The word "service tree" is spelled as /ˈsɜːvɪs triː/. It is an ornamental tree widely planted in Europe and North America, with clusters of small white flowers and small red or orange berries. The spelling of this word follows standard English rules, with the emphasis on the first syllable and a silent "e" at the end of "service". The "t" in "tree" is pronounced as a voiceless alveolar stop, and the "ee" sound is represented by the double "ee" vowel grapheme.
The term "service tree" refers to a type of tree belonging to the genus Sorbus, specifically the species Sorbus domestica. It is a deciduous tree native to Europe and western Asia. The service tree typically grows to a height of about 20 meters and has a compact, rounded crown. The bark of the tree is smooth and grayish-brown in color.
The leaves of the service tree are pinnate, meaning they consist of multiple leaflets arranged on either side of a central stalk. The leaflets are oval-shaped and have serrated edges. In the spring, the tree produces small, white flowers that are arranged in clusters known as corymbs. These flowers give way to fruits that resemble small apples. The fruits are usually orange or reddish in color and are edible when fully ripe.
The service tree is valued for both its ornamental and culinary uses. Its attractive appearance and showy flowers make it a popular choice for landscaping purposes. The fruits, although not as well-known as those of other fruit trees, are often used in the making of jams, jellies, and liqueurs. The wood of the service tree is also sometimes utilized in woodworking projects.
In addition to its aesthetic and culinary merits, the service tree has cultural significance in some regions. In folklore, it is believed to have protective properties and is associated with good luck and fertility. Moreover, the tree has historical importance, with records dating back to ancient times indicating its cultivation for food and medicinal purposes.
The word service tree is derived from the Old English word syrfe, which ultimately comes from the Latin word sorbus. The term service in this context refers to a kind of tree, also known as a sorb tree or sorb apple tree. The Latin word sorbus referred to both the fruit of the tree and the tree itself. Over time, sorbus evolved into syrfe in Old English, and then service in Middle English, which is the origin of the modern term service tree.