Mountain Ash
1016 - 2nd Street East
American Mountain Ash Sorbus americana is native to eastern North America and has been planted here as an ornamental. The similar European Mountain Ash or Rowan S. aucuparia was introduced as an ornamental species in North America where it has naturalized very successfully.
Contrary to what the name suggests, neither are ash trees, but are in the rose family along with crabapples and cherries. In spring creamy white flowers form large, flat-topped clusters.
The ripening of their brilliant red berries provides a colourful display that starts in late summer and persists into the winter. The berries attract hungry birds such as robins, jays, and waxwings. Mountain Ash berries and bark were used as medicine by Indigenous peoples. The wood is easily bent and was used for canoe frames and snowshoes.
Alternate location: 2325 Haultain Ave.