Description
Description
Service tree (formerly Sorbus domestica and also known as Sorb tree or Cormier) is a deciduous tree native to Europe and Southwest Asia, closely related to the common pear, producing strawberry sized fruit. The fruit require bletting (over-ripening) to be eaten out of hand. Once bletted, they are soft and can be eaten, with fruit having a slightly gritty texture, tasting a bit like a pear with tropical overtones. The fruits are also commonly used to produce cider. 1% unripe Sorb juice added to cider can prevent the need for preservatives to be added entirely (Sorbic acid was originally isolated in the Sorbus genus, hence the name, and is used as a preservative. Sulfites are more usually used in ciders and wines instead, which are not good for the human gut flora).
Service trees are larger trees that can live for hundreds of years, so careful thought should go into planting location. Cormus domestica is a key component of agroforestry systems in Europe, especially France due to the abundance of fruits produced.
The plants were grown from a New Zealand tree that produces medium sized fruits). Grafted plants are also available.
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