Family: ROSACEAE
A handsome, slender tree, growing to a height of 10 m, which is native to the cool, temperate regions of the northern hemisphere. A very hardy tree and frost tolerant. Grows at altitudes of up to 1000 m in Scotland, higher than all other species. The early spring flowers are white, similar to hawthorn, and the fruits are bright red, up to 1 cm in diameter, and hang in large clusters all over the tree, remaining there until autumn, when the foliage turns a golden yellow. The berries can be used to make an unusual smoky flavoured jelly, preserves, wines, and added to soups. They are made into a coffee substitute and the leaves and flowers are used to adulter-ate tea. The timber is tough, with a reddish brown heartwood. It is used for tool handles, carving and turnery.