Overview & Description

The Black Hawk Mountain Ash (Sorbus aucuparia ‘Black Hawk’) is a statuesque ornamental tree with a distinctive columnar form that commands attention and offers exceptional year-round interest. Its upright, narrow habit creates a striking architectural element in the landscape. In spring, showy clusters of fragrant white flowers appear, giving way to vibrant orange-red berries that persist through winter, providing a critical food source for birds. Its elegant, fern-like compound leaves emerge dark green and erupt in fiery orange-red hues each autumn.

Growth & Size

This variety exhibits a strong, narrow, upright, columnar growth habit. It is a moderate-growing tree, typically reaching a mature size of about 25 to 30 feet in height with a spread of 8 to 12 feet. Its narrow footprint makes it perfect for urban gardens and tight spaces.

Additional Notes

It blooms in late spring. Hardy to Zone 3, it is resistant to wind burn and sun scald, tolerant of urban conditions, and thrives in full sun to partial shade in well-drained sites. It avoids wet or poorly drained locations. An outstanding choice for narrow planting spaces, winter interest gardens, bird-friendly landscapes, fall color displays, and urban or street plantings where its bold vertical presence and reliable performance are desired.