Juneberry / Snowy Mespilus

This is one of the most versatile and beloved small trees for UK gardens. Amelanchier lamarckii offers three distinct seasons of beauty. In early spring, just as the bronze-tinged young leaves emerge, it is covered in a delicate cloud of star-shaped white flowers. In summer, it produces small, sweet, edible dark purple-black berries that are loved by birds (and humans!). Finally, in autumn, the foliage turns spectacular shades of fiery orange and red. It can be grown as a single-stemmed tree or more commonly as a multi-stemmed specimen, which highlights its elegant, airy structure. It is extremely hardy (H7) and easy to grow, tolerating most soil types except very shallow chalk. It prefers moist but well-drained soil in a sunny or partially shaded spot. Its compact size makes it perfect for even the smallest of gardens, where it provides a stunning focal point without ever becoming overwhelming. It is truly a 'tree for all seasons'.

Sun: Full sun to partial shade.

Soil: Moist but well-drained, prefers neutral to acid.

Hardiness: H7 — below −20°C.

Flowering: Mar, Apr.