French Hales (Sorbus devoniensis)
At a glance
- Lifecycle
- Perennial (hardy)
- Exposure
- Full sun
- Frost limit
- −17.8 °C
Cultivation
Succeeds in most reasonably good soils in an open sunny position, though it fruits better in a sunny position[K]. At one time the fruits of this species were collected and sold in local markets in S.W. England. Plants are susceptible to fireblight. It is part of the aggregate species S. latifolia, it breeds true because its seed is produced apomictically.
Propagation
Seed - best sown as soon as it is ripe in a cold frame, but they are busy building up a good root system. It is best to keep them in pots in a cold frame for their first winter and then plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring.
Edible uses
Fruit - raw or cooked. The fruit is usually bletted if it is going to be eaten raw and is produced in bunches which makes harvesting easier[K].
Habitat
Old woods in south-western England.
Native range
Southwestern Britain.