Search results

Pittosporum tenuifolium 'Silver Sheen' is an elegant, evergreen shrub admired in UK gardens for its light, airy appearance and refined foliage. A distinctive cultivar of Pittosporum tenuifolium, it forms a dense yet graceful plant, typically reaching 2–4 metres in height if left unpruned, though it can be easily maintained at a lower size through regular trimming.

Its most striking feature is its foliage. The leaves are small, narrow and slightly wavy, coloured a soft silvery-green that catches the light beautifully. Held on slender, dark brown to almost black stems, the foliage creates a subtle contrast that adds depth and texture. When planted en masse or used as a hedge, the overall effect is shimmering and delicate, lending movement and brightness to borders.

In late spring to early summer, small, dark purple flowers may appear, often hidden amongst the foliage. Though not particularly showy, they are lightly scented and can add a further layer of interest when viewed up close. However, the plant is primarily valued for its foliage rather than its blooms.

‘Silver Sheen’ thrives in a sheltered position in full sun or partial shade and prefers well-drained soil. In the UK, it performs best in milder regions or protected gardens, as hard frosts and cold, drying winds can damage young growth. Once established, it is relatively drought tolerant and low maintenance.

It is particularly well suited to contemporary planting schemes, coastal gardens in sheltered spots, or as a stylish alternative to traditional hedging plants. Regular light pruning will maintain a neat shape, while minimal intervention allows it to develop into a soft, architectural presence within the garden.

Arbutus unedo multi-stem is an evergreen, ornamental, multi-stem, capriciously growing shrub or small tree with glossy, leathery, mid-green foliage. It is very unusual and stunning all year round. Clusters of fragrant, bell-shaped, white flowers bloom from autumn to mid-winter. Round, yellow fruits appear in winter and slowly become ripe in the next 12 months, gradually turning red. They are still on the tree when new flowers show up in autumn. A grey-brown bark peels, revealing cinnamon-colored inner bark. Arbutus unedo multi-stem grows slowly in a multi-stem form. It can grow in all kinds of soils and climate conditions, but prefers acidic, moist and well-drained soil, in full sun or partial shade. It is tolerant to drought, disease-free and pest-free. Very resilient. This unusual, colorful and very attractive plant is perfect as a specimen plant, great for shrub borders, hedges, coastal gardens, and for growing in containers.

This specimen has a gnarly trunk which forks into a neat two branched tree with heavy top. Amount of foliage may vary depending on the season and pruning requirement. 

Olea Europea is one of the world’s oldest cultivated plants with Mediterranean origin. It’s a wonderful, slow-growing, long-lived, evergreen tree of very attractive habit and spreading crown, with gnarled, twisted trunk and silvery foliage. The elliptic leaves are grey-green, silvery underneath. Tiny, fragrant, white flowers are followed by small, olive-rich, plum-like fruits, harvested when they are green or purple. Fruits are not edible directly from the tree, but after a special treatment. Common Olive grows best in fertile, loamy, moist, well-drained soils, in full sun, but can tolerate partial shade. Once established, it is drought-tolerant. It thrives in warm climates. If grown in colder areas, it should be planted in containers and brought inside during the winter. Generally, disease-free. Olea Europea is mostly grown for its tasteful fruits, but it is also an attractive-looking addition to urban, coastal, Mediterranean, or rock and gravel gardens. It is suitable for growing in pots and containers.

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.

Alnus rubra, commonly known as red alder, is a fast-growing deciduous tree native to the west coast of North America, from Alaska to California. It is easily recognized by its smooth, gray bark and broad, ovate leaves with serrated edges that turn yellow in the fall. Red alder typically grows 40 to 80 feet tall and thrives in moist, well-drained soils, often along rivers, streams, and in disturbed areas. One of its most notable ecological traits is its ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen through a symbiotic relationship with bacteria in its root nodules. This natural enrichment improves soil fertility and supports forest regeneration, making it an important pioneer species in reforestation and ecological restoration projects. Red alder also provides habitat and food for various wildlife species, including birds and insects. In addition to its ecological value, its light-colored wood is used in furniture, cabinetry, and paper production due to its workability and smooth finish.

Acer palmatum 'Skeeters Broom' is a unique and stunning cultivar of the Japanese maple tree. This deciduous tree is prized for its striking, bright red foliage that emerges in the spring and turns a deeper shade of red in the fall. The leaves are deeply lobed and delicate, creating a graceful and elegant appearance.

'Skeeters Broom' is a slow-growing tree that typically reaches a height of 6 to 8 feet and a spread of 4 to 6 feet, making it a perfect choice for smaller gardens, courtyards, or even containers. It has a compact and upright growth habit, with branches that grow vertically, giving it a narrow and columnar shape.

This Japanese maple is a low-maintenance tree that prefers partial shade and well-drained soil. It is hardy in zones 5-9 and can tolerate both cold winters and hot summers. 'Skeeters Broom' is also known for its excellent resistance to pests and diseases, making it a reliable addition to any landscape.

Overall, Acer palmatum 'Skeeters Broom' is a striking and unique cultivar that is sure to catch the eye of any passerby. Its compact size, easy care, and stunning foliage make it an excellent choice for gardens of all sizes and styles.

Acer cappadocicum 'Rubrum', commonly known as the Red Cappadocian Maple, is a beautiful deciduous tree admired for its vibrant seasonal colors and elegant form. It typically reaches heights of 30 to 50 feet with a broad, rounded crown, making it an excellent choice for parks, large gardens, or as a standout specimen in open landscapes.

In spring, the tree features eye-catching reddish young shoots that contrast strikingly with the emerging green foliage. The broad, lobed leaves mature to a rich green during summer, providing a dense, cooling canopy. As autumn approaches, the foliage transforms into a dazzling display of golden yellow, often flushed with vivid red and orange hues, creating a spectacular seasonal highlight.

'Rubrum' thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist, well-drained soils, although it can tolerate a range of conditions. With its bold color, strong structure, and low maintenance needs, it adds year-round interest and beauty to any landscape.

Malus ‘Red Sentinel’ is a small, deciduous tree with a rounded crown, medium-green leaves, yellow-bronze in autumn, and a profusion of fragrant, white flowers opening from dark pink buds in late spring. Clusters of cherry-like, glossy, deep-red fruits ripe in autumn and hang from bare branches in winter. Fruits are suitable for making jams and jellies. Attractive to birds and bees. Crab Apple 'Red Sentinel' can grow well in a wide range of soils, but prefers moderately fertile, medium moisture, well-drained soils. It thrives in full sun, but tolerates partial shade. Once established, it is resistant to drought. It can withstand frost, wind, and urban pollution. Self-pollinating plant that can be a pollinator for other plants. Resistant to scab. Malus ‘Red Sentinel’, with its lovely white flowers and attractive red fruits, is one of the most ornamental of crab apple varieties. Great as a specimen plant in small informal, cottage, or urban gardens. Suitable for culinary use.

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.

A deciduous, early-flowering large shrub or small tree with a dome-shaped crown. In spring, before the leaves emerge, clusters of mildly fragrant, star-shaped, white flowers appear. They are followed by small, edible, red to dark red, berry-like fruits in summer. The leaves are oval, toothed, dark green in summer and yellow, orange and red in autumn. Elegant growth habit makes it attractive even in winter. Amelanchier Canadensis is easily grown. It prefers moist, well-drained acidic soils, but it tolerates most soil types and both wet and dry locations. For best autumn colours and berry production, it should be planted in full sun. Very resilient, usually pest-free and disease-free. This attractive tree is perfect as a specimen plant, suitable for hedges, great for banks and slopes. It is especially nice when planted around ponds, lakes, and streams. It doesn’t mind marshy ground. It can also be used for erosion control.

Hibiscus Syriacus, commonly known as Rose of Sharon, is a deciduous shrub or small tree that belongs to the mallow family. Native to China and Korea, this plant is widely cultivated for its showy, trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom from mid-summer to early fall. The plant can grow up to 10 feet tall and 6 feet wide, forming a dense, rounded crown. Its bark is grayish-brown, and the leaves are dark green, lobed, and serrated. In fall, the foliage turns yellow before dropping. The flowers of Hibiscus Syriacus come in a range of colors, including white, pink, red, lavender, and blue. They have a diameter of 2-4 inches and typically last for only one day. However, the plant produces numerous flowers over a long period, providing a colorful display for weeks. Hibiscus Syriacus is a relatively low-maintenance plant and can grow in a variety of soil types, as long as they are well-drained. It prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade. The plant is also drought-tolerant once established, but it benefits from regular watering during dry periods.

Corylus colurna, commonly known as the Turkish hazel, is a distinctive deciduous tree valued for its hardiness, ornamental qualities, and tolerance of challenging urban environments. Native to south-eastern Europe and western Asia, it is the largest species within the hazel genus, capable of reaching heights of 20–25 metres with a broad, pyramidal crown that gradually becomes more rounded with age.

One of its most striking features is its deeply furrowed, corky bark, which develops an attractive, rugged texture even on relatively young trees. This characteristic, combined with its strong, upright form, gives the tree a notable architectural presence in parks, avenues, and large gardens. The foliage consists of broad, heart-shaped leaves that are coarsely toothed and provide a dense canopy. They emerge a fresh green in spring, mature to a deeper shade in summer, and may turn soft yellow in autumn, though the seasonal display is generally modest.

In late winter to early spring, the tree produces long, pale-yellow catkins, which dangle decoratively before the leaves appear. These are the male flowers, while the female flowers are much smaller and less conspicuous, identifiable only by their tiny crimson stigmas. The resulting fruit is a small, hard-shelled nut partially enclosed in a frilly, deeply cut husk. Although edible, the nuts are typically smaller and less commercially significant than those of the common hazel.

Corylus colurna is especially appreciated for its resilience. It withstands pollution, compacted soils, drought, and cold, making it an excellent choice for urban planting or exposed sites. Its deep root system allows it to anchor securely and contributes to its tolerance of dry conditions once established. Overall, the Turkish hazel is a robust, handsome tree that combines ornamental beauty with exceptional practicality.

Metasequoia glyptostroboides 'Amber Glow' is a striking deciduous conifer that belongs to the Cupressaceae family. It is a dwarf cultivar of the dawn redwood tree, which is native to China. The Amber Glow variety is highly prized for its stunning coloration, which adds an extra layer of visual interest to any landscape. The tree's foliage is a unique combination of green and gold hues, which take on a beautiful amber glow in the fall. The soft needles are arranged in a spiral pattern around the branches, creating a delicate, lacy effect. As the tree matures, its bark develops an attractive, fluted texture that adds another layer of visual interest. This variety of Metasequoia glyptostroboides is a slow-growing tree that reaches a height of around 6-8 feet and a spread of 3-4 feet over 10 years. It prefers full sun or partial shade and well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It is also tolerant of wet soils and can be grown near bodies of water.

Acer palmatum 'Atropurpureum Dissectum' is a highly decorative small tree, valued for its elegant weeping habit and finely cut purple-red foliage. Its compact size and graceful form make it especially suitable for smaller gardens, courtyard spaces, Japanese-style planting schemes, and container growing on patios or terraces. The delicate foliage creates a soft, textured appearance throughout spring and summer before turning brilliant crimson shades in autumn, providing exceptional seasonal interest.

This cultivar thrives best in sheltered positions with moist, well-drained soil and protection from strong winds, which can damage the finely divided leaves. Partial shade is ideal, particularly in warmer areas, as it helps preserve the rich foliage colour and prevents leaf scorch. It combines beautifully with ornamental grasses, ferns, hostas, and evergreen shrubs, creating a calm and refined garden atmosphere.

Due to its slow growth and naturally cascading shape, very little pruning is required beyond removing damaged branches. Its architectural beauty makes it an excellent focal point near water features, pathways, or seating areas where the intricate foliage and graceful silhouette can be fully appreciated year-round.

Euonymous alatus is a large, dense, spreading deciduous shrub with oval, green leaves, that turn spectacularly scarlet-red in autumn. Tiny, inconspicuous, greenish flowers bloom in spring and summer, and are followed by highly ornamental purple and red fruits in autumn and throughout the winter. Bare winter branches are attractive because of their “corky” wings. Euonymous alatus can grow in a wide range of soils, but thrives in average, medium moisture, well-drained soils. It prefers full sun and the best leaf colour is achieved in full sun, but tolerates partial shade. Generally, pest-free. Attractive to birds. It can withstand severe pruning, and has a tendency to be invasive. Euonymous alatus is a stunning shrub with beautiful fiery red autumn foliage, hence the name Burning Bush. It is perfect as a specimen plant, great for informal hedges and screens, wall-side borders, and shrub borders. Best-looking when planted against evergreens.

Prunus subhirtella ‘Autumnalis’ is a small, deciduous, ornamental cherry tree, with an upright-spreading to rounded habit, and ovate, toothed, green leaves, bronze-tinted when young, orange and yellow in autumn. Masses of lovely, semi-double, pale pink to white flowers, bloom in flushes over an unusually long period of time – from late autumn to early spring. Flowers are followed by pea-sized fruits, without ornamental value, in summer. Prunus subhirtella ‘Autumnalis’ is best grown in fertile, moist, well-drained soil.

It prefers full sun and though it tolerates partial shade, best flowers are achieved in full sun. It is more tolerant of summer heat and winter cold than other flowering cherries. Generally, it has good disease resistance. Low maintenance plant, doesn’t require much pruning.

This winter flowering cherry is perfect as a specimen plant in small cottage, urban, and Japanese-style gardens. Great-looking when planted in groups. Suitable for growing in containers. Tolerant of urban conditions and excellent in streets and parks.

Acer palmatum dissectum, commonly known as the lace leaf Japanese maple, is a popular ornamental tree renowned for its intricate, finely divided foliage. This deciduous shrub or small tree is part of the Aceraceae family and originates from Japan, Korea, and China. It typically grows to a height of 2 to 3 meters (6 to 10 feet) with a similar spread, making it a perfect choice for small gardens and container planting.

The leaves of Acer palmatum dissectum are deeply lobed and serrated, resembling delicate lace. Throughout the seasons, the foliage transitions from a vibrant green in spring and summer to spectacular shades of red, orange, and purple in autumn, providing year-round interest. The tree's cascading, weeping habit adds an elegant and graceful element to any landscape design.

Acer palmatum dissectum prefers a position in partial shade with well-drained, moist soil. It is relatively low-maintenance, requiring minimal pruning to maintain its shape. This tree is also known for its resilience to pests and diseases. Its compact size and striking appearance make it an excellent choice for adding structure and colour to garden borders, patios, and rockeries in British gardens.

Arbutus rubra is an evergreen tree of notable ornamental value, admired for its rich colouring, distinctive bark, and year-round interest. Typically medium-sized, it develops a rounded to spreading crown and a strong architectural presence, making it well suited to gardens, parks, and mild coastal landscapes.

The foliage of Arbutus rubra is one of its most striking features. The leaves are leathery, glossy, and deep green, often flushed with reddish tones when young. Elliptical in shape with finely serrated margins, they are held densely along the branches, contributing to the tree’s lush and robust appearance throughout the year. As an evergreen, it provides consistent structure even in winter months.

Its bark is particularly decorative. Smooth and richly coloured, it peels naturally in thin flakes, revealing layers of warm red, cinnamon, and copper beneath. This exfoliating habit gives the trunk and larger branches a textured, sculptural quality that becomes increasingly attractive with age.

Flowering typically occurs in autumn or early winter. Small, urn-shaped flowers appear in hanging clusters and are usually creamy white to pale pink. These blooms are attractive to pollinating insects and add subtle charm at a time when many plants are dormant. The flowers are followed by rounded fruits that gradually ripen to shades of red, enhancing the tree’s seasonal appeal and providing food for birds.

Arbutus rubra prefers well-drained soil and thrives in sheltered positions with full sun or light shade. Once established, it shows good tolerance to drought and coastal conditions. Its combination of colourful bark, evergreen foliage, delicate flowers, and ornamental fruit makes it a refined and enduring choice in temperate gardens.

Cordyline australis, or Cabbage Palm, is an impressive, vigorous, palm-like, sub-tropical tree with long, arching, narrow, dark burgundy leaves. The panicles of small, fragrant, white flowers bloom only on mature plants, in late spring to early summer. The flowers are followed by white or blue-tined berries. Cordyline australis (cabbage palm) thrives in full sun or partial shade and grows well in any kind of soil, except waterlogged. It prefers fertile, moist and well-drained soils. It is tolerant to salt, wind, and drought which makes it a perfect coastal plant. It can withstand some cold weather, but frost might damage it. Disease-free and low maintenance. Toxic to animals. Cordyline australis is an incredible specimen tree because of its tropical looks and bold colour. It’s a great addition to any garden, traditional or modern. Perfect for coastal areas. Great for beds and borders, patios and containers.

Physocarpus ‘Darts Gold’ is a medium-sized, compact, mounded deciduous shrub with exfoliating bark on mature branches, and ovate, three-lobed, bright golden-yellow leaves when young, lime-green when mature, yellow-bronze in autumn. Small, pink-tinted, creamy-white flowers in dense, flat, rounded clusters bloom in late spring and early summer and are followed by reddish fruit. Physocarpus ‘Darts Gold’ prefers average, dry to medium moisture, slightly acidic, well-drained soil, in full sun or partial shade, but can tolerate a wide range of soils. Doesn’t like hot and humid climates. If planted in chalky soil, susceptible to chlorosis. Very resilient, can grow in harsh conditions. It is very tolerant of urban pollution, therefore, suitable for growing in cities. Generally, pest-free and disease-free. Low maintenance plant, doesn’t require much pruning. Physocarpus ‘Darts Gold’ is best used for mass planting in shrub borders and wall-side borders, or for hedges and screens. Great for erosion control on banks and slopes.