Wild Service Tree (Sorbus torminalis)

This medium-sized deciduous tree can reach a height of 15 to 25 metres. Although it can withstand a wide range of soil conditions, including chalky, shallow, dry soils and momentarily wet soils, wild service trees prefer deep, fertile soils. Although it can adapt to many different climates, lowlands are where it most frequently grows.
Its richly textured bark wraps its upright, spreading branches, giving it a lovely appearance. The tough young bark of the tree eventually crackles into vaguely rectangular scales that eventually peel off as it ages.
The large, glossy, deeply serrated leaves resemble those of a maple tree, and in the autumn, they display a beautiful array of bronze yellows and russet reds. In May, it bears a profusion of upward-pointing white flowers that emerge from the foliage.

Tree Attributes

Can grow in almost any soil
White blossoms
Great for attracting bees
Bark develops a unique chequer pattern as it grows
It has become a very rare tree in the UK