Sorbus Wisley Gold

'Wisley Gold' is a first-rate small tree for autumn colour. It was raised at RHS Garden Wisley, where it appeared as a chance seedling on Battleston Hill, and it was chosen for its vigour and its exceptional crops of fruit. In late spring it is covered in broad, frothy heads of white flowers, much visited by bees and other pollinators. These are followed by heavy bunches of glowing golden-yellow berries that last well into autumn. The berries sit against feathery, dark green leaves that turn shades of reddish purple and orange-red before they fall.

This is an upright, compact tree that reaches around 4–8m tall and 2.5–4m wide over 10–20 years. That makes it an excellent choice for smaller gardens, front gardens, courtyards and informal planting, and a lovely lawn specimen. Plant in full sun or partial shade in moist but well-drained, humus-rich soil that is acid to neutral. It gives its best display of berries in a sunny spot. It is fully hardy and tolerant of both exposed and sheltered sites, and it copes well with urban pollution and coastal conditions. The berries are ornamental and should not be eaten, so wear gloves when handling it and bear this in mind in gardens used by children and pets. Water well through its first summer while it establishes. Little pruning is needed beyond removing any crossing or damaged branches in winter.

Each tree is hand-selected before dispatch.

Available from Pengelly Garden Centre.