European Mountain Ash vs American Bladdernut - TreeTime.ca

European Mountain Ash vs American Bladdernut

Staphylea trifolia

Sorbus aucuparia

NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON - MIGHT RETURN

NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON - MIGHT RETURN

American Bladdernut
European Mountain Ash

American Bladdernut is a fast-growing, ornamental shrub native to eastern North America. It can be grown as a large shrub or trained as a small tree. The small, drooping, white flowers are bell-shaped and grow in clusters. They appear in mid to late spring, attracting various pollinators. Well suited as an understory plant as it prefers shady and partial sun location with moist soils.

The blossoms mature into papery seed capsules and have been described as miniature Japanese lanterns. They are commonly used in dried flower arrangements. The seeds found within the pods are edible, and have a taste similar to pistachios. They can be eaten raw, used in baking or made into a sweet cooking oil.

Care should be taken when planting American Bladdernut, as it can spread quickly. It is prone to suckering and will self-seed. Plant the right tree in the right place.

European Mountain Ash is an attractive, ornamental tree. This medium-sized tree produces tiny white-yellow flowers in the spring and decorative clusters of small red/orange berries in the summer. Its bitter fruit is often used to make Rowan Jelly, is a traditional garnish for wild game and venison. Ideal for residential lots, European Mountain Ash will attracts birds to your property.

American Bladdernut Quick Facts

European Mountain Ash Quick Facts

Zone: 3a
Zone: 2a
Height: 4 m (12 ft)
Height: 15 m (49 ft)
Spread: 5 m (15 ft)
Spread: 5 m (16 ft)
Light: shade, partial shade
Light: partial shade, full sun
Moisture: normal, wet
Moisture: normal
Growth rate: medium
Growth rate: fast
Life span: long
Life span: medium
Suckering: medium
Suckering: none


Fall colour: reddish-orange
Flowers: white
Flowers: small white flowers in clusters
Berries: bunches of berries
Seeds: located within the fruit
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: no
Catkins: no


Native to: ON, QC
Other Names: quickbeam, rowan