Exotic Trees
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Albizia julibrissin, commonly known as the Silk Tree, is a fast-growing, deciduous, compact tree with a wide, spreading canopy. Its delicate, fern-like leaves add a lush texture to any garden. During summer, it bursts into bloom with soft, pink, fluffy flowers that sit gracefully above the foliage. These rounded blossoms resemble silky brushes, creating a striking visual contrast. Although it thrives in hot, dry conditions once established, it prefers moist, well-drained soil. Therefore, regular watering during its early growth phase is beneficial. Interestingly, the name “julibrissin” originates from the Persian phrase gul-i abrisham, meaning “silk flower” or “soft silken threads.” This poetic name reflects the tree’s elegant appearance. Thanks to its umbrella-shaped canopy, the Silk Tree makes an excellent shade tree. It’s ideal for smaller gardens, growing to approximately 5 meters tall and 4 meters wide..
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A striking summer-flowering tree, Albizia julibrissin ‘Rosea’ is a selected form of the Silk Tree, known for its masses of bright rosy pink, tufted blooms that blanket the canopy in warm months. Its soft, fern-like foliage adds a delicate texture and tropical charm. Native to Asia and China, this deciduous tree thrives in warm, sunny positions in moist well drained soils and is easy to grow. It’s hardy and well-suited to a variety of garden styles. With its graceful, umbrella-shaped crown, it provides excellent shade making it a beautiful specimen tree, even in smaller gardens. It typically grows to approximately 5 metres tall and 4 metres wide. The name julibrissin comes from the Persian gul-i abrisham, meaning “silk flower” or “soft silken threads,” a poetic nod to its airy, elegant blooms.
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Amelanchier canadensis, commonly known as Shad Bush, is a compact, round-headed shrub or small tree with a dense habit. During summer, its green foliage provides a lush backdrop. Then, as autumn arrives, it bursts into vibrant shades of orange, red, and yellow, creating a striking seasonal display. In early spring, delicate starry white flowers appear, adding charm and contrast. Shortly after, sweet blue-black berries develop, which attract birds and enhance biodiversity in your garden. Moreover, this tree tolerates damp conditions and thrives in sun or semi-shade. Although it handles clay soil well, it’s best to avoid overly wet spots. For added versatility, you can train it into a single-stem tree form. With a mature size of approximately 4 x 4 metres, it’s an excellent choice for smaller gardens or damp areas needing a lift. Interestingly, its Latin name “canadensis” reflects its North American origin, meaning “of Canada.”
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Apple ‘Braeburn’ is a deciduous fruit tree that produces striking apples with red and yellow-striped skin. Originating in New Zealand in 1952 as a chance seedling, it quickly gained recognition for its quality and flavour. In spring, the tree bursts into bloom with clusters of white flowers. As summer advances, the fruit develops until it reaches full ripeness, ready for harvest around May each year. This heritage variety is celebrated for its crisp, juicy white flesh and superb sweet-tart flavour. Its distinctive taste has made it a favourite among apple lovers and continues to delight generations of growers and consumers. Apple trees thrive best in well-drained, fertile soils and prefer a sunny, sheltered position to maximize fruit production. Under ideal conditions, they grow to a height of 4–5 meters, making them suitable for both home gardens and orchards. For healthy growth, provide seasonal feeding and deep watering during dry spells. Moreover, apply mulch to conserve moisture and prune annually to shape the tree, ensuring strong structure and abundant fruiting year after year..
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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’ 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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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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Out of stockApple “Fuji”is a deciduous fruit tree that produces vibrant red apples with a yellow base. Originating in Japan during the 1930s, it quickly became a popular variety worldwide. Today, it remains a heritage apple that continues to impress growers and consumers alike. In spring, the tree bursts into life with delicate white flowers blushed with pink. As summer progresses, the fruit steadily matures until it is ready for harvest around May each year. This variety is highly valued for its large, sweet, and crisp apples with fine texture. Moreover, Fuji apples are excellent for eating fresh and store remarkably well, making them a reliable choice for long-term enjoyment. Apple trees thrive in well-drained, fertile soils. Furthermore, they prefer sunny, sheltered positions to maximize fruit production. With the right growing conditions, Fuji trees reach a height of 4–5 meters, making them suitable for both home gardens and orchards. To encourage healthy growth, provide seasonal feeding and deep watering during dry spells. Additionally, apply mulch to retain soil moisture and prune annually. These steps help shape the tree and ensure abundant fruiting year after year.
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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’ is one of the most iconic apples in New Zealand. Originating in Australia in 1868, this deciduous fruit tree produces apples with a distinctive green skin. Known worldwide, it remains a heritage variety that continues to delight growers and consumers alike. In spring, the tree bursts into life with white flowers tinged with pink. As summer advances, the fruit steadily matures until it reaches harvest time around May each year. This variety is highly prized for its crisp, juicy flesh and refreshing tart flavour. Consequently, it has become a favourite among apple lovers for generations, enjoyed both raw and in cooking. Its unique taste ensures it stands out from other apple varieties. Apple trees thrive best in well-drained, fertile soils. Moreover, they prefer sunny, sheltered positions to maximize fruit production. With the right growing conditions, Granny Smith trees reach a height of 4–5 meters, making them suitable for home orchards and larger gardens. To promote healthy growth, provide seasonal feeding and deep watering during dry spells. Additionally, apply mulch to retain soil moisture and prune annually. These steps encourage abundant fruiting and help maintain the tree’s attractive shape.
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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 “Royal Gala” is a deciduous fruit tree that produces apples with a striking red stripe over a golden-yellow blush. Originating in New Zealand during the 1930s, it was developed by horticulturist J.H. Kidd as a cross between Kidd's Orange Red and Golden Delicious. Since then, it has become one of the world’s most popular apple varieties. In spring, the tree bursts into life with clusters of white flowers tinged with pink. As summer advances, the fruit steadily develops until it reaches harvest time between February and March each year. This heritage variety is highly prized for its pure white, sweet, and very crisp flesh. Because of its firm texture and refreshing flavour, Royal Gala is a favourite eating apple. Moreover, it is also enjoyed as a versatile dessert apple. Apple trees thrive in well-drained, fertile soils. Furthermore, they prefer sunny, sheltered positions to maximize fruit production. With the right conditions, Royal Gala trees grow to a height of 4–5 meters, making them suitable for both home gardens and orchards. To ensure healthy growth, provide seasonal feeding and deep watering during dry spells. Additionally, apply mulch to retain soil moisture and prune annually. These steps help shape the tree and encourage abundant fruiting year after year.
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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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Strong in form, Betula ermanii – Erman’s Birch is a deciduous tree with a naturally neat, conical to pyramidal shape—especially when its central leader is maintained. As the seasons progress, its bark peels away in elegant layers of creamy white or subtly pink-tinged sheets, offering year-round ornamental appeal. Throughout the growing season, its coarsely toothed, ovate leaves remain a deep green. Then, as autumn sets in, they shift to a bold, brilliant yellow, adding vibrant contrast to the landscape. Come spring, yellow-brown male catkins unfurl alongside fresh foliage, marking the tree’s seasonal renewal. Originating from northeast Asia, this species is well-suited to urban environments. Whether used as a stately avenue tree or for light shade, it performs reliably and with distinction. At full maturity, Erman’s Birch can reach heights of up to 15 metres and 6 metres wide, making it a commanding for structured plantings.
- 15 x 6m
- Tall 10+m
- Moderate - Fast
- Tree
- conical to pyramidal
- Northeast Asia
- Betula Jacquemontii, Poplar Crows nest
- Green
- Yellow
- Moist well drained
- Hardy
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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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Camellia sasanqua ‘Silver Dollar’ is a compact evergreen shrub that grows smaller in size yet makes a big impact. From autumn into winter, it produces pure white, ruffled double flowers of medium size, adding elegance to the garden. In addition to its blooms, the shrub displays dense, glossy green foliage. Consequently, it is an excellent choice for hedging at various heights. It responds well to trimming and, alternatively, can be shaped into topiaries or grown as a striking specimen. Although camellias originate from China, cultivars like ‘Silver Dollar’ are now bred worldwide. As a result, they are valued for their ornamental appeal and adaptability across different climates and garden styles. For best results, plant in full sun or dappled shade in moist, well-drained acidic soil. Furthermore, pruning after flowering encourages bushier, more compact growth. Typically, this variety reaches around 2.0m tall by 1.5m wide, yet it can grow larger to form an effective screen.
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Carpinus betulus, commonly known as Hornbeam, is a deciduous tree native to Europe, admired for its versatility and elegant form. Its pale grey, short, and slightly twisted trunk adds character, making it a standout in both formal and natural landscapes. Widely favoured for hedging, Hornbeam’s branches can be easily intertwined and trimmed to form dense screens, shelters, or low hedges. It can also be pleached to create structured, architectural lines—ideal for garden borders or avenues. The tree features oval, ribbed green leaves that transform in autumn with vibrant shades of yellow and orange, eventually turning brown and remaining on the tree well into winter, offering seasonal interest. Hornbeam prefers moist, well-drained soil and adapts well to regular pruning. While it can grow to approximately 12 metres tall and 7 metres wide, it responds beautifully to shaping and can be maintained at a desired height.
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Carpinus betulus 'Fastigiata', commonly known as Upright Hornbeam, is a deciduous tree with a narrow, columnar form that gradually broadens as it matures. This refined cultivar of the European Hornbeam remains in its tight form making it ideal for structured landscapes, offering both formality and seasonal interest. During summer, its oval, ribbed green leaves create a lush canopy. As autumn arrives, the foliage transitions into warm shades of yellow and orange, eventually turning brown and remaining on the tree well into winter adding texture and colour even in the colder months. Moreover, this tree thrives in moist, well-drained soil and prefers a sunny position. Thanks to its upright habit and tolerance for close planting, it makes an excellent choice for street planting, avenues, or as a screen. Reaching approximately 8 metres tall and 3 metres wide, The Upright Hornbeam is a versatile and low-maintenance option for both urban and rural settings.
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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
