maintain natural form; thin out crowded areas to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead or diseased wood, and encourage bushier growth. Focus on structural improvement and health rather than drastic size reduction.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for larger branches), sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools before use; prune during dormancy; remove dead or diseased wood first; make clean cuts just above a bud or branch junction.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger in diameter (about 2–3 inches wider) than the current pot.
Method
Remove the plant gently, trim any circling roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil, and water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Repotting helps refresh the soil and provides space for root growth.
Checklist
Choose the right pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; trim roots if necessary; water well after repotting; place in a shaded area for a few days to recover.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution without saturating the foliage. Water deeply to encourage root growth and allow excess water to drain freely to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 7–10 days in spring and summer, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and well-aerated.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, wilting, or browning leaf edges in excessive heat; stunted growth or leaf discoloration in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow growth, cause leaf drop, and make the plant more susceptible to pests and diseases.
Solution: Move the plant to a warmer location if temperatures drop below 40°F (4°C). Use a space heater or insulate the pot to protect roots from freezing.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced vigor, especially if combined with dry soil.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity with misting or a humidifier, and ensure consistent watering to prevent dehydration.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter when growth slows.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal distress if they consume the berries of Sorbus mougeotii. The cyanogenic glycosides present can cause mild toxicity, though severe effects are uncommon.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe berries of Sorbus mougeotii can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs due to the presence of cyanogenic glycosides. While generally not life-threatening, ingestion may lead to discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicSorbus mougeotii berries contain small amounts of cyanogenic glycosides, which can release cyanide upon digestion. Ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort and other symptoms, though severe toxicity is rare.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Sorbus mougeotii suitable for small gardens?
A: Yes, it can be pruned to maintain a manageable size.
Q: Does this tree attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it produces berries and flowers that attract birds and insects.
Q: How often should it be watered?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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