Catch this canopy with the low sun and you will understand why Reginald Farrer grabbed a handful of berries and returned with the seed from Gansu Province, China on his first major expedition. The foliage has remained on the tree through the rain and wind of the previous week. Sorbus alnifolia is well worth growing for the russet browns and deep reds of autumn colour. The leaves are deeply veined; this prominent venation is enhanced with the seasonal colours. A slow growing species reaching seven metres tall with an equal width of canopy.
Additionally there is a prolific crop of berries throughout the tree. As yet the pigeons have not started their acrobatics gaining a toe hold and eating as their weight and wing momentum allows on the flexible twigs.