Sorbus thibetica John Mitchell (Tibetan Whitebeam)

Strong-growing, Sorbus thibetica 'John Mitchell' (Tibetan Whitebeam) is a compact medium-sized deciduous tree adorned with a conical, almost rounded canopy of large, broadly rounded leaves, 6 in. long (15 cm). The leaves emerge silvery-white in spring and gradually turn glossy green above, keeping their white-hairy undersides, and turn yellow and bronze in the fall. In late spring, a profusion of tiny creamy-white flowers held in umbels are produced. They are quickly followed by abundant clusters of showy, orange-red to brownish-red fruits, somewhat resembling tiny apples. Attractive in form, elegant in flower, colorful in fruit and foliage, Sorbus thibetica 'John Mitchell' stars in almost every season of the year.

• Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society.
• Grows up to 15-20 ft. in height (4-6 m) and 12-15 ft. in spread (3-4 m).
• This tree is easily grown in full sun to part shade in moderately fertile, humus-rich, acidic, well-drained soils.
• Propagate by softwood cuttings in early summer, chip budding in summer, or grafting in winter.
• No routine pruning necessary. Remove diseased, damaged, congested or crossing shoots.
• Keep an eye out for aphids, blister mites, apple canker, honey fungus and fireblight.