French hales (Sorbus devoniensis) — Edible Plant

Summary

A deciduous tree growing to 13 m at a medium rate, hardy to UK zone 7, not frost tender. Flowers May to June; seeds ripen September to October. Hermaphrodite, insect-pollinated, apomictic (reproduces by asexual seed formation), and self-fertile. Grows in light sandy, medium loamy, or heavy clay well-drained soils. Adapts to mildly acid, neutral, or mildly alkaline pH. Tolerates semi-shade or full sun, prefers moist soil, and withstands strong winds but not coastal exposure. Notable for attracting wildlife.

Description

A deciduous tree growing to 13 m at a medium rate, hardy to UK zone 7, not frost tender. Flowers May to June; seeds ripen September to October. Hermaphrodite, insect-pollinated, apomictic (reproduces by asexual seed formation), and self-fertile. Grows in light sandy, medium loamy, or heavy clay well-drained soils. Adapts to mildly acid, neutral, or mildly alkaline pH. Tolerates semi-shade or full sun, prefers moist soil, and withstands strong winds but not coastal exposure. Notable for attracting wildlife.

Edible Uses

The fruit can be eaten raw or cooked. For raw eating, it is typically bletted — stored in a cool, dry place until it reaches the verge of over-ripeness — at which point it develops a rich flavour reminiscent of a luscious tropical fruit. The fruit grows up to 15mm across and is produced in bunches, making harvesting easier.

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

The seeds probably contain hydrogen cyanide. This is the ingredient that gives almonds their characteristic flavour. Unless the seed is very bitter it should be perfectly safe in reasonable quantities. In small quantities, hydrogen cyanide has been shown to stimulate respiration and improve digestion, it is also claimed to be of benefit in the treatment of cancer. In excess, however, it can cause respiratory failure and even death.

Distribution

It is a temperate plant.

Where It Grows

Britain, Europe,

Cultivation

Succeeds in most reasonably good soils in an open sunny position. Tolerates light shade, though it fruits better in a sunny position. 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. In garden design, as well as the above-ground architecture of a plant, root structure considerations help in choosing plants that work together for their optimal soil requirements including nutrients and water.

Propagation

Seed is best sown as soon as it is ripe in a cold frame. Where seed is plentiful, it can be sown in an outdoor seedbed. Stored seed benefits from 2 weeks of warm stratification followed by 14–16 weeks of cold stratification, so sow as early in the year as possible. Prick out seedlings into individual pots once large enough to handle. Top-growth is very slow in the first year or two as the plant focuses on root development. Keep seedlings in pots in a cold frame through their first winter, then plant out into permanent positions in late spring.