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The American Mountain Ash (Sorbus americana), a close relative of the Rowan tree (Sorbus aucuparia), is a rare and wonderful site at GMF. Not commonly found in Connecticut, a small population thrives in its moist and cool mountain forest climate.
When is an ash not an ash?
Technically, Sorbus are not ash (Fraxinus). While each genus shares a compound leaf structure with smaller leaflets on a single stem, Sorbus have an alternating growth pattern to their leaves–ash leaves are directly opposite.
Additionally, Sorbus are monoecious, meaning the male and female flowers are on one plant. Ash are dioecious, having separate male and female flowering trees. Another characteristic that differentiates the ash from Sorbus is that the latter is not a victim of the emerald ash borer!
Flowers and berries
In spring, Sorbus produces five-petaled pale white flowers that grow in clusters called corymbs. In the autumn, the leaves turn a vivid orange or yellow, a dramatic contrast to Sorbus’s eye-popping red berries, which are integral to the diet of GMF birds such as American robins, cedar waxwings, and white-breasted nuthatches, along with chipmunks, squirrels, and deer.
The berries are not poisonous to humans, and while bitter, they can be used in jellies and wines. Its hard wood is perfect for furniture and tool handles.
Medicinally, the Sorbus berries are known to have a range of antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and diuretic qualities. The bark and skin also have astringent qualities, making them beneficial for skin irritations.
Protection from evil
Scientific and practical uses aside, the Rowan tree (Sorbus aucuparia) has mystical associations and traditions that make it a storied tree in any forest. In Celtic mythology, it’s known as the Tree of Life, which symbolizes courage, wisdom, protection, and good fortune. It is linked to the goddess Brigid and protects against witches and evil spirits.
The striking red of the Rowan berry, a color seen as protective against these malevolent forces, promoted the planting of Rowan trees near homes and churchyards. Carrying Rowan wood or wearing a charm made from it was seen as protection. The branches were used to make divining rods.
The Secret Ingredient in the Adirondack Cocktail
According to an account by Dr. Dwight A. Webster, past Professor of Fishery Science at Cornell University, the fresh spring cambium of the American Mountain Ash (Sorbus americana) is a key ingredient – the bitters - in the “Adirondack Cocktail.”
Several recipes are reported, including the following, which was tested and refined over many fishing trips: Make an extract of green spring scrapings of mountain ash twig cambium from last year’s growth soaked in 2 oz of Pikesville Rye for several hours. Add to 2 oz of spring water and a lump of sugar. Do not over-ice. The cambium should add a very subtle almond flavor to the concoction.
The result is apparently underwhelming, so perhaps it's best to spare the Sorbus for the birds.
Learn more about GMF's biodiversity here.
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