Whitebeam, Sorbus aria ‘Lutescens’
In springtime the new foliage of the whitebeam is seemingly effervescent. The leaves are swathed in a white, cottony covering that illuminates the garden. Indeed, Victorian poet George Meredith wrote “Flashing as in gusts the sudden-lighted white beam.” The bountiful, tiny white flowers are borne in woolly clusters and develop into showy, bright red fruits. Fall color is yellow to russet.
Size: It grows up to 30 feet high and 25 feet wide.
Where: Full sun to light shade, needs occasional watering.
Wildlife: Attracts bees and birds
— Great Plant Picks
Talk to us
> Give us your news tips.
> Send us a letter to the editor.
> More Herald contact information.