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Sorbus pseudohupehensis 'Pink Pagoda’ is a compact, medium-sized, deciduous tree of columnar habit, with pinnate, blue-green leaves, vivid red in autumn. Profusion of tiny, creamy-white flowers bloom in spring and are followed by bright pink berries in autumn, persisting on bare branches throughout winter. Chinese Mountain Ash ‘Pink Pagoda’ thrives in moderately fertile, humus-rich, slightly acidic, moist, well-drained soils, but can adapt to a wide range of soil types. Once established, tolerant of drought. It is resistant to frost and wind, and tolerant of exposed conditions, coastal conditions, and air pollution. Low maintenance plant, doesn’t require regular pruning. Sorbus pseudohupehensis 'Pink Pagoda’ is a lovely and tough ornamental tree perfect as a specimen plant in small informal, cottage, coastal, and urban gardens. Great for beds and borders, as well as informal hedges and screens. Excellent as a street tree. Suitable for growing in containers on patios or roof gardens.

Carpinus betulus ‘Fastigata’, or ‘Pyramidalis’, is a medium-sized, deciduous tree with a fluted smooth grey bark, narrowly upright, columnar growth habit, and a pyramidal shape. The leaves are ovate, serrated and ribbed, dark green in summer, coppery yellow in autumn. They remain on branches long into winter. This pyramidal variety has neater and denser form and more glossy leaves. Small flowers appear in catkins in spring before the leaves. Carpinus betulus ‘Fastigata’ is a low maintenance and easy to grow plant. It is satisfied with any type of soil, but prefers fertile, dry to moist, well-drained soil, in full sun or partial shade. It is generally disease-free and pest free. It can tolerate drought. Carpinus betulus ‘Fastigata’ is an excellent tree and a nice addition to any garden. It is great as a specimen plant or in a group. Because of its tolerance to pruning, it is perfect for hedges and privacy screens.

Our spruce has been grown in a pot from seed right here at the Arundel Arboretum. 

Picea abies, commonly known as the Norway spruce, is a prominent coniferous tree native to Northern, Central, and Eastern Europe. Recognisable by its tall, symmetrical shape and dense, evergreen foliage, it often reaches heights of 35–55 metres, with some specimens growing even taller under optimal conditions. The Norway spruce is widely planted in Europe and North America, not only for ornamental and landscaping purposes but also for timber production, given its straight grain and versatility. Its wood, known as "whitewood," is prized in the construction industry and is also used in the manufacture of paper and musical instruments.

The tree's bark is brown to reddish and scaly, becoming rougher as it ages. Its branches grow in horizontal layers, with pendulous branchlets giving the tree a slightly weeping appearance. Needles are dark green, pointed, and around 1–2 cm in length. Cones are one of its defining features, typically measuring 10–18 cm, with a cylindrical shape and rounded, overlapping scales that turn brown as they mature.

Picea abies is hardy, thriving in a range of climates and soil types, though it prefers well-drained, acidic soils and benefits from full sun. In colder climates, it is often cultivated as a Christmas tree due to its classic conical form and appealing fragrance. However, it requires ample space for its expansive root system, making it unsuitable for small gardens.

Ecologically, the Norway spruce plays an essential role in forest ecosystems, providing habitat and food for various wildlife species. 

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.

The Metasequoia glyptostroboides, commonly known as the dawn redwood, is a deciduous conifer belonging to the family Cupressaceae. It is one of only three species of redwood trees and is renowned for its prehistoric origins, often referred to as a "living fossil." 

This remarkable tree can grow to impressive heights of up to 40 metres (130 feet) with a conical shape. The bark is reddish-brown, fibrous, and peels off in long strips, giving it a distinctive appearance. The leaves are needle-like, arranged oppositely on the branches, and turn a rich bronze or golden-brown before falling in the autumn. This seasonal shedding of leaves distinguishes the dawn redwood from its evergreen relatives.

Metasequoia glyptostroboides thrives in temperate climates and prefers moist, well-drained soils, often found near rivers and wetlands. Its growth rate is rapid, making it a popular choice for ornamental planting in parks and gardens worldwide. Despite its prehistoric lineage, the dawn redwood has adapted well to cultivation and can withstand urban conditions, including pollution and compacted soils.

The tree's history is fascinating, as it was once thought to be extinct and only known through fossil records until its rediscovery in the 1940s. Since then, efforts have been made to propagate and preserve this species, ensuring its survival and increasing its presence in both natural and managed landscapes.

Cedrus deodara is a large, evergreen, fast-growing coniferous tree of pyramidal habit and pendulous horizontal branching. Long, elegant branches with weeping tips bear glaucous, whorled light blue or greyish green needle-like leaves. Male cones are upright, scattered on lower branches, releasing pollen in autumn and then falling to the ground. Female cones are upright, solitary or in pairs, and need 2 years to mature. Deodar Cedar prefers deep, rich, slightly acidic, well-drained soil in full sun. It needs to be protected from hard winds and can be damaged by frost. Once established, it is tolerant to drought and hot, humid summers. Moderately tolerant to salt. Generally, pest-free and disease-free. Cedrus deodara is one of the most graceful conifers, perfect as a specimen plant in large gardens. Great in groups or as a screen. It can be attractive in cities as a street tree if lower branches are removed.

Prunus serrulata ‘Taihaku’, commonly known as the Great White Cherry, is a superb ornamental tree well-suited to spacious gardens where its striking beauty can be fully appreciated. Renowned for its large, snow-white blossoms in early to mid-spring, it creates a dramatic and uplifting focal point in the landscape. Its broad, spreading canopy—paired with bronzed young leaves that mature to green—offers both seasonal interest and dappled shade throughout the growing season.

Reaching a mature height of around 20 to 25 feet (6 to 8 meters), with a similar spread, ‘Taihaku’ is ideal for open lawns, feature planting, or lining avenues. It thrives best in full sun and moist, well-drained soil. While it is hardy and tolerant of urban pollution, it also performs well in coastal gardens, provided it is given some shelter from strong, salt-laden winds. With proper positioning, it will reward gardeners with a magnificent spring display and graceful presence all year round.

Abies koreana 'Brilliant' is a cultivar of the Korean fir, a slow-growing evergreen tree native to Korea. 'Brilliant' is a popular cultivar known for its striking foliage and compact size, making it an excellent choice for small gardens and landscapes. The needles of 'Brilliant' are a vibrant shade of green, with a silvery-white underside that gives the tree a unique and eye-catching appearance. The needles are short and arranged in dense, spiral clusters along the branches, giving the tree a full and bushy look. In the spring, 'Brilliant' produces small purple cones that add to its ornamental appeal. One of the standout features of 'Brilliant' is its compact size, growing to only 5-10 feet tall and 3-5 feet wide over many years. This makes it an ideal choice for smaller gardens, rock gardens, and even container gardens. 'Brilliant' is also well-suited for use as a specimen tree or as part of a mixed evergreen planting. In terms of care, 'Brilliant' prefers moist, well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. It is generally low-maintenance once established, but benefits from occasional pruning to maintain its shape and remove any dead or damaged branches. It is also important to water the tree regularly during periods of drought to ensure healthy growth.

Cedrus libani ‘Glauca’, commonly known as the Blue Lebanon Cedar, is a majestic and ornamental evergreen tree highly suitable for spacious gardens and landscapes. It thrives best in full sun with well-drained soil and is particularly valued for its glaucous, silver-blue needles, which provide year-round color and visual interest. This cultivar is drought-tolerant once established and requires minimal maintenance, making it a good choice for low-intervention gardening in temperate climates.

Its growth habit starts with a strong, upright, pyramidal form in youth, gradually developing into a broad, flat-topped tree with distinctive horizontal branching as it matures. This architectural structure creates a dramatic silhouette, especially in winter when its bold framework is fully visible. Due to its size—reaching heights of 40 to 60 feet or more with a broad spread—it is best suited to large gardens, parkland settings, or as a standalone specimen in open lawns.

Cedrus libani ‘Glauca’ is not recommended for small gardens due to its eventual scale, but in the right setting, it provides a long-lived and impressive focal point with outstanding ornamental value.

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.

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.

Betula albosinensis 'Fascination' is a medium-sized, slow-growing, deciduous tree with pyramidal habit and open crown. Oblong, dark green leaves emerge in spring and turn golden yellow in autumn. Small, light yellow flowers grow in pendulous catkins. The most attractive part of this plant is its bark. Creamy white bark peels off revealing beautiful shades of copper, brown and pink. Betula albosinensis 'Fascination' can grow in any type of soil, as long as it is moist and well-drained. It prefers full sun to partial shade. It grows slowly and it will take many years for it to reach its maximum height. It has shallow root with a dense root system. It is resilient, low maintenance plant, resistant to frost and winds. Generally, pest-free and disease-free. Betula albosinensis 'Fascination' is an attractive tree because of its peeling bark. It is great for cottage, woodland, and informal gardens.

Sequoiadendron giganteum, commonly known as the giant sequoia, is a massive coniferous tree species that is endemic to the Sierra Nevada Mountains of California. It is one of the largest trees in the world, growing up to a height of 50-85 meters (165-279 feet) and a diameter of 6-8 meters (20-26 feet) at the base. The tree has a distinctive massive trunk that can measure up to 30 meters (98 feet) in circumference, and reddish-brown bark that is soft and fibrous. The leaves of the giant sequoia are needle-like, about 3-6 mm long, and arranged spirally on the branches. The cones are also massive, measuring up to 20-50 cm (8-20 inches) in length, and take about 20 months to mature. When mature, the cones disintegrate, releasing the small seeds that are dispersed by the wind. Giant sequoias are long-lived trees, with some individuals living up to 3,000 years. They have a unique ability to regenerate after fires, with their thick bark protecting the tree from damage. The tree has an important ecological role in the Sierra Nevada ecosystem, providing habitat for a wide range of wildlife, including birds, squirrels, and bears.

Carpinus betulus, or European Hornbeam, is a large, deciduous tree with a fluted grey trunk and very appealing, dense, oval to rounded crown. The leaves are ovate, serrated and ribbed, dark green in summer, coppery yellow in autumn. They remain on branches long into winter. Flowers appear in separate male and female catkins before the leaves, in spring, and are followed by winged nuts. European Hornbeam is a low maintenance and easy to grow plant. It is satisfied with any type of soil, but prefers fertile, dry to moist, well-drained soil, in full sun or partial shade. It is generally disease-free and pest free. It can tolerate drought. Carpinus betulus is an excellent tree and a nice addition to any garden. It is great as a specimen plant or in a group. Because of its tolerance to pruning, it is perfect for hedges and privacy screens.

Carpinus betulus, or European Hornbeam, is a large, deciduous tree with a fluted grey trunk and very appealing, dense, oval to rounded crown. The leaves are ovate, serrated and ribbed, dark green in summer, coppery yellow in autumn. They remain on branches long into winter. Flowers appear in separate male and female catkins before the leaves, in spring, and are followed by winged nuts. European Hornbeam is a low maintenance and easy to grow plant. It is satisfied with any type of soil, but prefers fertile, dry to moist, well-drained soil, in full sun or partial shade. It is generally disease-free and pest free. It can tolerate drought. Carpinus betulus is an excellent tree and a nice addition to any garden. It is great as a specimen plant or in a group. Because of its tolerance to pruning, it is perfect for hedges and privacy screens.

Prunus serrulata 'Beni-Yutaka' is a highly ornamental Japanese cherry cultivar admired for its striking spring display and graceful form. This deciduous tree develops a broad, spreading crown with elegant, arching branches, creating a soft, rounded silhouette that makes it ideal as a focal point in gardens and landscapes. In mid to late spring, it bursts into a profusion of large, semi-double flowers, a rich rosy-pink in color, which emerge in generous clusters, giving the tree an especially luxuriant and showy appearance. The blossoms often create a breathtaking canopy, attracting pollinators and delighting viewers with their vibrant yet delicate beauty.

The foliage provides additional seasonal interest. When young, the leaves emerge bronze-tinted, gradually maturing to a rich, glossy green throughout summer. As autumn approaches, they transform into glowing shades of orange, gold, and red, extending the tree’s ornamental value well beyond the flowering season. Typically reaching 5–8 meters in height and spread, 'Beni-Yutaka' is well-suited for medium-sized gardens, avenues, or parks. It thrives best in well-drained soil with full sun exposure, embodying elegance and seasonal charm in any landscape setting.

Quercus pubescens, commonly known as the downy oak, is a majestic deciduous tree native to the warm, sunlit landscapes of southern Europe. It is instantly recognizable by its softly textured, velvety leaves when young, which later mature into a rich green canopy that shifts to golden tones in autumn. Its thick, rugged bark and deeply rooted strength make it a symbol of resilience, endurance, and natural harmony. The downy oak thrives in limestone-rich soils and sun-drenched environments, embodying adaptability and a close connection to the land. For centuries, it has been valued not only for its ecological importance but also for its cultural symbolism—representing longevity, stability, and balance. Quercus pubescens brings with it the essence of Mediterranean heritage and timeless nature, making it an inspiring element for sustainable, eco-conscious products that draw on tradition while embracing the future. A true emblem of strength and beauty.

Alnus cordata, commonly known as the Italian alder, is a medium to large deciduous tree native to southern Italy and parts of Corsica. It belongs to the Betulaceae family and is highly valued for its ability to thrive in poor soils and challenging environmental conditions. This species is often planted for ornamental purposes, soil improvement, and as a windbreak due to its robust growth and adaptability.

The tree can reach heights of up to 25-30 metres (82-98 feet) with a trunk diameter of about 1 metre (3.3 feet). It has a relatively narrow, conical crown, which makes it an attractive choice for landscaping in urban and rural environments. The bark is smooth and greyish-brown when young, developing shallow fissures with age.

Alnus cordata is noted for its distinctive heart-shaped (cordate) leaves, which are bright green and glossy, measuring 7-12 cm in length. Unlike some other alders, the leaves of A. cordata remain on the tree until late autumn, giving it an extended season of greenery. In spring, it produces small, inconspicuous catkins, with male catkins being pendulous and yellowish, and female catkins more compact and upright. These develop into small, woody cones that persist on the tree through winter.

One of the key characteristics of Alnus cordata is its nitrogen-fixing ability. Like other alders, it forms a symbiotic relationship with the bacterium Frankia, which allows it to fix atmospheric nitrogen into the soil. This quality makes it an excellent species for improving soil fertility, particularly in degraded or nutrient-poor areas.

Overall, the Italian alder is a resilient and versatile tree, well-suited to a variety of landscapes, including wet or compacted soils, and is an important species for ecological restoration projects.

Cornus kousa 'Beni-fuji' is a captivating cultivar of the Japanese dogwood, admired for its stunning seasonal display and manageable size, making it a versatile addition to gardens large and small. This deciduous small tree or large shrub is native to East Asia, where it thrives in woodlands and temperate climates. 'Beni-fuji' is celebrated for its graceful form, vibrant foliage, and striking flowers.

In late spring to early summer, the tree showcases an impressive display of star-shaped bracts that surround its small, inconspicuous green flowers. These bracts, a hallmark of Cornus kousa, emerge in shades of pink to rosy red, deepening as they mature. The blooms sit atop horizontal branches, creating a layered, tiered effect that adds structural elegance to its appearance.

As the seasons progress, 'Beni-fuji' transforms further. By late summer, the tree produces small, strawberry-like fruits, which are edible and can attract birds to the garden. In autumn, its foliage takes centre stage, turning rich shades of crimson, orange, and scarlet, providing a final burst of colour before winter dormancy.

This cultivar prefers well-drained, fertile soil and thrives in full sun to partial shade, making it relatively easy to accommodate in a range of garden settings. It has a compact growth habit, typically reaching a height of 3-4 metres, making it suitable for smaller gardens or as a specimen plant in borders.

Cornus kousa 'Beni-fuji' is not only ornamental but also resilient, tolerating a range of soil types and proving relatively disease-resistant. Its year-round appeal—flowering in summer, fruiting in autumn, and showcasing vibrant foliage—ensures its popularity among gardeners seeking a dynamic and visually rewarding plant for their landscape.

Betula jacquemontii, or Himalayan Birch, is one of the most popular birch trees. It is a medium-sized, vigorous, deciduous tree with upright, pyramidal habit. It is famous for its beautiful snow-white peeling bark, the whitest that can be found among birch varieties. Its leaves are ovate, dark green and turn bright yellow in autumn. Male flowers are yellowish-brown and appear in dropping catkins, while female flowers are greenish and appear in upright catkins. Himalayan Birch can grow in any type of soil, even sand or clay, as long as it is moist and well-drained. It thrives in full sun or partial shade. It is extremely hardy and does best in cool northern climates. Does not tolerate heat and humidity. Betula jacquemontii is a very attractive tree, perfect as a specimen plant or in beds and borders. Great for cottage and urban gardens, avenues and broad streets. Suitable for roof gardens and growing in containers.