Native Trees

Native trees are important to the welfare of British wildlife as many animals have evolved with them and need the food and shelter they provide to survive. Native trees are also important because they can withstand long spells of dry weather. A distinct advantage is they have no problem growing in difficult areas where there is little or no fertiliser.

Field Maple (Acer Campestre)

The field maple is a medium-sized deciduous, round-headed tree with low branches making it suitable for open spaces wider than 4 metres. Leaves are small and dense with five lobes, sometimes pinkish-red at first. The field maple has corky, light brown twigs and provides long lasting, red and gold autumn foliage.

Hornbeam (Carpinus Betulus)

A large deciduous tree, oval in shape, the hornbeam is recommended for large open spaces. The dark green leaves turn yellowy orange in autumn, and often remain on the tree until spring. The hornbeam has a grey-brown bark and bears green catkins from late spring to autumn.

Fastigiate Hornbeam (Carpinus Betulus Fastigiata)

A deciduous, columnar tree with a very distinctive flame-like outline that spreads open with maturity. The oval leaves are dark green and prominently veined, turning yellow and gold in autumn.

Common Ash (Fraxinus Excelsior)

A tall, spreading tree, the common ash is a deciduous suitable for wide, open spaces. The common ash has black buds and dark green leaves usually with 9-11 oval leaflets which turn yellow in autumn. The bark is smooth and grey when young, later developing into interweaving ridges.

Small Leaved Lime (Tilia Cordata)

A native, deciduous, round-headed tree, the small leaved lime is often planted in limestone areas, and frequently in parks and large gardens. The heart shaped leaves are glossy dark green with small ivory white fragrant flowers in mid-summer. The bark is smooth and grey on young trees, dark and cracked on older trees.