This article contains affiliate links
When it comes to the perfect woodland garden, selecting the best trees can be a tricky affair. Although trees can be the best way to reach a good effect some trees can simply grow too large.
For most gardens large trees are simply out of the question. They can grow out of the realm of a reasonable scale for your woodland garden design. Consequently, selecting small tree species can be the best strategy to proceed. Smaller trees closely planted with woodland shrubs can create some root restriction leading to much more manageable specimens. Therefore, in this article I will list and describe 10 small trees perfect for woodland gardens. 1. Acer palmatum
Also known as the 'Japanese maple' this small tree is well known for its amazing colours and jagged foliage. This tree is very popular within Japanese gardens where it is favoured for its fantastic form. Acer palmatum displays a shape typical of much larger trees while being a small and compact specimen. This makes it perfect for use within woodland gardens that want to add foliage colour and texture.
2. Amelancheir
Sometimes referred to as ‘Serviceberry’ this small, ornamental tree is loved for its white flowers, berries and stunning autumn foliage. Like Acer it achieves an attractive form at an acceptable height and spread. This makes it great for forming a woodland canopy without the need for too much pruning. The tree also provides continuous seasonal interest throughout the calendar making it a good all-rounder.
3. Magnolia
Magnolias are a genus of flowering tree native to Southern China and the Southern United States. Well known for their stunningly large flowers which are sweetly scented it can provide seasonal wonder to woodland gardens. Its blooms range in colour from; white, yellow, pink to purple. Magnolias also have attractive glossy leaves which provide plenty summer interest. This tree appreciates a well drained soil and can tolerate partial shade.
4. Weeping birch
The weeping birch is an exceptionally popular tree characterised by its white trunk and long weeping branches and stems. Also known by its Latin name (Betula pendula ‘Tristis’) it has long been the small landscaping tree of choice. Like other birch trees it has small serrated leaves which turn golden yellow in autumn. These trees prefer moist but well drained soil and thrive in sunny positions.
5. Liquidambar styraciflua
Liquidamber styraiflua is an attractive, deciduous tree native to North America. Being adaptable to a multitude of conditions it has become widely adopted as a landscape specimen. This tree has large start shaped leaves which display the most radiant of autumn colours. When young the tree has an interesting conical form which matures to a more rounded form.
6. Mountain ash
Also known by its Latin name Sorbus aucuparia the Mountain ash is an attractive but resilient landscaping tree. This small tree is perfect for woodland gardens as it never gets very large. During autumn it produces plenty of decorative red berries which birds love to consume. It has long and thin pinnate leaves which display attractive colouration during the autumn season.
7. Crab apple
Although technically an apple the crab apple has been long appreciated and bred for its ornamental value. These small and compact deciduous trees are highly favoured for their spring flowers and small autumn fruits. The fruits are extremely ornamental and come in a wide range of different colours. Being edible they also provide much needed winter food for foraging birds. These trees are tolerant and multipurpose making them perfect for woodland gardens.
8. Indian bean tree
The Indian bean tree is a particularly interesting tree which looks more like an over grown vine. It has large bean shaped leaves with long, hanging bean like seed pods. Unlike its name it is actually not from India but the Southern United States. This tree when coppiced grows exceptionally large leaves making it look even more ornamental. Its decorative flowers, leaves and seed pods make it a novelty specimen for woodland gardens.
9. Acer griseum
Acer griseum is a small, ornamental tree perfect for small sites and compact woodland gardens. This tree reaches an attractive form of up to 10m with little need for pruning. Commonly referred to as the ‘Paper bark maple’ its most attractive asset is its papery, pealing bark. This makes it just as appealing during the cold winter months! Acer grisium has three lobed leaves which turn radiant shades of orange and red during the fall.
10. Cherry
As members of the Prunus family Cherry trees encompass a broad range of species and varieties. These small trees are highly valued for their ornamental qualities and fruit production. The fruits of cherries have a rich dark red colour and are thought of as highly sophisticated. During spring these trees are full of blossom followed by attractive foliage that displays good autumn colour. The cherries general hardiness and all round good qualities make it the perfect addition to woodland gardens.
Thank you for reading our article on the best trees for woodland gardens! If you require planting or landscaping services do not hesitate tocontact us.
Based in Amersham, Buckinghamshire we cover Buckinghamshire and neighbouring counties. Below I will link to some other woodland garden articles you may also find relevant.
'As an Amazon associate I earn from qualifying purchases'
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
The Author
|
Landscaping services across Buckinghamshire, Amersham, Aylesbury & High Wycombe
Hyde Heath, Amersham, Buckinghamshire
|
|