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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.

Rowan, Sorbus aucuparia, or European Mountain Ash, is a vigorous, deciduous tree with oval, upright habit when young, rounded when mature and pinnate, serrated, dark green leaves, yellow, red, and purple in autumn. Flat-topped clusters of small, white flowers bloom in late spring and are followed by a profusion of bright orange-red berries. Attractive to birds and bees. European Mountain Ash prefers moderately fertile, humus-rich, slightly acidic, moist, well-drained soils, but is adaptable to various soil conditions, even poor and dry. It thrives in full sun to partial shade. It is resistant to frost and can withstand wind and short floods. Doesn’t like hot and humid summers. Very easy to grow, tolerant of urban pollution and exposed areas. Low maintenance plant, doesn’t require pruning. Sorbus aucuparia is an attractive ornamental tree, perfect for cool northern climates. Great for cottage, wildlife, and urban gardens. Excellent as a street tree. Suitable for growing in containers on patios and roof gardens.

Pot-grown trees establish quickly with minimal transplant shock, offer greater flexibility for planting throughout the year, and typically show more consistent early growth due to their well-developed, protected root systems.

Pyrus calleryana 'Chanticleer' is a medium-sized, narrowly upright, conical, ornamental pear tree with glossy, dark green leaves, vivid red in autumn, a profusion of lovely, white flowers blooming in spring, and occasionally, small, brown fruit in autumn. Attractive to bees and birds. Callery Pear 'Chanticleer' is adaptable to a wide range of soil, including heavy clay, but prefers fertile, loamy, moist and well-drained soils. It thrives in full sun. Once established, it is resistant to drought, frost, and wind. Tolerant of urban pollution. Low maintenance plant, doesn’t require much pruning. Generally, pest-free. Easy to grow. Pyrus calleryana 'Chanticleer' is a beautiful, tough ornamental tree, one of the best ornamental pears for autumn colour. Great as a specimen plant or small shade tree. Excellent for avenues and narrow streets, as well as industrial areas. Suitable for growing in containers. Because of its wind resistance, good for coastal areas and roof gardens.

Pterocarya fraxinifolia, commonly known as the Caucasian wingnut, is a large, fast-growing deciduous tree prized for its bold structure and lush, tropical-looking foliage. Native to the Caucasus and northern Iran, it typically grows 20 to 30 meters tall with a wide, spreading canopy reaching 15 to 20 meters. Its elegant, pinnate leaves create a soft, feathery effect, providing dense summer shade. In late spring and summer, the tree produces striking, long, hanging catkins that develop into chains of winged seeds, adding ornamental interest. Pterocarya fraxinifolia thrives in moist, fertile soils and is ideal for parklands, large gardens, and riverside plantings. Its impressive size and distinctive appearance make it a standout feature in any expansive landscape.

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.

Pterocarya fraxinifolia, commonly known as the Caucasian wingnut, is a large, fast-growing deciduous tree prized for its bold structure and lush, tropical-looking foliage. Native to the Caucasus and northern Iran, it typically grows 20 to 30 meters tall with a wide, spreading canopy reaching 15 to 20 meters. Its elegant, pinnate leaves create a soft, feathery effect, providing dense summer shade. In late spring and summer, the tree produces striking, long, hanging catkins that develop into chains of winged seeds, adding ornamental interest. Pterocarya fraxinifolia thrives in moist, fertile soils and is ideal for parklands, large gardens, and riverside plantings. Its impressive size and distinctive appearance make it a standout feature in any expansive landscape.

Cotoneaster 'Cornubia' is a large, rounded, compact, semi-evergreen shrub or small tree with branches that are upright when young, and arching as the plant matures. Long, oval, pointed, rich green leaves are early to leaf and late to drop. Clusters of lovely, creamy-white flowers appear in spring and attracts bees. Flowers are followed by abundance of attractive, pea-sized, vivid red berries in autumn and winter, if not eaten by birds. Cotoneaster 'Cornubia' is very easy to grow. It thrives in fertile sandy loams, but can adopt to poor soils as long as they are well-drained. It doesn’t like marshy or waterlogged soils. It grows best in full sun and requires little maintenance. Once established, it is drought resistant. Cotoneaster 'Cornubia', with its semi-evergreen leaves and long-lasting berries, can be a perfect accent plant in winter gardens. Great for shrub borders, banks and slopes, and informal hedges.

Ginkgo biloba is known as a “living fossil”, one of the oldest tree species. It’s a large, long-lived, coniferous, deciduous tree with deeply grooved, grey-brown bark and thick, fan-shaped, bi-lobed, green leaves that turn yellow in autumn. Ginkgo has either male catkins or female single flowers on long stems. Female plants bear unpleasantly scented plum-like fruits, which are actually hard seeds with silvery yellow seed coats. Ginkgo biloba grows in a wide variety of soils, except too wet and waterlogged, but prefers average, medium moisture, sandy, well-drained soils, in full sun. Once established, it is tolerant of heat, salt, and urban pollution. Generally, disease-free and pest-free. Ginkgo biloba is a perfect specimen plant for large gardens. Great as a shade tree, lawn tree, or planted in espaliers. Very good for streets and parks. Slower-growing varieties are suitable for growing in containers. While young, the crown can be trimmed and trained as desired.

Malus Floribunda is a rounded, densely-branched, deciduous tree, with narrow, toothed, dark green leaves, yellow and red in autumn. Masses of fragrant, pale pink flowers emerge from red buds in mid-spring and gradually turn white. Flowers are followed by small, orange, edible fruits in autumn, mostly eaten by birds. Malus Floribunda grows well in a wide range of soils, but prefers moderately fertile, medium moisture, well-drained soils. it thrives in full sun, but tolerates some shade. Once established, somewhat resistant to drought. Adaptable to urban conditions. Not very disease susceptible. Low maintenance, requires minimal pruning. This Japanese crab, with a profusion of lovely, pale pink flowers, is one of the most beautiful flowering crab apples. It is perfect as a specimen tree or planted in groups in informal, cottage, and urban gardens. Excellent as a street tree, but because of its spreading habit, it shouldn’t be planted too close to buildings.

Sorbus vilmorinii, or Vilmorin's Rowan, is a small, spreading, deciduous tree with flat, fern-like, pinnate green leaves, turning red and purple in autumn. Corymbs of small, creamy-white flowers bloom in spring and are followed by rose pink berries fading to white in autumn, and persisting on bare branches throughout the winter. Attractive to birds and bees. Vilmorin's Rowan is adaptable to a wide range of soils but prefers moderately fertile, humus-rich, slightly acidic, moist, well-drained soils. It thrives in full sun to partial shade. It is resistant to frost and wind and tolerant of exposed conditions, coastal conditions, and urban pollution. Low maintenance plant, doesn’t require much pruning. Sorbus vilmorinii is a lovely, small, ornamental tree, perfect for small cottage, coastal and urban gardens. It is great as a specimen plant, for beds and borders, informal hedges and screens. Excellent for streets and avenues. Suitable for growing in containers.

The Prunus 'Umineko', a stunning addition to any garden landscape, renowned for its captivating beauty and delicate elegance. Originating from Japan, this ornamental cherry tree, also known as 'Sea Breeze', is cherished for its abundant clusters of pure white blossoms that herald the arrival of spring in a spectacular fashion.

The Prunus 'Umineko' belongs to the esteemed family of flowering cherries, prized for their graceful form and enchanting floral displays. It typically grows to a modest height of around 4-6 meters, making it suitable for gardens of varying sizes. Its compact size makes it an ideal choice for both urban gardens and larger landscapes, where it can serve as a focal point or be planted in clusters for a breathtaking visual impact.

In early spring, before the tree's leaves unfurl, delicate buds burst into a profusion of fragrant, snow-white flowers. These blossoms, borne in clusters along the branches, create a mesmerizing spectacle that attracts pollinators and admirers alike. The Prunus 'Umineko' is a beacon of hope and renewal, symbolizing the rejuvenation of nature after the long winter months.

Following the floral extravaganza, the tree's glossy green foliage emerges, providing a lush backdrop for the remainder of the growing season. In autumn, the leaves transition to vibrant hues of yellow and orange, casting a warm glow across the landscape before gracefully descending.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the Prunus 'Umineko' offers a low-maintenance addition to the garden, requiring little more than regular watering and occasional pruning to maintain its shape. It thrives in well-drained soil and prefers a sunny to partially shaded position, although it can tolerate some shade.

Whether planted as a solitary specimen, in a mixed border, or as part of a Japanese-inspired garden, the Prunus 'Umineko' never fails to captivate with its timeless beauty and serene presence. Bring the enchantment of spring to your garden with this exquisite flowering cherry tree, and enjoy its ethereal charm for years to come.

Sorbus vilmorinii, or Vilmorin's Rowan, is a small, spreading, deciduous tree with flat, fern-like, pinnate green leaves, turning red and purple in autumn. Corymbs of small, creamy-white flowers bloom in spring and are followed by rose pink berries fading to white in autumn, and persisting on bare branches throughout the winter. Attractive to birds and bees. Vilmorin's Rowan is adaptable to a wide range of soils but prefers moderately fertile, humus-rich, slightly acidic, moist, well-drained soils. It thrives in full sun to partial shade. It is resistant to frost and wind and tolerant of exposed conditions, coastal conditions, and urban pollution. Low maintenance plant, doesn’t require much pruning. Sorbus vilmorinii is a lovely, small, ornamental tree, perfect for small cottage, coastal and urban gardens. It is great as a specimen plant, for beds and borders, informal hedges and screens. Excellent for streets and avenues. Suitable for growing in containers.

Cryptomeria japonica 'Globosa Nana' is a lovely, dwarf, slow-growing, coniferous, evergreen shrub with a dense, dome-shaped habit and blue-green, needle-like leaves that curve inwards, yellowish-green in summer, bronze in winter. Spherical cones appear in autumn.

Cryptomeria japonica 'Globosa Nana' can grow in any type of soil, but prefers moist and well-drained soils. It preforms best in full sun to partial shade. It is resistant to frost, but needs to be sheltered from harsh and drying winds. Generally, pest-free and disease-free. Low maintenance plant. It keeps its neat, rounded shape without any maintenance. Very easy to grow and a good alternative to boxwood.

Japanese cedar 'Globosa Nana' is a lovely, little, soft and fluffy shrub with great shape and beautiful foliage. It is perfect for informal, cottage, and rock and gravel gardens. Excellent for beds and borders, low hedges, or for growing in pots and containers. Suitable for making topiaries.

Eriobotrya japonica 'Coppertone’ is a tropical, evergreen shrub or small tree with dense, rounded crown, and long, narrow, exotic-looking, leathery, glossy green leaves, bronze when they emerge, and hairy underneath. Very fragrant, pale pink flowers bloom in autumn. Flowers are rarely followed by edible orange-yellow fruits. Attractive to bees and hummingbirds.

Eriobotrya japonica 'Coppertone’ prefers fertile, loamy, moist, well-drained soils. It thrives in full sun but will tolerate light shade. Once established, resistant to drought. It’s a tropical tree and can grow fruit only in frost-free climates since flowering occurs in autumn. Otherwise, it can withstand frost, but needs to be sheltered from harsh winds. Best to be planted against a brick or stone wall. Tolerant of sea salt and urban pollution. Low maintenance plant, doesn’t require pruning. Coppertone Loquat Tree is a wonderful, exotic-looking, ornamental, evergreen tree, perfect as a specimen plant in coastal and urban gardens. Suitable for growing in large containers.

Pot grown from seed at Arundel Arboretum.

Sorbus aucuparia, or European Mountain Ash, is a vigorous, deciduous tree with oval, upright habit when young, rounded when mature and pinnate, serrated, dark green leaves, yellow, red, and purple in autumn. Flat-topped clusters of small, white flowers bloom in late spring and are followed by a profusion of bright orange-red berries. Attractive to birds and bees. European Mountain Ash prefers moderately fertile, humus-rich, slightly acidic, moist, well-drained soils, but is adaptable to various soil conditions, even poor and dry. It thrives in full sun to partial shade. It is resistant to frost and can withstand wind and short floods. Doesn’t like hot and humid summers. Very easy to grow, tolerant of urban pollution and exposed areas. Low maintenance plant, doesn’t require pruning. Sorbus aucuparia is an attractive ornamental tree, perfect for cool northern climates. Great for cottage, wildlife, and urban gardens. Excellent as a street tree. Suitable for growing in containers on patios and roof gardens.

The Larix decidua, commonly known as the European Larch, is a distinctive deciduous conifer that brings year-round interest and strong architectural character to a garden. Unlike most conifers, it sheds its soft needles in autumn, creating a beautiful seasonal display as the foliage turns warm golden yellow before falling.

European Larch is best suited to medium to large gardens where it has space to develop into an elegant tree. It forms a tall, upright shape with gently spreading branches that allow light to filter through, making it less heavy in appearance than many evergreen conifers. In spring, clusters of fresh bright green needles emerge along the branches, often accompanied by small decorative cones that add further visual interest.

This species thrives in full sun and prefers moist but well-drained soil. It performs particularly well in cooler climates and is very hardy, making it reliable in most UK gardens. Once established, it is relatively low maintenance and tolerant of exposed positions.

Because of its graceful structure and seasonal colour changes, European Larch works beautifully as a specimen tree in lawns, parkland-style gardens, or large landscapes where its natural form can be fully appreciated.

Thuja occidentalis 'Yellow Ribbon,' commonly known as the Yellow Ribbon Arborvitae, is a captivating and popular evergreen shrub that hails from the cypress family, Cupressaceae. This striking cultivar is celebrated for its vibrant, golden-yellow foliage, which adds a burst of colour and elegance to gardens and landscapes.

Standing at a height of 10 to 15 feet with a similar spread, 'Yellow Ribbon' possesses a natural, conical shape that requires minimal pruning to maintain its stunning form. The soft, scale-like leaves are arranged in flattened sprays along its gracefully arching branches, giving it a feathery and delicate appearance. During the summer, the foliage is a brilliant yellow hue, and this coloration intensifies in the fall, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere in your garden.

One of the key attributes of Thuja occidentalis 'Yellow Ribbon' is its adaptability. This cultivar thrives in a variety of soil types, including well-drained and slightly acidic to alkaline soils. It also exhibits exceptional cold tolerance, making it an ideal choice for gardens in northern regions. Its evergreen nature ensures that it remains a focal point of interest throughout the year, providing both privacy and a touch of sophistication to any landscape.

'Yellow Ribbon' is a low-maintenance shrub that requires minimal care once established. Regular watering and a layer of mulch help retain moisture and protect the root system, while occasional pruning can be done to shape or maintain its size. It's a wonderful choice for hedges, screens, or as a standalone specimen in gardens, where its radiant yellow foliage can contrast beautifully with other green or darker plants.

Quercus ilex, or Holm Oak, is a large, evergreen tree, with fissured, black bark, and massive, dense, rounded crown. Leathery, glossy dark green leaves, grey and hairy underneath, resemble holly leaves when young, and become smooth-edged when mature. Small, inconspicuous, yellowish green flowers grow in small clusters if female, and in dangling catkins if male and are followed by small acorns. Holm Oak grows best in rich, loamy, moist, well-drained soil. It thrives in full sun to partial shade. Once established, it is resistant to drought. Tolerant of salt-spray and suitable for coastal areas. Resistant to urban pollution. Mediterranean climate plant, it may suffer in severe winters. Virtually disease-free. Low maintenance plant, doesn’t require pruning. Quercus ilex is an exceptional evergreen tree, perfect as a specimen plant or a shade tree in large gardens. Great for hedges and screens. Often planted as a windbreak in coastal areas. Excellent for streets and parks in urban and industrial areas.

Acer ‘Kogane Nishiki’ is a striking and rare cultivar of the Acer palmatum (Japanese maple), celebrated for its unique golden-yellow foliage and elegant structure. The name ‘Kogane Nishiki’ translates from Japanese as ‘Golden Brocade’ or ‘Golden Embroidery’, reflecting its luminous, textured leaves. 

This deciduous tree features deeply lobed leaves that emerge in spring with a bright yellow-green hue, often with hints of soft orange or pink at the edges. As the seasons progress, the foliage transitions to a richer golden tone before taking on warm amber and orange hues in autumn. This continuous colour evolution makes it a highly sought-after ornamental tree for gardens, particularly in Japanese-style landscapes and small garden spaces.

‘Kogane Nishiki’ typically reaches a compact height of around 2–4 metres, making it ideal for container planting, patios, and sheltered spots. Its graceful branching structure adds year-round interest, even when bare in winter. The bark is smooth and provides an elegant contrast to the vibrant leaves.

Like most Japanese maples, it prefers a partially shaded location with protection from intense afternoon sun, which can scorch its delicate foliage. Well-drained, slightly acidic soil is best, and regular watering is essential, particularly during hot, dry spells.

This cultivar is favoured for its delicate beauty, striking seasonal colour shifts, and suitability for small gardens. Its radiant golden leaves add contrast to darker green plants, making it a standout feature in any planting scheme. Whether as a specimen tree or part of a larger design, Acer ‘Kogane Nishiki’ offers a stunning visual display throughout the year.

Tsuga canadensis ‘Pendula’, commonly known as weeping Canadian hemlock, is a highly ornamental, evergreen conifer prized for its graceful, cascading form and soft, dark green needles. Its distinctive weeping branches create a flowing, layered appearance that adds elegance and movement to the garden. Ideal as a specimen plant, it brings structure and year-round interest to shady borders, woodland gardens, or sloped landscapes where its draping habit can be showcased.

This cultivar is slow-growing and can be trained or staked to achieve various shapes, including upright with drooping branches or a spreading, ground-hugging form. It typically grows 5 to 15 feet tall and wide, depending on training and space. 'Pendula' thrives in partial to full shade and prefers moist, well-drained, acidic soils. It is hardy and benefits from shelter against harsh wind or strong sun, which can scorch its foliage.

Low-maintenance and deer-resistant, it requires little pruning beyond shaping and responds well to thoughtful training. Tsuga canadensis ‘Pendula’ is an elegant, versatile choice for gardeners seeking a dramatic yet refined evergreen focal point in shaded or naturalistic garden settings.