Quick answer: American mountain ash (Sorbus americana) is native to 18 states. What's commonly sold under this name is the true wild species. It's typically live plant, verified 16 Sep 2026.
Photo: Bruce Marlin, Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.5)
Where it's native
Listed in the directory as native to these states. Click a state for its full native-plant guide.
Growing conditions
From the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Native Plant Database.
| Sun | Sun, Part Shade, Shade |
|---|---|
| Water | Medium water, Dry-Moist |
| Soil | Cool, moist, acid soils |
| Bloom | Bloom Apr-Jun |
| Height | 15-20 ft, up to 30 ft |
| Wildlife value | Berries attract birds, special value to native bees |
Seeds reported poisonous; sensitivity varies with age/weight/condition, children most vulnerable
none noted; often short-lived due to fire blight/mildew/borers
Buying it
Sold true to the wild species as of the last check (16 Sep 2026), via Amazon.
Sold as: Live plant via Amazon · listing verified 16 Sep 2026
See where to buy →Quick answers about American mountain ash
Where is American mountain ash native?
American mountain ash (Sorbus americana) is native to 18 states across the Northeast, Midwest and South. Check your state's page in this directory for the full list of plants native where you live.
When does American mountain ash bloom?
American mountain ash blooms Apr-Jun. Exact timing shifts a few weeks with latitude and elevation.
What growing conditions does American mountain ash need?
Light: Sun, Part Shade, Shade. Water: Medium water, Dry-Moist. Soil: Cool, moist, acid soils. Mature height: 15-20 ft, up to 30 ft.
Is American mountain ash good for pollinators and wildlife?
Yes. Wildlife value: Berries attract birds, special value to native bees.
Is American mountain ash deer-resistant or drought-tolerant?
American mountain ash is drought-tolerant and tolerates shade.
Is American mountain ash toxic?
Seeds reported poisonous; sensitivity varies with age/weight/condition, children most vulnerable.
Where can I buy real American mountain ash seed or plants?
We found a listing sold as live plant that names the true species, last checked 16 Sep 2026. Look for the scientific name Sorbus americana on any listing.
Similar native plants
Native plants that share growing conditions or range with American mountain ash.
- Sweet birch Betula lenta
- Mountain laurel Kalmia latifolia
- Virgin's bower Clematis virginiana
- Sassafras Sassafras albidum
- American holly Ilex opaca
- Staghorn sumac Rhus typhina
Also listed under
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