Greene's mountain-ash facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Greene's mountain-ash |
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| Scientific classification | |
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| Genus: |
Sorbus
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Commixtae
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| Species: |
S. scopulina
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| Binomial name | |
| Sorbus scopulina Greene
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| Synonyms | |
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S. dumosa Greene |
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Sorbus scopulina is a type of rowan tree or shrub. It is found naturally in western North America, especially in the Rocky Mountains. People often call this plant Greene's mountain-ash. This name honors an American plant expert named Edward Lee Greene. In the Cascade Mountains and the Pacific Northwest, it is also known as Cascade mountain-ash. Sometimes, you might see it listed as Sorbus scopulina var. cascadensis.
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Discovering the Mountain-Ash!
The Sorbus scopulina is a fascinating plant. It belongs to the Rosaceae family, which also includes roses, apples, and strawberries. This means it's related to many common and useful plants. It's known for its bright berries and pretty leaves.
Where Does It Grow?
This mountain-ash loves cool, mountainous areas. You can find it growing across a wide part of western North America. Its main home is in the Rocky Mountains. It also thrives in the Cascade Mountains and other parts of the Pacific Northwest. It often grows in forests or along mountain slopes.
What Does It Look Like?
Sorbus scopulina can grow as a small tree or a large shrub. It has green leaves that turn pretty colors in the fall. The most noticeable part of this plant is its fruit. These are small, round berries that start green and turn bright red or orange when they are ripe. They grow in clusters, making the plant look very colorful.
Who Eats Its Berries?
The berries of the Sorbus scopulina are an important food source for many animals. Various birds love to eat them. Mammals, including bears, also enjoy these fruits. This helps spread the plant's seeds to new places.
How People Used the Berries
Native Americans and early settlers used to eat these berries. They usually cooked them first. The berries can be quite bitter when eaten fresh. They taste much better after they have ripened and turned fully red. People often made them into jelly or other cooked dishes. Cooking helps to improve their flavor.
Important Safety Tip!
It is very important not to confuse Sorbus scopulina berries with other plants. Some plants have berries that look similar but are poisonous. For example, baneberries, especially red baneberry, are toxic. Always be sure of what you are picking before you eat it. It's best to only eat plants identified by an expert.
