It's the native mountain ash, Sorbus americana. It gorws beautifully along the north shore

Here is a link that might be useful: More information about American Mountian Ash

Thank you. Indeed, it is beautiful.

A very nice small tree in its native habitat, and seems to do better along Superior than in the interior of northern MN where it is also native. I wouldn't recommend it for a yard though, and certainly not in the Twin Cities.

Just read this and I'm wondering if you'd expand a little on why you think not here in the Twin Cities? I grew up with them in my neighborhood in NE Mpls and they were beautiful. I have been thinking about putting one in for the very reason in the question - seeing them on the north shore and having been reminded how much I like them. I'd really like to hear your thoughts. Thanks!
Lily

Sorbus species are susceptible to some pretty bad vascular diseases - those that get into the stem and can't be combatted via fungicides. Given that most, and especially americana, are adapted to habitats with cooler and more consistently moist summers - characteristics not found in the southern half of MN, I don't think it would be happy. Actually, you won't ever find americana anywhere to buy anyway. Sorbus decora is a very similar, MN native Sorbus. Being another small mountain ash, it has berries maybe a little more toward the color pink. It would be a better choice as far as adaptability too, and should be available at nurseries if you look. Still, even in the wild the American species of Sorbus are relatively shortlived. I would expect it to last in a typical Minneapolis yard for 15-20 years before it declines.

Very few are planted nowadays, for these reasons.

The ones you saw growing up are most likely a European species, Sorbus aucuparia. Larger growing, but still with the same problems. But, like almost everything, there are always exceptions. 15-20 years may be just fine for you, or you may be a lucky one to get it to live much longer.

There is one Sorbus that can be grown here, Korean Mountain Ash, Sorbus alnifolia. Its leaves are different and the fall color is a yellow, not the brilliant orange-red of the natives. This species is more resistant to borers and diseases, but your mileage may vary. Still, it is a nice, small ornamental tree with interest in two seasons: spring flowers, and fall foliage and fruits (clusters of red-purple fruits). It could thrive if you find the right site for it.

If you are looking for a Mountain Ash substitute, consider the Washington Hawthorn, Crataegus phaenopyrum. I have this one. It has very ornamental little orange-red fruits that are quite similar to the native mountain ash. The small tree is very healthy; it has lustrous leaves and similar clusters of little white flowers. And it is tough as nails.

Here's where you can go to learn about Washinton Hawthorn ==> http://www.mnpower.com/treebook/fact28.html

Here is a link that might be useful: More information about Korean Ash

Good point about the Korean mountain ash, although the flower corymbs tend to be much smaller and consequently less fruit. Still has the attractive bark too.

Just make sure you don't plant it over your driveway, or anywhere else you park. The house I lived in when I was a kid had mountain ashes too, and I loved the berries and the flocks of birds they attracted in the fall. But think about the mess they'll make before you deicde where to put the tree. :) Ours were right over the driveway and the birds did quite a number on the car...

Fitz