Spring

Prunus litigiosa

Tassel Cherry Tree

Common Name: Tassel Cherry TreeLatin Name: Prunus litigiosaSoil: Any well drainedPosition: Full sun/partial shadeHardiness: Fully HardyFlowering Period: AprilFlowering Colour: Pale pink-whiteHeight/Spread after 20 years: 5m x 3m The Prunus litigiosa is a uniquely beautiful variety of the flowering cherry trees. This tree has an upright habit and a somewhat conical shape, clusters of drooping pink-white flowers cover the tree in April. The juxtaposition of the upward growing branches and downward facing flowers creates a very distinctive tree. The anthers of the flowers are also unusual as they protrude beyond the petals, thus resembling tassels; this has given the tree the common name of 'Tassel Cherry'.

Prunus Maackii

Manchurian Cherry Tree

Common Name: Manchurian Cherry TreeLatin Name: Prunus 'Maackii'Soil: Tolerates most soil typesPosition: Full sunFlowering period/colour: May/ White Hardiness: Fully hardyHeight/spread in 20 years: 6m x 4mSpecial features: Highly attractive cinnamon coloured peeling bark and white flowers The 'Maackii' is a true rival for the highly popular ‘Tibetica’ as it features glowing cinnamon-coloured bark that peels away as the tree matures. The bark is highly recognisable due to its glossy bronzed coating, and as the tree matures the bark becomes fissured and rugged. The flowers are also of great interest and these arrive in spring; the small white flowers are sweetly scented and open in racemes all over the tree in May. The leaves are of the typical prunus shape, with a vivid green colour and slightly serrated edges. The ornamental bark of this tree makes it the perfect choice for winter interest; a great all-rounder.

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 Okame

Flowering Cherry Tree

Common Name: Flowering Cherry TreeLatin Name: Prunus 'Okame'Soil: Tolerates most soil typesPosition: Full sunFlowering period/colour: March to early April/Dainty carmine pink flowersHardiness: Fully hardyHeight/spread in 20 years: 4m x 4mSpecial features: Dainty carmine pink flowers. (Deciduous)Prunus 'Okame' is a lovely, small, bushy tree bearing masses of dainty carmine pink flowers through March and early April. Green summer foliage turns rich yellow and red during autumn. This tree makes a superb lawn specimen for small gardens due to its small eventual height and neat growing habit.

Prunus Okame Harlequin

Flowering Cherry Tree

Common Name: Flowering Cherry TreeLatin Name: Prunus 'Okame Harlequin'Soil: Tolerates most soil typesPosition: Full sun or partial shadeFlowering period/colour: March/Dark pink flowersHardiness: Fully hardyHeight/spread in 10 years: 3m x 2.5mSpecial features: Unusual white variegated leaves. (Deciduous) Prunus 'Okame Harlequin' is a very unusual and stunning form of Prunus 'Okame' with dramatic summer white variegated leaves. The profuse display of dark pink flowers appear in March. This makes a good specimen tree for smaller gardens. It is recommended to prune back the branches hard after flowering and the resulting new vigorous summer growth will be more spectacular.

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.

Prunus padus Watereri

Bird Cherry Tree

Common Name: Bird Cherry TreeLatin Name: Prunus Padus 'Watereri'Soil: Tolerates most soil typesPosition: Full sunFlowering period/colour: April to May/Creamy white flowersHardiness: Fully hardyEventual height/spread: 12m x 6mSpecial features: Yellow autumnal tints.A very striking tree when in full bloom, with its long, slender racemes of fragrant creamy white flowers in late April and May. The racemes are horizontal or pendulous, and can be as much as 20cm in length. It is a strong and tall tree, and makes an imposing specimen in the garden. This is a superb tree for an avenue, or for planting in groups in large scale landscape planting

Prunus Pandora

Flowering Cherry Tree

Common Name: Flowering Cherry TreeLatin Name: Prunus 'Pandora'Soil: Tolerates most soil typesPosition: Full sunFlowering period/colour: March/shell-pinkHardiness: Fully hardyHeight/spread in 20 years: 5m x 3mSpecial features: Foliage turns a vibrant orange in the autumn.A narrow, rather upright tree that forms a compact fan shape. It flowers early and produces an abundance of single, pale pink blossom during March and April. The flowers come from red buds and fade to white tones as they mature. The leaves emerge as a coppery red colour and mature to deep green by summer. This tree is useful for a small garden, particularly in spring when it bursts to life.

Prunus Pendula Rubra

Weeping Spring Cherry Tree

Common Name: Weeping Spring Cherry TreeLatin Name: Prunus x subhirtella 'Pendula Rubra'Soil: Tolerates most soil typesPosition: Full sunFlowering period/colour: March to April / Deep rose flowersHardiness: Fully hardyHeight/spread in 20 years: 3m x 3mSpecial features: A beautiful, small weeping cherry tree with masses of deep pink flowers.Prunus 'Pendula Rubra' is a small weeping cherry tree bearing dainty, single deep-rose pink flowers that wreathe the long pendulous branches in early spring before the leaves emerge. The pretty leaves are mid-green until autumn, when they fade to deep shades of orange and red. This tree is ideal for small gardens or courtyards where space is limited.

Prunus Pink Parasol

Japanese Flowering Cherry Tree

Common Name: Japanese Flowering Cherry TreeLatin Name: Prunus 'Pink Parasol' (aka Prunus 'Hanagasa')Soil: Tolerates most soil typesPosition: Full sunFlowering period/colour: Late April/ Large pale pink flowers.Hardiness: Fully hardyHeight/spread in 10 years: 4m/4mSpecial features: One of the most beautiful of all the Japanese flowering cherry trees. (Deciduous)Prunus 'Pink Parasol' is one of the most beautiful and distinctive of all the Japanese flowering cherries with its graceful spreading habit. The branches become covered in long stemmed, large, pale-pink flowers, packed with petals which surround their green centres. This flowering cherry was first introduced to the UK from Japan in 1993.

Prunus Pink Perfection

Flowering Cherry Tree

Common Name: Flowering Cherry TreeLatin Name: Prunus 'Pink Perfection'Soil: Tolerates most soil typesPosition: Full sunFlowering period/colour: April to May/Double-pinkHardiness: Fully hardyHeight/spread in 20 years: 5m x 3mSpecial features: foliage is bronze green colourThe Prunus 'Pink Perfection’, a stunning variety of Flowering Cherry Tree, is a true spectacle in any garden or landscape. 

With its profuse spring blossom, stunning pink flowers, and compact growth habit, it’s the perfect addition to any gardener’s dream space.Thriving in most soil types and full sun, the Prunus 'Pink Perfection’ is a versatile and resilient tree. 

In spring, it shows striking pink flowers, which give your garden that added seasonal charm. The delicate flowers come from rounded red buds and they hang in drooping clusters.As the year progresses, the Prunus 'Pink Perfection’ transitions too. In summer, its green foliage gives a solid contrasting backdrop, while in autumn, the leaves move to shades of gold and bronze. With a projected height of 5 metres and a spread of 3 metres over 20 years, this Flowering Cherry Tree can be a substantial presence in any garden. 

Feel free to plant it as a standalone feature in your space, or use it in mixed planting schemes for added visual interest. The Prunus ‘Pink Perfection’ will be a cherished part of your garden for years to come.

Prunus Royal Burgundy

Flowering Cherry Tree

The 'Royal Burgundy' features showy shell-pink flowers that contrast beautifully with the wine-red leaves. A great choice for autumn colour and an ideal candidate for the smaller garden. Prunus 'Royal Burgundy' is a slightly less vigorous, purple-leaved version of the extremely popular Prunus 'Kanzan'. In spring, as fresh foliage emerges, candyfloss-pink, double flowers burst to life and hang in pendant clusters all over the tree. The exuberant flowers are truly eye-catching and they will add a delightful splash of colour to any spring garden. Spring also sees the arrival of the deep and rich wine-red leaves, which contrast beautifully with the pale pink flowers. The leaves initially hold a bronzed tint, but they soon mature to the bold red colour and hold that colour throughout summer. The ovate leaves are slightly serrated at their edges and are fairly large in size, making this a real statement tree.  The foliage retains its vivid colour over summer, but it produces a final burst of life in autumn when the leaves turn to blistering shades of scarlet before falling. This tree makes the perfect ornamental lawn specimen and it eventually grows to have an upright-spreading habit, resembling a vase’s shape. Due to its fairly compact eventual size, this is ideal for a sunny spot in a small garden. The ‘Royal Burgundy’ works well alongside the ‘Kanzan’ as the two trees both feature the showy spring flowers, but their contrasting leaf colour really stands out. Common Name: Flowering Cherry TreeLatin Name: Prunus 'Royal Burgundy'Soil: Tolerates most soil typesPosition: Full sunFlowering period/colour: April/Double shell pink flowersHardiness: Fully hardyHeight/spread in 20 years: 4m x 3mSpecial features: Deep purple foliage all summer.

Prunus sargentii

Flowering Cherry Tree

Common Name: Sargent's Cherry TreeLatin Name: Prunus sargentiiSoil: Tolerates most soil typesPosition: Full sunFlowering period/colour: Spring/Single bowl-shaped, pale pink flowers.Hardiness: Fully hardHeight/spread in 20 years: 5m x 4mSpecial features: Brilliant orange and red foliage in early autumn (Deciduous)Prunus sargentii is a beautiful flowering cherry tree which features chestnut brown bark and single, pale pink flowers in mid spring. The young foliage is bronze-red which really complients the pretty pink blossom. By summer, the leaves are mid-green and come autumn they fade to a crisp yellow and burnt orange. The tree has a spreading habit and a fairly rounded crown.

Prunus Schubert

Chokecherry Tree

Common Name: Choke Cherry TreeLatin Name: Prunus virginiana 'Schubert'Soil: Tolerates most soil typesPosition: Full sunFlowering period/colour: April to May/light pink flowersHardiness: Fully hardyEventual height/spread: 8m x 6mSpecial features: Young green foliage quickly changes to deep reddish-purple.Prunus virginiana 'Schubert' is a medium sized tree with with a conical habit. The Young green leaves quickly change to a deep reddish-purple colour. Light pink flowers in spring are later followed by short-lived dark red-purple fruit. 'Schubert' has a pyramidal habit and makes a fantastic specimen tree. An ideal choice for adding a splash of colour to your garden.

Prunus serrula Tibetica

Birch Bark Cherry Tree

Prunus serrula 'Tibetica', or Birch Bark Cherry as it is commonly known, is a tree that is prized for its ornamental red-brown bark. This tree also boasts willow-like leaves and small, cherry-like fruits. This really is a fantastic tree for year-round interest, as the deep mahogany-coloured bark glistens throughout all seasons. The bark, which peels away in bands with age, makes a really attractive feature in winter as the deep coppery-brown colour stands out in a sleeping winter garden. This is, of course, a flowering cherry tree, so it does have a blossom is spring: the flowers are small, white in colour and are present in April. The bark is by far the most notable feature of this tree, so this is not the choice if you’re after a profusely flowering tree. The deep green leaves are willow-like and cover the tree in spring, summer, before turning yellow in autumn. Autumn also sees the arrival of the small, cherry-like fruits, which are a great natural bird feeder.   This handsome tree was the worthy winner of the RHS' Award of Garden Merit (AGM) in 2002, but it was first introduced to the UK back in 1908 by Ernest Wilson. Wilson brought the Tibetan cherry tree over from China and it has been a popular choice since its arrival. This tree needs a sunny spot in the garden for it to really thrive. We would strongly recommend planting it alongside the stunning Betula ‘Snow Queen’, so that the glistening white bark of the ‘Snow Queen’ can contrast beautifully with the deep mahogany sheen of the ‘Tibetica’. This tree also works well when planted as a lawn specimen and, to really set it off in winter, you could add lights to the tree and enjoy the glossy bark being highlighted by the twinkle of the lights. Common Name: Birch Bark Cherry TreeLatin Name: Prunus serrula 'Tibetica'Soil: Tolerates most soil typesPosition: Full sunFlowering period/colour: May/WhiteHardiness: Fully hardyHeight/spread in 20 years: 5m x 4mSpecial features: Beautiful polished mahogany-like bark.

Prunus Shidare Yoshino

Weeping Yoshino Cherry Tree

Common Name: Weeping Yoshino Cherry TreeLatin Name: Prunus x yedoensis 'Shidare Yoshino'Soil: Tolerates most soil typesPosition: Full sunFlowering period/colour: Late March/Single WhiteHardiness: Fully hardyEventual height/spread in 20 years: 4m/3mSpecial features: Steeply pendant branches weeping all the way to the ground.The ‘Shidare Yoshino’ is a fantastic choice for the smaller garden, or for planting in a container on a sunny patio. The flowers of this tree smother the descending branches; they are single white flowers which produce a wonderful almond scent. The leaves emerge bronze and move on to dark green, they then produce a final burst of red and yellow before falling. This tree also produces dark red fruits in the autumn which last well into winter- the fruits are very popular with the birds and are therefore great for attracting wildlife to your garden.

Prunus Shirofugen

Flowering Cherry Tree

Common Name: Flowering Cherry TreeLatin Name: Prunus 'Shirofugen'Soil: Tolerates most soil typesPosition: Full sunFlowering period/colour: April to May/WhiteHardiness: Fully hardyHeight/spread in 20 years: 7m x 7mSpecial features: Flowers change colour as the season goes on.Prunus 'Shirofugen' is a late-flowering cherry, often the last to bloom, occasionally lasting into early June. Double white flowers open from pink buds and become purplish-pink as they fade. The young leaves are copper coloured, becoming green with age and turning orange-red in autumn. A great choice for medium sized gardens, this attractive flowering cherry has a spreading habit and an 'umbrella-like' crown.

Prunus Shirotae

Flowering Cherry Tree

Common Name: Flowering Cherry TreeLatin Name: Prunus 'Shirotae' (aka Prunus 'Mount Fuji')Soil: Tolerates most soil typesPosition: Full sunFlowering period/colour: April to May/Semi-double snowy white flowersHardiness: Fully hardyHeight/spread in 20 years: 3.5m x 5mSpecial features: Fragrant flowers in mid-springLight green new foliage darkens as it matures before turning fiery shades of orange and red in autumn. This tree has slightly curved branches that are shrouded with cup-shaped, scented white flowers in mid-spring. This tree has a uniquely beautiful shape as its spreading branches reach out to form an almost 'flat topped' crown. The 'Shirotae' is a good tree for a small to medium sized garden and will become a real focal feature of your garden.

Prunus Shogetsu

Blushing Bride Flowering Cherry Tree

Common Name: Blushing Bride Flowering Cherry TreeLatin Name: Prunus 'Shogetsu' (Prunus 'Longpipes')Soil: Tolerates most soil typesPosition: Full sunFlowering period/colour: April to May/Pink in bud, pure white flowerHardiness: Fully hardyEventual Height/spread: 4m x 6mSpecial features: Semi-double flowers, pink tinged in bud, later opening pure white.Prunus Shogetsu, the Blushing Bride Flowering Cherry Tree, is a spectacle in any garden space. This captivating specimen is best known for its late spring display - abundant soft pink blossoms that vibrantly light up landscapes.The Blushing Bride Flowering Cherry boasts a graceful weeping habit, adding charm to your garden. Its small, dark green leaves provide a subtle backdrop to the profusion of blossoms, creating a balanced contrast.Thriving in well-drained soil under full sun, Prunus Shogetsu is a hardy tree that shows beauty throughout the seasons. With a projected height of 4 metres and a spread of 6 metres in 20 years, it’s a perfect choice for gardens of many different sizes.Whether planted as a standalone spectacle to steal the spotlight or integrated into a mixed planting project, the Blushing Bride Flowering Cherry Tree adds texture and charm to any garden. Prunus Shogetsu promises not just a seasonal display, but a year-round source of colour. 

Add one to your garden today and enjoy its soft pink hues for years to come.

Prunus Snow Goose

Flowering Cherry Tree

Prunus 'Snow Goose’ is a great feature in any garden due to its small, narrow size and upright growth habit.

 During the flowering season, this Flowering Cherry Tree floods your garden with its profuse white blossoms. The large, soft single white flowers appear in early April, giving your space that alluring spring-time tint. The bright green summer leaves slowly transition to autumnal hues as the seasons progress. Think fiery reds and bold bronze colours. 

 This Flowering Cherry Tree has a height of around 4 metres and a spread of about 2.5 metres over a 10 year period. Its compact size makes it suitable for various garden sizes, while its deciduous nature allows for seasonal changes and interest. 

 With Prunus Snow Goose, you get lots of the vibrant benefits of other Prunus trees, without the need for a large area. Small space, big impact! 

Versatile and adaptable, it will tolerate most soil types. However, it will perform best when positioned in full sun. Enjoy the Prunus Snow Goose season after season. Common Name: Flowering Cherry TreeLatin Name: Prunus 'Snow Goose'Soil: Tolerates most soil typesPosition: Full sunFlowering period/colour: Early April/Large single white flowersHardiness: Fully hardyHeight/spread in 10 years: 4m x 2.5mSpecial features: A narrow, upright tree with large white flowers.

Prunus Snow Showers

Weeping Cherry Tree

Common Name: Weeping Cherry TreeLatin Name: Prunus incise 'Snow Showers'Soil: Tolerates most soil typesPosition: Full sunFlowering period/colour: March /Pure WhiteHardiness: Fully hardyHeight/spread in 10 years: 2.5m/2mSpecial features: A small narrow weeping cherry which gives a cascade of pure white blossom. Prunus 'Snow Showers' is a compact weeping tree, which is perfect for restricted spaces. It boasts luscious green leaves, delicate white flower and a strong autumn colour. In spring, when the flowers arrive, the ‘Snow Showers’ is a sight to behold: the pendulous branches are awash with the most beautiful display of pure white flowers. The weeping branches cascade downwards and are covered in the single, pure-white flowers. The flowers are popular with the first of the spring bees and the flowers have a light and fresh scent. The spring leaves appear with the last of the flowers and the mid-green leaves are ovate and serrated. The leaves really come to life in autumn when they produce a final burst of colour: they turn to scorching shades of deep reds and oranges before falling. The weeping frame adds interest in winter and it looks particularly beautiful when topped with snow. This is a great choice for wreathing with lights during the Christmas period as the pendulous branches look wonderfully elegant when lit up. Maintaining a wonderfully compact habit, the 'Snow Showers' is the ideal choice for planting in a small space. Even when mature, this delightful tree has a compact form, making it suitable for planting in a large pot on a sunny patio. Equally, planting two 'Snow Showers' trees either side of a pathway makes a beautiful entrance to the garden. This versatile tree is well-suited to a range of situations and is certainly worthy of planting in any garden. If you want to plant this in a pair or a group, it works really well with Prunus 'Kiki Shidare Zakura' or Prunus 'Pendula Rubra' as the contrasting flowers from both of these trees looks stunning next to the white flowers of the ‘Snow Showers’.

Prunus Spire

Flowering Cherry Tree

Common Name: Flowering Cherry TreeLatin Name: Prunus 'Spire'Soil: Tolerates most soil typesPosition: Full sunFlowering period/colour: April/soft pink coloured flowersHardiness: Fully hardyHeight/spread in 20 years: 8m x 4mSpecial features: Pinkish bronze leavesA slender, upright tree, columnar when young but fanning out slightly as it ages. It has small, soft pink single flowers in April. These come from red calyces and are red-eyed. The pinkish bronze leaves are unfurling at the same time, so the effect is a little fuzzy from a distance but, close up, are full of charming detail. This would make a good specimen for a smallish garden.

Prunus Spring Glow

Purple Leaved Plum Tree

Common Name: Purple Leaved PlumLatin Name: Prunus cerasifera 'Spring Glow'Soil: Tolerates most soil typesPosition: Full sunFlowering period/colour: March to April/Large single pinkHardiness: Fully hardyHeight/spread in 20 years: 5m/4mSpecial features: Large single pink flowers followed by bronze purple foliage.Prunus cerasifera 'Spring Glow' is an attractive neat tree with bronze purple foliage throughout the spring and summer. Before then, large single pink flowers are produced in abundance on the bare branches. A highly recommended variety, ideal for small gardens.

Prunus Spring Snow

Flowering Cherry Tree

Common Name: Prunus 'Spring Snow' Latin Name: Prunus 'Beni-tamanishiki'Soil: Tolerates most soil typesPosition: Full sunFlowering period/colour: Late April/White flowers.Hardiness: Fully hardyHeight/spread in 10 years: 4m x 4mSpecial features: Young coppery leaves provide which a lovely contrast with the flowers (Deciduous)Prunus 'Spring Snow’ is a small tree with a spreading habit. Clusters of white flowers appear like bundles of snow on its branches in late April. The young coppery leaves provide a lovely contrast with the pretty white flowers. This flowering cherry was first introduced to the UK from Japan in 1993.

Prunus Sunset Boulevard

Flowering Cherry Tree

Common Name: Sunset Boulevard Flowering Cherry TreeLatin Name: Prunus 'Sunset Boulevard'Soil: Tolerates most soil typesPosition: Full sunFlowering period/colour: Late April/ Large single white edged with pink.Hardiness: Fully hardyHeight/spread in 20 years: 6m x 2mSpecial features: A narrow, upright tree with large white, pink-edged flowers. Prunus 'Sunset Boulevard' is a relatively new introduction to the UK, already widely used as a street tree and in our opinion deserves wider use in gardens. It has an upright habit when young, maturing into a narrow vase-shaped crown. The large white, pink-edged flowers are borne in pairs and are held on the tree longer than many other Prunus varieties. The young foliage appears bronze fading to green in summer then golden yellow in autumn.

Prunus Tai Haku

Hill Cherry Tree

Common Name: Great White Cherry TreeLatin Name: Prunus serrulata 'Tai Haku'Soil: Tolerates most soil typesPosition: Full sunFlowering period/colour: April/Large WhiteHardiness: Fully hardyEventual height/spread: 7m x 8mSpecial features: Copper coloured young foliage.Prunus serrulata 'Tai Haku' is a large, robust cherry with clusters of long-stalked, single white flowers in mid-spring. The leaves open deep purple-bronze, becoming green in summer. The tree has a vigourus, spreading habit and is best suited to a medium sized garden. It makes a great garden specimen and is equally suited as a parkland tree.

Prunus The Bride

The Bride Flowering Cherry Tree

Common Name: The Bride Flowering Cherry TreeLatin Name: Prunus 'The Bride'Soil: Tolerates most soil typesPosition: Full sunFlowering period/colour: April/WhiteHardiness: Fully hardyEventual Height/spread: 4m x 4mSpecial features: Compact growing, rounded tree ideal for small gardens.  Large flowers with pure white petals and distinctive red anthers.  Prunus 'The Bride' is an attractive, compact growing, rounded tree ideal for gardens where space is limited. In early to mid-spring small, pointed buds open to reveal very large, pure white petals contrasting perfectly with the red anthers in the centre. The green summer leaves turn to give a display of varying shades of orange and red in autumn before falling.

Prunus Tilstone Hellfire

Flowering Cherry Tree

Common Name: Tilstone Hellfire Flowering Cherry TreeLatin Name: Prunus 'Tilstone Hellfire'Soil: Tolerates most soil typesPosition: Full sunFlowering period/colour: April/Soft PinkHardiness: Fully hardyEventual Height/spread: 6m x 4mSpecial features: Single soft pink fowers with red and purple autumn colours. This beautiful flowering cherry is a newly established hybrid created from the Prunus sargentii ‘Rancho’ and the Prunus ‘Spire’. The cultivator, Donavan Leaman, crossbred the two trees and picked the best qualities from both. The leaves are metallic green in summer and turn brilliant shades of red and purple in autumn. A delicate array of soft, pink-white flowers bloom in April. The pretty floral display is attributed to the ‘Spire’ and the dazzling autumn leaves are from the ‘Rancho’. A truly magnificent garden tree.

Prunus Trailblazer

Ornamental Plum Tree

Common Name: Ornamental Plum TreeLatin Name: Prunus cerasifera 'Trailblazer'Soil: Tolerates most soil typesPosition: Full sunFlowering period/colour: March to April/Large single pinkHardiness: Fully hardyHeight/spread in 10 years: 5m/5mSpecial features: Large purple skinned and fleshed fruit.Prunus cerasifera 'Trailblazer' is an interesting ornamental fruiting plum with purple-bronze leaves and soft white flowers which are borne form early to mid spring. The large purple skinned fruits are best left on the tree for as long as possible before attempting to eat them.

Prunus Ukon

Flowering Cherry Tree

Common Name: Flowering Cherry TreeLatin Name: Prunus 'Ukon'Soil: Tolerates most soil typesPosition: Full sun or partial shadeFlowering period/colour: April to May/Yellowish WhiteHardiness: Fully hardyHeight/spread in 20 years: 5m x 6mSpecial features: Red and purple leaves in the autumn before they fallThis is a robust cherry that has creamy, rather yellowish flowers, borne in late April and early May. The flowers may briefly co-exist with the bronzed young spring foliage. There is good red and purple colour in autumn before leaf fall. This tree does well as a specimen, it may also be planted with low growing shrubs. It should reach a height of around 8m with an equivalent spread so ensure you plant it in a position that allows for this growth.

Prunus x blireana

Flowering Plum Tree

Common Name: Flowering Plum TreeLatin Name: Prunus x blireanaSoil: Any well drained soil.Position: Full sunFlowering period/colour: March to April / Semi-double pinkHardiness: Fully hardyHeight/spread in 20 years: 5m/3mSpecial features: Coppery-purple foliage and semi-double, rosy pink flowers.Prunus x blireana is a beautiful small tree with coppery-purple foliage that perfectly complements the semi-double, rosy pink flowers that appear during March. Prunus × blireana makes an excellent lawn specimen for smaller gardens or where space is limited.

Prunus x Yedoensis

Tokyo Cherry Tree

Common Name: Tokyo Cherry TreeLatin Name: Prunus X YedoensisSoil: Tolerates most soil typesPosition: Full sunFlowering period/colour: March to April/Blush-white flowersHardiness: Fully hardyEventual height/spread: 12m x 8mSpecial features: Almond scented flowers on slightly weeping branches.Prunus X Yedoensis is a highly attractive tree with elegant, spreading branches which become covered with almond scented, blush-white flowers in March and April. New leaves emerge green and fade to shades of orange and red come autumn. The tree is beautiful when grown as a lawn specimen, and is also lovely when planted in large groups, or as an avenue tree.

Quercus coccinea

Scarlet Oak Tree

Common Name: Scarlet OakLatin Name: Quercus coccineaSoil: Most fertile, well-drained soilsPosition: Full sun or partial shadeHardiness: Fully hardyEventual height/spread in 20 years: 15m/11mSpecial features: A strong and majestic tree which grows to have a pyramidal habit. The Quercus coccinea is a US native and this mighty tree is the perfect choice for adding structure and colour to a large garden. This tree offers lustrous green leaves which turn to glowing shades of scarlet in autumn and cover the broad crown from spring until late autumn. The acorns of the Scarlet Oak are also of interest; they are carried in shallow cups and are highly unusual. This hardy Oak will grow strong and tall so make sure you give it the space that it needs to thrive.

Quercus myrsinifolia

Bamboo

Common Name: Bamboo-Leaved Oak Latin Name: Quercus myrsinifolia Soil: Any deep, well-drained, lime-free soil Position: Full sun or partial shade Hardiness: Fully hardy Eventual height/spread: 15m+/8m+ Special features: Bamboo-like leaves with a purple blush to new foliage (evergreen). If you want a tree that will add structure to your garden, as well as a healthy dose of year-round colour, then the Quercus myrsinifolia is a fantastic choice. Although it still grows to be a mighty tree, this Chinese native is smaller than the British native, Quercus robur, and it maintains a fairly compact habit. The foliage adds ornamental value as new leaves shoot through with a purple, sometimes red, blush. Once mature, the lanceolate leaves turn to a rich mid-green colour. In autumn, ovoid acorns appear and these make a great source of food for wildlife. This hardy evergreen enjoys a sunny spot in the garden, but it can tolerate some shade. Plant it alongside another bold evergreen, like the Eucalyptus gunnii, as the differing foliage colours will give you a verdant show all year round.   

Quercus rubra Aurea

Golden Red Oak

Common Name: Golden Red Oak Latin Name: Quercus rubra 'Aurea' Soil: Medium moisture, well-drained, fertile soil. Slightly better autumn colour on acidic soil.  Position: Light, dappled shade to prevent sun scorch  Flowering period/colour: Spring, inconspicuous.  Hardiness: Hardy to -22°C, but requires shelter from strong winds. Height and spread in 20-50 years: 15m/10m Special features: Golden yellow leaves in spring and early summer; orange red autumn colour. Deciduous. The Golden red oak is a rare variation on the Eastern North American red oak. A fine specimen of this tree can be seen in the Belfast Botanic Gardens. In the spring the leaves are a dazzling golden yellow colour, maturing to a yellow green in late summer. The leaves develop orange and red tints in autumn. This is a fast growing tree and in ideal conditions can grow to five or six metres in ten years. It is also very long lived, lasting up to 500 years, with a trunk which may be 2 metres in diameter. Stout branches grow at right angles to the stem, forming a narrow round-topped head. The tree produces acorns, which take about eighteen months to two years to develop. This variety is frequently grown as a specimen tree in parks and open spaces. It rapidly develops a taproot, so should bought as a young specimen and planted in its final location as soon as possible. Quercus rubra 'Aurea' produces very good quality wood for building applications. Other oak species are also cut for this purpose but produce lower quality wood than the red oaks. Red oak wood is suitable for flooring, veneer, and furniture.

Robinia hispida

Rose Acacia Tree

Common Name: Rose Acacia TreeLatin Name: Robinia hispidaSoil: Best in moist, well drained fertile soil, but tolerates poor soils and drought.Position: Full sun or partial shadeFlowering period/colour: May to June/Rosy pink to purplish-redHardiness: HardyEventual height/spread: 2.5m/2.5mSpecial features: Rosy pink to purplish-red blooms in late spring and early summer.Robinia hispida is a truly fabulous small tree with delicate Wisteria-like foliage. Fragrant, drooping clusters of rose-pink, pea-shaped flowers appear in late spring and early summer which are followed by dark red-brown seed pods in the late summer. The stems are covered in tiny soft hairs, and the seed pods are also hairy, which gives the tree unique beauty when its delicate flowers and elegant leaves are contrasted with its more robust features. The original name of this tree was the hairy locust because of the fine purply-brown hairs that cover the tree.

Salix alba Chermesina

Scarlet Willow Tree

Common Name: Scarlet WillowLatin Name: Salix alba 'Chermesina'Soil: Moist but well-drained soilPosition: Full sunFlowering period/colour: Spring/ Yellow catkinsHardiness: Fully hardyEventual height/spread: 17m/10mSpecial features: Scarlet stems that give great winter interest.The 'Chermerina', also known as the 'Britzensis', is a scarlet variety of the popular white willow. This tree features bright red young shoots that hold narrow lanceolate leaves that are mid-green in colour. Further interest is added in spring when the pretty yellow catkins appear. This tree is most valued for its winter appeal as the stems glow with shades of golden orange and red. Plant the Scarlet willow in a medium-large sized garden so that it has the space that it needs to grow and thrive.

Salix alba vitellina

Golden Willow

Common Name: Golden Willow Latin Name: Salix alba var. vitelliana Soil: Moist but well-drained soilPosition: Full sunFlowering period/colour: Spring/ Yellow catkinsHardiness: Fully hardyEventual height/spread: 18m/12mSpecial features: Glowing golden stems which give great winter interest.This is an outstanding variety of willow which features highly distinctive golden stems that really stand out in a sleeping winter garden. Slender yellow catkins appear in spring with the new foliage; the leaves are narrowly lanceolate in shape and mid-green over summer, later turning to yellow before falling. When mature, the 'Golden Willow' will have a spreading and bushy habit and can become a real garden focal point. This tree can grow to be fairly large in the right conditions so do ensure that you plant it in a position where it can thrive.

Salix Hakuro Nishiki

Flamingo Tree

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

Salix Pendula

Dwarf Kilmarnock Willow Tree

Common Name: Kilmarnock WillowLatin Name: Salix caprea 'Pendula'Soil: Any deep, moist but well-drained soilPosition: Full sunFlowering period/colour: April to May/Golden male catkinsHardiness: Fully hardyHeight/spread in 20 years: 2m/2.5mSpecial features: Umbrella-shaped, deciduous treeA dwarf, weeping tree with dark green leaves with grey-green undersides. In mid- to late spring, the bare branches are covered in golden male catkins, which look superb in cut-flower arrangements. An ideal tree for the small garden or even planted in a pot on the patio.

Sambucus Black Beauty

Purple Elder

Common Name: Purple ElderLatin Name: Sambucus nigra 'Black Beauty'Soil: Fertile, moist, well-drainedPosition: Full sunFlowering period/colour: April/Fragrant pink flowersHardiness: Fully hardyEventual height/ spread: 3m x 3mSpecial features: Black berriesA very dark foliaged elder. The leaves appear near black, especially in spring. It makes a striking contribution to the border. This will reach 3m in 10 years but you may prefer to keep it hard pruned to maximize the foliage effect. (Harmful if eaten)

Sambucus Black Lace

Black Elder

Common Name: Black Lace ElderLatin Name: Sambucus nigra porphyrophylla 'Black Lace'Soil: Will tolerate most soil typesPosition: Full sunHardiness: HardyFlowering Period: SummerFlowering Colour: Pale PinkThe Sambucus 'Black Lace' is known for its distinctive foliage which is near black in colour, the foliage later develops to a wine-red colour come autumn. The flowers appear in small pink clusters and are followed in autumn by blackish-red berries. The fruits are good for attracting wildlife to your garden- they also make a fantastic cordial or jelly. The 'Black Lace' can be grown as a small tree or large shrub and benefits from a good pruning in early spring.

Sambucus Black Tower

Upright Purple Elder

Common Name: Black Tower Elder / Eiffel 1Latin Name: Sambucus nigra f. porphyrophylla Black TowerSoil: Will tolerate most soil typesPosition: Full sunHardiness: HardyEventual height/ spread: 2.5m / 1.2mFlowering period/colour: Summer/ Pink- whiteSpecial feature: Tower-like structure and dark purple-black leaves. The 'Black Tower' is aptly named due to its upright and slender habit and unusual trait of its leaves forming right from the base of the plant. The leaves are large, finely serrated at the edges and dark purple-black in colour when mature. This plant needs a sunny position to ensure that the fresh green leaves can develop their darker colouring. In summer, flattened heads of pink scented flowers appear and these are attractive to wildlife. The flowers later become small black berries which are popular with the birds. This is a great choice for planting at the back of a mixed border and it will be sure to add colour and structure to your garden.

Sambucus nigra Golden Spark

Elder

Common Name: Elder ‘Golden Spark’Latin Name: Sambucus nigra 'Golden Spark'Soil: Fertile, moist, well-drainedPosition: Full sunFlowering period/colour: May/ white Hardiness: Fully hardyEventual height/ spread: 3m/ 1m Special features: Creamy white and green variegated leaves The ‘Golden Spark’ is a hardy shrub with so much to offer. It features ovate green leaves that have golden variegation at the tips of the leaves; these later mature to a creamy white shade and the decorative foliage adds interest from spring until autumn. The summer flowers are borne in large umbels and are yellow-white in colour; the flowers are highly fragranced, making this an excellent choice for a sensory space, and they can also be used to make elderflower syrup. If left, the flowers will become small, black fruits.

Sambucus Sutherland Gold

Golden Elder

Common Name: ElderLatin Name: Sambucus racemosa Sutherland GoldSoil: Fertile, moist, well-drainedPosition: Full sunFlowering period/colour: April/Creamy yellowHardiness: Fully hardyEventual height/ spread: 3m x 3mSpecial features: Spherical, glossy red berriesConical clusters of creamy yellow flowers in mid spring, followed by glossy, red fruits and deeply cut, bronze young leaves, turning golden yellow. This bushy, deciduous shrub with arching shoots makes a stunning specimen plant for a moist, well-drained border. The delicate foliage is less susceptible to sun-scorch than other golden, cut leaved varieties

Sorbus Joseph Rock

Mountain Ash Tree

Common Name: Rocks Mountain AshLatin Name: Sorbus 'Joseph Rock'Soil: Moist but well-drained or well-drained.Position: Full sunFlowering period/colour: April to May/Creamy whiteHardiness: Fully hardyHeight/Spread in 20 years: 6m x 3mSpecial features: Attractive lemon-yellow berriesSorbus Joseph Rock, the beautiful Mountain Ash Tree, brings something special to any landscape. Known for its vibrant late spring to early summer blooms, this tree shows clusters of creamy-white flowers. The pinnate, dark green leaves create a lush canopy, providing shade and a striking visual scene.Hardy and adaptable, Sorbus Joseph Rock thrives in well-drained soil and is equally comfortable in full sun or partial shade. With a projected height of around 6 metres and a spread of 3 metres in 20 years, it’s an ideal choice for smaller gardens or as part of a mixed planting scheme.One of the standout features of this Mountain Ash Tree is its autumn display. At the end of the season, the tree bears a profusion of berries. This adds a splash of colour and attracts all kinds of wildlife to your outdoor space. In true autumnal style, the berries transition from green to shades of red and orange, creating a cosy and picturesque visual.Sorbus Joseph Rock offers the ideal blend of floral charm and autumnal colour. Whether planted as a standalone specimen or incorporated into a larger garden design, this tree is sure to capture the eye of anyone close by. Pick up a Sorbus Joseph Rock today watch it transform your garden.

Sorbus Sunshine

Rowan Tree

Common Name: Sunshine Rowan TreeLatin Name: Sorbus aucuparia 'Sunshine'Soil: Moist but well-drained or well-drained.Position: Full sunFlowering period/colour: April to May/ WhiteHardiness: Fully hardyEventual Height/spread: 10m x 7mSpecial features: Attractive orange-yellow berries. Good autumn colour.Sorbus 'Sunshine' is an upright growing tree when young later forming a rounded shape with maturity. Large clusters of white flowers in late spring are followed by orange-yellow berries in late September developing slightly earlier than its parent 'Joseph Rock.' The sharply toothed, bright green leaves turn orange, red and purple in the autumn.

Syringa Sensation

Lilac Tree

Common Name: Purple Sensation Lilac TreeLatin Name: Syringa vulgaris ‘Sensation’Soil: Fertile, well drained. Prefers alkaline to neutral soil.Position: Full sunHardiness: Fully hardyFlowering period: SpringFlowering colour: Purple with white marginsEventual height/spread after 20 years: 4m/4m The ‘Sensation’ lilac tree is a truly beautiful tree which attracts an array of wildlife to any garden. An abundance of pretty purple flowers, with distinctive white margins, appear in spring; these flowers release a magnificently sweet scent. The foliage of this deciduous tree is heart-shaped and mid-green in colour. The small eventual size of this tree means that it can be planted comfortably in a smaller garden. This tree responds well to occasional light pruning.