Description  
Sorbus commixta, Japanese rowan, is, on its own, an eye-catching specimen. It has dark red new shoots, slender and bright bids and foliage to stop traffic in the autumn. In this cultivar, the foliar display has been fine-tuned to turn orange-red and purple into a riotous blaze of red. The form also alters slightly from its parent tree, producing a columnar specimen. The pinnate leaves are delicate and finely toothed. They emerge orange and green and save their best for the autumnal display. The terminal flower clusters are white and give way to bunches of red berries that persist into winter or until the birds find them. This ornamental tree can reach 8m in height at maturity but may be slightly smaller.
 
Planting Position  
The ‘Olympic Flame’ prefers loam, sand or clay soils but will tolerate acid, neutral and alkaline pH. It can cope with sheltered or exposed sites and would make a striking addition to any garden space. It can also be utilised in parkland or urban settings, although not adjacent to footpaths given the fruit it bears, however is best displayed as part of a small group in a formal planting scheme.
 
Attributes  
While retaining the interest for pollinating insects and birds, who value its pollen and fruit, this tree has a high aesthetic appeal from spring to autumn inclusive.
 
Container options are available here