Dumfries & Galloway Rock Whitebeam Project

We are excited to being working with D&G Woodlands to study, conserve, and restore coastal woodland habitats in Dumfries and Galloway.

Rock whitebeam, Sorbus rupicola, is a shrubby species, with a special affinity for coastal cliffs, as well as inland gorges and crags. It needs lots of light and protection from the hungry mouths of sheep and deer, so high browing pressures have likely contributed to its rarity in many parts of the UK.

The coastline of Dumfries and Galloway is the largest area along the west coast of Scotland where this species has not been recorded, yet the geology and geomorphology are suitable. We're on a mission to track down any remnant trees of this species in Dumfries and Galloway.