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Chamaecyparis obtusa ‘Teddy Bear’ is a delightful dwarf cultivar of the hinoki cypress, prized for its compact, evergreen habit and soft, tactile foliage. Unlike its tall tree-forming relatives, this variety grows slowly into a neat, rounded shrub that brings year-round structure and interest to gardens, patios and containers.

The foliage is composed of tiny, scale-like leaves in a rich, deep green that remain vibrant throughout all seasons, giving the plant a lush, almost fern-like texture. This dense, soft growth habit is the reason behind its common name, ‘Teddy Bear’, as the plant’s surface appears invitingly plush and sculptural.

In terms of size, ‘Teddy Bear’ remains a manageable shrub, typically reaching around 1.5–2.5 metres in height and spreading to about 1–1.5 metres over many years. It’s exceptionally slow growing, so it won’t overwhelm a small garden, border or large pot, making it ideal for smaller spaces where taller conifers might be unsuitable.

This variety prefers a position in full sun to partial shade, with moist but well-drained soil. While it thrives in slightly acidic conditions, it will tolerate a range of soil types as long as water does not stand around the roots. Once established, it is relatively low maintenance, requiring little more than occasional watering during prolonged dry spells and minimal pruning to maintain its shape if needed.

Because it retains its foliage and shape throughout the year, Chamaecyparis obtusa ‘Teddy Bear’ provides decorative evergreen interest in winter as well as through spring, summer and autumn. Its soft, rounded form complements both informal cottage gardens and contemporary landscapes, adding texture, structure and a touch of charm wherever it’s planted.

Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Draht' is a small, slow-growing, upright, broadly conical, coniferous, evergreen shrub with sprays of short, scale-like, emerald green leaves, flushed bronze in winter, along twisted, wire-like branches. Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Draht' grows best in fertile, slightly acidic, consistently moist, well-drained soils, but can adapt to a wide range of soil types. It thrives in full sun but is tolerant of light shade. Yellow foliage might turn green in shade. It likes cooler climates. It is very resistant to frost and can withstand exposed positions. Resistant to urban pollution. Low maintenance plant, doesn’t require pruning. It naturally maintains its compact shape. Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Draht' is a cute, dense, ornamental shrub, perfect as a specimen or accent plant. Excellent for flower beds, shrub and mixed borders, wall-side borders in informal, cottage, urban, and rock and gravel gardens. Suitable for growing in containers on patios and roof gardens. Great for bonsai making.

Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Nana Gracilis' is a slow-growing evergreen shrub that belongs to the family Cupressaceae. It is also commonly known as Dwarf Hinoki Cypress. This cultivar is a popular choice for gardeners looking for a low-maintenance plant with a compact growth habit that can fit in smaller gardens or containers. The 'Nana Gracilis' cultivar has a unique, pyramidal shape that reaches a height of 2-3 feet and a width of 1-2 feet at maturity. Its dense foliage is comprised of delicate, flattened sprays of feathery, blue-green needles that emerge in a tiered arrangement, giving it an elegant and refined look. The foliage of this cultivar emits a distinct, pleasant scent when crushed, which adds to its appeal. Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Nana Gracilis' thrives in a variety of growing conditions, but prefers moist, well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH. It is also relatively tolerant of full sun exposure, but will benefit from some protection in hotter climates. This cultivar is known to be relatively disease and pest-resistant, making it a great option for low-maintenance gardens.

Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Nana Gracilis' is a slow-growing evergreen shrub that belongs to the family Cupressaceae. It is also commonly known as Dwarf Hinoki Cypress. This cultivar is a popular choice for gardeners looking for a low-maintenance plant with a compact growth habit that can fit in smaller gardens or containers.

The 'Nana Gracilis' cultivar has a unique, pyramidal shape that reaches a height of 2-3 feet and a width of 1-2 feet at maturity. Its dense foliage is comprised of delicate, flattened sprays of feathery, blue-green needles that emerge in a tiered arrangement, giving it an elegant and refined look. The foliage of this cultivar emits a distinct, pleasant scent when crushed, which adds to its appeal.

Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Nana Gracilis' thrives in a variety of growing conditions, but prefers moist, well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH. It is also relatively tolerant of full sun exposure, but will benefit from some protection in hotter climates. This cultivar is known to be relatively disease and pest-resistant, making it a great option for low-maintenance gardens.

Chamaecyparis lawsoniana 'Columnaris' is a medium-sized, compact, narrowly columnar, evergreen, coniferous tree with reddish-brown, peeling bark, and flattened sprays of attractive, fragrant, blue-green foliage, grey-green underneath. The twigs have some twists in the branching. Pinkish-red flowers are fragrant, small, and inconspicuous and are followed by reddish brown cones. Chamaecyparis lawsoniana 'Columnaris' is tolerant of most soil types, but prefers humus-rich, slightly acidic, sandy or loamy, moist, well-drained soils. It hates waterlogged areas and thrives in full sun. It is very resistant to frost and can withstand wind and exposed positions. Tolerant of urban pollution. Low maintenance plant, doesn’t require pruning. Lawson's cypress 'Columnaris', with its narrow columnar shape and attractive foliage colour is one of the most popular conifers. It is perfect for hedges and privacy screens, or windbreaks. Excellent as a specimen plant or planted in groups. Great for urban, rock and gravel, and roof gardens. Suitable for industrial areas and growing in containers.

Chamaerops compacta, a compact form of the Mediterranean fan palm, is an excellent choice for gardens where space is limited but a bold, architectural plant is desired. Its compact, clumping growth habit makes it particularly suitable for small gardens, courtyards, patios, and container planting. With its dense arrangement of fan-shaped, leathery green leaves, it adds texture and structure to planting schemes and pairs well with both modern and Mediterranean-style garden designs.

This palm is extremely hardy for a palm species, tolerating temperatures down to -10°C (14°F), making it suitable for temperate climates. It prefers full sun but can adapt to part shade, and thrives in well-drained soil. Once established, it is drought-tolerant, making it a low-maintenance choice for water-wise gardens.

Chamaerops compacta’s naturally tidy, clump-forming habit means it rarely needs pruning, and it remains relatively low in height, typically reaching 1–1.5 meters. It also resists wind and salt, making it a good option for coastal gardens. Whether used as a focal point, a textural accent, or part of a mixed border, this palm brings year-round interest and resilience to the garden.

Prunus 'Kursar' is a distinguished variety of ornamental cherry tree, appreciated for its abundant, deep pink blossoms that grace its branches in spring, creating a breathtaking display. This small, deciduous tree exhibits a compact growth habit, typically reaching around 8 meters in height when fully mature, making it a suitable choice for smaller gardens or landscapes.

The leaves of Prunus 'Kursar' emerge with a bronze hue, transitioning to green as they mature, and finally adopting vibrant shades of orange and red in the autumn, adding a secondary layer of aesthetic appeal to the plant. The blossoms are not only a visual delight but also attract various pollinators, benefiting local ecosystems. While it does not bear commercially valuable fruit, its ornamental charm compensates abundantly.

Originating from a hybridization program, Prunus 'Kursar' is celebrated for its resilience and adaptability, thriving in well-drained soils and sunny locations. It is often utilized as a specimen tree in residential and public gardens for its impressive floral display and the scenic ambiance it provides. Regular pruning and care ensure its optimal growth and longevity, allowing it to be a timeless addition to any garden setting, invoking the ethereal beauty of spring year after year.

Acer palmatum 'Skeeter's Broom' is a small, bushy, narrowly upright, deciduous shrub with neat, palmate, deeply-lobed leaves, bright red in spring, deep purple-red in summer, ruby-red in autumn. Small, inconspicuous reddish flowers bloom in spring and are followed by red, winged fruits in late summer. Acer palmatum 'Skeeter's Broom' prefers fertile, humus-rich, loamy or sandy, slightly acidic, moist, well-drained soils. It thrives in partial shade but is adaptable to full sun. Best leaf colour is achieved in partial shade. Excessive exposure to sun or lack of soil moisture can cause leaf scorch. It is resistant to frost, but has to be protected from harsh winds. Low maintenance plant. Japanese maple 'Skeeter's Broom' is a lovely ornamental tree that creates a vibrant display throughout the whole season. It is ideal for small informal, cottage, woodland, rock, or urban gardens. Excellent as a specimen or accent plant, or planted in groups in shrub or mixed borders. Perfect for growing in pots and containers.

Cupressocyparis leylandii 'Castlewellan Gold' is a large, vigorous, fast-growing, coniferous, evergreen tree with upright, columnar habit with dense branching from the ground. As the plant matures, the habit becomes more broad. Flattened sprays of scale-like leaves are green with golden-yellow tips and bronze tone in winter. The colours do not fade, but stay bright and nice all year round. Cupressocyparis leylandii 'Castlewellan Gold' thrives on a variety of soils, but prefers fertile, moist, well-drained soils, in full sun. It is resilient to frost, urban pollution and spray salt, therefore, suitable for growing in cities and in coastal areas. Generally, pest-free and disease-free. Cupressocyparis leylandii 'Castlewellan Gold' is popular for its golden foliage and fast growth. It looks very attractive as a specimen plant, but is mostly used for informal and formal hedges and privacy screens. Leylandii hedges are not only attractive but also ideal for noise reduction and wind protection.

Cedrus libani atlantica 'Saphire Nymph' is an exquisite dwarf cultivar of the Atlas cedar, cherished for its unique, compact, weeping form and vibrant blue-green needles. This cultivar is specifically bred for its slow growth and small stature, reaching an ultimate height of approximately 4-5 feet after many years, making it an ideal choice for smaller garden spaces and rockeries. Its dense, cascading branches create a striking visual impact, adding texture and color contrast when planted alongside broader-leaved plants or brighter flowers.

'Saphire Nymph' thrives in full sun to partial shade, preferring well-drained soil conditions. It is relatively drought-tolerant once established, making it suitable for xeriscaping and gardens with less frequent watering schedules. Gardeners often use this plant as a focal point in thematic gardens, such as rock or alpine gardens, where its unique form and coloration can be fully appreciated. This cedar's hardy nature ensures it can adapt to a variety of temperate climates, making it a versatile and attractive addition to diverse landscapes

Cupressocyparis leylandii 'Castlewellan Gold' is a large, vigorous, fast-growing, coniferous, evergreen tree with upright, columnar habit with dense branching from the ground. As the plant matures, the habit becomes more broad. Flattened sprays of scale-like leaves are green with golden-yellow tips and bronze tone in winter. The colours do not fade, but stay bright and nice all year round. Cupressocyparis leylandii 'Castlewellan Gold' thrives on a variety of soils, but prefers fertile, moist, well-drained soils, in full sun. It is resilient to frost, urban pollution and spray salt, therefore, suitable for growing in cities and in coastal areas. Generally, pest-free and disease-free. Cupressocyparis leylandii 'Castlewellan Gold' is popular for its golden foliage and fast growth. It looks very attractive as a specimen plant, but is mostly used for informal and formal hedges and privacy screens. Leylandii hedges are not only attractive but also ideal for noise reduction and wind protection.

Cryptomeria japonica, commonly known as Japanese cedar or Sugi in Japanese, is a large evergreen tree native to Japan. It belongs to the cypress family, Cupressaceae, and is the only species in the genus Cryptomeria. The tree can grow up to 70 meters tall and 4 meters in diameter, making it one of the largest trees in Japan. It has a conical shape when young and becomes more pyramidal as it ages.

The bark of the Cryptomeria japonica is reddish-brown and deeply furrowed, with long, narrow leaves that are bright green in color and arranged in a spiral around the branches. The tree produces small, round cones that are about 1.5-2.5 cm in diameter and have a woody texture. The cones turn brown when mature and release small, winged seeds that are dispersed by the wind. Japanese cedar is an important tree in Japan for its wood, which is highly valued for its strength, durability, and beauty. The wood is used in construction, furniture, and decorative objects, and is also used in the production of traditional Japanese musical instruments such as shamisen and koto.

Salix x sepulcralis var. chrysocoma is a vigorous, fast-growing, wide-spreading, deciduous tree of weeping habit, with elegant, arching branches, golden-yellow when young, and narrow, lance-shaped, bright green leaves. Yellow male and green female catkins emerge in spring along the leaves. Weeping branches grow to the ground forming an attractive golden-green curtain. Salix x sepulcralis var. chrysocoma is adaptable to a wide range of soils, but prefers deep, moderately fertile soil, in full sun. Ideal for wet and damp sites. Resistant to frost and air pollution. Low maintenance plant, doesn’t require pruning. Easy to grow and maintain. Golden Weeping Willow is a stunning, elegant, decorative, architectural tree, perfect as a specimen plant or focal point in large gardens. Looks beautiful when planted near streams and ponds. Great for large urban areas and suitable for wildlife gardens as well.

Cercis chinensis 'Shirobana,' commonly referred to as Chinese Redbud 'Shirobana,' is an exceptional and eye-catching ornamental tree that can grace British gardens and landscapes with its unique and captivating features. Originally hailing from China, this cultivar has garnered international acclaim for its remarkable characteristics.

One of the most remarkable attributes of 'Shirobana' is its blossoms. During the spring season, prior to the emergence of its leaves, this tree adorns itself with a profusion of delicate, butterfly-like flowers. What sets it apart is its ability to produce different-colored blossoms on the same tree simultaneously, creating a spectacular display of colour variation that is truly enchanting.

The name 'Shirobana' translates to "white flower," underscoring the tree's ability to produce these stunning pale blooms alongside the usual pink and lavender ones. This unique trait makes 'Shirobana' particularly desirable for garden enthusiasts seeking to introduce an element of whimsy and diversity to their outdoor spaces.

The foliage of 'Shirobana' typically takes on a heart-shaped form and exhibits a medium green hue, serving as a splendid backdrop to the lavish spring blossoms. As the leaves mature, they may acquire a glossy sheen, adding to the tree's visual appeal. This deciduous tree usually reaches a height of around 3 to 4 meters and forms an elegant, gracefully-rounded canopy.

Maintaining Cercis chinensis 'Shirobana' in the UK is relatively straightforward. It thrives in well-drained soil and prefers a location that receives ample sunlight or partial shade. Ensuring adequate watering during dry spells and regular mulching to conserve moisture are key to its overall health and vitality. Pruning requirements are typically minimal, primarily focused on shaping the tree or removing any dead or overcrowded branches.

One of the advantages of 'Shirobana' is its notable resistance to common pests and diseases, contributing to its low-maintenance nature. Additionally, it exhibits adaptability to various soil types, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of garden settings.

In conclusion, Cercis chinensis 'Shirobana' is an extraordinary ornamental tree that can bring a sense of wonder and diversity to British gardens. Its multi-coloured spring blossoms, heart-shaped leaves, and manageable size make it an enchanting addition to landscapes, providing an opportunity for gardeners to experience the ever-changing palette of nature. Whether used as a focal point or to infuse charm into garden borders, 'Shirobana' is certain to captivate the hearts of those who encounter its mesmerizing beauty.

Cercidiphyllum japonicum is a medium-sized, deciduous tree with ovate to round, densely branched crown, smooth bark that becomes grooved as it matures, and oval, sometimes heart-shaped, blue-green leaves, bronze when young, yellow, orange and red in autumn. The fallen autumn leaves smell like cinnamon, burnt sugar or ripe apples. Tiny, inconspicuous, fragrant, reddish flowers bloom in spring before the foliage. Cercidiphyllum japonicum grows best in rich, loose, fertile, loamy, moist, well-drained soil. It thrives in partial shade, but tolerates full sun. Doesn’t tolerate drought. It is resistant to frost and wind, but prefers locations sheltered from harsh winds and hot afternoon sun. The leaves may be damaged by late frosts. Tolerant of urban conditions. Generally, pest-free and disease-free. Low maintenance plant, doesn’t require pruning. Japanese Katsura Tree is an elegant, architectural tree, perfect as a specimen plant in large, informal, cottage, woodland, and urban gardens. Excellent for avenues and broad streets.

Cercis chinensis 'Avondale' is an upright, deciduous shrub or a small tree, often multi-stemmed, with very attractive, deep magenta, pink to lilac purple flowers. The heart-shaped, glossy, green leaves emerge in spring and turn yellow in autumn. Many dense clusters of tiny, rose-to-magenta flowers appear on bare branches before the leaves and spectacularly cover the whole bush. Flowers are followed by bean-like brown seedpods. Cercis chinensis 'Avondale' grows best in a moderately fertile, moist and well drained soil, in full sun or partial shade. The flowers thrive in full sun, but part shade is better in areas with hot summer climates. Generally, it is pest-free but may suffer from some diseases. Attractive to birds, butterflies, and bees. Cercis chinensis 'Avondale' is loved for its stunning spring appearance and attractive green foliage. It is great as a specimen plant or planted in groups. Perfect for beds and borders, woodland gardens, streets, and for growing in containers.

Prunus ‘Amanogawa’, or Cherry 'Amanogawa' is a wonderful, ornamental cherry tree. It’s a small, deciduous tree of narrowly columnar habit with ascending branches, smooth, brown bark, and colourful foliage – bronze green in spring, bright green in summer, and orange and red in autumn. Beautiful, sweetly fragrant, saucer-shaped, pale pink to white flowers, open from pink buds, and bloom abundantly in spring. Cherry 'Amanogawa' prefers fertile, loamy, moist, well-drained soils, but is adaptable to a wide range of soils. It thrives in full sun. It is resistant to frost, but late frosts may damage the flower buds. Needs to be sheltered from hard winds because they may strip the tree of its flowers. It is tolerant of urban conditions. Low maintenance plant. Cherry 'Amanogawa', with its stunning pink cherry blossoms, is perfect as a specimen plant for small, informal, cottage, and urban gardens. Excellent in narrow streets. Great for beds and borders and large pots and containers.

Halesia, or Silverbell, is a small genus of five species (H. carolina, H. diptera, H. macgregorii, H. tetraptera, and H. monticola) of large, deciduous shrubs or small trees with grey bark, and simple, ovate, green leaves, that turn yellow in autumn and fall off early. Attractive, hanging, bell-shaped, white to pale pink flowers grow in clusters and bloom in spring. Flowers are followed by four-winged (or two-winged), nut-like fruits in autumn and often remain on branches long into winter. Attractive to bees and squirrels. Halesia grows best in average, organically rich, slightly acidic, lime-free, moist but well-drained soils. It prefers partial shade, but tolerates full sun. Doesn’t have any serious pest or disease problems. Low maintenance plant, no routine pruning necessary. Halesia is a wonderful shrub or small tree perfect as an understory plant, for shrub borders, stream banks, or woodland gardens. Great as a specimen plant for the lawn.

Cuprocyparis leylandii 'Gold Rider' is a golden variant of the popular Leyland Cypress. It’s a large, vigorous, fast-growing, coniferous, evergreen tree with narrowly upright habit and open, horizontal branches covered with bright-yellow tipped lime-green leaves.

Cuprocyparis leylandii thrives on a variety of soils, but prefers fertile, moist, well-drained soils, in full sun. It is resilient to frost, urban pollution and spray salt, therefore, suitable for growing in cities and in coastal areas. Generally, pest-free and disease-free.

Cuprocyparis leylandii 'Gold Rider' is one of the best golden conifers. Its beautiful colour does not fade or turn brown during winter but remains bright and fresh. Perfect for formal garden hedges. Very popular among gardeners because of its dense and fast-growing habit. Ideal for noise reduction, wind protection and for creating beautiful privacy screens. It can also be a nice specimen plant, but it must be regularly trimmed not to outgrow its space in small landscapes.

Cuprocyparis leylandii is a hybrid of Monterey cypress (Cupressus macrocarpa) and Nootka cypress (Cupressus nootkatensis). It’s a large, fast-growing, dense, evergreen conifer tree with upright, columnar to pyramidal, habit and spays of grey-green, citrus-scented foliage. The branches are slightly flattened and covered with sprays of green scale-like leaves. Dark brown cones bear sterile seeds. Cuprocyparis leylandii thrives on a variety of soils, but prefers fertile, moist, well-drained soils, in full sun. It is resilient to frost, urban pollution and spray salt, therefore, suitable for growing in cities and in coastal areas. Generally, pest-free and disease-free. Cuprocyparis leylandii is mostly used for formal garden hedges. It is very popular among gardeners because of its dense and fast-growing habit. Leylandii hedges are ideal for noise reduction, wind protection and for creating beautiful privacy screens. It can also be a nice specimen plant, but it must be regularly trimmed not to outgrow its space in small landscapes.