Ornamental Trees

How to choose ornamental trees

Our guide to growing acers covers site selection, planting and aftercare for the most popular ornamental genera. The FAQs below cover the key decisions: best trees for autumn colour, choosing between slow and fast growers, ornamental trees for small gardens and which varieties perform in shade.

What are the best ornamental trees for autumn colour?

The best ornamental trees for autumn colour are Japanese acer, Liquidambar styraciflua, Parrotia persica and Amelanchier. All develop vivid reds, oranges and golds in autumn and are well suited to UK garden conditions. Liquidambar in particular delivers an extended season of colour as leaves change through multiple tones before falling.

Which ornamental trees are best for small gardens?

The best ornamental trees for small gardens are compact or slow-growing varieties: Japanese acer cultivars, Prunus 'Snow Fountains', Cercis chinensis and columnar Prunus forms all stay manageable and give strong seasonal interest without outgrowing their space. Many Japanese acer cultivars also perform well in large containers.

Do ornamental trees need a lot of maintenance?

Most ornamental trees need very little maintenance once established. Japanese acers benefit from protection from late frosts and harsh winds in their early years; most other ornamental varieties require only an annual tidy after establishment. Avoid heavy pruning of species that bleed, such as acers and cherries, other than during their dormant season.

Which ornamental trees grow well in partial shade?

Ornamental trees that grow well in partial shade include Japanese acer, Amelanchier lamarckii and Cercis canadensis 'Forest Pansy'. All three tolerate dappled shade and deliver strong seasonal interest. Most ornamental trees establish better in full sun, but these genera are reliably adaptable to shadier garden positions.