Medium

Cotoneaster x watereri

Cotoneaster Tree

Common Name: Cotoneaster TreeLatin Name: Cotoneaster x watereriSoil: Moderately fertile, well-drainedPosition: Full sunFlowering period/colour: May to June/WhiteHardiness: Fully hardyEventual height/spread: 5m/5mSpecial features: Covered with brilliant red berries in the autumn.This Cotoneaster, with rather large matt green leaves which are pleasantly veined, makes a splendid small tree. The tree is covered with brilliant red berries in the autumn which are great for attracting wildlife to your garden. It has a rather open habit and the sight of the arching branches glistening with red berries in autumn is quite beautiful.

Crataegus arnoldiana

Hawthorn Tree

Common Name: Hawthorn Latin Name: Crataegus arnoldiana Soil: Any soil Position: Full sun or partial shade Flowering period/colour: May / white Hardiness: Fully hardy Height and spread in 20 years: 6m/5m Special features: Large and edible red fruits in autumn The ‘Arnoldiana’ makes the most wonderful specimen tree and it is also great for attracting wildlife to the garden. The tree grows to be of medium size, with a rounded habit, and it starts off in spring with shallowly lobed leaves that are dark green and cover the branches. The leaves are closely followed by the late spring flowers and these are white with attractive and colourful stamens. The spring flowers later mature to large and glossy red fruits: these are edible and can be picked, or they can be left for the birds to enjoy. A fantastic tree with a lot to offer.

Crataegus Big Golden Star

Chinese Hawthorn Tree

Common Name: Chinese Hawthorn TreeLatin Name: Crataegus pinnatifida var. Major ‘Big Golden Star’Soil: Well drained, fertile soilPosition: Full sun or partial shadeHardiness: Full hardyFlowering period: MayFlowering colour: WhiteHeight/spread after 20 years: 4m/3mThe ‘Big Golden Star’ is an almost thornless variety of Crataegus which features deep-green leaves, which turn red in autumn. In late spring, white flowers emerge, which are followed by dazzling scarlet fruits. As well as attracting wildlife to your garden, the edible red fruits can be made into preserves or syrup. This hardy tree can survive in costal sites as well as in milder conditions. This deciduous thorn will benefit from occasional pruning.

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.

Crataegus Gireoudii

Variegated Hawthorn Tree

Common Name: Variegated Midland Hawthorn TreeLatin Name: Crataegus laevigata 'Gireoudii'Soil: Any soilPosition: Full sun or partial shadeFlowering period/colour: Late Spring/WhiteHardiness: Fully hardyEventual height/spread: 5m/4.5mSpecial features: Young leaves are prettily mottled pink and white. (Deciduous)Crataegus laevigata 'Gireoudii' is a very interesting Hawthorn with young leaves that are curiously mottled with pink and white. White flowers appear at the end of spring later followed by red fruits. A good prune every spring helps to encourage the pretty foliage effect.

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.

Crataegus lavallei

Hawthorn Tree

Common Name: Lavallei HawthornTreeLatin Name: Crataegus x lavalleiSoil: Any soilPosition: Full sun or partial shadeFlowering period/colour: Early Summer/ WhiteHardiness: Fully hardyEventual height/spread: 5m/4.5mSpecial features: A densely branched thorn tree with long glossy dark green leaves which turn an attractive orange-red in the autumn. (Deciduous)Crataegus x lavallei is a small densely branched thorn tree with long glossy dark green leaves which turn an attractive orange-red in the autumn. Clusters of white flowers in early summer are followed by red fruits which persist throughout the winter.

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.

Crataegus orientalis

Silver Thorn Tree

Common Name: Silver Thorn TreeLatin Name: Crataegus orientalisSoil: Any soilPosition: Full sun or partial shadeFlowering period/ colour: Late Spring/ WhiteHardiness: Fully hardyEventual height/ spread: 6m/5mSpecial features: A beautiful oriental tree distinguished by its deeply cut leaves and coral red fruits. (Deciduous)Crataegus orientalis is a beautiful oriental tree which holds its branches somewhat upright when young, but they open out with maturity. The leaves are a very pretty silvery green, quite deeply dissected and with a feathery appearance. Clusters of white flowers in late spring and early summer are followed in the autumn by red fruits with a yellow tinge. This is a delightful tree, popular with wildlife, for a smaller garden.

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

Crataegus Prunifolia

Hawthorn Tree

Common Name: Hawthorn TreeLatin Name: Crataegus persimilis 'Prunifolia'Soil: Any soilPosition: Full sun or partial shadeFlowering period/colour: March to May/ whiteHardiness: Fully hardyEventual height/spread: 6m/5mSpecial features: Broad dark green oval leaves with lovely clusters of crimson fruits in the autumn.Crataegus 'Prunifolia' is a handsome, small tree with rich brown bark. It has good broad dark green oval leaves with small white flowers and lovely clusters of crimson fruits. The shrub has good orange and yellow autumn colour. It has long, strong thorns which are quite dramatic. The 'Prunifolia' part of its name means foliage like a Prunus.

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 Toba

Toba Hawthorn Tree

Common Name: Toba Hawthorn Tree Latin Name: Crataegus x mordenensis 'Toba' Soil: Any soil Position: Full sun or partial shade Flowering period/colour: May / white-pink Hardiness: Fully hardy Height and spread in 20 years: 6m/5m Special features: Masses of pink flowers in spring The ‘Toba’ is fantastic choice for any small-medium sized garden. In spring, pale pink-white double flowers grow in umbels and cover the tree. The large, dark-green leaves are deeply incised and these make the perfect foil for the spring flowers. Come autumn, glossy red fruits appear and these are great for wildlife. The tree itself has a fairly rounded habit and it maintains a manageable size, so it is suitable for a garden that has fairly limited space.

Cryptomeria japonica Elegans

Japanese Red Cedar

Common Name: Japanese Red CedarLatin Name: Cryptomeria japonica 'Elegans'Soil: Chalky, Clay, Loamy, Sandy (will tolerate most soil types)Position: Sunny, sheltered siteHardiness: HardyHeight in 20 years: 3mSpecial features: Attractive evergreen foliage for all year round colour and screening.Cryptomeria japonica 'Elegans' is a medium-sized, conical shaped conifer. The finely cut, soft-textured, feathery juvenile foliage appears a blue-green colour then changes to a fresh green in summer followed by deep purple-bronze colours in late autumn and winter. This Cryptomeria is suitable for container growing and or ideal when planted in the garden as a 'stand out' plant.

Cryptomeria japonica Elegans Aurea

Japanese Cedar

Common Name: Japanese CedarLatin Name: Cryptomeria japonica 'Elegans Aurea'Soil: Chalky, Clay, Loamy, Sandy (will tolerate most soil types)Position: Sunny, sheltered siteHardiness: HardyHeight in 20 years: 8m x 4mSpecial features: Attractive evergreen foliage for all year round colour and screening.Cryptomeria japonica 'Elegans Aurea' is a medium-sized, conical shaped conifer.  This Cryptomeria is suitable for container growing and or ideal when planted in the garden as a 'stand out' plant.

Cryptomeria japonica Sekkan

Sekkan Sugi Japanese cedar

Common Name: Sekkan Sugi Japanese cedarLatin Name: Cryptomeria japonica 'Sekkan-Sugi'Soil: Any good garden soilPosition: Full sun or partial shade (avoid very exposed position)Hardiness: Fully hardyEventual height/ spread: 8m/3mSpecial features: Evergreen leaves that are creamy yellow when young and mature to dark greenThis cedar is a more compact version of the popular Cryptomeria japonica and its relatively narrow spread makes it suitable for smaller spaces. The leaves are in line with that of the species: awl-shaped and glossy. New foliage starts out as a creamy yellow colour and it matures to a dark green, but then takes on yellow tints in winter. The branches are slightly pendulous, which adds structural interest, and this will eventually form a conical tree. This is a great choice for year-round interest as it will add a healthy dose of colour all year round. If you want a planting partner then the Acacia dealbata as both trees are evergreen, but they have different foliage, which offer contrasting textures.

Elaeagnus Limelight

Elaeagnus

Common Name: ElaeagnusLatin Name: Elaeagnus x ebbingei 'Limelight'Soil: Fertile, well-drained soilPosition: Full sun or partial shadeFlowering period/colour: September to December / White flower.Hardiness: Fully hardyEventual height/spread: 3m x 3mSpecial features: silvery sheen on the young leavesA strong coloured Eleagnus which presents a very greenish gold overall appearance. The leaves start green and develop yellow, pale gold and pale green central blotches as they mature. A great choice for illuminating darker patches of your garden and it can also be grown as an informal hedge.

Elaeagnus Maculata

Elaeagnus

Common Name: ElaeagnusLatin Name: Elaeagnus pungens 'Maculata'Soil: Moist but well-drained soil, except shallow chalkPosition: Full sun or partial shadeFlowering period/colour: Winter months/white flowersHardiness: Fully hardyEventual height/spread: 4m x 4mSpecial features: Dark green, shiny leaves with a brilliant golden centre.Also known as 'Aureovariegata', this is perhaps the best-known and most reliable variegated form. This vigorous, spreading shrub from Japan is very adaptable, and may be grown on most soils except shallow chalk and is also tolerant of coastal sites. The rich gold variegation provides a striking addition to a border and is useful for lifting a dull corner of the garden. It can be planted as a hedge and clipped twice a year for a formal finish or trained as a wall shrub. Insignificant but strongly scented white flowers are produced over the winter months.

Elaeagnus x ebbingei

Elaeagnus

Common Name: ElaeagnusLatin Name: Elaeagnus x ebbingeiSoil: Fertile, well-drained soilPosition: Full sun or partial shadeFlowering period/colour: September to December / Silvery-white flower.Hardiness: Fully hardyEventual height/spread: 3m x 3mSpecial features: silvery sheen on the young leavesA fast growing evergreen with large leathery leaves which are metallic grey-green above and silver underneath. Many small but intensely fragrant silvery flowers appear in clusters in autumn, followed by small egg-shaped orange fruits in spring. Ideal for shady, windy or seaside positions.

Eucalyptus camphora

Swamp Gum Tree

Common Name: Swamp Gum TreeLatin Name: Eucalyptus camphoraSoil: Tolerant to a wide range of soilsPosition: Full sunHardiness: Very hardyEventual height/spread:Special features: Ovate, leathery foliage.Eucalyptus camphora is a small/medium sized tree which provides a superb display of evergreen ovate foliage. This tree provides a splendid array of colour with its rich green leaves and stunning multi toned bark.

Eucalyptus gunnii

Cider Gum Tree

Common Name: Cider Gum TreeLatin Name: Eucalyptus gunniiSoil: Neutral to slightly acidic soil that doesn't dry outPosition: Full sun or partial shadeFlowering period/colour: July to October/White to cream, Hardiness: Fully hardy when matureHeight and spread in 20 years: 12m/5mSpecial features: Silvery blue, rounded, young foliage.Eucalyptus gunnii, commonly known as the Cider Gum Tree, is the perfect addition to any garden or landscape. Its distinctive blue-green juvenile foliage not only provides visual interest but also gives off a wonderful fragrance. Not only is it fast-growing, but it’s also well-suited for various soil types, as long as they are well-drained.Through summer to autumn months, the Cider Gum Tree shows clusters of creamy-white flowers, adding a sparkle to its already striking appearance. With a projected height of 12 metres and a spread of 5 metres in 20 years, this tree will stand tall on its own, or contribute to the formation of a beautiful garden scene.Ideal for full sun exposure, the Cider Gum Tree is known for its hardiness and ability to thrive in many climates. Whether planted as a focal point in your garden, part of a windbreak, or even in a container on a sunny patio, the Eucalyptus gunnii is a versatile choice.With its rapid growth and unique features, the Cider Gum Tree resiliently stands tall as a beacon of beauty in any outdoor space. Buy one today and enjoy the sights and scents for years to come.

Eucalyptus Niphophila

Alpine Snow Gum Tree

Common Name: Alpine Snow GumLatin Name: Eucalyptus pauciflora 'Niphophila'Soil: Moist, well drained, fertile soilPosition: Full sun or partial shadeHardiness: Frost hardy down to -15cHeight and spread in 20 years: 5.5m/3mSpecial features: Fast growing evergreen tree with attractive peeling bark.Eucalyptus pauciflora 'Niphophila' is a hardy, very fast growing, evergreen tree with green-blue waxy leaves and attractive peeling bark. Small creamy-white flowers appear in late spring and summer and the tree itself will give off a fragrant scent in hot conditions. This Alpine snow gum is ideal for any situation as responds very well to pruning so size can be kept down or be left to grow vigorously depending on your own preference.

Eucalyptus pauciflora

Cabbage Gum Tree

Common Name: Cabbage Gum TreeLatin Name: Eucalyptus paucifloraSoil: Tolerant to a wide range of soilsPosition: Full sunHardiness: Very hardyEventual height/spread: 6m/6mSpecial features: Slow growing, small tree with leathery blue/green leaves. The trunk forms into a beautiful patchwork display of cream, grey and green.Eucalyptus pauciflora is a stunning tree with blended tones of green, blues and grey throughout the trunk and foliage. It provides a small, attractive tree to the garden with a broad headed growth habit. This is a very hardy evergreen tree.

Fagus Dawyck Gold

Golden Upright Beech Tree

Common Name: Golden Upright BeechLatin Name: Fagus sylvatica 'Dawyck Gold'Soil: Moist but well drainedPosition: Full sun or partial shadeHardiness: HardyFlowering period: SpringFlowering colour: Insignificant green flowersEventual height/spread after 20 years: 12m/3m This golden beech has a narrow upright habit and has an eye-catching, flame-shaped structure. This tree really stands out when planted alongside the sylvatica 'Dawyck Purple' as the two contrasting colours complement one another well. The 'Dawyck Gold' features bright yellow leaves in spring that turn green in summer, then yellow-brown in autumn. This variety of beech prefers to be left alone to thrive and does not benefit from regular pruning.

Fagus Dawyck Purple

Purple Upright Beech Tree

Common Name: Purple Fastigate Beech TreeLatin Name: Fagus sylvatica 'Dawyck Purple'Soil: Moist but well drainedPosition: Full sun Hardiness: HardyFlowering period: SpringFlowering colour: Insignificant green flowers20yr height x spread: 10m/ 2.5m The 'Dawyck Purple' beech tree has a stunning columnar shape and is suitable for a smaller garden due to its upright habit. This tree also looks good in larger gardens, particularly when planted with the golden leaved form 'Dawyck Gold'. This slow-growing variety of beech prefers to be left alone and does not require regular pruning. The leaves are red in spring and they then develop into a deep purple colour, before finally turning brown in the autumn; the leaves hold on the tree through winter. In order to get the best colour from the foliage of this tree, plant it in a full sun position.

Gleditsia Ruby Lace

Honey Locust Tree

Common Name: Honey LocustLatin Name: Gleditsia Triacanthos 'Ruby Lace'Soil: Fertile, well-drainedPosition: Full sunHardiness: HardyEventual height/ spread: 10/7.5mSpecial features: Unique tree with rich dark bronze/red foliageGleditsia 'Ruby Lace' is a medium/large sized tree which displays an excellent array of colours; its foliage transforms from a dazzling ruby red colour to a bright bronze/green as summer arrives. The leaves are fine and pinnate in form and fall in autumn every year. This American tree prospers in a wide range of soils and weather conditions.

Hydrangea arborescens Annabelle

Sevenbark

Common Name: Sevenbark Latin Name: Hydrangea arborescens 'Annabelle'Soil: well-drained soilPosition: Full sun or partial shadeFlowering period/colour: July-September/WhiteHardiness: Fully hardyEventual height/spread: 2.5m/2.5mSpecial features: Very large, spherical heads of white flowers in spring. This is a very special hydrangea as the flowers are long-lasting and make a real statement: the spherical heads of creamy white flowers appear from July to September and cover the shrub. The leaves of the 'Annabelle' are broadly ovate in shape and are mid-green in colour: these make the perfect foil for the flowers. You can plant this shrub at the back of a border alongside other hydrangeas for a showy flower display.

Hydrangea paniculata 'Hercules'

Hydrangea

Common Name: Hydrangea ‘Hercules’ Latin Name: Hydrangea paniculata 'Hercules’ Soil: Well-drained soilPosition: Full sun or partial shadeFlowering period/colour: July- October/ creamy white Hardiness: Fully hardyEventual height/spread: 2m/ 2mSpecial features: Extremely large blooms up to 40cm in length If you want showstopping flowers that will make a real statement then the ‘Hercules’ is the perfect choice. The extremely large flower heads emerge creamy white with a green hue and later develop a rosy blush. In terms of foliage, the sizeable leaves are dark green and serrated at their edges, adding further interest. This hydrangea is also exceptionally hardy, down to around -30, making it suitable for a range of sites and conditions. We love this as part of a mixed border and it looks beautiful when planted alongside the rich ruby flowers of the Hydrangea 'Wims Red’.  

Hydrangea paniculata 'Polar Bear’

Hydrangea

  Common Name: Hydrangea ‘Polar Bear’Latin Name: Hydrangea paniculata 'Polar Bear’ Soil: Well-drained soilPosition: Full sun or partial shadeFlowering period/colour: July- October/ white Hardiness: Fully hardyEventual height/spread: 1.5m/ 1.5mSpecial features: Conical blooms that emerge with a lime green hue and mature to a creamy white. The ‘Polar Bear’ is a fantastic shrub that boasts large, conical flower heads that start with a lime green tint and develop over summer to have a creamy white shade; their final show of colour comes in autumn when they take on a pink blush. These prominent flower heads are great for adding to cut flower displays and they also make the ‘Polar Bear’ an ideal specimen plant. The dark green, toothed leaves make the perfect foil for the changing flowers. We love this in a cottage style garden towards the back of a border.

Hydrangea paniculata 'Vanille Fraise'

Hydrangea 'Renhy'

Common Name: Hydrangea ‘Renhy’Latin Name: Hydrangea paniculata 'Vanille Fraise’ Soil: Well-drained soilPosition: Full sun or partial shadeFlowering period/colour: July- October/ white then pink Hardiness: Fully hardyEventual height/spread: 2m/ 2mSpecial features: Large, showy flower heads that change from white to pink This French native is a welcome addition to any bed or border; it features large blooms that emerge pure white, then mature to a raspberry pink over summer and finally a deep pink by autumn. You will get multiple colours on this attractive shrub simultaneously, adding varied interest. The flowers are accompanied by mid-green, toothed leaves that are held on red-stemmed branches. This is a great choice for autumn interest and for cut flowers, too.   

Hydrangea paniculata Fraise Melba

Hydrangea

Common Name: HydrangeaLatin Name: Hydrangea paniculata 'Fraise Melba'Soil: Well-drained soilPosition: Full sunFlowering period/colour: July to September/ White to deep pinkHardiness: Hardy but newer foliage in Spring will need to be protectedEventual height/spread: 1.2m x 1.2mSpecial features: Large flowerheads of tiny flowers that emerge white, then fade to deep pink. Hydrangea paniculata 'Fraise Melba' produces large flower heads that are made up of 100's of smaller flowers, in July these flowers emerge an ivory white colour and fade to a lovely deep pink as time goes by before expiring in September. These Hydrangea are extremely hardy and although they produce large flower heads they are supported by strong stems, these stems will stand up to most wet weather conditions but should not be planted in exposed positions where strong winds could potentially damage the stems. 

Hydrangea paniculata Grandiflora

Hydrangea

Common Name: HydrangeaLatin Name: Hydrangea paniculata ‘Grandiflora’Soil: well-drained soilPosition: Full sunFlowering period/colour: August to September/Creamy whiteHardiness: Fully hardyEventual height/spread: 3m x 2.5mSpecial features: Large heads of creamy white flowers that open up in midsummer and last until early autumn The arching branches of the ‘Grandiflora’ hold the most beautiful display of tiny midsummer flowers that are densely packed onto large flower heads. The single creamy white flowers open up from pale pink buds and hold their creamy colour for several weeks before developing a pink blush in autumn. The rich green leaves are finely serrated and are held on the glowing red shoots. This deciduous shrub is a great choice for later flowering interest and works well when planted at the back of a border.  

Hydrangea paniculata Kyushu

Hydrangea

Common Name: HydrangeaLatin Name: Hydrangea paniculata ‘Kyushu’Soil: well-drained soilPosition: Full sunFlowering period/colour: August to September/ creamy whiteHardiness: Fully hardyEventual height/spread: 2.5m x 1.5mSpecial features: Large heads of creamy white flowers and finely serrated green foliage The ‘Kyushu’ is a delightful shrub which features conical flowerheads of tiny single white flowers that appear from midsummer to autumn. The rich green leaves are finely serrated and have attractive pointed tips. The flowers are a popular choice for using in a cut flower arrangement, and if you cut them in autumn they will have a pretty pink blush to them. This hydrangea is great for planting in a border and it works particularly well when it goes alongside a more colourful shrub like a ceanothus or a buddlija.

Hydrangea paniculata Limelight

Hydrangea

Common Name: Limelight HydrangeaLatin Name: Hydrangea paniculata 'Limelight'Soil: Well-drained soilPosition: Full sunFlowering period/colour: August to September/Lime green then creamHardiness: Fully hardyEventual height/spread: 2.5m x 2.5mSpecial features: Large flowerheads of tiny flowers that emerge lime green, then turn creamy, then pinkThis is a fantastic hydrangea which features the most beautiful display of flowers from midsummer to autumn. The flowers open up from lime green buds and start life with a green-cream colour; they then mature to cream and then finally have a creamy pink blush in early autumn. Aside from the flowers, the leaves are also of great interest; they are lime green in colour and finely serrated at their edges and they make the perfect foil for the large flower heads. This deciduous shrub looks great at the back of a mixed border and it also works well as an informal flowering hedge.

Hydrangea paniculata Phantom

Hydrangea

Common Name: HydrangeaLatin Name: Hydrangea paniculata 'Phantom'Soil: Well-drained soilPosition: Full sun or partial shadeFlowering period/colour: July to September/white to light pinkHardiness: Fully hardyEventual height/spread: 2m x 2mSpecial features: Large flowerheads of tiny flowers that emerge white, then fade to a light pink Hydrangea paniculata 'Phantom' is best known for its stunning displays of large unique flowers that emerge white and fade to a light pink later in the season. This plant will grow well in most soil conditions providing the soil is fertile and does not tend to dry out easily as Hydrangea does not like dry conditions. It will also need a partial shade spot with some protection from strong winds as it can be damaged easily by wind. 

Hydrangea paniculata Pink Diamond

Interhydia Hydrangea

Common Name: Interhydia HydrangeaLatin Name: Hydrangea paniculata 'Pink Diamond'Soil: well-drained soilPosition: Full sun or partial shadeFlowering period/colour: August to September/ White-pinkHardiness: Fully hardyEventual height/spread: 2.5m/2.5mSpecial features: Panicles of creamy white flowers that mature to vivid pink with age.The 'Pink Diamond' is a shrub which gives great floral interest from summer through to autumn. The small white flowers are held in conical panicles: the flowers are pure white when young and develop a rich pink blush as they age. The leaves are bright green with serrated edges and they come from pink shoots. This is the perfect choice for planting in a flower bed or border and the pretty flowers are also popular for flower arranging.

Hydrangea paniculata Silver Dollar

Hydrangea

Common Name: HydrangeaLatin Name: Hydrangea paniculata 'Silver Dollar'Soil: Well-drained soilPosition: Full sun or partial shadeFlowering period/colour: July to September/white to light pinkHardiness: Fully hardyEventual height/spread: 1.5m x 1.5mSpecial features: Large flowerheads of tiny flowers that emerge white, then fade to a light pink Hydrangea paniculata 'Silver Dollar' is best known for its stunning displays of large unique flowers that emerge creamy-white and fade to a light pink later in the year. The serrated leaves are mid-dark green and make an attractive foil for the flowers. We love this hydrangea in a mixed shrub border, especially alongside a contrasting hydrangea like the ‘Vanille Fraise’. It is also more compact than other varieties, making it an excellent choice for planting in a pot on a sunny patio. 

Hydrangea paniculata Sundae fraise

Hydrangea

Common Name: HydrangeaLatin Name: Hydrangea paniculata 'Sundae fraise'Soil: Well-drained soilPosition: Full sun or partial shadeFlowering period/colour: July to October/Green and white to pinkHardiness: Fully hardyEventual height/spread: 2m x 2mSpecial features: Large flowerheads of tiny flowers that emerge green and white, then turn pink. Hydrangea paniculata 'Sunday fraise' is a more compact version of the commonly known Vanilla fraise variant, and is the perfect addition to any small garden and can also be grown in a pot.

Hydrangea paniculata ‘Wims Red’

Hydrangea

Common Name: Hydrangea ‘Wims Red’ Latin Name: Hydrangea paniculata 'Wims Red’Soil: Well-drained soilPosition: Full sun or partial shadeFlowering period/colour: June- October/ wine red Hardiness: Fully hardyEventual height/spread: 3m x 2mSpecial features: Large flowerheads of tiny flowers that emerge white, then intensify to a deep red.This hydrangea is a striking shrub that offers changing interest throughout the year. The flowers are the most notable feature as they emerge a blushed white, mature to a soft pink over summer and eventually intensity to a strong, wine red. The clusters of flowers can be around 30cm long and have a honey-like scent - perfect for a sensory space and for attracting wildlife. The red-tinted stems hold soft green leaves that are finely toothed. This is a handsome shrub that works well towards the back of a border.

Koelreuteria paniculata

Golden Rain Tree

Common Name: Golden Rain Tree or Pride of IndiaLatin Name: Koelreuteria paniculataSoil: Fertile, well-drained soilPosition: Full sunHardiness: HardyEventual height/spread: 10m/10mSpecial features: Elegant bright yellow flowers followed by bladder-like seed pods.Koelreuteria paniculata is a small to medium-sized, deciduous tree with an upright, rounded habit. Its large pinnate leaves emerge in spring flushed with red, fade to mid green in summer, later turning red and yellow in the autumn. The elegant bright yellow flowers are borne in mid to late summer and are followed in late autumn by bladder-like seed pods. This tree if often known as 'Pride of India ' which is a little strange as it is actually originates from China.

Koelreuteria Rosseels

Golden Rain Tree

Common Name: Golden Rain Tree Latin Name: Koelreuteria paniculata ‘Rosseels’Soil: Fertile, well-drained soilPosition: Full sunHardiness: HardyEventual height/spread: 6m/4mSpecial features: Golden yellow summer flowers followed by lantern-like seed pods  The buttery yellow flowers of this Golden Rain Tree are delightful and they appear in July and August all over the tree. After the flowers come the highly unusual seed pods and these are lantern-shaped and have a bronzed red and green colouring to them – they actually look like small chillies hanging from the top of the tree. The leaves are mid-green in colour and they make the perfect foil for the pretty flowers and the seed pods. This is a highly unusual and desirable tree which will make a great garden specimen.

Laburnocytisus Adamii

Adam's Laburnum Tree

Common Name: Adam's Laburnum TreeLatin Name: Laburnocytisus AdamiiSoil: Will tolerate most soils.Position: Full sunFlowering period/colour: Spring/ Gold, purple and pink flowersHardiness: Fully hardyHeight and spread in 20 years: 5m/2.5mSpecial features: A range of flowering colours, often appearing on the tree at the same time. The Adamii is a delightfully compact Laburnum tree that boasts the most unusual flowering display. In spring, fragrant pea-like flowers appear on the tree and it is common to get both golden yellow and deep purple flowers on the tree at the same time. Sometimes, a mix of the two colours appears on the tree which results in a coppery pink coloured flower. This unusual trait comes from the two parents of this tree, one of which is a Laburnum (yellow flowers) and the other is a purple broom. The leaves are more Laburnum-like than that of a broom, so they are dark green and hold their colour in spring and summer. This is the perfect tree for a smaller garden, but you should be aware that all parts of this tree are toxic to humans and animals when ingested - this applies to the seed pods in particular.

Laburnum Vossii

Voss's Laburnum Tree

Common Name: Voss's Laburnum Tree Latin Name: Laburnum x watereri 'Vossii' Soil: Will tolerate most soils. Position: Full sun to part shade.  Flowering period/colour: May/June Hardiness: Fully hardy. Height and spread in 20 years: 4-8m/4-8m. Special features: Attractive yellow flowers which hang in clusters, like bunches of grapes. Light green circular leaves, which are particularly attractive when strong sunlight filters through them. Laburnum x watereri 'Vossii' is an ornamental tree with an attractive form and vibrant yellow flowers in early summer. The flowers are similar to those of Wisteria, hanging in great bunches like grapes. They are bright lemon yellow and are followed by long seed pods. The tree has an attractive, neat form and requires no pruning, so it is a great addition to a low maintenance garden. It is hardy, and can tolerate a wide range of soil types and situations. This is a relatively small tree so can be a handsome and low maintenance specimen tree in a small garden. This plant generally grows as a tree, but can also be pruned to form a hedge or to be trained over an arch. The seeds are attractive to children as the pods resemble pea pods. However, the seeds are highly poisonous (as are all other parts of the tree), so it is better not to plant Laburnum where young children will be playing unsupervised.

Liquidambar acalycina

Chinese Sweet Gum Tree

Common Name: Chinese Sweet Gum TreeLatin Name: Liquidambar acalycinaSoil: Moist, well-drained, acidic to neutral soil. Dislikes shallow chalky soils.Position: Full sunHardiness: Fully hardyEventual height/spread: 12m/8mSpecial features: Attractive bronze-purple, star-shaped leaves emerge in spring.Liquidambar acalycina is a broadly conical, deciduous tree native to Eastern Asia. Attractive bronze-purple, star-shaped leaves emerge in spring and darken to green as they age in summer. The foliage then turns to yellow in autumn and is usually retained until well into winter. Plant in full sun to produce best autumn colours.

Liquidambar styraciflua

Sweet Gum Tree

Common Name: Sweet Gum TreeLatin Name: Liquidambar styracifluaSoil: moist, well-drained, acidic to neutral soil.Position: Full sunFlowering period/colour: May/ Inconspicuous yellow flowersHardiness: Fully hardyHeight and spread in 20 years: 10m/6mSpecial features: One of the best trees for autumn colour Glossy star-like, mid-green summer foliage turns the most stunning range of reds, scarlets, purples and yellows in autumn. The rounded, heavy crown and beautiful leaves make this a fantastic tree for planting as a specimen in grass. Trees grown in a rich, damp soil in full sun will colour the best.

Liriodendron Fastigiata

Upright Tulip Tree

Common Name: Upright Tulip Tree Latin Name: Liriodendron tulipifera ‘Fastigiata’ Soil: Moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soil Position: Full sun Flowering period/colour: June /Yellow-green tulip like flowers. (On mature trees) Hardiness: Fully hardy Height and spread in 20 years: 10m/4m Special features: A neat columnar form and beautiful summer flowers when mature   This tree is an upright form of the highly popular Liriodendron Tulipifera and it maintains a near and slender habit as it matures. The large green leaves have a glossy shine to them and they produce a fantastic yellow colour in autumn before falling. The leaves are highly distinguishable from any other leaf shape, as the apex is absent on the tip of the leaves, so instead of pointing outwards at the tip of the leaf is actually points inwards. The flowers are also very special; they appear when the tree is mature, which can take about 20 years, but when they do arrive they are very special indeed. The flowers are tulip-shaped and yellow-green in colour, with bands of orange and red on the external petals. This is a highly ornamental garden tree which looks great when planted as a lawn specimen, so that its unique foliage and flowers can be appreciated.

Magnolia Alba Superba

Magnolia Tree

Common Name: Magnolia TreeLatin Name: Magnolia x soulangeana 'Alba Superba'Soil: Moist, well-drained, acidic soilPosition: Full sun or partial shadeFlowering period/colour: WhiteHardiness: Fully hardyEventual height/spread: 6m/4mSpecial features: Extremely hardy plant with fragrant white flowers borne in early spring.Magnolia x soulangeana 'Alba Superba' is an extremely hardy shrub or small tree with very fragrant, showy white flowers that are born in early-mid spring. The flowers are tulip-shaped and 3-6 inches across, they appear on bare branches which creates a stunning visual effect. The deciduous leaves are a luscious green colour and fall every autumn. This Magnolia is ideal for planting near a seated area in the garden to fully appreciate the fragrant flowers.

Magnolia Galaxy

Magnolia Tree

Common Name: Magnolia GalaxyLatin Name: Magnolia 'Galaxy'Soil: Moist but well-drainedPosition: Full sun or partial shadeHardiness: Fully hardyFlowering Period: SpringFlowering Colour: Purple/ RedHeight/Spread in 20 years: 8m/4mSpecial features: Purple-red tulip-shaped flowersThe 'Galaxy' is a US native which has become popular in the UK in recent years; it is a hybrid which was developed from Magnolia Liliiflora and Magnolia sprengeri Diva. This beautiful tree features a striking spring display of deep purple-red flowers which open on bare branches. The tulip-shaped flowers are later accompanied by dark green leaves, which hold their dark-green colour until they fall in autumn. The ‘Galaxy’ grows to be a fairly tall tree which develops a pyramidal shape as it matures. This is a great choice for planting in a space that is in need of some delicate floral beauty.