ENGLISH NAME: Rowan Tree
(Mountain Ash)
LATIN NAME: Sorbus
aucuparia
LOCAL NAMES:
Czechia: Jeřáb ptačí
Turkey: Kuş Üvezi
Bulgaria: Планинска офика
Georgia: მურყანი (Murqani)
COUNTRY: Turkey,
Bulgaria, Czechia, Georgia
WHERE TO FIND IT:
Region: Widespread in
mountainous and temperate forest regions
Elevation: 400–1,800 meters
Terrain: Bright forests,
hillsides, forest edges, roadsides, rocky slopes
DESCRIPTION:
The Rowan Tree is a deciduous tree typically growing 10–20 meters tall. It has
pinnately compound leaves with 9–15 serrated leaflets. In late spring, it produces
creamy-white flower clusters, followed by vibrant red to orange berries in late
summer or early fall. Known for both its ornamental value and traditional use
in food and folk medicine.
USABLE PARTS: Berry
MEDICINAL
PROPERTIES:
Rowan berries are rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, and flavonoids.
Traditionally used for their immune-boosting, mild laxative, and astringent
properties. Occasionally used to support digestion and throat health.
UNDESIRED EFFECTS:
Raw berries contain parasorbic acid, which may cause mild stomach upset.
Cooking or drying neutralizes this compound. Not recommended for large raw
consumption.
COMBINING WITH
OTHER MEDICINES:
Can be blended with rosehip or elderberry in immune-support syrups or jams.
PREPARATION:
Berries are cooked into jams, jellies, syrups, or tinctures. Can also be dried
and rehydrated for teas and compotes.
HARVEST TIME:
Late summer to early fall, once berries turn fully red or orange and are
slightly soft.
HARVEST METHOD:
Handpick ripe berries in clusters. Remove any underripe or overripe berries
before processing.
CONSERVATION
(STORAGE):
Preserve by cooking into jams, jellies, or syrups. Store in sterilized, sealed
jars in a cool, dark place. Dried berries should be kept in airtight containers.