Exotic Trees
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Port Wine Magnolia - Michelia figo is a slow-growing, compact shrub that features a rounded shape and vibrant lime-green foliage. In early spring, it bursts into bloom with masses of small, cream-colored flowers streaked with purple, which release a rich fragrance. As a result, it becomes a standout feature in any garden. Depending on light conditions, the shrub’s form can vary. When grown in shade, it tends to develop a looser, more open structure. Conversely, plants grown in full sun are typically more compact and display denser foliage. Moreover, it thrives in humus-rich, well-drained, slightly acidic soil, making it adaptable to a range of garden environments. Whether planted in sun or shade, Port Wine Magnolia performs beautifully. It can be trimmed into a neat, low hedge, allowed to grow as a striking standalone specimen, or placed in a large decorative pot for added versatility. Originating from Western China, this elegant shrub typically reaches up to 3 metres tall and 2.5 metres wide.
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Bold and architectural, Betula utilis 'Jacquemontii' or the Himalayan Birch is a medium-sized deciduous tree known for its upright form that gradually matures into a broad oval silhouette. Originating from the rugged terrains of China and the Himalayas, this fast-growing variety commands attention with its striking, powdery-white bark—a signature feature that sets it apart in any landscape. Throughout summer, its dark green foliage offers a rich contrast to the luminous trunk, before shifting to warm yellow hues in autumn, adding seasonal interest. Whether planted in structured avenues or grouped for visual impact, this birch delivers a refined yet natural presence. Additionally, it responds well to topping, allowing for the creation of standard-type trees where desired. Typically reaching approximately 7 metres in height and 3 metres in spread, Betula 'Jacquemontii' is a standout choice for those seeking elegance with a touch of rugged charm. Utilis = Useful
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Cercis canadensis 'Forest Pansy' is a small, deciduous tree with an open, spreading habit that gradually matures into a broad, rounded crown. In early spring, masses of small magenta, pea-like flowers burst into bloom on bare branches, creating a striking display before the foliage emerges. Soon after flowering, rich purple-red, heart-shaped leaves appear, adding depth and colour to the garden. As autumn approaches, these leaves transition into warm tones of orange and bronze, offering a final flourish before winter. Because of its compact size reaching approximately 3.5 x 3.0 metres, ‘Forest Pansy’ is an excellent feature tree for smaller gardens or courtyards. It responds well to pruning, making it easy to maintain a tidy shape. Additionally, it tolerates clay soils, although wet or poorly drained conditions should be avoided. For best results, plant in a more sheltered position to protect its delicate foliage. Interestingly, this tree originates from North America, and its Latin name canadensis fittingly means “of Canada” or “from Canada.” Whether you're designing a colourful garden or seeking a low-maintenance ornamental tree, ‘Forest Pansy’ delivers beauty across all seasons.
- 3.5 x 3.0m
- Small 1-5m
- Moderate - Fast
- Tree
- Round-Spreading
- Deciduous
- North America
- Prunus Thundercloud, Fagus Riversii, Fagus Sylv Purp, Acer Tamukeyama, Fraxinus Raywoodii, Acer Bloodgood.
- Purple-Red
- Oranges and Bronze
- Magenta
- No
- Moist well drained, Tolerates Clay
- Prefers Sheltered
- Small gardens, Courtyards
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Prunus serrulata ‘Shimidsu Sakura’ – Moonlight Cherry, is a stunning Japanese flowering cherry tree. This small deciduous tree features a spreading habit with graceful, arching branches, making it a spectacular choice for compact garden spaces. Over summer, the foliage is a vibrant green, gradually shifting to yellow and orange hues in autumn, adding seasonal colour and interest. In late spring, buds emerge in soft pink tones, opening into double flowers that begin as pale pink and fade to pure snow white—a breathtaking display that enhances any garden. Shimidsu sakura thrives in moist, well-drained soil and prefers a sheltered, sunny position. Because of its elegant form and manageable size, it serves beautifully as a feature specimen in smaller landscapes. Typically growing to approximately 4 x 4 metres, Moonlight Cherry is both ornamental and easy to maintain. The name Shimidsu-sakura refers to the specific cultivar, where sakura means cherry blossom in Japanese, and Shimidsu is the cultivar name itself.
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Acer rubrum ‘Bowhall’, commonly known as the Upright Red Maple, is a fast-growing, deciduous tree with a narrow, columnar form, ideal for tight spaces. Its strongly upright branches support glossy dark green leaves with silvery undersides, creating a striking contrast. In autumn, the foliage transforms into brilliant shades of yellow, orange, and reddish-orange, adding vibrant seasonal colour. This hardy tree adapts well to a wide range of soil conditions, from damp to dry, including clay and sandy soils. Native to North America, Bowhall is perfect for avenues, street plantings, or as a lawn specimen where space is limited. Mature height reaches approximately 12 metres with a spread of 3 metres.
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Quercus coccinea – Scarlet Oak is a majestic deciduous tree that forms a large, stately specimen characterized by an oval crown and upward-reaching branches. Its glossy green, deeply lobed leaves create a lush summer canopy, while in autumn they transform into a brilliant display of scarlet red, which offers exceptional seasonal colour. In addition to its foliage, the bark develops a reddish-brown tinge during winter, adding subtle interest even in the colder months. Native to North America, this oak variety is well-suited to a range of climates. Once established, Scarlet Oak tolerates dry conditions, although it prefers moist, free-draining soil for optimal growth. With its impressive size, reaching approximately 15 x 10 metres in ideal conditions, it makes an outstanding specimen tree or a grand shade tree for larger landscapes. Whether you're designing a parkland setting or enhancing a spacious garden, Quercus coccinea brings structure, beauty, and seasonal interest to any outdoor space.
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Acer palmatum - Japanese Maple, is a deciduous ornamental tree admired for its form and vibrant seasonal colour. Summer sees fresh green foliage transform into a display of oranges, reds, and yellows in autumn. Originating from Japan, Acer Palmatum is best planted in a sheltered spot away from strong winds to protect its delicate leaves. Its compact size and elegant structure make it a versatile choice for a wide range of garden styles—from traditional to contemporary. Ideal as a shade tree for smaller gardens, the Japanese Maple typically reaches around 5 metres tall and 4 metres wide, offering year-round visual interest and appeal.
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Acer palmatum ‘Scolopendrifolium’ is an elegant deciduous tree originating from Japan. With a strong upright, bushy habit, it creates a graceful presence in the garden. Its long, narrow leaves are bright green, often tipped with soft salmon tones, adding subtle seasonal interest. As autumn arrives, the foliage transforms into striking shades of apricot, orange, and yellow. These vibrant colours provide a stunning display, ensuring the tree becomes a focal point in smaller gardens and courtyards. This maple thrives in moist, well-drained soil and grows happily in sun or semi-shade. However, it benefits from shelter from wind, which helps prevent leaf scorch and keeps the foliage looking fresh throughout the seasons. Reaching approximately 5m high and 3m wide, it makes an ideal light shade tree. With its compact size, it suits modern landscapes and provides a delicate canopy for outdoor spaces. Interestingly, the epithet Scolopendrifolium was chosen by botanists to describe its deeply cut, finger-like leaves. Resembling small insect legs, these unique shapes give the tree its distinctive character and enduring charm.
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Apple ‘Royal Gala’ Espalier with 3 horizontal levels
Espaliers are a great way to save space, making them ideal for small gardens while still producing abundant fruit. The basic principles of apple espalier involve training branches horizontally along a support and pruning regularly to maintain shape, encourage fruiting spurs, and improve airflow. Pruning is best done in late summer to control growth and in winter to establish structure.- Winter annual Pruning guidelines (Structural Training):
- Focus on shaping the tree.
- Select strong shoots to form horizontal tiers.
- Remove unwanted vertical growth and shorten side shoots to encourage spur formation.
- Summer annual Pruning (Growth Control):
- Best done around December
- Cut back vigorous upright shoots that drain energy but don’t produce fruit.
- Leave short, stubby shoots (spurs), as these are the ones that will bear apples.
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Apple ‘Fuji’ Espalier with 3 horizontal levels
Espaliers are a great way to save space, making them ideal for small gardens while still producing abundant fruit. The basic principles of apple espalier involve training branches horizontally along a support and pruning regularly to maintain shape, encourage fruiting spurs, and improve airflow. Pruning is best done in late summer to control growth and in winter to establish structure.- Winter annual Pruning guidelines (Structural Training):
- Focus on shaping the tree.
- Select strong shoots to form horizontal tiers.
- Remove unwanted vertical growth and shorten side shoots to encourage spur formation.
- Summer annual Pruning (Growth Control):
- Best done around December
- Cut back vigorous upright shoots that drain energy but don’t produce fruit.
- Leave short, stubby shoots (spurs), as these are the ones that will bear apples.
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Apple ‘Granny Smith’ Espalier with 3 horizontal levels.
Espaliers are a great way to save space, making them ideal for small gardens while still producing abundant fruit. The basic principles of apple espalier involve training branches horizontally along a support and pruning regularly to maintain shape, encourage fruiting spurs, and improve airflow. Pruning is best done in late summer to control growth and in winter to establish structure.- Winter annual Pruning guidelines (Structural Training):
- Focus on shaping the tree.
- Select strong shoots to form horizontal tiers.
- Remove unwanted vertical growth and shorten side shoots to encourage spur formation.
- Summer annual Pruning (Growth Control):
- Best done around December
- Cut back vigorous upright shoots that drain energy but don’t produce fruit.
- Leave short, stubby shoots (spurs), as these are the ones that will bear apples.
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Apple 'Braeburn' Espalier with 3 horizontal levels.
Espaliers are a great way to save space, making them ideal for small gardens while still producing abundant fruit. The basic principles of apple espalier involve training branches horizontally along a support and pruning regularly to maintain shape, encourage fruiting spurs, and improve airflow. Pruning is best done in late summer to control growth and in winter to establish structure.- Winter annual Pruning guidelines (Structural Training):
- Focus on shaping the tree.
- Select strong shoots to form horizontal tiers.
- Remove unwanted vertical growth and shorten side shoots to encourage spur formation.
- Summer annual Pruning (Growth Control):
- Best done around December
- Cut back vigorous upright shoots that drain energy but don’t produce fruit.
- Leave short, stubby shoots (spurs), as these are the ones that will bear apples.
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Apple 'Cox’s Orange' Espalier with 3 horizontal levels.
Espaliers are a great way to save space, making them ideal for small gardens while still producing abundant fruit. The basic principles of apple espalier involve training branches horizontally along a support and pruning regularly to maintain shape, encourage fruiting spurs, and improve airflow. Pruning is best done in late summer to control growth and in winter to establish structure.- Winter annual Pruning guidelines (Structural Training):
- Focus on shaping the tree.
- Select strong shoots to form horizontal tiers.
- Remove unwanted vertical growth and shorten side shoots to encourage spur formation.
- Summer annual Pruning (Growth Control):
- Best done around December
- Cut back vigorous upright shoots that drain energy but don’t produce fruit.
- Leave short, stubby shoots (spurs), as these are the ones that will bear apples.
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Apple ‘Cox’s Orange’ is a deciduous fruit tree that produces greenish-yellow apples with striking orange-red striping. Widely regarded as one of the finest apples ever grown, it combines beauty with exceptional flavour. In spring, the tree bursts into life with white flowers blushed pink. As summer progresses, the fruit matures until it is ready for harvest between January and February. This heritage variety is prized for its rich, aromatic flesh with a subtle nutty flavour. Its unique taste has made it a favourite among apple enthusiasts for generations. Apple trees thrive in well-drained, fertile soils and prefer a sunny, sheltered position to maximize fruit production. With the right conditions, they grow to a height of 4–5 meters. To ensure healthy growth, provide seasonal feeding and deep watering during dry spells. Additionally, apply mulch to retain moisture and prune annually to shape the tree and encourage abundant fruiting.
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Pyrus salicifolia ‘Pendula’ – Weeping Silver Pear is a compact, oval-rounded ornamental tree. Its graceful, weeping branches are adorned with willow-like, narrow, silver-gray leaves, creating a striking display in any garden. In spring, the Weeping Silver Paer bursts into life with small, white blossoms that cover the tree. Although part of the pear family, its fruit is tiny, sparsely produced, and inedible. This elegant tree traces its origins back to Germany in the 1850s. Over time, it has become a popular choice for gardeners seeking beauty and adaptability. Silver pears thrive in a wide range of soils, including clay. However, they prefer moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil in full sun. Additionally, they tolerate light shade, making them versatile for different garden conditions. Interestingly, salicifolia translates to “leaves like a willow,” inspiring its other common name, the Willow-Leaf Pear. Growing to approximately 2 x 2 meters above the graft point, it is perfect for smaller gardens, as a standout specimen tree, planted into your favourite large pot or trimmed into a standard topiary.
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Acer palmatum dissectum ‘Orangeola’ is a graceful Japanese maple admired for its elegant, weeping branches that cascade to the ground, forming a soft, rounded mound. The name dissectum highlights the finely cut, feathery foliage, which brings a delicate texture to any garden. As seasons change, so does its colour palette. In spring, vibrant green-red leaves create a fiery display. By summer, the foliage shifts to a rich green, offering a refreshing contrast. With autumn’s arrival, ‘Orangeola’ returns to its brilliance, once again glowing with warm orange-red tones. This seasonal transformation ensures year-round interest and beauty in smaller landscapes. Compact in size, reaching about 2.5m high by 2.0m wide, it is ideal for courtyards, container planting, or intimate garden spaces. Moreover, it thrives in moist, well-drained soils and prefers a sheltered position away from harsh sun, strong winds, or prolonged drought.
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Populus 'Tasman' - Tasman poplar, is a bold and fast-growing deciduous tree with a broadly columnar shape. During summer, its lush green foliage creates a vibrant canopy. Then, as autumn arrives, the leaves turn a brilliant golden yellow—often earlier than other poplar varieties. Not only visually striking, this tree is also highly functional. It performs exceptionally well in erosion control, large shelter belts, and timber production, thanks to its sturdy form and rapid growth. Moreover, Poplar 'Tasman' thrives in windy and wet conditions, making it ideal for exposed or challenging sites. Its resilience adds long-term value to both rural and urban landscapes. Reaching approximately 20 x 15 metres or more, it offers impressive height and presence. Whether for practical use or aesthetic impact, this tree delivers reliable performance and natural beauty.
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Paulownia tomentosa ‘Princess Tree’, also known as the Empress Tree, is a fast-growing, broad-spreading deciduous tree that instantly adds a tropical feel to any garden. Thanks to its vigorous growth and lush form, it quickly becomes a focal point in both formal and informal landscapes. Its exceptionally large, soft green leaves form a dramatic canopy, making it an excellent choice for shade. Then, in spring, it bursts into bloom with fragrant violet-blue flowers featuring delicate white centres. These stunning blossoms add vibrant colour and a sweet scent, enhancing the overall garden experience. Although it prefers moist, well-drained soil in a sunny, sheltered position, it will also tolerate mild coastal conditions. This adaptability makes it suitable for a wide range of environments. Native to China and South Korea, this majestic tree typically reaches around 8 metres in height and 6 metres in width. As a result, it stands out beautifully in both small and large garden spaces.
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Acer palmatum ‘Trompenburg’ is a compact, round-headed deciduous tree that adds seasonal colour and structure to any garden. In spring, its rich purple-red, palm-shaped leaves emerge, gradually turning purplish green through summer. By autumn, the foliage transforms into a brilliant crimson, creating a striking display. This cultivar was originally developed at the Trompenburg Arboretum in Rotterdam, Netherlands. It thrives in moist, well-drained soils and prefers a sheltered spot away from harsh wind and direct sun. Thanks to its modest size, it’s perfect for courtyards or smaller garden spaces. Typically reaching around 5 metres tall and 3 metres wide, this shade-loving tree offers year-round interest and elegance.
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Acer freemanii ‘Autumn Blaze’, also known as the Freeman Maple, is an admired Red Maple cultivar. Its vibrant red foliage in autumn creates a wonderful seasonal display, making it a favourite for landscape designers and homeowners alike. Thanks to its tidy, upright, and compact growth habit, this deciduous tree is ideal as a shade tree in a residential garden or as avenue plantings. Compared to other rubrum varieties, it offers a more manageable size and shape. In early spring, striking red tassel flowers appear in dense clusters before the leaves emerge. These are soon followed by decorative winged seeds, adding further seasonal interest. Moreover, ‘Autumn Blaze’ adapts well to a range of soil conditions, including poor soils. It grows at a medium to fast rate and typically reaches around 12 metres tall and 8 metres wide.
