RHS Award of Garden Merit

Acacia bailyana Purpurea

Cootamundra Wattle Tree

Common Name: Cootamundra WattleLatin Name: Acacia bailyana 'Purpurea'Soil: Any free draining soil.Position: Full sunHardiness: Half hardy. May need protection in very cold winters.Flowering Period: Late winter into springFlowering Colour: Small, yellow, fluffy ballsEventual Height/Spread: 7m / 4mSpecial features: A striking evergreen with feathery purple foliage.The Acacia bailyana 'Purpurea' is an eye-catching Acacia which boasts purple-tinged foliage; the stems are also purple, sometimes with a red flush, and the feathery leaves later turn to a grey-green colour once they have further developed. The contrast of the old and new foliage makes this a highly attractive ornamental tree. The 'Cootamundra Wattle', as it is commonly called, also offers winter interest with buttery-yellow flowers that appear in late winter and last into spring; the fluffy flowers are spherical in shape and they sit nestled amongst the winter foliage. This is the perfect tree for a sunny spot in the garden and it looks beautiful next to its more verdant relative, the Acacia dealbata, particularly when planted alternately. This Australian native is half-hardy, so it will need some protection in exposed sites; an ideal situation would be to plant it in a sheltered spot against a south-facing wall for optimum protection.

Acacia dealbata

Mimosa Tree

Acacia dealbata provides a vibrant burst of sunshine during the winter months as its highly distinctive flowers appear in January. The flowers resemble small, fluffy spheres and they are golden yellow in colour; they are highly fragrant and their sweet scent can be a real treat for the senses over the winter months. In fact, the essence of the flowers, called ‘cassie’, is used in perfumes and fragrances around the world. Aside from human uses, bees and insects love the Mimosa flowers too, and it’s a valuable source of late winter fuel for the bees in particular. Aside from the floral interest, the foliage offers a healthy dose of year-round colour. The pinnate leaves are large with feathery leaflets: the foliage colour is a glaucous blue-green, but can sometimes be silvery green. The leaves make the perfect foil for the vibrant winter flowers. In terms of its habit, the Acacia dealbata will grow to have widely spaced branches and it will become a small-medium sized tree. This Australian native is half-hardy, so it will need some protection in exposed sites. An ideal situation would be to plant it in a sheltered spot against a south-facing wall for optimum protection. If you want a planting partner, we would recommend the Eucalyptus Gunnii as it also has glaucous blue foliage. Equally, the Cytisus Battandieri works really well due to its vivid floral summer display, as you get bright yellow flowers in winter from the Acacia and vibrant yellow flowers in summer from the Cytisus. Common Name: Mimosa or Silver WattleLatin Name: Acacia dealbataSoil: Any free draining soil.Position: Full sunHardiness: Half hardy. May need protection in very cold winters.Flowering Period: Late winter into springFlowering Colour: Small, yellow , fluffy ballsEventual Height/Spread: 8m (26ft) / 4m (14ft)Special features: An interesting small evergreen tree with small, yellow , fluffy balls

Acer capillipes

Snake

Common Name: Snake-bark MapleLatin Name: Acer capillipesSoil: Moist but well drained.Position: Fertile/Partial shade    Hardiness: Fully hardyFlowering period: SummerFlowering colour: YellowEventual height/spread after 20 years: 5m/4mThe Acer capillipes is a handsome tree which is known for its distinctive striated bark, which gave it the common name of ‘Snake bark’. Three-lobed, vivid green leaves appear in spring which later change into a fiery red-orange colour in autumn. Small yellow flowers also appear in spring, which then ripen into yellow and pink fruits in summer. The structure of this majestic tree is also noteworthy; the branches gently arch over as it matures and the tree itself has a lovely spreading habit.

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

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.

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.

Acer platanoides

Norway Maple Tree

Common Name: Norway Maple TreeLatin Name: Acer platanoidesSoil: Any good soil, including chalk soil.Hardiness: Very hardyEventual height/spread: 12m x 8mSpecial Features: Large, fast growing native tree with great autumn colour. The Acer platanoides is a fast growing tree with a spreading habit. It features large green glossy oval leaves whose lobes are tipped with fine points. Bright, small green-yellow flowers appear before the leaves in spring. The 'Norway Maple' is native to Europe and this deciduous tree has a height and spread in 20 years of 12m/8m.

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.

Acer Rufinerve

Snake

Common Name: Grey snake bark maple Latin Name: Acer Rufinerve Soil: Fertile, moist, well-drainedPosition: Partial shadeFlowering period/colour: April/ yellowHardiness: Fully hardyHeight/ spread in 20 years: 7m x 5mSpecial features: Distinctive snake bark and bold autumn colour In spring the three-lobed leaves of this handsome tree have a glaucous tint to them and they mature to a healthy, bright green by summer. Summer also sees the arrival of erect racemes of small yellow flowers and these turn to winged seed pods by autumn. In autumn this tree really puts on a show: the leaves turn to glowing shades of deep red and crisp yellow before falling. Even in winter this tree still has interest as the white-striped branches can be admired fully in a sleeping winter garden. This Acer will become a real feature of a medium-large sized garden and we love it as an ornamental specimen.

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.

Acer Trompenburg

Japanese Maple

Common Name: Japanese mapleLatin Name: Acer plamatum 'Trompenburg'Soil: Moist, well drained, fertile soilPosition: Full sun or partial Shade,Hardiness: Frost hardy down to -15°CEventual height/spread: 4m x 4mSpecial features: 7-9 lobed hand like leaves with brilliant autumn colours.The Acer palmatum 'Trompenburg' is a a deciduous tree with rounded, deep-cut leaves which are said to resemble a hand. The foliage emerges with a beautiful wine- red colour, which then develops to a mid-green come summer, before a final autumnal burst of orange and red. This Japanese maple is an ideal ornamental tree for a garden that has plenty of space so the tree can be left to thrive and spread.

Amelanchier Ballerina

Snowy Mespilus Tree

Amelanchier Ballerina, also known as Snowy Mespilus Tree, is a great feature in any garden due to its upright, compact growth habit. 

It has beautiful ovate leaves that are coppery-bronze when young, which fade to green before turning to brilliant shades of orange and red in the autumn.In early April, the Snowy Mespilus Tree graces your garden with large white flowers, which create a breathtaking spring-time scene. Later, deep red and purple berries appear, which are sure to attract plenty of birds and wildlife to your space.

Amelanchier Ballerina is resilient and hardy. It performs best in well drained soil and can tolerate pollution. We recommend positioning this tree in full sun or partial shade.After a 20 year growth period, Amelanchier grandiflora Ballerina will have an approximate height of 4 metres and a spread of about 3 metres. The compact growth habit and hardiness of Snowy Mespilus Tree make it an adaptable specimen that will work in gardens of any size. Enjoy the colourful displays of Amelanchier Ballerina year after year.Common Name: Snowy Mespilus TreeLatin Name: Amelanchier grandiflora 'Ballerina'Soil: Fertile, moist but well-drained soilPosition: Full sun or partial shadeFlowering period/ colour: March to April / whiteHardiness: Fully hardyHeight and spread in 20 years: 4m/3mSpecial features: Profusion of white flowers in spring. (Deciduous) Trustpilot

Betula albo

sinensis

Common Name: Chinese Paper BirchLatin Name: Betula albo-sinensisSoil: Any good garden soilPosition: Full sun or partial shadeFlowering period/colour: March/6cm long male catkinsHardiness: Fully hardyEventual height/spread: 12m/5mSpecial features: Medium sized tree with finely flaking pinkish-brown bark.Betula albo-sinensis is a pretty and graceful birch that has smooth peeling bark that carries attractive pinkish brown tones. The bark peels to reveal creamy young growth. The leaves are rather conical, with a lightly toothed edge, a bright and glossy yellow green, turning yellow in autumn.  Trustpilot

Betula albo

sinensis Kansu

Common Name: Chinese Red Birch Latin Name: Betula albo-sinensis 'Kansu'Soil: Any good garden soilPosition: Full sun or partial shadeFlowering period/colour: March/ Yellow- brown catkinsHardiness: Fully hardyHeight/spread in 20 years: 13m/ 11mSpecial features: Coppery pink and brown peeling bark This is an outstanding tree for winter interest; the attractive bark peels to reveal multiple layers of bark which show different colours simultaneously. On the same tree you will get coppery pink, burnt orange and russet brown. In spring yellow-brown catkins appear at the same time as the ovate, tapered, dark-green leaves. The leaves are lustrous and add a healthy splash of colour throughout spring and summer, before turning golden yellow in autumn and falling. This Chinese native makes a fantastic addition to a medium-large sized garden and it will become a good-sized tree; it makes a wonderful specimen but also works well when planted with other birch trees, particularly next to ones with accent colours like the Betula utilis 'Snow Queen'.

Betula albo

sinensis Pink Champagne

Common Name: Chinese Red BirchLatin Name: Betula albo-sinensis 'Pink Champagne'Soil: Any good garden soilPosition: Full sun or partial shadeFlowering period/colour: March/ 6cm long yellow-brown catkinsHardiness: Fully hardyHeight/spread in 20 years: 11m/ 7mSpecial features: Pale pink peeling barkThis is a majestic birch that will bring interest to your garden all year round. Birch trees are renowned for their ornamental bark and this one is no different: the ‘pink champagne’ coloured bark peels in sheets once the tree is established, which gives wonderful winter interest. The foliage is ovate in shape and dark green on the top, pale green underneath. The leaves turn to buttery yellow before falling in autumn. This is a majestic tree that has a spreading crown when mature, so do give it room to grow. Plant it as a specimen or, if you have room, in a trio with other contrasting birch trees like the Betula utiis var. 'Jacquemontii' and the Betula nigra.

Betula albo

sinensis septentrionalis

Common Name: Chinese Red Birch Latin Name: Betula albosinensis septentrionalisSoil: Any good garden soilPosition: Full sun or partial shadeFlowering period/colour: March/ Brown catkinsHardiness: Fully hardyHeight/spread in 20 years: 11m/ 7mSpecial features: Peeling bark that varies in colour.This birch is a fantastic choice for winter interest as the bark is eye-catching and distinctive; the top layer of bark is a rich, deep red-brown but as it peels in sheets a lighter coppery-pink shade is revealed. Aside from the ornamental bark, brown catkins appear in spring and these are closely followed by mid-green leaves. The leaves are much larger than most in the species as they can grow to 10cm in length and provide further interest in autumn when they turn golden yellow before falling. This birch will eventually have a pyramidal habit and it makes a fantastic specimen tree; if you've got the room then plant this alternately with a lighter birch, like the Betula utilis 'Snow Queen', so that you get contrasting bark in the winter months.

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.

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 Tristis

European White Birch Tree

Common Name: European white BirchLatin Name: Betula pendula 'Tristis'Soil: Any good garden soilPosition: Full sun or partial shadeFlowering period/colour: March/Yellowy-brown male catkinsHardiness: Fully hardyHeight and spread in 20 years: 6m x 2.5mSpecial features: Diamond-shaped, bright green leaves hang from graceful, pendant branchesBetula pendula 'Tristis' is a particularly beautiful tree which has uplifted branches, pendulous at their ends. The shape of the crown is narrow and symmetrical and there is a single leading shoot. The main bark is silver and the purple-brown twigs shine in the light. 

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.

Carpinus betulus Rockhampton Red

Hornbeam Tree

Common Name: HornbeamLatin Name: Carpinus betulus 'Rockingham Red'Soil: Any good garden soilPosition: Full sun or partial shadeHardiness: Fully hardyHeight and spread in 20 years: 6m/5mSpecial features: Outstanding autumn colour The 'Rockingham Red' is the perfect choice for outstanding and reliable autumn colour; the green summer leaves turn to blistering shades of orange and red in autumn. As with many hornbeam varieties, the majority of leaves do not fall; instead, in late November, the leaves crisp to a golden brown colour and they remain on the branches until spring. The attractive leaves are ovate in shape, toothed at the margins and ridged on their surface. This is a fantastic choice for a specimen tree, particularly because of its strong autumn colour.

Cotoneaster Cornubia

Cotoneaster Tree

Common Name: Cotoneaster TreeLatin Name: Cotoneaster x watereri 'Cornubia'Soil: Moderately fertile, well-drainedPosition: Full sun or partial shadeFlowering period/colour: Late spring to early summer/WhiteHardiness: Fully hardyHeight and spread in 20 years: 6m/5mSpecial features: Showy red berries in autumn.Cotoneaster Cornubia - a standout piece in any garden. With its cascading branches, versatile features, and year-round beauty, this could just be the addition that your outdoor space is yearning for.Thriving in well-drained soil and adaptable to both full sun and partial shade, Cotoneaster Cornubia is a hardy and resilient tree. In late spring to early summer, it showers your garden with an abundant display of white flowers, creating quite a scene!As the seasons progress, this tree transforms. In autumn, the Cotoneaster Tree grows vibrant red berries, adding a splash of colour to the changing landscape. Its evergreen foliage gives you a consistent and attractive backdrop, making it a standout feature in your garden, no matter the season.With a projected height of 6 metres and a spread of 5 metres in 20 years, Cotoneaster Cornubia is well-suited for many different garden sizes. Due to its versatility, it will work well as a standalone piece, in a row for a natural screen, or in mixed plantings. Cotoneaster Cornubia gives you visual appeal for you to enjoy throughout the year! 

Buy the Cotoneaster Tree and watch it deliver, season after season.

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 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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Magnolia Heaven Scent

Magnolia Tree

Common Name: Magnolia TreeLatin Name: Magnolia 'Heaven Scent'Soil: Prefers moist, clay soil and either neutral or acidicPosition: Full sunHardiness: Fully hardy, frost hardy down to -18°CFlowering period: Mid-late springFlowering colour: PinkEventual height/spread: 8m/6mSpecial features: Small-medium deciduous tree with fragrant pink flowers from mid spring.Magnolia 'Heaven scent' is a beautiful deciduous small-medium sized tree with flowers emerging mid to late spring. These vase shaped pink flowers, richly scented, have pale pink petals which are deep pink towards the base and have a distinct pink stripe on the back. This magnolia has an upright habit when young, but it does develop a spreading habit as it matures.

Magnolia Leonard Messel

Magnolia Tree

Common Name: Leonard Messel Magnolia TreeLatin Name: Magnolia x loebneri 'Leonard Messel'Soil: Reasonably fertile, humus-rich, acid to neutral soil is ideal.Position: Full sun or partial ShadeHardiness: Fully HardyFlowering period: SpringFlowering colour: Fragrant lilac pink with 12 petals.Eventual height/spread: 7m/5mSpecial features: A magnificent small tree with fragrant lilac pink flowers, deeper when in bud.Magnolia 'Leonard Messel' is a hybrid magnolia which will ultimately make a small spreading tree. Very attractive star-shaped flowers, soft lilac pink flushed with purple, bloom from bare branches in spring. The foliage is mid green in colour and the tree is deciduous. Unlike some others this plant will produce flowers on comparatively young plants. This Magnolia will thrive in heavy clay and tolerant of atmospheric pollution but may benefit from some protection from strong winds.

Malus Evereste

Crab Apple Tree

Common Name: Crab Apple TreeLatin Name: Malus 'Evereste'Soil: Fertile, well-drained soilPosition: Full sun or partial shadeFlowering period/colour: April to May/ Soft pink once opened.Hardiness: Fully hardyHeight and spread in 20 years: 5m/4mSpecial features: Yellow/orange-red fruits in autumn.The Malus 'Evereste', a stunning variety of Crab Apple Tree, is a delightful addition to any garden or landscape. With its abundant spring blossom, ornamental fruit, and vibrant autumn foliage, it adds beauty and colour to outdoor spaces throughout the year.Thriving in well-drained soil and adaptable to varying light conditions, the Malus 'Evereste' offers versatility and resilience. In spring, it displays a profusion of pink buds that open to reveal delicate white flowers, creating a breathtaking scene.As the seasons progress, the Malus 'Evereste' keeps things interesting. In summer, its foliage provides a lush backdrop, while in autumn, the leaves transition to shades of gold and bronze, offering a stunning display of seasonal colour.One of the standout features of this tree is its ornamental fruit. In late summer and early autumn, it bears clusters of small, red or orange fruit, which add a pop of colour and attract wildlife to the garden. With a projected height of 5 metres and a spread of 4 metres in 20 years, the Malus 'Evereste' is a compact and manageable tree, making it suitable for gardens of various sizes. 

You can plant it as a standalone specimen to showcase its spring blossom or use it in mixed planting schemes. Add a Malus ‘Evereste' to your space today and enjoy rich colours throughout the seasons.

Malus hupehensis

Chinese Crab Apple Tree

Common Name: Chinese Crab Apple, Hupeh Crab or Tea Crab Apple Latin Name: Malus hupehensis or Malus theifera or Pyrus malus theifera.Soil: Moist or well drained; acid, alkali or neutral soil. Position: Full sun to part shade. Flowering period/colour: Spring/White Hardiness: Fully hardy (to below -20°C).Height and spread in 10-20 years: 4-8m/4-8mSpecial features: Pink buds in spring, followed by white fragrant flowers. Red crab apple fruits 1cm width in autumn. RHS Award of Garden Merit. The Queen Elizabeth Maple is an attractive medium sized crab apple tree. It is a deciduous tree, dropping its leaves in autumn. In spring, pink buds appear and they open to fragrant white flowers, about 3cm across. The flowers give rise to crab apple fruits, about 1cm across, providing a pleasing display in the autumn months. This tree carries an RHS Award of Garden Merit, indicating that it is a reliable performer in the garden. This species is best suited to a medium sized garden, being a little too large for a compact space. However, it makes a striking statement in a space that will accommodate its form. For smaller gardens it is worth considering Malus x robusta 'Red Sentinel', Malus tschonoskii, and Malus x zumi 'Golden Hornet'.

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.

Malus Red Sentinel

Crab Apple Tree

Malus Red Sentinel is a broadly upright deciduous tree, which gardeners love for its ever-changing year round interest. The Crab Apple Red Sentinel jumps into gear in early spring. The bright green leaves emerge and remain green throughout summer before turning golden-yellow in autumn. Spring also brings a scatter of pretty pink-white flowers which cover the tree and contrast beautifully with the green leaves. In autumn the flowers are replaced by small, cherry-like fruits that have a glossy coating. The deep red colours give your garden a real autumnal feel and the fruit also attracts local wildlife. Plus, the ruby-red fruits last through much of winter, making the Malus Red Sentinel a true spectacle all year long. 

The Crab Apple Red Sentinel flourishes in well-drained, fertile soil and is adaptable to full sun or partial shade. It will reach a height of around 5 metres with a spread of about 4 metres over 20 years, making it a great addition to gardens large or small.

 What gardeners also love about the Red Sentinel is that it’s pollution tolerant.Grow a Malus Red Sentinel today and enjoy its year-round show of colour. Common Name: Crab Apple TreeLatin Name: Malus x robusta 'Red Sentinel'Soil: Fertile, well-drained soilPosition: Full sun or partial shadeFlowering period/colour: May / WhiteHardiness: Fully hardyHeight and spread in 20 years: 5m x 4mSpecial features: Large clusters of red fruits which persist all winter.

Malus transitoria

Crab Apple Tree

Common Name: Transitoria Crab Apple TreeLatin Name: Malus transitoriaSoil: Fertile, well-drained soilPosition: Full sun or partial shadeFlowering period/colour: April / Small white star shaped flowersHardiness: Fully hardyHeight and spread in 10 years: 4m x 3mSpecial features: Small white star shaped flowers followed by small yellow fruits.Malus transitoria is a slender and elegant tree with small and delicate, narrowly lobed leaves. Small white star shaped flowers appear as a white cloud in April. The abundant fruits are bright yellow and persist well after then yellow-gold tinted foliage has fallen.

Parrotia persica

Persian Ironwood Tree

Common Name: Persian IronwoodLatin Name: Parrotia persicaSoil: Any fertile, moist but well drained soilPosition: Full sun or partial shadeHardiness: Fully hardyFlowering period: Spring & WinterFlowering colour: RedEventual height/spread after 20 years: 8m/10mOne of the best features of the Parrotia persica is the unique grey flaking bark, which sheds more with age. It often has multiple stems which hold long, ovate green leaves. The leaves of this deciduous tree transform in stages throughout the autumn months; first vivid yellow, then burning orange, and finally to an intense red. In late winter, insignificant red flowers bring life to the stark branches, the flowers are followed in spring by the newly emerging leaves. The Persian ironwood tree has a wide spreading habit and is therefore suitable for a larger garden, particularly as a border tree. For the best autumn leaf colour, grow this tree in acid soil.

Photinia Red Robin

Red Robin Tree

Photinia fraseri 'Red Robin' offers year round interest with its vivid red leaves. In spring it has further interest with clusters of white flowers. A fantastic screening tree, hedge or ornamental specimen. If you want unusual foliage, the 'Red Robin' is the perfect choice. The elliptic leaves are finely serrated at their margins and fresh foliage shoots through as a brilliant red colour. The leaves mature to a dark green, but as new foliage continues to emerge red you get a real contrast of colours over the spring period. Mid-spring also sees the arrival of clusters of pretty white flowers, which add further interest. Come autumn, the leaves mature to a bronzed green, which adds great interest over the winter months.   This is a deservedly popular variety and it is largely planted for its versatility. You can plant the 'Red Robin' at the back of a border or you can use it as a screening tree. It can cope with hard pruning, so, when several are planted in a row, you get an informal hedge. You can also clip the 'Red Robin' into a particular shape. In order to get the best leaf colour and the most flowers, ensure you plant this tree in a full sun position with some shelter. Common Name: Red Robin TreeLatin Name: Photinia x fraseri 'Red Robin'Soil: Fertile well-drained soilPosition: Full sun, Sheltered positionHardiness: Hardy, frost hardy down to -8°CFlowering Period: Mid springFlowering Colour: White flowersEventual Height/Spread: 4m x 4mSpecial features: Evergreen tree with glossy bright red young growth and white flowers in spring.

Prunus avium

Wild Cherry Tree

Common Name: Wild Cherry TreeLatin Name: Prunus aviumSoil: Tolerates most soil typesPosition: Full sunFlowering period/colour: April to May/WhiteHardiness: Fully hardyEventual height/spread: 15m/12mSpecial features: Beautiful native treeAn attractive and vigorous tree is one of the most attractive native woodland trees in Britain. It features single white flowers which appear in April and May, followed by glossy cherries which are ideal food for the birds.  The tree has grey bark which turns to mahogany shades as the tree ages and begins to peel. The tree is strong growing and healthy with a conical shape in its youth, more spreading and irregular with age. With this being a wild and native tree it looks good in naturalistic mixed planting as one might expect, yet it is versatile enough for avenue planting.

Prunus avium Plena

Wild Cherry Tree

Common Name: Wild Cherry TreeLatin Name: Prunus avium 'Plena'Soil: Tolerates most soil typesPosition: Full sunFlowering period/colour: April/WhiteHardiness: Fully hardyEventual height/spread: 12m x 12mSpecial features: small reddish fruit.Masses of long-lasting, double white blossom appear in mid-spring with the new leaves, followed by small reddish fruit. Dark green leaves turn rich, vibrant red in autumn. Pyramid shape becoming rounded with age makes it an ideal plant for a woodland garden or as an avenue tree.

Prunus Kanzan

Flowering Cherry Tree

Prunus 'Kanzan' is a truly beautiful flowering cherry tree, which offers an array of interest throughout the year. In spring, bronzed leaves emerge and the iridescent sheen of the leaves glimmers in the early spring sunshine. Alongside the bronzed leaves, crimson flower buds appear: as the flowers open, they reveal deep pink, double flowers. The flowers appear in abundance and hang from their long stalks pendulously. By summer, the leaves have matured to a rich green colour and they later turn to autumnal orange shades, before falling. The tree itself is vase-shaped when young, but it later matures to have a spreading habit. The 'Kanzan' is deservedly one of the most popular Japanese flowering cherry trees: its versatility and size allow it to be planted in a range of situations. Japanese cherry trees thrive in a sunny spot and they prefer moist, fertile and deep soil. Avoid shallow and chalky soil for the best results. You can plant the ‘Kanzan’ as an ornamental specimen and it works equally well as an avenue tree. This tree looks beautiful alongside the prunus ‘Royal Burgundy’, where the rich green leaves of the ‘Kanzan’ contrast beautifully with the deep purple leaves of the ‘Royal Burgundy’. The ‘Kanzan’ is a delightful tree, which will become a real feature of your garden. Common Name: Flowering Cherry TreeLatin Name: Prunus 'Kanzan'Soil: Tolerates most soil typesPosition: Full sunFlowering period/colour: March to April /Rich PinkHardiness: Fully hardyHeight/spread in 20 years: 6m x 4mSpecial features: Good autumn foliage colour. Trustpilot

Prunus Nigra

Black Leaved Plum

The Prunus 'Nigra', which is commonly known as the black leaves plum tree, is an outstanding flowering tree. In March, before the leaves appear, the bare branches become wreathed with bowl-shaped pink flowers which cover the tree is a delightful pink cloud. The idyllic flowers are later followed by dark purple leaves which really stand out amongst green trees. The rich purple leaves are complimented by the deep purple stems which look even more appealing during winter when the leaves have fallen. The 'Nigra' will form a rounded tree and it makes the most beautiful lawn specimen. Common Name: Black Leaved PlumLatin Name: Prunus cerasifera 'Nigra'Soil: Tolerates most soil typesPosition: Full sunFlowering period/colour: March to April/PinkHardiness: Fully hardyEventual height/spread: 10m/10mSpecial features: One of the best purple leaved trees available

Prunus padus

Bird Cherry Tree

Common Name: Bird Cherry Tree Latin Name: Prunus Padus Soil: Tolerates most soil types Position: Full sun Flowering period/colour: April to May/Creamy white flowers Hardiness: Fully hardy Eventual height/spread: 12m x 6m Special features: Almond-scented white flowers This delightful garden tree is the perfect choice for planting as a specimen in a sensory garden. The creamy white flowers are held on long, slender racemes and they have the most wonderful almond scent. The ovate green leaves are slightly tooted and these turn to a crisp yellow in autumn. Small, black and bitter fruits appear in autumn and these usually last until the birds eat them: an interesting fact is that the berries were formally used to colour wine.