04 Aug What Tree? Wild Service Tree
Wild Service Tree (Sorbus torminalis)
As the spring gives way to summer (albeit not very convincingly!) we turn our attention to another tree which makes its mark during the earlier part of the year. Sorbus torminalis, known most commonly as the wild service tree, is relatively inconspicuous for most of the year, but in springtime it adorns itself with clusters of small creamy-white flowers which attract an array of pollinators.
These flowers give way to small fruits called ‘chequers’ which in ancient times were highly valued. They were often used to make an alcoholic drink, hence the link with pubs of the same name, but it is unclear which was named after which. These days the fruits are less popular and the tree is valued more for its ornamental qualities.
Traditionally used for making musical instruments, screws for winepresses and billiard cues, the wild service tree still provides one of the most valuable hardwoods in Europe. Its wood is very fine-grained and dense, and it has good bending strength, making it sought after for specialised woodworking projects.
Native to the UK, the wild service tree was once widespread throughout the forests of England and Wales. As these were cleared it became rarer, and is now mainly found in ancient woodland or hedgerows – if you spot one it is a likely indicator of a rare and special habitat.
Appearance and Identification
The wild service tree is a medium sized deciduous tree reaching heights of around 25m. Its bark is smooth and grey-brown, and patterned with cracked, square plates which peel off to reveal darker brown layers beneath. Its twigs are slender and straight, and of a shiny grey-brown colour.
The leaves are long and broad, around 6-14 cm in length, and are lobed like a maple leaf but not quite as distinctively – the inner lobes are more forward pointing. They are dark green on both sides and turn a beautiful coppery-red colour in the autumn.
The flowers are 10-15mm in diameter with five petals and are hermaphrodite, pollinated by the insects they attract. These become small, green-brown oval fruits which are eaten by a variety of birds.
Propagation and Control
The wild service tree grows best in clay and lime-based soils, although it can tolerate a range of soils and climatic conditions. It is often found in oak and ash woods, and in the UK most commonly in pockets of ancient woodland.
Like many native tree species, the wild service tree faces several threats from pests and diseases. It is particularly susceptible to fireblight which can cause significant damage to the tree’s flowers, fruits, and branches. Fungal infections, such as silver leaf disease, can also pose threats, especially when trees are stressed or in poor health. Additionally, climate change and habitat loss have exacerbated these vulnerabilities, making the conservation of this species increasingly important. Efforts to preserve it include habitat restoration, planting in suitable locations, and protecting existing populations from disease and environmental changes.
Source and Reference Materials
Information detailed in this post has been obtained from the author’s own knowledge and photographic library where possible. Additional source of information and photographs include:
Van den Berk, B.V. (2004). Van den Berk on Trees. Van den Berk Nurseries.