Sorbaronia Likerovyj Jarab

The Hybrid Mountain Ash or x Sorbaronia 'Likerovyj Jarab' is the result of cross-breeding between the aronia and the mountain ash. It forms a vigorous, ornamentally valuable bush, with a shape similar to that of the aronia. Its leaves are similar to those of the mountain ash, but slightly darker and larger. It blooms in spring with small clusters of white flowers, followed from August onwards by large, edible and useful red berries. Unpicked berries provide valuable food for birds. The bush grows in permeable and nutritious soil, in a sunny location.

As a member of the large Rosaceae family, there are dozens of species of mountain ash, with Sorbus aucuparia being one of the most common. x Sorbaronia is a hybrid between the mountain ash and the aronia. The mountain ash is a hardy tree that can grow up to 8 metres in height, with decorative foliage and leaves of about 20 centimetres. It produces orange, bright red, or white berries depending on the species, which are enjoyed by thrushes. The aronia is a deciduous shrub and medicinal plant native to North America, known for its edible red or black berries, which resemble blueberries.

'Likerovyj Jarab' is a dwarf hybrid variety, the bush reaches about 2 to 3 metres in height with an equivalent width. The flowering in white clusters appears around May-June and attracts bees. The flowers then produce numerous clusters of large, decorative brown-red fruits. These berries have a good taste and are rich in vitamins and carotene. They can be eaten fresh, juiced, or cooked into jam or jelly. Otherwise, they provide food for birds until the end of the year.

This hybrid mountain ash 'Likerovyj Jarab' should preferably be planted in full sun, but it tolerates partial shade for part of the day. It is not demanding in terms of soil, but it grows best in ordinary to rich soil. Moist to moderately dry soils are suitable for it. It tolerates periodic drought. It can be planted in small to medium-sized gardens, or in large spaces with larger trees. According to permaculture principles, it can be planted in a forest garden with other edible species such as Juneberry, European Cornel, or Japanese Silverberry. As for ornamental associations, a variegated maple or a beautiful purple oak can serve as a contrasting background. In a smaller garden or planted in a mixed border, it can be associated with shrubs such as Golden Spirit Smoke Bush whose bright golden foliage will be enhanced by the dark green of the mountain ash, or with shrubs with decorative berries of various colours for a cocktail of colours (Callicarpa, Snowberry, etc.).