Trees

Quercus phellos, commonly known as the Willow Oak, is a graceful native tree prized for its fine-textured, willow-like foliage and rapid growth. Unlike most oaks, its narrow, lance-shaped leaves create a soft, elegant appearance that sets it apart in the landscape. Willow Oak matures into a large, broad-canopied shade tree, providing cool, dense cover during the summer months. In autumn, its foliage shifts to warm golden tones, bringing seasonal beauty before dropping cleanly, making leaf management easier than with many other oaks.

Highly adaptable, Willow Oak thrives in a wide variety of soil conditions, from moist lowlands to upland sites, and is tolerant of heat, pollution, and occasional drought once established. Its abundant acorns are a valuable food source for birds and mammals, supporting local ecosystems. Ideal for parks, spacious yards, and urban plantings, Quercus phellos offers enduring shade, elegance, and resilience for generations to enjoy.

The swamp white oak is a stately, long-lived tree native to North America, prized for both beauty and resilience. Its distinctive two-toned leaves—deep green above, silvery white beneath—create a striking display that shifts to rich golden hues in fall. Naturally thriving in wetlands and floodplains, this oak adapts easily to a wide range of soils and conditions, offering shade and strength in urban landscapes, parks, or natural settings.

Beyond its ornamental charm, the swamp white oak provides essential habitat and food for wildlife, with acorns that nourish birds and mammals alike. As it matures, it develops a broad, rounded crown that delivers reliable shade and an impressive presence in any landscape. Hardy, versatile, and ecologically valuable, Quercus bicolor is more than just a tree—it’s an investment in beauty, biodiversity, and sustainability for generations to come.

Photinia x fraseri Robusta is an ornamental, fast-growing, rounded, dense, evergreen shrub or small tree with large, finely serrated, glossy, oval leaves – crimson to copper when young, dark green when mature. Small, inconspicuous, white flowers in dome-shaped clusters bloom in spring and are followed by red berries. Spring pruning eliminates flowers and stimulates new red growth. Photinia x fraseri Robusta grows best in average, fertile, slightly acidic, medium moisture, well-drained soils, but is adaptable to a wide range of soils, except waterlogged and compact. Once established, it is resistant of frost, drought, heat and urban pollution. Young leaves may be damaged by late frosts, therefore it should be sheltered, especially from harsh winds. Low maintenance plant, tolerant of hard pruning. Photinia x fraseri Robusta is great as an accent plant, but perfect for tall hedges and screens which are useful for noise reduction or wind protection in cottage and urban gardens.

Liquidambar styraciflua 'Aurea', commonly known as the golden sweetgum, is a striking deciduous tree renowned for its distinctive golden foliage and ornamental qualities. A cultivar of the American sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua), this tree is prized for its vibrant autumn colours and uniquely lobed, star-shaped leaves that add a bright accent to gardens and landscapes.

Reaching a mature height of approximately 10–15 metres, 'Aurea' develops a pyramidal shape when young, eventually maturing into a more rounded crown. Its foliage emerges in spring with a bright golden hue, creating an eye-catching contrast against its dark grey bark. As the seasons progress, the leaves take on deeper yellow tones, transitioning into shades of amber, orange, and occasionally red in autumn, depending on the climate and soil conditions.

The tree is well-suited to a range of soil types but thrives best in well-drained, slightly acidic soil. It prefers full sun to partial shade and is moderately tolerant of urban pollution, making it a suitable choice for parks, gardens, and avenues. While it is relatively low-maintenance, young specimens benefit from protection against strong winds and cold exposure, as the cultivar is slightly less hardy than the species.

In addition to its aesthetic appeal, 'Aurea' occasionally produces the characteristic spiky seed pods typical of the sweetgum species, although in smaller quantities. These provide added interest in winter but may require occasional clearance in more manicured settings.

Liquidambar styraciflua 'Aurea' is an excellent choice for gardeners seeking a medium-sized tree with year-round interest, offering an ever-changing display of colour and form. Its golden tones brighten any landscape, making it a standout feature in larger gardens or mixed planting schemes.

Alnus incana 'Aurea',  known as the Golden Alder, is a deciduous tree prized for its striking yellow foliage and adaptability to various growing conditions. This cultivar is a variation of the grey alder (Alnus incana), native to Europe, North America, and parts of Asia, and is widely cultivated for its ornamental appeal.

Reaching a height of 6 to 10 metres, with a spread of 4 to 6 metres, Alnus incana 'Aurea' is medium-sized, making it suitable for smaller gardens as well as larger landscapes. It is noted for its smooth, greyish bark, which contrasts beautifully with its bright golden-yellow leaves that emerge in early spring. As the season progresses, the foliage turns a lime green, maintaining a light and airy appearance. The leaves are ovate, serrated, and slightly sticky to the touch when young.

In winter, this tree adds visual interest with its small, cone-like fruits and hanging catkins that persist on the branches. The catkins are yellow-brown and appear before the leaves in early spring, contributing to the tree’s year-round appeal.

Alnus incana 'Aurea' is an extremely hardy tree, thriving in a variety of soil types, including wet and poorly drained soils. It is often planted in areas prone to flooding or along riverbanks, as it is highly tolerant of waterlogged conditions. The tree also fixes nitrogen in the soil through symbiotic relationships with root nodules, which improves soil fertility.

Though low-maintenance, the Golden Alder benefits from occasional pruning to maintain its shape and encourage healthy growth. This fast-growing tree is a great choice for those looking to introduce colour and texture to their garden while supporting local wildlife, as it provides shelter and food for birds and insects.

Cercis siliquastrum 'Bodnant' is a remarkable variety of the Judas tree that brings a burst of colour and charm to British gardens. Native to Southern Europe and Western Asia, this cultivar is celebrated for its captivating features and suitability for the UK climate.

The most striking attribute of 'Bodnant' is its spring blossoms. In early to mid-spring, before its heart-shaped leaves unfurl, this tree is adorned with an abundance of vivid magenta-pink flowers. These blossoms are not only visually stunning but also highly attractive to pollinators like bees and butterflies, making 'Bodnant' a valuable addition to biodiversity in the garden.

The name 'Judas tree' is derived from folklore, suggesting that Judas Iscariot hanged himself from a tree of this species. 'Bodnant' adds a touch of history and intrigue to the garden with its association to this biblical tale.

In addition to its vibrant blooms, 'Bodnant' showcases lush, heart-shaped leaves that are deep green in colour. These leaves provide an attractive backdrop for the spring blossoms and maintain their appeal throughout the growing season. The overall form of 'Bodnant' is relatively small, typically reaching a height of 3 to 4 meters, making it suitable for gardens with limited space.

Caring for Cercis siliquastrum 'Bodnant' in the UK is generally uncomplicated. It prefers well-drained soil and a location that receives full sun to partial shade. Adequate watering during dry spells is essential for its health, especially during its establishment period. Pruning is usually minimal, primarily for shaping and removing any dead or diseased branches.

The 'Bodnant' variety of Judas tree is known for its hardiness and resistance to pests and diseases, which adds to its appeal as a low-maintenance ornamental tree. Its adaptability to various soil types makes it a versatile choice for different garden settings.

In conclusion, Cercis siliquastrum 'Bodnant' is a captivating ornamental tree that graces UK gardens with its vibrant spring blossoms, heart-shaped leaves, and compact size. Its historical and cultural associations, along with its natural beauty, make it a popular choice for gardeners looking to enhance their landscapes with a touch of elegance and tradition. Whether used as a focal point or to infuse colour into garden borders, 'Bodnant' is sure to delight and inspire those who encounter its enchanting presence.

Cercis canadensis 'Eternal Flame' is an exceptional cultivar of the Cercis canadensis species, commonly known as the Eastern Redbud. This compact, deciduous tree is prized for its outstanding features that bring beauty and vibrancy to any landscape.

One of the most striking attributes of 'Eternal Flame' is its remarkable display of flowers. In early spring, before the emergence of leaves, the branches become adorned with an abundance of stunning pink blossoms. These small, pea-like flowers cover the tree in a breathtaking spectacle, creating a focal point that captivates the eye and attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Beyond its remarkable floral display, 'Eternal Flame' offers an extended season of interest with its foliage. The heart-shaped leaves emerge in a rich shade of burgundy, transitioning to a vibrant red as they mature. The fiery-red foliage persists throughout the summer, maintaining its intensity and adding a warm and captivating touch to the surroundings. In autumn, the leaves transition to a lovely shade of yellow, providing a final burst of color before they drop.

This cultivar showcases a compact growth habit, making it suitable for smaller gardens or spaces. It typically reaches a height of 10-15 feet (3-4.5 meters) and spreads about 12-15 feet (3.6-4.5 meters) wide. Its size and form make it an excellent choice for urban landscapes, borders, or as a specimen tree in a prominent location.

Cercis canadensis 'Eternal Flame' is adaptable to a variety of soil types but thrives in well-drained, fertile soil. It prefers full sun to partial shade, although it can tolerate some shade. It is relatively low-maintenance, requiring regular watering during dry periods and occasional pruning to maintain its shape.

In conclusion, Cercis canadensis 'Eternal Flame' is a remarkable tree that stands out with its vibrant pink flowers, long-lasting fiery-red foliage, and compact growth habit. With its multi-season interest and ease of care, it is a valuable addition to any garden or landscape, providing year-round beauty and charm.

Cercis canadensis 'Eternal Flame' is an exceptional cultivar of the Cercis canadensis species, commonly known as the Eastern Redbud. This compact, deciduous tree is prized for its outstanding features that bring beauty and vibrancy to any landscape.

One of the most striking attributes of 'Eternal Flame' is its remarkable display of flowers. In early spring, before the emergence of leaves, the branches become adorned with an abundance of stunning pink blossoms. These small, pea-like flowers cover the tree in a breathtaking spectacle, creating a focal point that captivates the eye and attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Beyond its remarkable floral display, 'Eternal Flame' offers an extended season of interest with its foliage. The heart-shaped leaves emerge in a rich shade of burgundy, transitioning to a vibrant red as they mature. The fiery-red foliage persists throughout the summer, maintaining its intensity and adding a warm and captivating touch to the surroundings. In autumn, the leaves transition to a lovely shade of yellow, providing a final burst of color before they drop.

This cultivar showcases a compact growth habit, making it suitable for smaller gardens or spaces. It typically reaches a height of 10-15 feet (3-4.5 meters) and spreads about 12-15 feet (3.6-4.5 meters) wide. Its size and form make it an excellent choice for urban landscapes, borders, or as a specimen tree in a prominent location.

Cercis canadensis 'Eternal Flame' is adaptable to a variety of soil types but thrives in well-drained, fertile soil. It prefers full sun to partial shade, although it can tolerate some shade. It is relatively low-maintenance, requiring regular watering during dry periods and occasional pruning to maintain its shape.

In conclusion, Cercis canadensis 'Eternal Flame' is a remarkable tree that stands out with its vibrant pink flowers, long-lasting fiery-red foliage, and compact growth habit. With its multi-season interest and ease of care, it is a valuable addition to any garden or landscape, providing year-round beauty and charm.

A spiraled cloud olive tree, standing at 120-130 cm, is a captivating and artistic topiary that blends the elegance of a spiraled trunk with the serenity of cloud-pruned foliage. This compact yet striking tree features a smooth, twisted stem that gracefully ascends, supporting a series of meticulously shaped, cloud-like clusters of silver-green leaves. The evergreen foliage offers year-round interest, while the sculptural form introduces a sense of harmony and structure to gardens, patios, or interior spaces. Ideal for contemporary, Mediterranean, or Japanese-inspired landscapes, this topiary thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. Its moderate size makes it perfect for container planting or as a focal point in smaller spaces, adding architectural beauty and a calming presence.

Prunus Kanzan is a beautiful, medium-sized, ornamental, deciduous cherry tree of vase-shaped when young, spreading and rounded habit when mature. Its ovate, toothed dark green leaves are coppery-red when young and in shades of orange and bronze in autumn. The profusion of bright pink, double flowers bloom in clusters before the leaves emerge. Flowers are sterile and are not followed by fruit. Prunus Kanzan thrives in fertile, moist, well-drained soils, sandy or clay loams. It prefers full sun, but tolerates light shade. It is necessary to prune it after flowering, but is generally low maintenance plant. Susceptible to many diseases and pests and may be short-lived. Cherry Kanzan is one of the most ornamental of flowering cherries. It’s a stunning, elegant tree, whether as a specimen plant or planted in groups, great for small informal, cottage and urban gardens. Excellent for streets and parks. Suitable for growing in containers or as a bonsai.

Cercis siliquastrum 'White Swan' is a captivating cultivar of the Judas tree that offers a unique twist on this beloved ornamental tree species. This cultivar has distinctive characteristics that set it apart, making it a sought-after addition to gardens in the UK.

The most striking feature of 'White Swan' is its spring blossoms. In contrast to the typical magenta-pink flowers of the Judas tree, 'White Swan' surprises with a profusion of pure white blossoms in early to mid-spring. These white flowers create a stunning contrast against the tree's heart-shaped, medium-green leaves, making 'White Swan' an eye-catching focal point in any garden.

The name "Judas tree" is associated with the belief that Judas Iscariot hanged himself from a tree of this species, and 'White Swan' adds a touch of intrigue and historical mystique to this tradition.

In terms of size and form, 'White Swan' maintains the characteristic small to medium stature of the Judas tree, typically reaching a height of 3 to 4 meters. Its growth habit is rounded, and its branches often develop a graceful, spreading form, providing an elegant and symmetrical canopy.

Caring for Cercis siliquastrum 'White Swan' in the UK is generally straightforward. It thrives in well-drained soil and prefers a location that receives full sun to partial shade. Adequate watering, especially during dry periods and its establishment phase, is crucial for its overall health and vigour. Pruning requirements are typically minimal and primarily focus on shaping the tree or removing any dead or diseased branches.

'White Swan' is known for its resilience and resistance to common pests and diseases, making it a relatively low-maintenance ornamental tree. Its adaptability to various soil types further enhances its versatility in different garden settings.

In conclusion, Cercis siliquastrum 'White Swan' is a captivating and unique cultivar that adds a touch of elegance and purity to British gardens. Its stunning white spring blossoms, heart-shaped leaves, and modest size make it a highly desirable choice for gardeners looking to introduce a distinctive and visually stunning element to their landscapes. Whether used as a centrepiece or to infuse a garden with a sense of wonder, 'White Swan' is sure to captivate and inspire all who encounter its enchanting beauty.