Ornamental Trees

Betula Jacquemontii

White Stem Birch Tree

Common Name: Himalayan Birch TreeLatin Name: Betula utiis var. 'Jacquemontii'Soil: Medium to wet soil.Position: Full sun to part shade. Flowering period/colour: April/MayHardiness: Fully hardyHeight and spread in 20 years: 9m/4mSpecial features: White bark and fine architectural shape. Catkins in spring. Golden leaf colour in autumn. Deciduous. Betula utiis var. 'Jacquemontii' is one of the most striking trees available in the garden design palatte, and is especially useful for smaller spaces. It is a variety of birch tree with a fine form and very white bark that almost glows white. The most striking example can be seen at Anglesey Abbey in Cambridgeshire where a stand of about 30 of the trees have been planted as a single feature. In this case the bark is especially white as it is cleaned regularly, for the most striking appearance possible. In addition to its fine bark, the tree boasts lovely autumn colour, with leaves turning golden before falling. Betula utiis var. 'Jacquemontii' is not a difficult tree to grow, preferring medium to wet soil, but also thriving in warmer, dryer climates. It is fully hardy in the UK and, like all birches, grows rapidly to early maturity. Birches are not long lived trees, compared, for example with the oak, but reach maturity very quickly, which is a great asset in the design of gardens which are intended for almost immediate appreciation. The final height of this variety is about 9m with a spread of 4m. Whilst stands of Betula Jacquemontii are particularly striking, this variety would be a fine statement tree in a smaller area or family garden, or even in a front garden that was large enough to accommodate the canopy width. The tree has separate male and female catkins, which both occur on the same tree.The plant is a native of the Himalayas where it was discovered by Joseph Hooker, and it was named after Victor Jacquemont; the French naturalist.

Betula Snow Queen

Snow Queen Birch Tree

Common Name: Snow Queen Birch Tree, Himalayan BirchLatin Name: Betula utilis 'Snow Queen' (Betula utilis var. jacquemontii 'Doorenbos')Soil: Moist but well drained soilPosition: Full sun or partial shadeFlowering period/colour: March/Yellowy-brown male catkinsHardiness: Fully hardyHeight and spread in 20 years: 8m/3mSpecial features: Brilliant white bark which develops earlier than other white stem varieties. Very reliable, hardy and attractive specimen Betula utilis 'Snow Queen' is a fast-growing, medium-sized tree with dazzling, white, peeling bark which appears pale orange when freshly exposed. As with all Birch trees, this tree will be a year round asset to your garden. In spring, vibrant yellow catkins appear amongst the fresh green foliage: the leaves are serrated at the edges and they make the perfect foil for the golden catkins. Come autumn, the leaves turn to deep shades of yellow and buttery bronze before falling. In winter, the true beauty of the bark can be appreciated, and the graceful skeleton of the tree can be fully admired.This tree will become a real feature of your garden and it works well as a garden specimen. Equally, the 'Snow Queen' looks effective when planted in a close group of three. If you want to have contrasting colours in your garden, we would recommend planting the ‘Snow Queen’ alongside ‘Betula Purpurea’, as the rich purple foliage would contrast beautifully with the greens and golds of the 'Snow Queen'.As this tree grows, it will form a narrowly pyramidal shape. The branches maintain their upright habit, meaning that this tree is suitable for the smaller garden. Another key benefit of this birch is the fact that the stunning bark develops on trees that are only three years old, so you don’t have to wait to enjoy the highly ornamental bark. Whilst this tree is somewhat delicate in its appearance, it is a highly robust and hardy tree that is well-suited to a range of locations and conditions.

Betula pendula

Silver Birch Tree

Common Name: Silver Birch TreeLatin Name: Betula pendulaSoil: Will grow in most soilsPosition: Full sun or partial shadeFlowering period/colour: March/Yellowy-brown male catkinsHardiness: Fully hardyHeight and spread in 20 years: 8m/3mSpecial features: White peeling bark. (Deciduous)Betula pendula is a graceful native tree, upright growing, the smaller branches becoming pendulous with age. The deciduous leaves are a diamond shape and hold a mid-green colour before turning yellow in autumn. Yellowy brown male catkins in appear in spring. White peeling bark which with age becomes ruggedly fissured and dark-grey, almost black, at the base. These trees are most effective when planted as a close group of 3 and they also make a good windbreak.The silver birch is an extremely popular tree which is widely planted for its highly ornamental white peeling bark. The ornamental bark gives this tree interest all year round, and it looks particularly effective in winter when the rest of the garden is dormant. In spring, diamond-shaped mid-green leaves appear on the upright branches, and at the same time yellow-brown male catkins hang from the tree. Autumn sees the leaves fade to yellow before falling, when they again reveal the beautiful bark. As this tree matures, the branches become more pendulous and the bark develops a real character and becomes deeply fissured and dark grey in colour.

Crataegus Paul's Scarlet

Midland Hawthorn Tree

Crataegus Paul's Scarlet, also known as the Midland Hawthorn Tree, is a fairly compact tree that offers beautiful deep pink flowers and luscious green foliage. Paul's Scarlet is a deservedly popular variety of hawthorn and, with its maximum height of around 6m, it's perfect for the smaller garden. In spring, masses of deep-pink double flowers stud the branches and add a real burst of colour to the tree. The flowers are beautifully complimented by an abundance of slightly glossy, dark-green, leaves that are deeply lobed: their dark green sheen makes the perfect foil for the vibrant flowers. Come autumn, the leaves turn to crisp sunset shades of yellow and orange before falling. This is a great tree for a colourful statement. This is a relatively small garden tree, with a maximum height of around 6m, often less, making it well-suited to fairly restricted sites. It has an elegant and upright habit, with light branches, slightly pendulous at their tips. This is a hardy tree that will tolerate a range of soil types, positions and conditions: it will even thrive in coastal gardens and with city pollution. This tough tree also requires very little maintenance; our only recommendation is that you remove any broken or crossing branches in late autumn. We would recommend planting this alongside the delightful Crataegus laevigata 'Plena' as the creamy white flowers of the ‘Plena’ contrast beautifully with the fluffy pink flowers of the Paul's Scarlet. Common Name: Midland Hawthorn TreeLatin Name: Crataegus laevigata 'Paul's Scarlet'Soil: Any soilPosition: Full sun or partial shadeFlowering period/colour: March to May/PinkHardiness: Fully hardyHeight and spread in 20 years: 5m/4mSpecial features: Red fruits in autumn

Magnolia grandiflora

Evergreen Magnolia Tree

The Magnolia grandiflora boasts the most beautiful, very large white flowers and glossy green foliage which holds all year round. A bold and bright tree that is perfect for adding interest in all seasons. You would be hard-pressed to find a flower as large and beautiful as this one in your average garden. The Magnolia grandiflora, also known as the 'Evergeen Magnolia', features colossal flowers, with some up to 25cm wide, which appear in late August- early September. The cup-shaped flowers have thick, creamy-white petals and really stand out. The flowers have an intense citrusy scent, with hints of lemon, which makes this the perfect choice for sensory planting. Another great feature of this tree is its very large leaves: the evergreen leaves are oblong-elliptic shaped and dark, glossy green in colour. The thick and waxy leaves often have reddish-brown hairs underneath and they offer a healthy dose of colour all year round. This tree grows to have a broad, conical shape and it’s fairly bushy, making a great screen. It looks simply stunning when paired with the Magnolia Exmouth, but if you want contrasting interest then we would recommend planting the 'Grandiflora' alongside the Photinia ‘Red Robin’ as the blushed foliage of this evergreen makes the perfect foil to the ‘Grandiflora’. Magnolia grandiflora can be trained against a wall or grown as freestanding rounded or conical large shrub or tree. Common Name: Evergreen Magnolia, Southern Magnolia, BullbayLatin Name: Magnolia grandifloraSoil: Moist, well-drained, tolerates chalkPosition: Full sun or partial shadeFlowering period/colour: August-September/WhiteHardiness: Fully hardyHeight and spread in 10 years: 3m/3m (Ultimately up to 15m but can be kept pruned.)Special features: Evergreen tree with intensely scented white flowers from mid summer to

Malus John Downie

Crab Apple Tree

Latin Name: Malus 'John Downie'Soil: Fertile, well-drained soilPosition: Full sun or partial shadeFlowering period/colour: May / WhiteHardiness: Fully hardyHeight and spread in 20 years: 5m x 3mSpecial features: Orange and red edible fruit and a fantastic display of autumn leaf colourThe Malus 'John Downie', a distinguished variety of Crab Apple Tree, adds a touch of elegance to any landscape. 

Flourishing in fertile, well-drained soil and adaptable to full sun or partial shade, this Crab Apple Tree is resilient and hardy.In spring, the Malus 'John Downie' showers your space with delicate white blossoms, creating a show-stopping floral scene. 

 Shifting gears to later seasons, this tree provides ornamental fruit, attracting all kinds of wonderful wildlife. The attractive crab apples are a glossy scarlet colour and are almost 'pear shaped’. Plus, the apples make the most fantastic crab apple jelly!The leaves are a fresh green colour when young and mature to deep yellow and burnt orange come autumn. 

With a projected height of 5 metres and a spread of 3 metres in 20 years, the Malus 'John Downie' is a moderate-sized tree that fits well in small gardens and large spaces too.

The Malus ‘John Downie’ delights from spring to autumn! Add it to your outdoor sanctuary today.

Acer Crimson King

Norway Maple Tree

The Acer Crimson King boasts deep red-purple, star-shaped leaves that have a great autumn colour. This is a fast-growing tree that is suitable for most soils, including clay. A fantastic ornamental tree. If you want a tree that will add a real splash of colour to your garden, the deservedly popular Acer Crimson King is for you. The leaves are large in size and crimson-purple in colour: they have five lobes and they curl in slightly at their edges. They are complimented by lemon yellow spring flowers, which look lovely against the bold colour of the leaves. The leaves hold their striking colour through spring and summer, before putting on a final show in autumn when they turn to crisp shades of red, orange and brown. This is the perfect ornamental tree for a medium-large sized garden and, as it’s a fairly fast grower, it will soon become established in your garden. When mature, this will be a broad-headed and rounded garden tree, which looks great as an ornamental specimen. It’s a hardy and tolerant tree and it will do well in a range of sites, including costal and urban. The bold leaf colour and large leaf size makes the ‘Crimson King’ a fantastic screen, too. In terms of a planting partner, we would recommend the Acer 'Princeton Gold': the glowing golden leaves of the ‘Princeton Gold’ contrast beautifully with the rich leaves of the ‘Crimson King’. Common Name: Norway Maple TreeLatin Name: Acer platanoides 'Crimson King'Soil: Fertile, moist, well-drainedPosition: Full sun or partial shadeFlowering period/colour: April to May/YellowHardiness: Fully hardyHeight and spread in 20 years: 7m x 5mSpecial features: Beetroot-red leaves turning red, brown and orange in autumn

Magnolia soulangeana

Magnolia Tree

Common Name: Magnolia TreeLatin Name: Magnolia x soulangeanaSoil: Moist, well-drained, acidic soilPosition: Full sun or partial shadeFlowering period/colour: WhiteHardiness: Fully hardyEventual height/spread: 4m/4mSpecial features: Stunning spring blossom. Large, showy flowers. Deciduous foliage. The Magnolia soulangeana is a favourite for garden enthusiasts up and down the UK. This is mainly due to its eye catching seasonal displays!

 Flourishing in well-drained, loamy soil and performing best in full sun or partial shade, it graces your garden with a magnificent array of pink, purple, or white blossoms in spring.Beyond its floral display, this tree offers large, showy flowers and a lush foliage that transitions through the seasons, painting the landscape with vibrant hues of green before adorning itself with the golden shades of autumn.With a commanding height of 4 metres and a generous spread of 4 metres over 20 years, this Magnolia Tree really is a sight to behold.Pick up a Magnolia soulangeana today and watch the impressive spring scenes unfold in your outdoor space.

Sorbus vilmorinii

Vilmorins Rowan Tree

The Sorbus vilmorinii, known as the Vilmorins Rowan Tree, is a great addition to any gardener’s dream space.

 The Vilmorins Rowan Tree flourishes in well-drained, fertile soil under full sun or partial shade. In spring, flat-headed corymbs of small creamy-white flowers emerge and are later replaced by attractive berries. 

 The berries are one of the best attributes of this tree; they initially have a crimson-pink colour and the colour slowly drains to a near-white colour. Plus, they’re an inviting treat for local wildlife. Before you know it, your garden will be full of the sounds of chirping and buzzing. As autumn rolls around, the foliage transitions from feathery greens to rich reddish hues and purple tones, which add warmth to any landscape.The delicate, fern-like leaves hang gracefully on the arching branches and contrast beautifully with the summer flowers and the autumn berries. 

With an eventual height of 5 metres and a similar spread of 5 metres, the Sorbus vilmorinii invites you to make it a centrepiece of your outdoor haven. With its compact growth habit, it’s a great choice for smaller gardens.

 Enrich the landscape of your outdoor space with the Vilmorins Rowan Tree today! Common Name: Vilmorins Rowan TreeLatin Name: Sorbus vilmoriniiSoil: Most soils except shallow chalkPosition: Full sun or light shadeFlowering period/colour: April to May/ WhiteHardiness: Fully hardyHeight/spread in 20 years: 5m x 5mSpecial features: Small, undemanding tree with great autumnal colours.

Acer Brilliantissimum

Shrimp

Acer 'Brilliantissimum' is a striking sycamore tree that is ideal for smaller gardens. Pink young foliage that matures to yellow, then green. Attractive rounded habit: a great specimen tree. The Acer 'Brilliantissimum' is a truly eye-catching tree that offers a beautiful array of foliage colour. The leaves open shrimp pink in spring and gradually mature to a bronzed yellow over spring. Spring also sees the arrival of small yellow-green flowers, which work well against the colourful foliage.  In summer, the leaves put on their penultimate colour show as they mature to a darker green, with yellow marbling. Late summer sees the arrival of pretty clusters of red, winged fruits. One of the biggest benefits of planting this tree is its ability to add a real splash of colour in early spring and then changing interest over summer. It grows to have a beautifully rounded crown that is densely packed with the vivid leaves. The symmetrical shape of this tree makes it a great specimen and its slow growth rate and compact eventual size make it perfect for smaller spaces. This tree will do well in a range of soil types, but you should avoid planting it in exposed sites in order to protect the foliage from strong winds. This versatile tree looks particularly eye-catching when planting alongside the equally colourful Acer 'Carnival': the variegated leaves of the carnival work well with the changing colours of the 'Brilliantissimum'. For a contrasting genus, try the Catalpa ‘Aurea’: the large and beautifully bright leaves of the Catalpa sit perfectly against the ‘Brilliantissimum’. Common Name: Shrimp-Leaved SycamoreLatin Name: Acer pseudoplatanus 'Brilliantissimum'Soil: Any good, moist, well-drained soilPosition: Full sun or partial shadeFlowering period/colour: Spring/ Yellow-greenHardiness: Fully hardyHeight and spread in 20 years: 3m/3mSpecial features: Striking shrimp-pink new leaves.

Photinia Pink Marble

Pink Marble Cassini

The Pink Marble Cassini, scientifically known as Photinia x fraseri ‘Pink Marble’, is a striking addition to any garden. Thriving in well-drained soil and adaptable to full sun or partial shade, it features eye-catching variegated foliage that remains attractive throughout the year.

 The ‘Cassini’ is one of the best evergreen varieties for colour as new foliage emerges vivid pink and matures to a rich green with splashes of cream.During spring, the Pink Marble Cassini produces clusters of white blossoms, adding a touch of colour to your outdoor space. With its evergreen nature, this tree maintains its variegated appearance even in the cooler months.Reaching a height of 4 metres and spreading 3 metres over 20 years, the Pink Marble Cassini offers versatility and aesthetic appeal for various landscapes. 

This tree works well as a stand-alone specimen and it can even be planted in a large pot and situated on a sunny patio.

 This is a great choice for year round interest as the ‘Pink Marble’ will add an unusual splash of colour to your garden all year round. Can be grown as a shrub, hedge or tree (when purchased in tree form).  

Add a touch of elegance to your garden with this vibrant tree. Common Name: Pink Marble CassiniLatin Name: Photinia x fraseri ‘Pink Marble’Soil: Fertile well-drained soilPosition: Full sun, Sheltered positionHardiness: Hardy, frost hardy down to -8°CFlowering period: Mid springFlowering colour: WhiteEventual height/spread: 4m/3mSpecial features: Highly unusual evergreen foliage that is green and marbled with pink and white variegation 

Quercus ilex

Holm Evergreen Oak Tree

The Holm or Evergreen Oak, Quercus ilex, is a resilient and versatile tree for larger garden spaces. Flourishing in well-drained, loamy soil and adaptable to full sun or partial shade, it features glossy evergreen foliage that retains its beauty year-round.During spring, the Evergreen Oak produces inconspicuous yellow-green flowers, adding subtle charm to your outdoor space. It also bears masses of lush, dark green glossy leaves with striking white wooly shoots and yellow catkins in early summer. Plus, the acorns that it produces attract local wildlife. 

This is a slow-growing, very attractive frost hardy tree that, with age, develops large rounded pendulous branches. As the tree matures it also develops beautiful fissured dark grey bark. It can be an ideal specimen tree or a great windbreak as a clipped hedge in coastal areas. Like other Oak Trees, it has a very long lifespan, with some living over 1000 years!Add a touch of greenery and resilience to your garden with this magnificent tree.Common Name: Holm or Evergreen OakLatin Name: Quercus ilexSoil: Most fertile, well drained soilsPosition: Full sun or partial shadeFlowering period/colour: Early summer/Yellow catkinsHardiness: Fully hardyHeight/spread in 20 years: 10m+/6m+Special features: A rounded, tree with lance-shaped, dark green leaves and attractive smooth dark grey bark. (Evergreen)

Crataegus Crimson Cloud

Midland Hawthorn Tree

Crataegus Crimson Cloud is a stunning Midland Hawthorn Tree, which makes a perfect addition to any garden. This specimen is a dense, spreading tree with glossy, dark green foliage.

 Crataegus Laevigata flourishes in well-drained soil and is adaptable to full sun or partial shade. It showcases a magnificent display in spring. Profuse single crimson flowers with creamy centres appear during May and immerse the tree in a wonderful blanket of colour. 

The lightly scented blossom is complimented by the green foliage and the two colours really bring your garden to life.Later in the year, it produces tiny red berries that further enhance its visual appeal and attract birds.Reaching a height of 5 metres and spreading 4 metres over a 20 year growth period, this Midland Hawthorn Tree will work well in many spaces. 

 Add a touch of purple colour to your space today! Common Name: Midland Hawthorn TreeLatin Name: Crataegus Laevigata 'Crimson Cloud'Soil: Any soilPosition: Full sun or partial shadeFlowering period/ colour: May/Red with creamy centreHardiness: Fully hardyHeight and spread in 20 years: 5m/4mSpecial features: Showy single red flowers with a creamy centre.

Gleditsia Sunburst

Honey Locust Tree

Common Name: Honey Locust TreeLatin Name: Gleditsia triacanthos 'Sunburst'Soil: All well drained soilsPosition: Full sun or partial shadeFlowering period/colour: March to May/ inconspicuous whiteHardiness: Fully hardyEventual height/spread: 7m/5mSpecial features: Thornless with golden yellow foliageGleditsia triacanthos 'Sunburst' is a handsome tree that has wonderful golden foliage in the spring. The leaves are very fine and delicate and turn green as the summer goes on. This honey locust is a thornless variety unlike many of its relatives. The tree has an open, spreading habit and grows to have a wonderfully rounded crown.

Salix Hakuro Nishiki

Flamingo Tree

Common Name: Flamingo TreeLatin Name: Salix integra 'Hakuro Nishiki'Soil: Moist but well-drained soilPosition: Full sunFlowering period/colour: April/Slender yellow catkinsHardiness: Fully hardyEventual height/spread: 2m/2mSpecial features: Striking, pink and cream variegated foliage.Salix integra 'Hakuro Nishiki' is an elegant, fast-growing small tree with new shoots which are heavily blotched with white and pink, fading as the leaf ages. This is an ideal tree for the small garden or even planted in a pot on the patio. This dwarf Willows head of branches can be pruned to keep the tree at any height. 

Carpinus betulus

Hornbeam Tree

Common Name: Hornbeam TreeLatin Name: Carpinus betulusSoil: Any good garden soilPosition: Full sun or partial shadeFlowering period/colour: Spring/Green catkinsHardiness: Fully hardyHeight and spread in 20 years: 6m/5mSpecial features: A handsome deciduous tree with dense very attractive dark green leaves.Similar in appearance to beech, hornbeam makes a superb specimen tree. Grown as a tree, it has a pyramidal shape that later becomes more rounded. Although it is deciduous, it retains its coppery dead leaves throughout the winter so it remains an effective screen. Green catkins appear in spring and winged nuts develop in autumn.

Acer rubrum

Red Canadian Maple Tree

Common Name: Red Canadian Maple TreeLatin Name: Acer rubrumSoil: Fertile, moist, well-drainedPosition: Full sun or partial shadeFlowering period/colour: April to May/Small RedHardiness: Fully hardyHeight and spread in 20 years: 6m x 4m (Can grow to 30m after 50 years)Special features: Scarlet and crimson autumn colours. Acer rubrum is a fast-growing, ultimately large, round-headed tree native to North America. Eye-catching small red flowers appear in the bare branches in the spring. The dark green summer leaves turn a brilliant red-scarlet in autumn. The colours are seasonably variable but will be more predictable in neutral to acid soils. Deciduous.

Acer Autumn Blaze

Red Maple Tree

Common Name: Autumn Blaze MapleLatin Name: Acer freemanii 'Autumn Blaze' Soil: Chalky, clay, sandy- will tolerate most soil types. Position: Full sun or partial shade. Height/spread in 20 years: 20m x 12m The Acer freemanii 'Autumn Blaze' has spectacularly bold red and orange leaves in the autumn and it also boasts a dense oval head. This variety is particularly low-maintenance as it does not benefit from regular pruning and in-fact thrives without it. The leaves are dark-green in summer and turn bright-red in autumn. This tree is deciduous.

Malus floribunda

Crab Apple Tree

Common Name: Crab Apple TreeLatin Name: Malus floribundaSoil: Fertile, well-drained soilPosition: Full sun or partial shadeFlowering period/colour: April to May/Pale pinkHardiness: Fully hardyHeight and spread in 20 years: 4m x 5mSpecial features: Red fruits in autumn. Coppery, unusual cut leaf.Malus floribunda has glorious, pale pink flowers in mid- late spring which immerse the tree in a pink cloud. The flowers are replaced by small, pea-like, golden-yellow fruit which persists well into winter. The long-lasting fruit is a good source of food for birds and other wildlife. The leaves are mid-green in summer, but they really shine when they put on a dazzling autumn display of coppery red and bronzed yellow. This Japanese crab apple is an excellent ornamental tree for a sunny, urban site. Dense and spreading in habit with gracefully arching branches.

Betula Youngii

Young's Weeping Birch Tree

Common Name: Young's Weeping BirchLatin Name: Betula pendula 'Youngii'Soil: Any good garden soilPosition: Full sun or partial shadeFlowering period/colour: March/Yellowy-brown male catkinsHardiness: Fully hardyHeight and spread in 20 years: 5m x 3m (Can be kept smaller if required)Special features: Graceful weeping branches. (Deciduous)Betula pendula 'Youngii' is a graceful weeping form, with branches reaching the ground, eventually making a dome shape. The leaves are a wonderful diamond shape and are a dazzling green colour, they then turn yellow in autumn before falling.Yellowy-brown catkins appear in early spring. White, peeling bark also gives this tree good winter interest.

Fagus sylvatica

Common Beech Tree

Common Name: Common Beech TreeLatin Name: Fagus sylvaticaSoil: Tolerates most soil typesPosition: Full sun/semi-shadeFlowering period/colour: Just after leaves appear/White flowersHardiness: Fully hardyEventual Height: 25m as tree or pruned to any height as hedge.Special features: Holds its bronze leaves through autumn and early winter.Fagus sylvatica is a handsome, large and realiable tree which develops into a beautiful bell shape as it matures. It has simple green leaves which shine in spring and turn a beautiful bronze and yellow colour in the autumn. When grown as a tree, it produces fruit, called beech mast, as well as crisp russet brown autumn leaves. Can be maintained at any height as a hedge/pleached. Makes the ideal dense, hardy and easy-to-grow hedge. 

Prunus Accolade

Flowering Cherry Tree

Common Name: Flowering Cherry TreeLatin Name: Prunus 'Accolade'Soil: Fertile, moist well-drained soilPosition: Full sunFlowering period/colour: April to May /Semi double pale pinkHardiness: Fully hardyHeight/ spread in 20 years: 5m x 4mSpecial features: A very graceful tree with rose-pink flowers.Charming semi-double, rose-pink flowers crowd the branches in mid-spring, dark green leaves turn a vibrant orange in autumn. This is one of the most reliable and prettiest cherries for the smaller garden, which often gives the best flower show when planted in full sun.

Acer griseum

Paperbark Maple Tree

Common Name: Paperbark Maple TreeLatin Name: Acer griseumSoil: Moist but well drained soil.Position: Full sun or partial shadeFlowering period/colour: May / YellowHardiness: Fully hardyHeight and spread in 20 years: 5m/5mSpecial features: Orange-brown old bark which peels off to reveal cinnamon coloured new bark. (Deciduous)Acer griseum is a small, broadly columnar tree, with orange-brown old bark which peels off to reveal cinnamon coloured new bark. The smallish lobed leaves turn brilliant shades of orange and red in autumn. Yellow flowers appear in spring followed by relatively large- winged seeds in the autumn. This tree makes a good border or lawn specimen.

Quercus rubra

Red Oak Tree

Common Name: Red OakLatin Name: Quercus rubraSoil: Any deep, well-drained, lime-free soilPosition: Full sun or partial shadeFlowering period/colour: May to June/Insignificant male and female flowers in separate treesHardiness: Fully hardyHeight/spread in 20 years: 15m/5mSpecial features: Large fast growing deciduous tree. Vivid autumn colourQuercus rubra is a quick-growing deciduous tree which has an open, spreading crown. Its majestic branches hold large lobed leaves which turn brilliant red in the autumn. The smooth greyish-brown or dark grey bark gives good winter interest, making this a great garden feature all year round.

Crataegus monogyna

Common Hawthorn Tree

Common Name: Common HawthornLatin Name: Crataegus monogynaSoil: Average, medium moisture, well-drained; acid, alkaline or neutral.Position: Full sun to part shade. Flowering period/colour: May to JuneHardiness: Fully hardyHeight and spread in 20 years: 4m-8mSpecial features: Useful, accommodating, shrub or small tree, often used in mixed hedging. White flowers and red berries. Long sharp thorns. Easily pruned to shape. Crataegus monogyna is better known as the common hawthorn. Its main use is in mixed hedging where it makes a strong thorny barrier with attractive white flowers in early summer. The flowers are followed by red berries. The leaves have an attractive shape that is redolent of the British summer and farming countryside, where the species extensively used in hedging. Left unpruned this species will grow to the shape of a small tree between 4m and 8m tall and wide. Common hawthorn is an extremely forgiving species and will do well in most soils and situations. It is fully hardy (down to below -20°C) and can be pruned to shape and pruned hard back without problems. The fruit may cause mild stomach upset if ingested.

Sorbus cashmiriana

Kashmir Rowan Tree

Common Name: Kashmir RowanLatin Name: Sorbus cashmirianaSoil: Tolerates all soilsPosition: Full sun or partial shadeFlowering period/colour: April to May/Soft pink -whiteHardiness: Fully hardyHeight/spread in 20 years: 6m x 4mSpecial features: large persistent white fruits in autumn.Sorbus cashmiriana is a striking small tree with fine leaflets that give orange or yellow autumn colour. Pink-tinged white flowers in spring are followed by bunches of very large white berries in autumn which are retained well after the leaves have fallen. The tree has an open, spreading habit and a relatively small eventual size, it is the perfect choice for the smaller garden.

Pyrus Pendula

Weeping Pear Tree

Common Name: Weeping Willow Leaved Pear TreeLatin Name: Pyrus salicifolia 'Pendula'Soil: Fertile, well-drained soilPosition: Full sun or partial shadeFlowering period/colour: April/White flowersHardiness: Fully hardyEventual height/spread in 20 years: 4m/3mSpecial features: Small deciduous weeping tree with silver willow-like foliage. Also has inedible green fruit.Pyrus salicifolia 'Pendula' is an elegant, small tree forming a dense mound of weeping branches. White flowers appear in April followed by attractive, silvery-grey foliage lasting throughout the summer. The pendulous branches form a rounded crown and can be pruned to an umbrella shape if desired. An ideal specimen tree for small urban gardens as it copes well with pollution and alkaline soils.

Betula Purpurea

Purple Leaf Birch Tree

Common Name: Purple Leaf BirchLatin Name: Betula pendula 'Purpurea'Soil: Any good garden soilPosition: Full sun or partial shadeFlowering period/colour: April/Male catkinsHardiness: Fully hardyHeight and spread in 20 years: 7m x 3mSpecial features: An upright tree with purple leaves on purplish black branches.The purple birch is an attractive and unusual tree. The spring foliage is red-purple, darkening to deep purple in summer. At close quarters it looks pretty with its delicate, conical jagged leaves and slender outreaching branches, just slightly pendulous. A very useful tree planted near lightly coloured buildings. 

Acer Drummondii

Norway Maple Tree

Common Name: Norway Maple TreeLatin Name: Acer platanoides 'Drummondii'Soil: Fertile, moist, well-drainedPosition: Full sun or partial shadeFlowering period/colour: April to May/ YellowHardiness: Fully hardyHeight and spread in 20 years: 6m/4mSpecial features: Beautiful creamy white variegation on the leaves.The Acer platanoides 'Drummondii' is a very popular tree; this is due to its unique variegated leaves which have a rich green colour with creamy margins. Bursts of yellow flowers appear in spring before the leaves. This versatile tree is an ideal parkland tree, and is equally suited as a specimen tree for a medium-large sized garden. Occasionally, branches can grow with plain green leaves; these should be pruned out. Other than that this tree does not require any heavy pruning. In 20 years this tree will grow to a height of 6m and a spread of 4m. Ideally suited to a full sun/ partial shade position; this Acer will thrive in any fertile, moist yet well-drained soil.

Pyrus Chanticleer

Ornamental Pear Tree

Common Name: Ornamental PearLatin Name: Pyrus calleryana 'Chanticleer'Soil: Fertile, well-drained soilPosition: Full sun or partial shadeFlowering period/colour: April/Pure white flowersHardiness: Fully hardyEventual height/spread in 20 years: 7m/3mSpecial features: Dark green leaves turn marvelous shades of purple and scarlet in autumn.Handsome, narrow, conical tree bearing clusters of white flowers during April followed by glossy green summer foliage that that turns red and maroon through autumn. An excellent choice of tree for medium to large urban gardens and parks as it tolerates pollution well.

Acer October Glory

Red Maple Tree

Common Name: Red Canadian Maple TreeLatin Name: Acer rubrum 'October Glory'Soil: Fertile, moist, well-drainedPosition: Full sun or partial shadeFlowering period/colour: April to May/RedHardiness: Fully hardyHeight/spread in 10 years: 6m x 4m (Eventual height 15m)Special features: A reliable American specimen with spectacular autumn colours. Acer rubrum 'October Glory' is a dense round-headed tree with glossy green summer leaves which turn brilliant red in early autumn and are held for several weeks. This tree is best planted in neutral to acid soil and sheltered from strong winds to ensure the most vibrant autumn colours are produced. The 'October Glory' is a deciduous tree.

Magnolia grandiflora Little Gem

Dwarf Evergreen Magnolia

As the common name suggests, the 'Little Gem' is a more compact variety of magnolia - yet the smaller size does not result in a compromise of its features. One of the most notable characteristics of this tree has to be the pure-white, cup-shaped flowers that appear in late summer. The flowers are fragrant and sit amongst the large and glossy dark green leaves. The leaves have rusty bronzed undersides and as this is an evergreen variety they hold on the tree all year round. This is a great choice for planting in a smaller garden and will be sure to attract a whole host of wildlife to your outdoor space too. Common Name: Dwarf MagnoliaLatin Name: Magnolia grandiflora 'Little Gem'Soil: Moist, well-drained, tolerates chalkPosition: Full sun or partial shadeFlowering period/colour: August-September/ WhiteHardiness: Fully hardyEventual height and spread: 4m/2.5m Special features: An evergreen magnolia that maintains a compact form - making it perfect for the smaller garden.

Crataegus Rosea Flore Pleno

Midland Hawthorn Tree

Common Name: Midland Hawthorn TreeLatin Name: Crataegus laevigata 'Rosea Flore Pleno'Soil: Any soilPosition: Full sun or partial shadeFlowering period/colour: Late Spring/Double pinkHardiness: Fully hardyHeight and spread in 20 years: 5m/4mSpecial features: A dense round-headed tree with thorny branches and shiny, deeply lobed leaves. (Deciduous)Crataegus laevigata 'Rosea Flore Pleno' is a rather exotic variety of the hawthorn family. It makes a small tree with a broad deep crown, though the branches themselves are quite slender. It has small, dark green, lobed leaves. In spring the double, densely petalled little flowers appear which are rose pink, with creamy centres.

Crataegus laevigata Plena

Midland Hawthorn Tree

Common Name: Midland Hawthorn TreeLatin Name: Crataegus laevigata 'Plena'Soil: Any soilPosition: Full sun or partial shadeFlowering period/colour: May/Double whiteHardiness: Fully hardyHeight and spread in 20 years: 5m/4mSpecial features: A dense, spreading tree with glossy, dark-green foliage and small double white flowers. (Deciduous)Crataegus laevigata 'Plena' is a dense, spreading tree with glossy, dark-green foliage. Profuse small double white flowers appear during May. This tree will make an excellent lawn specimen and will also tolerate very exposed cold and windy gardens.

Laurus nobilis

Bay Laurel

Common Name: Bay LaurelLatin Name: Laurus nobilisSoil: Any free drainingPosition: Full sun or partial shadeHardiness: Half-hardy, needs sheltering from strong windsFlowering period: Early summerFlowering colour: Pale yellowEventual height/spread after 20 years: 4-5m/3mThe Laurus nobilis is a handsome evergreen shrub or small tree. It features aromatic waxy green leaves, which are often used in cookery. Small clusters of creamy yellow flowers appear in early summer. The ‘Bay Laurel’ is perfect for screening; it is also used as part of herb garden or alongside roses to add structure to a border. This Laurel has been cultivated since the beginning of recorded history and was a key symbol of mythological history too. The Greek and Roman scholars are always depicted as wearing a wreath on the head which is made from bay leaves.

Malus Harry Baker

Crab Apple Tree

Common Name: Crab Apple Harry BakerLatin Name: Malus 'Harry Baker'Soil: Chalky, sandy, clay, loamyPosition: Full sun or partial shade    Hardiness: HardyFlowering period: SpringFlowering colour: PinkEventual height/spread after 20 years: 5m/5mThe Malus 'Harry Baker' is a lively, colourful addition to any garden due to its eye-catching large fuchsia-pink flowers which appear in spring. This deciduous crab apple tree holds rich green leaves, which are accompanied by red fruits in autumn. The glossy red fruits bring vivid colour to a winter garden; pick the fruits when ripe to make a tasty crab apple jelly.

Acer campestre

Field Maple Tree

Common Name: Field Maple TreeLatin Name: Acer campestreSoil: Fertile, moist, well-drainedPosition: Full sun or partial shadeHardiness: Very hardyEventual height/spread: 9/7mSpecial features: A broad-crowned tree with small, neatly lobed leaves. British native. (Deciduous)Acer campestre is a moderately-sized deciduous tree with rounded, five-lobed deep green leaves. The leaves are often tinted reddish-purple when young and erect umbels of green flowers also form, followed by red winged fruits. The Acer campestre is of particular interest in the autumn when the foliage turns red. This tree can be commonly found as a component in hedgerows where it is kept compact by pruning regularly or grown as a single specimen tree.

Magnolia grandiflora Exmouth

Magnolia Tree

Common Name: Evergreen Magnolia ExmouthLatin Name: Magnolia grandiflora 'Exmouth' Soil: Prefers moist, clay soil and either neutral or acidicPosition: Full sunHardiness: Fully hardy and frost hardy down to -18°CFlowering period: Late summer onwardsFlowering colour: CreamEventual height/spread: 10m/10mSpecial features: Evergreen leaves and large creamy white flowers. The 'Exmouth' is a delightful evergreen variety of magnolia which offers interest all year round. The large, glossy leaves are a rich, dark green colour and are oblong shaped; the leaves make the perfect foil for the outstanding floral display which comes from late summer onwards. The flowers are extremely large and can be around 30cm across and these are bowl-shaped and a creamy white colour. The eye-catching flowers carry a sweet scent and are very popular with pollinating insects like bees.

Salix Tortuosa

Corkscrew

Common Name: Corkscrew WillowLatin Name: Salix matsudana 'Tortuosa'Soil: Moist but well-drained soilPosition: Full sunFlowering period/colour: Spring/CatkinsHardiness: Fully hardyHeight/spread in 20 years: 6m/3mSpecial features: Contorted branching, most easily observed in winterSalix 'Tortuosa' also known as dragon's claw willow, has a short trunk and slender, upright stems that soon begin to curl into gentle arcs. The twigs are more noticeably twisted, some of them weeping, and the bright green leaves are slightly curled as well. A weird and wonderful sight in winter when its bare branches form a contorted skeleton.

Betula Trinity College

Himalayan Birch Tree

Common Name: Trinity College Himalayan Birch TreeLatin Name: Betula utiis var. Jacquemontii 'Trinity College'Soil: Medium to wet soil.Position: Full sun to part shade. Flowering period/colour: April/MayHardiness: Fully hardyHeight and spread in 20 years: 7m/3mSpecial features: A more compact birch, making it suitable for smaller spaces.The 'Trinity College' is similar to the classic 'Betula Jacquemontii' but this one is more compact, making it more suitable for smaller spaces than its parent. The sparkling white bark is a real feature of this tree: it adds year-round interest and looks particularly effective when you plant a trio of these trees in close proximity. Aside from the bark, the cordate leaves are mid-dark green in colour and are serrated at their edges. Come autumn, the leaves turn to a buttery yellow colour before falling. This Himalayan Birch has an upright habit and its graceful branches ascend to make a light and airy canopy. You could plant this alongside another more compact Birch, like the Betula ermanii, as the two trees will give year-round interest with their contrasting coloured bark. If you have a large space that needs colour and structure, an avenue of birch trees is a superb sight to behold.

Acer rubrum Sun Valley

Red Maple Tree

Common Name: Red mapleLatin Name: Acer rubrum 'Sun Valley'Soil: Medium to wet, well-drained soil. Slight preference for acid soil.Position: Full sun/partial shade. Flowering period/colour: March/redHardiness: Fully hardy in the severest European climates (to below -20°C).Height and spread in 20-50 years: 6m-10m/4.5m-7.5mSpecial features: Bright red autumn colour. Tolerates wet soil. Acer rubrum 'Sun Valley' is a fine, medium-sized maple tree that produces a blaze of red colour in autumn. No fruit is produced, which can be an advantage in areas where the usual winged maple fruit would spread around, and have to be cleared up. The species name ‘rubrum’ means red, and this tree does indeed produce a very striking show of red colour to brighten up any garden. The genus name ‘Acer’ indicates that this tree is a maple, and maple trees are well known as fine specimen trees. They have a leaf with a characteristic shape, as seen on the Canadian flag, and a statuestque figure. Acer rubrum 'Sun Valley' is a medium-sized variety, which is useful for locations of more restricted size. Acer rubrum 'Sun Valley' is a male tree resulting from a cross between Acer rubrum 'Red Sunset' and Acer rubrum 'Autum Flame'. It has a particulary symmetrical ovate crown. Average growth in good conditions takes it to 6.4m height in the first ten years, finally maturing to 10m.

Carpinus betulus Fastigiata

Upright Hornbeam Tree

Common Name: Upright Hornbeam Tree Latin Name: Carpinus betulus 'Fastigiata'Soil: Any good garden soilPosition: Full sun or partial shadeFlowering period/colour: April/Pendulous catkinsHardiness: Fully hardyHeight and spread in 20 years: 7m/4mSpecial features: Neater and denser than the simple species, it grows quite fast while young, producing a neat formal shape, almost triangular in silhouette.Carpinus 'Fastigiata' is a distinctive, erect form of the native hornbeam that forms a flame-shaped tree. The dark green foliage turns yellow and orange in the autumn. This tree is excellent planted as a specimen tree or where space is limited.

Acer Sango

Kaku

Common Name: Coral Bark MapleLatin Name: Acer palmatum 'Sango-kaku'Soil: Moist, well drained, fertile soilPosition: A sheltered spot with partial Shade,Hardiness: Frost hardy down to -15°CEventual height/spread: 6m x 3mSpecial features: Soft green leaves in summer turning yellow in autumn and red shoots sprouting in late winter.The Acer palmatum 'Sango- kaku' is a beautiful Japanese Maple tree that has an all year round interest. In the autumn its foliage turns from a soft green colour then to a golden-yellow colour.  As the common name suggests, in the winter this tree has stunning vibrant coral red bark which really stands out in a winter garden.

Malus toringo Scarlett

Crab Apple Tree

Common Name: Scarlett Crab Apple TreeLatin Name: Malus toringo 'Scarlett'Soil: Fertile, well-drained soilPosition: Full sun or partial shadeFlowering period/colour: April / Rich pink flowersHardiness: Fully hardyHeight and spread in 10 years: 4m x 3mSpecial features: Small purple fruits remain on the tree long after the leaves have fallen.Malus toringo 'Scarlett' is a relatively new introduction to the Malus family. Originally from Denmark, this tree has something to offer throughout all four seasons. The rich pink blossoms contrast perfectly with the new purple, deeply lobed leaves. The leaves turn a bronze-green colour in summer, then later in autumn they produce a dazzling display of rich scarlet and purple tints. The small purple crab apples, which appear in autumn, remain on the tree long after the leaves have fallen. A great choice for a year round interest which will bring a burst of life to your garden

Acer Bloodgood

Japanese Maple Tree

Common Name: Japanese MapleLatin Name: Acer palmatum 'Bloodgood'Soil: Free draining, Humus rich, Not too dry.Position: A sheltered spot with partial shadeHardiness: HardyFlowering Period: Insignificant, Grown for foliageFlowering Colour: Green/YellowEventual height/spread: 3m(10ft) / 2m(6ft)Special features: A slow growing Acer, with rich purple/red colours creating good year round interest.Acer palmatum 'Bloodgood' is a slow-growing elegant plant with a good spreading growth habit. It has deep purple/red leaves in spring and summer, the foliage colour intensifies just before the leaves drop. Winter twigs are dark purple/black. This Japanese Maple is used as the standard by which all other palmatum cultivars are judged. Ideal for container growing due to small eventual size.

Malus Golden Hornet

Crab Apple Tree

Common Name: Crab Apple TreeLatin Name: Malus 'Golden Hornet'Soil: Fertile, well-drained soilPosition: Full sun or partial shadeFlowering period/colour: May to June/ WhiteHardiness: Fully hardyHeight and spread in 20 years: 5m x 4mSpecial features: long-lasting, spherical, golden-yellow fruitThe Malus ‘Golden Hornet’ is a wonderfully compact crab apple tree. It features pretty, fragrant white flowers which are flushed pink and appear in May/June. Masses of golden-yellow crab apples emerge in early autumn and attract an array of wildlife to your garden. This tree starts out upright and spreads to an oval-headed shape with age. The densely-packed branches hold deep green leaves which fade to yellow in autumn. The crab apple fruits are one of the best features of this tree as they hold well into winter.

Magnolia stellata

Magnolia Tree

Common Name: Magnolia TreeLatin Name: Magnolia stellataSoil: Prefers moist, clay soil and either neutral or acidic (Will tolerate lime)Position: Full sunHardiness: Fully hardy and frost hardy down to -18°CFlowering period: SpringFlowering colour: White opening from grey-hairy buds.Eventual height/spread: 3mSpecial features: One of the best magnolias for small gardens.Magnolia stellata is a slow-growing, deciduous and dense shrub that will flower in its first season unlike many other Magnolias. It becomes covered in star-shaped, slightly fragranced, white flowers in spring. This Magnolia is ideal for a small garden due to its slow growth habit. It is also suitable if to be kept it in a container perhaps on a patio.

Acer Carnival

Variegated Field Maple Tree

Common Name: Variegated Field Maple TreeLatin Name: Acer campestre 'Carnival'Soil: fertile, moist, well-drainedPosition: Semi shadeHardiness: Very hardyEventual height/spread: 4m x 3mSpecial features: Young leaves are bright pink maturing to striking cream with a green centre. (Deciduous) Acer campestre 'Carnival' is a spectacular variegated form of the common field maple, which originally occurred in Holland as a chance seedling in 1989. This is a densely branched, slow growing tree that will only grow to around 4m tall making it ideal for smaller gardens. The young leaves are bright pink maturing to striking cream with a green centre.