For the first five years or so this tree grows slowly, it then speeds up to become one of the fastest of conifers both for height and timber volume. This exceptionally handsome, easily grown and disease-resistant tree produces extremely ornamental, violet-purple cones even on small trees. It also has highly aromatic foliage, which, when crushed, has a strong fruity orange smell. Few good fertile seeds collected. ... Learn More

This striking, fast-growing, deciduous shrub bears countless single, fragrant, white (edible!) flowers which are borne in profusion from April to July. It bears downy, greyish, vine-shaped leaves, and does best in a sheltered spot making it an absolute gem in any garden. ... Learn More

Trusses of large, saucer-shaped flowers, which vary in colour from almost white to light blue-mauve, are borne profusely from April until September, offset by large greyish-green, rather felted leaves. These completely frost hardy abutilons do well in almost any well drained soil growing well either against a wall or free-standing in a sheltered spot. ... Learn More

This frost hardy plant is surely the most desirable of all mallow relatives. Clusters of large, bowl-shaped, pale to deep purple flowers open from late spring to summer over a foil of felted grey-green leaves. Long-lived and a stunning specimen with a thick trunk in a sheltered spot! ... Learn More

Long, hebe-like sprays of fragrant creamy yellow flowers open on branches clad in large leathery leaves. Native to north eastern Queensland in Australia, the Western Province of Papua New Guinea and also the eastern Maluku Islands where it is used mainly for environmental management and timber, when a mean annual height increase of 3 to 4 meters will be obtained if grown near the equator. Its success is down to its extremely vigorous growth rate and its tolerance of highly acidic, low nutrient soils, and also its relative freedom from disease. ... Learn More

A familiar sight, both in gardens and in British hedgerows, this attractive deciduous native tree is clad in deep green maple foliage, which changes to dazzling bright gold and yellows in late summer and autumn. But it is grown as much for its incredible seeds as for its foliage. The first gales of autumn loosen the bunches of amazing propeller-like seeds, which fly in all directions like miniature helicopters. Children (and even some adults!) delight in throwing them up into the air to see how far they can fly! ... Learn More

An outstandingly lovely ornamental tree with orange-cinnamon coloured bark which peels back revealing the smooth shiny new bark beneath. In autumn the entire tree seems to be ablaze as the leaves turn deep crimson-red and it is utterly hardy and long-lived. ... Learn More

This exquisite dwarf form has a pronounced drooping habit producing a domed effect, covered with delicate, papery, lace-like leaves that turn all shades of yellow, bronze and red in the autumn. Very slow indeed to grow, these few valuable seeds were collected from 20 year old trees that have reached one meter in height, making them perfect for the smaller garden or pond-side or even life in a pot. Indeed, with patience, they make perfect bonzai specimens. ... Learn More

Sycamores are wonderfully hardy and robust trees, growing in places that would stunt most others. They were introduced to Britain from Europe during the Middle Ages, then spread rapidly and colonised new areas. Sycamore trees posses a shadiness that helped them to quickly become a favourite of parks, avenues, gardens and farms. The autumn is when sycamore trees really stand out when the winged seeds playfully descend to earth like little helicopters and the the dark green five-lobed leaves turn a beautiful deep golden colour. It is native to Central Europe and Southwestern Asia, from France ea ... Learn More

Acer rubrum, commonly known as Red Maple, is a versatile and vibrant deciduous tree renowned for its stunning red foliage and adaptability to various climates. This popular ornamental tree stands out for its brilliant red hues in both spring and autumn, making it a favourite among landscape enthusiasts. Size: Medium to large-sized tree, reaching heights of 40 to 60 feet. Growth Rate: Fast-growing, providing quick landscape impact. Hardy Zones: Adaptable to a wide range of climates, suitable for zones 3-9. Soil Preferences: Thrives in well-drained soil but can tolerate ... Learn More

This attractive, bushy, round-crowned deciduous tree bears creamy white flowers and red fruit, and glossy bright green leaves, with toothed margins, that turn a flaming red or yellow in autumn. The thin pale bark is smooth at first but becomes fissured later. It is native to central and south eastern Europe and south western Asia, from Austria east to south western Russia and the Caucasus, and south to Turkey. ... Learn More

Startling, large, almost jet-black, smooth-skinned fruit, somewhat resembling the fruits called "Conkers", grow on this rather dwarf tree, which has a somewhat arching habit, and opens large panicles of creamy-yellow coloured flowers in May. These form fruits with noticeably smaller, eye-like white spots than "normal" conkers, hence one of their common names. It occurs mainly in the mountainous regions of the state of Ohio, where in September it produces a spectacular orange and bronze autumn colouration, and is one of the earliest trees to turn. This rare, dwarf relative of our own UK "Conker ... Learn More

Leathery, spine-tipped leaves clad long spidery branches, which are geometrically arrayed around the trunk like spokes of a cartwheel. One level is produced each year enabling the age of the tree to be easily calculated. When mature this is one of the most handsome, graceful and noble of all the world's trees. Freshly-collected, refrigerated seed is offered, which must be sown on receipt. Very few good solid seeds available after poor weather affected the production of viable seed this year. ... Learn More

This compact shrub has leaves that are dark green, thick, glossy, with tightly waved edges The flowers are small, white or reddish in colour, forming clusters beneath the leaves. They are fragrant, so attract many pollinators. The fruit is a glossy, bright red and popular with birds and other wildlife such as small mammals. ... Learn More

The "Himalayan Coralberry" is a cool growing compact bush from the eastern Himalayas bearing dark green leaves with undulate margins. Profuse, star-shaped, white to pale pink flowers in early summer produce many berries in autumn and throughout winter and early spring, which remain on the plant giving it a very decorative look, making it ideal for growing as a pot plant for indoors, although it can stand mild frosts. Though not usually grown as a fruit crop, the berries, which have have a mild sweet taste, are edible and children are very fond of them. ... Learn More