PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; tolerates cold, exposed sites and produces more berries in full sun
Watering
Water deeply during prolonged dry spells; established trees are drought-tolerant and require minimal supplemental water
Temperature
Hardy to -20°C; thrives in cool temperate climates and avoids extreme summer heat above 30°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Pinnately compound, 15–25 cm long, with 9–15 serrated leaflets, bright green turning yellow/orange in autumn
- Flower: Dense flat-topped cymes of small white, five-petaled flowers with a faint honey scent
- Fruit: Clusters of bright orange-red pomes, 6–9 mm in diameter, persisting into winter
Care Guide
Watering
Water deeply every 7–10 days during dry periods; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
Fertilization
Apply balanced slow-release fertilizer once in early spring to support new growth. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers as they may reduce flowering and fruiting
Eggshell powder topdress：Sprinkle a thin layer of crushed, dried eggshell powder around the base in early spring; avoid direct contact with the trunk to prevent rotPruning
- Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches in late winter to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
- Thin overcrowded stems to encourage light penetration for better flowering and berry production
- Prune to maintain desired shape; avoid heavy pruning as it may reduce fruiting in subsequent seasons
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; contains cyanogenic glycosides, may cause vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty breathing
Humans: Mild toxicity from large berry ingestion; small amounts may cause mild gastrointestinal upset
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Symbolizes protection and good fortune in Celtic folklore; often planted near homes to ward off evil
Usage: Ornamental tree for gardens and urban landscapes; berries used in jellies and liqueurs after processing to remove cyanogenic glycosides
