Sorbus cashmiriana - White berried Mountain Ash Rowan Tree

In fact there would be many reasons for not planting it - other than these very unusual autumn fruits.  It has a largish head and should not be planted where there is insufficient space for it to develop.

Facts about the Kashmir Rowan - Sorbus cashmiriana

As its name suggests. Sorbus cashmiriana is native to Northern India or western Himalayas, so quite hardy in all respects. However, it is a relatively short-lived tree of maybe 20 years maximum. 

It can be grown as a medium tree - or large multi-stemmed shrub - which will eventually reach a maximum height of 7-8 metres (20ft or so). It will also have a similar spread, so suited as a shade tree for growing frost prone shrubs underneath - such as Azaleas and Camellias. The foliage is quite dense - though leaves are pinnate and allow for filtered sunlight through.

Flowering and Berries

The Kashmir Rowan has pink - opening white - flowers in early summer, and are reasonably attractive against the dark foliage. This is not to say that you would plant this specifically as a flowering tree or shrub. 

This Sorbus is planted essentially for its 'talking point' white berries that hang in dropping clusters on at time of leaf turning colour in autumn and thereafter for quite some while into the winter months on bare branches. I have never seen the berries being a main attraction for birds - though it is suggested that this is a good food source for wildlife.

Sorbus cashmiriana can be grown in most garden soils - other than wet clay soils. It is far better suited to drier open textures soil.

It thrives in full sun or dappled shade, and is suited to growing beneath larger trees such as oaks and the like. It will lose a little of its vitality if grown in such competition, though a good space filler! 

• Feeding a Tree
• Planting a Tree