Q: I have been researching planting a rowan tree in honor of my son. I know this tree is typically associated with much colder winters than we have but I wondered if it could be pampered to grow here?

A: I think you will have a very hard time keeping it alive. American mountain ash, Sorbus americana, hates high temperatures, particularly high nighttime temperatures. Try planting it on the north side of your house where it can get a few hours of morning sun. Keep it well away from the house so winter warming doesn’t affect it.

European mountain ash is Sorbus aucuparia. It is commonly called rowan tree there as well.

For more information on American mountain ash, see the University of Connecticut’s fact and picture page.

You can also read here for more information.