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78 Results in category Plants


The Role of Fungi in the Ecosystem

Decomposition is the most important function performed by fungi in nature. Many fungi produce enzymes (protein catalysts) capable of attacking the most stubborn waste


Plant Profile - Picea

In natural conditions the Colorado spruce, Picea pungens, reaches 30cm/100ft, but numerous smaller forms of this beautiful tree have been raised for garden cultivation.


Plant Profile - Pyrus

The pear family does not include ornamental species to compare with the cherry in terms of showy flower-bearing. The beauty of Pyrus salicifolia, the willow-leaved pear, lies in its delicacy and grace.


Plant Profile - Amelancher

Amelanchiers are hardy trees, easily grown and as beautiful as their common name, snowy mespilus. Not only do they bear spectacular spring flowers, followed by round, edible fruits, but the autumn colour of the attractive oval leaves is exceptional.


Plant Profile - Acer/ Japanese Maple:

Like the winter-flowering jasmine, witch hazels produce yellow flowers on bare stems before the leaves unfurl. They make good specimen trees or can be incorporated in a shrub border.


Plant Profile - Hamamelis

Like the winter-flowering jasmine, witch hazels produce yellow flowers on bare stems before the leaves unfurl. They make good specimen trees or can be incorporated in a shrub border.


The genus Prunus includes a huge number of trees that provide spectacular displays of spring flowers.


The genus Sorbus includes rowans, which are discussed here, and whitebeams. Rowans or mountain ashes are elegant trees admired for their pinnate leaves, which take on brilliant autumn tints.


Plant Profile - Robinia

The yellow-green, elegant foliage of Robinia pseudoacacia is best appreciated in larger gardens.


If you can offer a sheltered, position, perhaps with the protection of a warm wall, Eucryphia x nymansensis would be a worthy candidate for the spot.