{"title":"Bareroot Hedging Plants","description":"\u003cp\u003eBareroot hedging is dug from the field in winter while the plants are dormant, then sent to you with no pot and no compost. It sounds austere, but most of Britain's hedges have been planted this way for centuries, and for good reason. Bareroot plants cost less, weigh less and root faster than the same plants grown in pots. Delivery runs November to March. Pre-orders are open now, and the most popular sizes of beech, hornbeam and yew go first.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"berberis-thunbergii-hedge-plants-green-japanese-barberry","title":"Green Barberry Hedge Plants","description":"\u003ch2\u003eGreen Barberry Hedge Plants\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUse:\u003c\/strong\u003e Secure hedge, specimen shrub\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e Up to 2m\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eGrowth:\u003c\/strong\u003e Medium. Dense, thorny habit\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSoil:\u003c\/strong\u003e Any well-drained soil\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLight:\u003c\/strong\u003e Sun to partial shade\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eType:\u003c\/strong\u003e Deciduous thorny shrub\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSpecies:\u003c\/strong\u003e Berberis thunbergii\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRHS Plants for Pollinators\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBareroot Delivery Only:\u003c\/strong\u003e Nov-April\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eAppearance, Growth \u0026amp; Uses\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBerberis thunbergii is the classic green form of Japanese Barberry. This compact deciduous shrub reaches nearly 2 metres, perfect for secure boundaries without towering height.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach spring brings clusters of small, sweetly fragrant yellow flowers that glow against the fresh green foliage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSummer sees bright red berries develop, persisting well into autumn as the leaves transform into hot red-orange before dropping for winter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs a specimen shrub, the graceful arching stems create an elegant fountain shape.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe dense growth provides nesting sites for small birds, while spring flowers support bees and pollinators from April through June.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFeatures\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBrowse our other \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/berberis-hedging-plants-barberry\"\u003eberberis varieties\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBrowse our full range of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/hedging-plants\"\u003ehedging plants\u003c\/a\u003e or \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/garden-shrubs\"\u003eornamental shrubs\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eGrowing Conditions\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSoil:\u003c\/strong\u003e Any well-drained including clay and chalk\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLight:\u003c\/strong\u003e Sun to partial shade\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMoisture:\u003c\/strong\u003e Well-drained, drought tolerant\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAvoid:\u003c\/strong\u003e Waterlogged sites, deep shade\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMaintenance:\u003c\/strong\u003e Clips well, very tough\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHardiness:\u003c\/strong\u003e Very hardy, coastal and urban tolerant\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThrives in virtually any well-drained soil. Best flowering and autumn colour in sunny positions, but grows reasonably in partial shade.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTolerates coastal salt spray, urban pollution, and exposed windy sites. \u003cbr\u003eWon't tolerate waterlogged soil or deep shade.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eGarden Design Ideas\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMix with purple-leaved \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/products\/purple-berberis-thunbergii-atropurpurea-hedge-plants\"\u003eBerberis atropurpurea\u003c\/a\u003e for dynamic colour contrasts throughout the seasons.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs a specimen, position where arching stems have space to develop their graceful form. Looks striking against darker evergreen backdrops like \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/products\/green-holly-hedge-plants-ilex-aquifolium\"\u003eholly\u003c\/a\u003e or \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/pyracantha-hedging-plants\"\u003ePyracantha\u003c\/a\u003e, which showcase the autumn foliage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnderplant with late-flowering \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/daffodil-narcissus-bulbs\"\u003edaffodils\u003c\/a\u003e that echo the yellow flowers, or early tulips for spring colour harmony.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn wildlife gardens, plant to maximize dense cover for small and ground-nesting birds like wrens, robins, and blackbirds.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHistory \u0026amp; Trivia\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA Japanese native, barberries have become widely naturalised in China and North America, so much so that they're regarded as invasive in the Great Lakes and North East of the USA. \u003cbr\u003eThe spines are highly modified leaves, rather than true thorns.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the past, the Chinese extracted the chemical berberine from the wood and bark to make dye, known today as \"natural yellow 18\", mainly for paper and silk.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis species was introduced to Europe from Japan in the 1860's. It's named after Karl Peter von Thunberg, one of the \"apostles of Carl Linnaeus\", who first described it around 1784.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe consider it as having an honorary RHS Award of Garden Merit, in that it doesn't hold one itself, but several of its cultivars do.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Bareroot \/ 40\/60cm","offer_id":54992624517446,"sku":"BERBTHU-40\/60","price":2.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/green-barberry-hedge-plants.jpg?v=1755205286"},{"product_id":"alder-buckthorn-hedge-plants-frangula-alnus","title":"Alder Buckthorn Hedge Plants","description":"\u003cul class=\"pdp-specs\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCommon name:\u003c\/strong\u003e Alder Buckthorn\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLatin name:\u003c\/strong\u003e Frangula alnus, formerly Rhamnus frangula\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNative:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSold as:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot hedge plants, 60\/80cm tall\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eEvergreen:\u003c\/strong\u003e No. Deciduous, turning yellow or red in autumn\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eThorns:\u003c\/strong\u003e None, despite the name\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHedge height:\u003c\/strong\u003e Up to about 5m\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSize unpruned:\u003c\/strong\u003e 4 to 8m tall by 2.5 to 4m wide, in 5 to 10 years\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSpacing:\u003c\/strong\u003e 3 plants per metre\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBerries:\u003c\/strong\u003e Red, ripening to black. Birds take them, thrushes especially\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWildlife:\u003c\/strong\u003e RHS Plants for Pollinators. The main food plant of the Brimstone butterfly\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePosition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Sun or partial shade\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePruning:\u003c\/strong\u003e Very little. Trim a hedge in early spring\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHardiness:\u003c\/strong\u003e H7, hardy in the severest British winter\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDelivered:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot, November to April. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/collect-your-order-from-castle-cary\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eCollection from Castle Cary\u003c\/a\u003e also available\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAlder Buckthorn is a thornless native shrub for a country or wildlife hedge up to about 5 metres high, quick to mature and generally free of pests and diseases. It is the main food plant of the Brimstone butterfly, its flowers are on the RHS Plants for Pollinators list, and birds eat the berries.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eAlder Buckthorn Hedge Plants\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAlder Buckthorn\u003c\/strong\u003e is a large native shrub or small tree that is ideal for country hedging. It flowers in late spring and early summer, and the berries follow from late summer, ripening red and then darkening to almost black, which contrast well with its lovely yellow autumn foliage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGood for hedges up to about 5 metres high. Browse all of our other \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/buckthorn-hedging-plants\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003evarieties of Buckthorn hedge plants\u003c\/a\u003e, our selection of \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/native-british-hedging-plants\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003enative hedging\u003c\/a\u003e, or our full range of \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/hedging-plants\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehedging plants\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDelivery season:\u003c\/strong\u003e Alder Buckthorn hedge plants are only delivered bareroot, during late autumn and winter, approximately November-April inclusive.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eGrowing Alder Buckthorn\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt's extremely hardy and will grow on wet, boggy sites. It'll grow well in any fertile, acidic soil conditions. It tolerates partial shade or dappled shade underneath large trees. In the wild, it grows in open woods, scrubland, hedgerows and wet areas like bogs and riverbanks. Avoid growing on chalk or in very shady sites.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen grown as a specimen tree, alder buckthorn needs no routine pruning, although it'll tolerate hard pruning if necessary to maintain its shape. Prune in late winter or early spring, outside the nesting season for birds.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eSpacing an Alder Buckthorn hedge:\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlant at 3 plants per metre, 33cm apart. You can also plant at 6 plants per metre in a staggered double row, with 33cm between each plant along the row and 40cm between the rows.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eGarden Design Ideas\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlder buckthorn is great as a small specimen tree in a wildlife border. The berries are loved by birds, especially thrushes and the flowers are excellent for bees. It can be combined with other berried shrubs like \u003ca href=\"\/products\/hawthorn-hedge-plants-crataegus-monogyna\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehawthorn\u003c\/a\u003e, and underplanted with small herbaceous perennials such as \u003ca href=\"\/products\/ivyleaf-cyclamen-hederifolium-bulbs\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ecyclamen\u003c\/a\u003e, and sweet violet.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs part of a native hedge, it can be planted alongside other native trees, shrubs and rambling plants such as \u003ca href=\"\/products\/blackthorn-sloe-hedge-plants-prunus-spinosa\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eblackthorn\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/field-maple-hedge-plants-acer-campestre\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003efield maple\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/green-holly-hedge-plants-ilex-aquifolium\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eholly\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/dog-rose-hedge-plants-rosa-canina\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003edog-rose\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/wayfaring-tree-hedge-plants-viburnum-lantana\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ewayfaring tree\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"\/products\/green-ivy-plants\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eivy\u003c\/a\u003e. Using a wide variety of species creates varied habitat for wildlife and a long flowering season with pollen and nectar produced for many months of the year.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHistory \u0026amp; Trivia\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDespite its name, the alder buckthorn is neither an alder, nor does it have thorns. Recently, botanists have determined that the former \u003cem\u003eRhamnus frangula\u003c\/em\u003e really belongs in its own genus, and it is now officially called \u003cem\u003eFrangula alnus\u003c\/em\u003e. It is also known as black dogwood, breaking buckthorn or glossy buckthorn.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIt was used as a dye plant in the past with a yellow pigment made from the foliage and bark. A blue or grey dye can be made from the ripe berries and the unripe berries produce a green pigment.  \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAlong with \u003ca href=\"\/products\/purging-buckthorn-hedge-plants-rhamnus-cathartica\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ePurging Buckthorn\u003c\/a\u003e, this plant is the only food source for the beautiful yellow brimstone butterfly.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFlowers \u0026amp; Bees:\u003c\/strong\u003e  It is an excellent host for bees and butterflies, although the tiny flowers aren't really visible amongst the leaves. It isn't the most ornamental shrub, but it is excellent for wildlife.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFirewood: \u003c\/strong\u003eThe charcoal made from buckthorn wood is one of the best for making gunpowder. The wood is durable and easy to sharpen, so was used historically for nails, skewers and arrows.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlanting Companions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe Brimstone butterfly lays on only two British plants: this one and Purging Buckthorn, which is thorny and suits chalk, where Alder Buckthorn wants damper ground. In a native hedge, plant it with \u003ca href=\"\/products\/guelder-rose-hedge-plants-viburnum-opulus\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eGuelder Rose\u003c\/a\u003e, which likes the same damp soil, and with \u003ca href=\"\/products\/common-hazel-hedge-plants-corylus-avellana\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eHazel\u003c\/a\u003e and Hawthorn as the backbone. See our guide to \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/hedging\/double-staggered-row-hedge-spacing-planting-distance\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003espacing a double row\u003c\/a\u003e. Dust the roots with \u003ca href=\"\/products\/rootgrow-universal-friendly-mycorrhizae-fungi\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eRootgrow\u003c\/a\u003e as you plant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy Ashridge for Hedging?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eHedging is not a sideline here: your Alder Buckthorn is grown for us as hedging by specialist growers. Bareroot plants are lifted to order while dormant and guaranteed for 12 months. Ashridge has sold plants since 1949 and is a Which? Best Plant Supplier 2025.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat is the difference between Alder Buckthorn and Purging Buckthorn?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePurging Buckthorn is thorny, suckering and a plant of chalk. Alder Buckthorn is thornless and wants damper, more acid ground. Both feed the Brimstone butterfly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWill it bring Brimstone butterflies?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt gives them somewhere to breed. The Brimstone can lay its eggs on only two plants in Britain, Alder Buckthorn and Purging Buckthorn.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eDoes Alder Buckthorn have thorns?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo. It is neither an Alder nor thorny, and the branches are smooth. It is the one to plant if you want the Brimstone without the thorns.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow tall does it grow?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs a hedge, up to about 5 metres. Left unpruned, it grows 4 to 8 metres tall by 2.5 to 4 metres wide, in 5 to 10 years.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhen do you trim an Alder Buckthorn hedge?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn early spring, before the birds nest. It needs little pruning otherwise, and it tolerates a hard cut if it outgrows its space.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs it good for bees?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. It is on the RHS Plants for Pollinators list. The small, greenish flowers open in late spring and early summer and are well worked by bees.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhen are the plants delivered?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBareroot only, from November to April, while the plants are dormant. You can order at any time of year and your plants are lifted and sent once the season opens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Bareroot \/ 60\/80cm","offer_id":54992624550214,"sku":"RHAMFRA-60\/80","price":3.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/buckthorn-alder-rhamnus-frangula-1-hedging.jpg?v=1755205285"},{"product_id":"berberis-julianae-hedging-plants-chinese-wintergreen-barberry","title":"Wintergreen Chinese Barberry Plants","description":"\u003ch2\u003eWintergreen Chinese Barberry Plants\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUse:\u003c\/strong\u003e Secure hedge, specimen shrub\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e Up to 3m\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eGrowth:\u003c\/strong\u003e Medium. Dense, thorny habit\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSoil:\u003c\/strong\u003e Any well-drained soil\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLight:\u003c\/strong\u003e Sun to partial shade\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eType:\u003c\/strong\u003e Evergreen thorny shrub\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSpecies:\u003c\/strong\u003e Berberis julianae\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBareroot Delivery Only:\u003c\/strong\u003e Nov-April\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eAppearance, Growth \u0026amp; Uses\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBerberis julianae, known as Wintergreen, Chinese, or Julia's Barberry, is a dense, seriously spiny shrub that makes a strong, impenetrable hedge of up to 3m.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIts new spring leaves unfurl in copper shades amongst yellow flowers, which ripen into black berries. \u003cbr\u003eThe evergreen leaves mature to dark green in summer, then turn warm ruddy red late Autumn.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe dense growth and long spines make an excellent intruder-proof hedge.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFeatures\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBrowse our \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/berberis-hedging-plants-barberry\"\u003eberberis hedging\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBrowse our full range of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/hedging-plants\"\u003ehedging plants\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eGrowing Conditions\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSoil:\u003c\/strong\u003e Any well-drained soil\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLight:\u003c\/strong\u003e Sun to partial shade\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMoisture:\u003c\/strong\u003e Moderate, well-drained\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAvoid:\u003c\/strong\u003e Waterlogged sites\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMaintenance:\u003c\/strong\u003e Very tough, clips well\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHardiness:\u003c\/strong\u003e Very hardy to -15C, salt tolerant\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBarberries will grow well in sun or partial shade but you'll get the best flowers and berries in a sunny position.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThey're great for exposed or seaside gardens, and for polluted inner city sites.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eGarden Design Ideas\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA secure hedging plant with year round interest is rare, your other options that fit that bill are pretty much \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/products\/berberis-darwinii-hedge-plants-darwins-barberry\"\u003eBerberis darwinii\u003c\/a\u003e, and \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/pyracantha-hedging-plants\"\u003ePyracanthas\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIts yellow spring flowers, copper-tinted young leaves, and pleasant autumn foliage colours that kick in when the last herbaceous perennials are dying back and then last all winter all make it an excellent evergreen backdrop to any flower border.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt's a great plant for wildlife gardens:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFeatures\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe early single flowers are a vital source of food for bees, which become active in the cold seasons whenever the temperature is above 10C. \u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLike most of the barberries, its dense stems are perfect cover for small garden birds, especially those that nest near the ground, such as wrens.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe berries aren't very showy, but blackbirds and thrushes love them.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHistory \u0026amp; Trivia\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA native of Central China, this is one of the hardiest barberries, tolerating temperatures as low as -15C. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis species was brought to Britain from China by the prolific plant collector Ernest H Wilson in 1900. It was named by the German botanist Camillo Schneider (1876-1951), after his wife, Julia.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHerr Schneider should have gone down in history as the 20th century's greatest Berberis scholar, but his life's academic work and manuscripts were destroyed by Allied bombing in 1943.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Bareroot \/ 20\/30cm","offer_id":54992624582982,"sku":"BERBJUL-20\/30","price":3.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/wintergreen-barberry-berberis-julianae-flowers-1.jpg?v=1756803626"},{"product_id":"blackthorn-sloe-hedge-plants-prunus-spinosa","title":"Blackthorn \/ Sloe Hedge Plants","description":"\u003cul class=\"pdp-specs\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eVariety:\u003c\/strong\u003e Blackthorn, the thorn that gives you sloes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCommon name:\u003c\/strong\u003e Blackthorn, sloe\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLatin name:\u003c\/strong\u003e Prunus spinosa\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSold as:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot hedge plants, 40\/60cm, 60\/80cm and 90\/120cm tall\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePlants per metre:\u003c\/strong\u003e 3 in a single row, 6 in a staggered double row\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e A hedge trimmed yearly to the height you want. About 4m (13ft) if left unpruned\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eGrowth rate:\u003c\/strong\u003e Fast, up to 60cm a year\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eType:\u003c\/strong\u003e Deciduous\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUK native:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eThorny:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes, very\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHabit:\u003c\/strong\u003e Suckers into a thicket if you let it\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlowers and fruit:\u003c\/strong\u003e Small white flowers in early spring. Bloomy black sloes, 1.5cm across\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBest soil and site:\u003c\/strong\u003e Any moist, well-drained soil, chalk included. Full sun\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHardiness:\u003c\/strong\u003e H7, hardy anywhere in the UK\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWildlife value:\u003c\/strong\u003e RHS Plants for Pollinators. Early blossom, dense nesting cover, sloes for birds\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePlant:\u003c\/strong\u003e November to April, while dormant\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDelivered:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot, November to April. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/collect-your-order-from-castle-cary\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eCollection from Castle Cary\u003c\/a\u003e also available\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eBlackthorn, Prunus spinosa, is a thorny, deciduous native that makes a stock-proof country hedge, with small white flowers in early spring and bloomy black sloes in autumn. Unpruned it reaches about 4m; as a hedge you trim it once a year to whatever height you need.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eBlackthorn \/ Sloe Hedge Plants\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBlackthorn, or sloe,\u003c\/strong\u003e is a native tree that makes a wonderful deciduous wildlife hedge. Its sharp black thorns provide an impenetrable barrier for keeping intruders out and stock in, while a froth of small white, open flowers bring sublime beauty in early spring, an iconic sight in the British countryside. In autumn, the shrub produces small purple-black sloes, covered in a pretty bloom; these berries make wonderful sloe gin. Blackthorn is the perfect secure boundary to any sizeable garden or field, and is tough enough to be a roadside hedge, in sun or part shade, and will thrive in any soil except waterlogged sites. Fast growing, it'll reach about 4 metres, but is easily kept in check by annual pruning.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe plants on this page are bareroot saplings, ideal for planting as hedging or in woodland projects. If you're looking for another kind of hedging, evergreen perhaps or something for smaller gardens, here's where you can browse our full range of \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/hedging-plants\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehedging\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDelivery season:\u003c\/strong\u003e Blackthorn hedge plants are delivered bareroot during late autumn and winter, approximately November-April inclusive.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChoosing a size:\u003c\/strong\u003e Small plants are cheaper and overall more convenient for hedge use, unless instant impact is your priority. If you are only buying a few plants for ornamental use, then you may as well use bigger ones. All our hedge plants are measured by their height in centimetres above the ground (the roots aren't measured).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eGrowing Blackthorn\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt's extremely hardy and tough. It'll grow anywhere with decent drainage, chalk included. It's a native British shrub, recognisable for its distinctive clouds of white spring blossom on bare branches, then purple sloes in autumn. It's also drought tolerant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt's a tough hedging plant and will \u003cstrong\u003eregrow quickly after clipping,\u003c\/strong\u003e so it can be hard pruned annually to keep it in check. Do this wearing suitably tough gloves, in winter but not in freezing temperatures. Blackthorn can also be left to grow, if you prefer a more natural shape to your hedge.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHistory \u0026amp; Trivia\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBlackthorn has a reputation for its sharp thorns, so take care where you plant it; however, its dense network of foliage and branches means it's popular with birds who use it for nesting and for foraging under cover (they also love the autumn sloes). Plants are quite vigorous, and can grow up to 60cm each year.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSpacing a Blackthorn hedge:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePlant at 3 plants per metre, 33cm apart.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eGarden Design Ideas\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA blackthorn hedge is great anywhere you want to keep out intruders, keep animals in or encourage wildlife, in all but the smallest of gardens. In a city garden, it's definitely a statement of rural intent, that frothy white spring blossom bringing a hit of countryside charm. Consider it for enclosing an allotment, as it provides a home for a huge range of wildlife and pollinators and also gives you sloes for gin and vodka in October and November.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe hedge alone will be a real draw for wildlife, attracting pollinating insects, birds and all kinds of small mammals to its dense cover. To continue the ecological theme, underplant with common dog violet, hedge woundwort or dead nettles and don't tidy up too much. The leaves and fallen berries are rich pickings for hedgehogs, insects and other creatures. Team it with a wildflower meadow on a sunny bank for maximum pulling-power for insects, birds and mammals.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBlackthorn is an essential component in some of our hedge mixes, including our \u003ca href=\"\/products\/mixed-bird-friendly-hedge-plants\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eBird Friendly hedging\u003c\/a\u003e, and combines well with other native hedging plants such as \u003ca href=\"\/products\/crab-apple-hedge-plants-malus-sylvestris\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ewild crab-apple\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"\/products\/common-native-dogwood-hedge-plants-cornus-sanguinea\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003edogwood\u003c\/a\u003e. Treat as a good old-fashioned pick and mix to create a mixed hedge to provide fruit, flowers and protection all year round.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlanting Companions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eBlackthorn is one of the two thorns that hold a native hedge together. \u003ca href=\"\/products\/hawthorn-hedge-plants-crataegus-monogyna\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eHawthorn\u003c\/a\u003e is the other, flowering in May when the blackthorn has finished, and \u003ca href=\"\/products\/common-hazel-hedge-plants-corylus-avellana\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eHazel\u003c\/a\u003e is the usual third. To have the mixing done for you, our \u003ca href=\"\/products\/mixed-blackthorn-based-hedge-plants\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eblackthorn-based hedge mix\u003c\/a\u003e is the traditional sheep-country recipe. \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/native-bluebell-bulbs\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eNative bluebells\u003c\/a\u003e do well at the foot of a thorn hedge, and the rest of the natives are in our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/native-british-hedging-plants\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003enative hedging plants\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy Buy Hedging from Ashridge\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWe sell more bareroot hedging than almost anyone in the UK, so your blackthorn is lifted to order and does not sit about. It is grown for us as hedging from the outset. Ashridge holds the Feefo Platinum Trusted Service Award, and bareroot plants are guaranteed for 12 months.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow many blackthorn plants do I need per metre?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThree per metre in a single row, 33cm apart. For a stock-proof hedge, six per metre in a staggered double row, the rows 40cm apart.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat is the difference between blackthorn and hawthorn?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBlackthorn flowers first, in early spring on bare wood, and bears sloes. Hawthorn flowers in May and bears red haws. Blackthorn suckers into a thicket; hawthorn does not.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWill blackthorn grow on chalk?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. Blackthorn grows on chalk, clay, loam or sand, acid or alkaline. What it will not stand is waterlogging. Full sun gives the most blossom and sloes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eDoes blackthorn spread by suckers?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt does. Take them out, unless a solid thicket is what you want. In a field hedge that is a virtue. Beside a lawn, mow them off.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhen can I plant bareroot blackthorn?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFrom November to April, while dormant, on any day when the ground is not frozen or waterlogged. Water the row through its first summer and keep it weed-free for two or three years.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Bareroot \/ 40\/60cm","offer_id":54992624877894,"sku":"PRUNSPI-40\/60","price":1.12,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Bareroot \/ 60\/80cm","offer_id":54992624910662,"sku":"PRUNSPI-60\/80","price":1.29,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Bareroot \/ 90\/120cm","offer_id":54992624943430,"sku":"PRUNSPI-90\/120","price":2.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/blackthorn-flowers.jpg?v=1755634242"},{"product_id":"box-hedge-plants-buxus-sempervirens","title":"Common Box Hedge Plants","description":"\u003cul class=\"pdp-specs\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCommon name:\u003c\/strong\u003e Common Box\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLatin name:\u003c\/strong\u003e Buxus sempervirens\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSold as:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot plants at 15\/20cm and 30\/40cm. Pot-grown at 30\/40cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHedge height:\u003c\/strong\u003e 30cm to 2m\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSize if left unclipped:\u003c\/strong\u003e A large shrub or small tree, to about 5m, over 10 to 20 years\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSpacing:\u003c\/strong\u003e 5 plants per metre in a single row\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLeaves:\u003c\/strong\u003e Evergreen, glossy dark green, to 3cm long\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlowers:\u003c\/strong\u003e Small and yellowish, in spring\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBest soil and site:\u003c\/strong\u003e Any well-drained soil, chalk included. Partial or full shade; in full sun the leaves can scorch on dry soil\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUse:\u003c\/strong\u003e Low formal hedges, edging and topiary\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNative:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHardiness:\u003c\/strong\u003e H6, hardy through the British winter\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRHS Plants for Pollinators:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDelivered:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot, November to April. Pot-grown, all year when in stock. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/collect-your-order-from-castle-cary\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eCollection from Castle Cary\u003c\/a\u003e also available\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eCommon Box is the native evergreen for low formal hedges, edging and topiary: small, glossy, dark green leaves on a slow, dense plant that clips to a sharp line. It grows in any well-drained soil, chalk included, and is happier in shade than in hot sun.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCommon Box Hedge Plants\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCommon box\u003c\/strong\u003e is the go-to variety if you want plants to shape into sharp-edged evergreen edging hedges or topiary. Left uncut, the shrubs can grow into small trees more than 5m. They respond well to cutting, forming dense, springy plants packed with small, glossy, bright green oval leaves. Box is shade tolerant, hardy down to -20C and frost resistant, so all areas of the UK can enjoy it. Add to that a slightly citrusy, fresh smell, and you have a winner. We stock other varieties of \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/box-hedging-plants\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ebox hedging\u003c\/a\u003e here.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDelivery season:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bare-root plants are delivered in winter and are only planted when they're dormant, from November to April. They can be pre-ordered in summer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChoosing a size:\u003c\/strong\u003e Small plants are cheaper and more convenient for hedging, unless instant impact is your priority. If you are buying a few plants for ornamental use, then you may as well use bigger ones. All our hedge plants are measured by their height in centimetres above the ground (the roots aren't measured).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eGrowing Common Box\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBox will grow well in poor, dry soils including chalk, and it thrives in shady conditions; the leaves can be scorched by sun and winds. It doesn't like poor drainage or waterlogging, but it'll grow in heavy clay on a slope or on top of a ridged bed where the drainage is good.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe other thing that Box hates is poor air circulation, which is a necessary condition for box blight.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs it's slow-growing, you only have to clip it once a year, and it can eventually grow to 2m as a hedge.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSpacing a Common Box hedge:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePlant at 5 plants per metre in a single row.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eGarden Design Ideas\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBox is one of the best hedging plants for a formal look, whether that's as traditional as a parterre or as contemporary as geometric topiary. The ornamental, evergreen low-growing hedges look equally good frosted in winter or glossy green in summer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt clips so tightly that you can achieve knife-edge lines with it, due to the sheer number of small leaves. Box can act as a frame for bedding schemes and stop plants spilling over paths: think of Monty Don's Jewel Garden at Longmeadow. Here, the rich tones of \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/dahlia-tubers\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003edahlias\u003c\/a\u003e and grasses tumble around. Ornamental kitchen gardens on country estates were often edged with box to create a productive yet handsome vista.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBuxus sempervirens is one of the favourite plants used for topiary, as it's so dense: think of the ubiquitous box balls you see in many a modern garden. However, box can live for several centuries and grow up to 6m tall, as many huge examples in stately homes will testify.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/hedging\/box-blight-hedge-disease\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ebox blight\u003c\/a\u003e became a problem, the tradition of clipping plants on Derby Day is no longer advised. Buxus is better trimmed in winter, as box blight likes warm, damp conditions where plants are overcrowded. Spores then enter wounds to a plant. Clip in winter, on a dry day when the temperature is above freezing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere really is no other plant that can be sculpted as accurately, with such reliable coverage as box. However, if you would prefer something with about the same look but faster growing and without the risk of disease, consider using \u003ca href=\"\/products\/shrubby-honeysuckle-hedge-plants-lonicera-nitida\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eLonicera nitida\u003c\/a\u003e or Ilex Crenata.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHistory \u0026amp; Trivia\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNative to southern England and across South-western Eurasia, thriving on hillsides and woodland. England's most famous wild populations of Box are on Box Hill in Surrey, the Cotswolds, the North Downs and the Chilterns.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn English folklore, Box was associated with sorrow and branches were thrown onto coffins by mourners. As a contrast, Box trees are considered sacred in Georgia, where twigs are taken to church on Palm Sunday to bring protection to the home and good luck.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBoxwood is highly prized for its density, close-grained texture and warm yellow tone. It is made into inlay and marquetry, even as a substitute for ivory. Traditional uses include croquet mallets, recorders and stringed instruments.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eContaining steroidal alkaloids and flavonoids, Box has been used medicinally for centuries. Maladies supposed to be helped by box include gout, urinary tract infections, intestinal worms, skin problems, haemorrhoids, epilepsy and headaches. Homoeopaths use the leaves to treat rheumatism and fever.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFlowers \u0026amp; Bees:\u003c\/strong\u003e Box has been awarded the RHS's Plants for Pollinators Award: bees love it, and it provides a sheltered home for birds, small mammals and insects. Fairly inconspicuous male and female green-yellow flower clusters are produced in April and May. Pollinated female flowers develop into a brown, woody seed case.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFirewood: \u003c\/strong\u003eIt will burn well, but as it is one of the most expensive timbers in the world, costing as much as £40,000 per cubic metre, it is not advised.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlanting Companions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eLow Box edging wants something tall, dark and formal behind it, and \u003ca href=\"\/products\/yew-hedge-plants-taxus-baccata\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eYew\u003c\/a\u003e is the classic answer; there are more sizes under \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/yew-hedging-plants-taxus\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eYew hedging\u003c\/a\u003e. Inside a Box frame, Dahlias and grasses can spill as they please, as they do at Longmeadow. Dust bareroot plants with \u003ca href=\"\/products\/rootgrow-universal-friendly-mycorrhizae-fungi\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eRootgrow\u003c\/a\u003e as you plant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy Buy Hedging from Ashridge\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eHedging is not a sideline here: your Box is grown for us as hedging by specialist growers. Bareroot plants are lifted to order while dormant and guaranteed for 12 months. Ashridge has sold plants since 1949 and is a Which? Best Plant Supplier 2025.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow far apart do you plant Box hedging?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFive plants to the metre, 20cm apart, in a single row, whichever size you buy. Box is slow, so do not be tempted to stretch the spacing to save plants.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow tall will a Box hedge grow?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKeep it anywhere from 30cm edging to a 2 metre hedge. Left alone, it reaches about 5 metres as a large shrub or small tree, over 10 to 20 years.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eDoes Box grow in shade?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, and it prefers it. Box grows best in partial shade and can be scorched by sun and strong winds where the soil is dry.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat is killing my Box hedge?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUsually Box blight or Box Tree Caterpillar. Clean tools and good airflow through the plants help against blight. If either keeps coming back, Lonicera nitida gives you a similar look.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow fast does Box grow?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSlowly, which is the point: one clip a year keeps it sharp. Buy the 30\/40cm size if you want the line of a hedge sooner.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhen are Box plants delivered?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBareroot plants are delivered from November to April, while they are dormant. The pot-grown size can be delivered and planted in any month when you find it in stock.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Bareroot \/ 15\/20cm","offer_id":54992624976198,"sku":"BUXUSEM-15\/20","price":2.25,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Potted \/ 30\/40cm","offer_id":54992625008966,"sku":"BUXUSEM-CN-30\/40","price":6.9,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"Bareroot \/ 30\/40cm","offer_id":54992625041734,"sku":"BUXUSEM-30\/40","price":2.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/box-common-buxus-sempervirens-hedge-3.jpg?v=1755205285"},{"product_id":"cherry-laurel-hedge-plants-prunus-laurocerasus-rotundifolia","title":"Common Laurel Hedge Plants","description":"\u003ch2\u003eCommon Laurel Hedge Plants\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003ecommon \u003c\/strong\u003eor\u003cstrong\u003e cherry laurel \u003c\/strong\u003eis a vigorous garden superhero that relishes inhospitable conditions and will make a stunning, shiny green hedge all year round. Its seriously glossy, greeny-yellow leaves, which can be up to 15 cm long, are so verdant and lush that they look almost tropical. Naturally bushy, it blocks out light very well, and helps to dissipate strong, prevailing winds.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eIn summer, it's festooned with tall, white, flowers that are richly scented and pull in bees and butterflies.\u003cbr\u003e\nAutumn brings large, shiny, black, inedible \"cherries\" that are hugely popular with birds.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eIt's almost infinitely forgiving of mistakes, so it's hard not to produce a good Laurel hedge!\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eView the rest of our \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/laurel-hedging-plants\"\u003elaurel hedging\u003c\/a\u003e or our range of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/hedging-plants\"\u003ehedging plants\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003cbr\u003e\nA similar but less vigorous option is Portuguese laurel, \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/products\/portuguese-laurel-hedge-plants-prunus-lusitanica-angustifolia\"\u003ePrunus lusitanica\u003c\/a\u003e. For restrained evergreen hedging with smaller, matt leaves, \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/privet-hedging-plants-ligustrum\"\u003ePrivet hedging\u003c\/a\u003e has the same propensity to thrive where no other plant dare go.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDelivery season:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot plants are delivered during late autumn and winter, approximately November-April inclusive.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003ch3\u003eFeatures\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cul\u003e \u003cli\u003eSize sold: 30-60 cm\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003eHedge Height: 1m to very tall\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003eSoil: all soils\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003eUse: Evergreen\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003eSingle Row: 2-3\/m\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003eColour: Bright Green\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003eGreat for poor soils and brightening a shady corner\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003eRHS Award of Garden Merit \u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e \u003ch3\u003eGrowing Common Laurel\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eIt'll grow in any soil apart from waterlogged. It's very shade tolerant, and is a go-to choice for shady sites with poor, dry soil.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eIt's low maintenance and can be hard pruned at anytime if necessary, although it'll bounce back better if you do this in winter.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSpacing a Cherry Laurel hedge: \u003c\/strong\u003eLike most formal hedging, plant at 3 per metre, 33cm apart in a single row.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003ch3\u003eGarden Design Ideas\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eIts vigour is second to none, its rounded, shiny leaves play with light to brighten a dark corner of the garden, and it can be shaped into individual balls or lollipops that look fantastic.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003ePlant a laurel hedge next to a low, stone wall, and you can 'extend' your wall by several metres by trimming the laurel flush to the wall's face. It'll provide a perfect screen to block the line of sight from nearby buildings, and is an ideal windbreak to provide shelter in a garden so that you can grow more tender ornamental trees and plants.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eLead and stone statuary or planters look especially good against its vibrant green and are indicative of how laurel can be used in a more formal setting where you use laurel to provide structure in the garden as opposed to the more commonly used but slower growing box or yew.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAnother use is as ground cover for game and wildlife, although it's probably best not to grow it next to a field containing livestock because it's poisonous to them.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003ch3\u003eHow to Clip \u0026amp; Prune Laurel Hedges \u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eSome formative pruning will make it as dense as possible. Do not clip Laurel Hedging straight after planting, but wait until new leaves appear, showing that the roots have established.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFeatures\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e \u003cli\u003eLaurel can put out new growth from the junction of stem and leaf.\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003eTo encourage this growth, cut back a branch so two or three leaves remain.\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003eA new side shoot will come from each leaf within a few weeks.\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003eDo this yearly until there is a good structure of bushy branches.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e \u003cp\u003eA mature hedge is best pruned with secateurs and loppers when practical, which won't leave ragged foliage.\u003cbr\u003e\nThe best time to use a hedge trimmer is the middle of Spring, when the vigorous new growth will cover the ragged foliage.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eTrim your hedge into a sort of \"A\" shape, with a flat top. A slight taper to a hedge - wider at the bottom than at the top - allows light and air to get to the lower branches, keeping them healthy and covered in leaf.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHard Pruning Old Laurel:\u003c\/strong\u003e Laurel cut to the ground will grow back. Mid-winter is the best time for surgery.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHistory \u0026amp; Trivia\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat we refer to as cherry or common laurel is not a true laurel like the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/products\/sweet-bay-leaf-laurel-hedge-plants-laurus-nobilis\"\u003ebay leaf laurel\u003c\/a\u003e (Laurus nobilis): it belongs to the cherry family, the genus Prunus. It has a long tradition of use in gardens here since it was first introduced from the Ottoman Empire in the 1500s.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe long-lasting foliage is a standard element for floristry.\u003c!-- wp:paragraph --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eBefore Laurel, the main evergreen broadleaf available in Britain was \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/products\/green-holly-hedge-plants-ilex-aquifolium\"\u003eHolly\u003c\/a\u003e (\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/box-hedging-plants\"\u003eboxwood\u003c\/a\u003e is too slow for tall barrier hedges around a garden), and it's mostly a case of \"everything Holly can do, Laurel can do better\".\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003c!-- \/wp:paragraph --\u003e\u003c!-- wp:paragraph --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eCherry laurel has \u003cstrong\u003eheavier, bigger leaves\u003c\/strong\u003e than Holly that are better at \u003cstrong\u003eexcluding light\u003c\/strong\u003e and \u003cstrong\u003etraffic noise\u003c\/strong\u003e. They also stop effectively weeds from getting started in their dense shade. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003c!-- \/wp:paragraph --\u003e\u003c!-- wp:paragraph --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAnd it grows quickly to considerable heights, whereas Holly has medium-to-low vigour and so isn't ideal for really tall hedges.\u003cbr\u003e\nThere is a splendid laurel hedge outside Bristol providing shelter from the M5 that is around 20 feet, 7 metres, tall; you can't achieve that with Holly in a reasonable time frame.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003c!-- \/wp:paragraph --\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Bareroot \/ 30\/50cm","offer_id":54992625369414,"sku":"PRUNLAURO-30\/50","price":2.85,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Bareroot \/ 60\/80cm","offer_id":54992625402182,"sku":"PRUNLAURO-60\/80","price":4.29,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Potted \/ 80\/100cm 3L","offer_id":54992625434950,"sku":"PRUNLAURO-3L","price":11.98,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/cherry-laurel-prunus-laurocerasus-rotundifolia-hedge-leaves-2.jpg?v=1755466841"},{"product_id":"cherry-plum-hedge-plants-prunus-cerasifera-myrobalan","title":"Cherry Plum Hedging Plants","description":"\u003cul class=\"pdp-specs\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCommon name:\u003c\/strong\u003e Cherry Plum, Myrobalan Plum\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLatin name:\u003c\/strong\u003e Prunus cerasifera\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSold as:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot plants at 40\/60cm, 60\/80cm and 90\/120cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSpacing:\u003c\/strong\u003e 3 plants per metre in a single row, or 6 per metre in a staggered double row\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSize if left unclipped:\u003c\/strong\u003e 8 to 12m tall and wider than 8m, over 20 to 50 years\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlowers:\u003c\/strong\u003e Small and white, in early spring as the leaves open\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFruit:\u003c\/strong\u003e Edible, plum-like, red, orange or yellow, about 2.5cm long. Not every year\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLeaves:\u003c\/strong\u003e Deciduous\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBest soil and site:\u003c\/strong\u003e Any moderately fertile soil that drains, chalk and clay included. Full sun\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHardiness:\u003c\/strong\u003e H6, hardy through the British winter\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRHS Plants for Pollinators:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDelivered:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot, November to April. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/collect-your-order-from-castle-cary\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eCollection from Castle Cary\u003c\/a\u003e also available\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eCherry Plum is a twiggy, deciduous hedging plant and small tree that opens its small white flowers in early spring, among the first of the year, and sometimes follows them with edible fruit. It grows in any soil that drains, in full sun, and it is a Plant for Pollinators.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCherry Plum Hedging Plants\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003eCherry Plum, Prunus cerasifera\u003c\/strong\u003e is an untidy looking large shrub or small tree with a shaggy canopy that makes an excellent \u003cstrong\u003ecountry or urban hedging plant\u003c\/strong\u003e. Prunus cerasifera is one of the first woody plants to flower each spring, starting in February and usually continuing until April. It has a few thorns. Its small, red\/purple plums are edible, about an inch wide and are ripe in July. They're sweet and quite tasty, like a greengage with a less intense flavour. It makes an equally good hedge plant and screening tree. When it's grown as a tree, it develops a twiggy, wild looking canopy that is good for blocking sight and tends to attract nesting birds. It'll grow on most well drained soils and will reach 8 to 12 metres if it grows freely as a tree. The plants on this page are young saplings, ideal for planting as hedging or in woodland projects. You can also buy large, ornamental \u003ca href=\"\/products\/black-cherry-plum-trees-prunus-cerasifera-nigra\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ePurple Cherry Plum trees\u003c\/a\u003e here, which have a much tidier canopy.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eBrowse our full range of \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/hedging-plants\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehedging\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\nCherry Plum hedge plants are \u003cstrong\u003eonly delivered bareroot\u003c\/strong\u003e, during winter (Nov-April).\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChoosing a size:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nWhen you are ordering Cherry Plum plants for a hedge, we generally recommend that you use plants that are graded at 60\/80cm. They're cheaper than large plants, easier to handle and they'll establish well in poor conditions.\u003cbr\u003e\nUse the larger, 90\/120cm high plants if you want a taller hedge quickly or for instant impact as a specimen tree.\u003cbr\u003e\nAll our \u003cstrong\u003ehedge plants are measured\u003c\/strong\u003e by their height in centimetres above the ground (the roots aren't measured).\u003c\/p\u003e \u003ch3\u003eSpacing a Cherry Plum hedge:\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003ePlant Cherry Plum hedging at 3 plants per metre, 33cm apart.\u003cbr\u003e\nYou can also plant Cherry Plum at 6 plants per metre in a staggered double row, with 33cm between each plant along the row and 40 between the rows.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlanting Companions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIn a country hedge, Cherry Plum mixes with \u003ca href=\"\/products\/hawthorn-hedge-plants-crataegus-monogyna\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eHawthorn\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"\/products\/blackthorn-sloe-hedge-plants-prunus-spinosa\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eBlackthorn\u003c\/a\u003e, which add the thorns that it mostly lacks. The Purple Cherry Plum is the same species with dark leaves, grown as a garden tree. Dust the roots with \u003ca href=\"\/products\/rootgrow-universal-friendly-mycorrhizae-fungi\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eRootgrow\u003c\/a\u003e as you plant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy Buy Hedging from Ashridge\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eHedging is not a sideline here: your Cherry Plum is grown for us as hedging by specialist growers, lifted to order while dormant and guaranteed for 12 months. Ashridge has sold plants since 1949 and is a Which? Best Plant Supplier 2025.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow far apart do you plant Cherry Plum hedging?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlant 3 to the metre, 33cm apart, in a single row. For a thicker hedge, plant 6 to the metre in a staggered double row, with 40cm between the two rows.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eCan you eat Cherry Plums?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. The fruit is edible, plum-like and about 2.5cm long, in red, orange or yellow. Ours are sweet, like a greengage with a milder flavour, and ripe in July.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhen does Cherry Plum flower?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn early spring, as the leaves open. It is one of the first woody plants into flower each year, and it is a Plant for Pollinators.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow big does Cherry Plum grow if you do not clip it?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs a free-growing tree it reaches 8 to 12 metres in height and more than 8 metres in spread, over 20 to 50 years. As a hedge you hold it where you like.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhich size of plant should you buy?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor most hedges, the 60\/80cm grade: it is cheaper than the larger size, easy to handle and establishes well in poor conditions. Use 90\/120cm plants where you want height sooner.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs Cherry Plum a native plant?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo. It is not a British native. For a strictly native hedge, plant Hawthorn and Blackthorn, and keep Cherry Plum for its early flowers and its fruit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhen are Cherry Plum plants delivered?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBareroot only, from November to April, while the plants are dormant. You can order at any time of year and they are lifted and sent once the season opens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Bareroot \/ 60\/80cm","offer_id":54992625500486,"sku":"PRUNCER-60\/80","price":1.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Bareroot \/ 90\/120cm","offer_id":54992625533254,"sku":"PRUNCER-90\/120","price":3.45,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Bareroot \/ 40\/60cm","offer_id":54992625566022,"sku":"PRUNCER-40\/60","price":1.84,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/cherry-plum-prunus-cerasifera-fruit-3.jpg?v=1755634298"},{"product_id":"colorado-blue-spruce-sapling-trees-picea-pungens-glauca","title":"Blue Spruce Sapling Trees","description":"\u003cul class=\"pdp-specs\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eVariety:\u003c\/strong\u003e Blue Spruce, the silver-blue form of the Colorado Spruce\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLatin name:\u003c\/strong\u003e Picea pungens Glauca Group\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSold as:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot saplings, 15\/25 and 20\/40cm tall\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMature size:\u003c\/strong\u003e To about 15m tall, 4 to 8m wide\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTime to full size:\u003c\/strong\u003e 20 to 50 years\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFoliage:\u003c\/strong\u003e Evergreen. Stiff, pointed, silvery-blue needles\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCones:\u003c\/strong\u003e Green at first, ripening to pale brown and hanging\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePosition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Full sun\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSoil:\u003c\/strong\u003e Moist but well-drained, neutral to acid\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHardiness:\u003c\/strong\u003e H7, hardy in the severest British winter\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDelivered:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot, November to April. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/collect-your-order-from-castle-cary\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eCollection from Castle Cary\u003c\/a\u003e also available\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eBlue Spruce is the Colorado Spruce in its silver-blue coat: a conical evergreen with stiff, waxy needles, slow enough to enjoy for years as a garden specimen and reaching about 15 metres in time. It is rated H7, wants full sun and a moist, neutral to acid soil, and doubles as a living Christmas tree.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eBlue Spruce Sapling Trees\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBlue Spruce\u003c\/strong\u003e is a natural variant of the Colorado spruce, being a medium-sized tree with blue tinted, grey-green needles. Especially beautiful by water, it also makes a good no drop Christmas tree. To 15m\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSee our other \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/evergreen-hedging-plants\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eevergreens\u003c\/a\u003e, our range of \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/hedging-plants\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003esapling trees and hedging\u003c\/a\u003e, or our range of \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/garden-trees-big-standards\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003etrees\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDelivery season:\u003c\/strong\u003e Spruces are delivered bareroot from late autumn to early spring, November to April. \u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eChoosing a size:\u003c\/strong\u003e Small plants are cheaper and more forgiving of less than ideal aftercare, so they're best for a big planting project. If instant impact is your priority, or if you are only buying a few plants for ornamental use in a place where it's convenient to water them well in their first year, then you may as well use bigger ones. All our sapling trees are measured by their height in centimetres above the ground (the roots aren't measured).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eGrowing Blue Spruce\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt's not fussy about soil, but will be most vigorous on rich, moist, slightly acidic sites. Good drought tolerance when established. Suitable for exposed, windy sites.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlanting Companions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFor a Christmas tree plot, grow it beside the traditional \u003ca href=\"\/products\/norway-spruce-hedge-plants-picea-abies\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eNorway Spruce\u003c\/a\u003e and the soft-needled \u003ca href=\"\/products\/nordman-fir-sapling-trees-abies-nordmanniana\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eNordmann Fir\u003c\/a\u003e. \u003ca href=\"\/products\/serbian-spruce-sapling-trees-picea-omorika\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eSerbian Spruce\u003c\/a\u003e is another ornamental Spruce for a garden, and the rest are with our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/conifers-evergreen-trees\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003econifers\u003c\/a\u003e. Dust the roots with \u003ca href=\"\/products\/rootgrow-universal-friendly-mycorrhizae-fungi\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eRootgrow\u003c\/a\u003e as you plant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy Ashridge for Hedging and Young Trees?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eHedging and young trees are not a sideline here: your Blue Spruce saplings are grown for us by specialist growers. Bareroot plants are lifted to order while dormant and guaranteed for 12 months. Ashridge has sold plants since 1949 and is a Which? Best Plant Supplier 2025.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow big does a Blue Spruce grow?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo about 15 metres tall and 4 to 8 metres across, over several decades. Named garden selections of the blue form stay far smaller, but these are seed-raised saplings of the full-sized tree.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhy is it blue?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe needles are covered in wax, which gives them the silvery-blue cast. Seed-raised trees vary a little in how blue they are.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat soil does it need?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMoist but well-drained, and neutral to acid. It is not a tree for thin chalk.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eCan you use it as a Christmas tree?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. It holds its needles well indoors. Grown in the ground it makes a good outdoor tree to decorate year after year.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eDoes it need pruning?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo. Spruces keep their own shape.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhen are the plants delivered?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBareroot only, from November to April, while the plants are dormant. You can order at any time of year and your plants are lifted and sent once the season opens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Bareroot \/ 20\/40cm","offer_id":54992625697094,"sku":"PICEPUNGLA-30\/40","price":4.08,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Bareroot \/ 15\/25cm","offer_id":54992625729862,"sku":"PICEPUNGL-15\/30","price":2.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/blue-spruce-mature-tree.jpg?v=1755543003"},{"product_id":"common-green-beech-hedge-plants-fagus-sylvatica","title":"Green Beech Hedging Plants","description":"\u003cul class=\"pdp-specs\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSold as:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot 20\/40cm to 150\/175cm; 1m troughs 125\/150cm and 150\/175cm also available on this page\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePlants per metre:\u003c\/strong\u003e Single row 3\/m; staggered double row 6\/m, or 4\/m for a fuller winter face\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUltimate hedge height:\u003c\/strong\u003e Kept at 1–5m (a tree to 25–30m unclipped)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eGrowth rate:\u003c\/strong\u003e 30–60cm a year\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eEvergreen or deciduous:\u003c\/strong\u003e Deciduous — but clip it in summer and it holds coppery-brown leaves right through winter\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUK native:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eThorny:\u003c\/strong\u003e No. Leaves and mast can upset dogs if eaten in quantity\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBest soil and site:\u003c\/strong\u003e Lighter, free-draining soil and full sun. Struggles on heavy, wet ground or in frost pockets, where \u003ca href=\"\/products\/hornbeam-hedge-plants-carpinus-betulus\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehornbeam\u003c\/a\u003e is the honest alternative\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRHS Award of Garden Merit:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes — 1993, hardiness rating H6\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWildlife value:\u003c\/strong\u003e Mast feeds birds and small mammals in irregular \"mast years\", roughly every 5–12 years\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDelivered:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot, November to April — guaranteed to grow for 12 months, correctly cared for. The instant trough option on this page is not covered by that guarantee. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/collect-your-order-from-castle-cary\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eCollection from Castle Cary\u003c\/a\u003e also available\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eGreen beech hedging (\u003cem\u003eFagus sylvatica\u003c\/em\u003e) is Britain's classic formal deciduous hedge — a fresh, bright green that grows 30–60cm a year and, once clipped, holds its coppery-brown leaves right through winter instead of dropping them like a hedge left to grow naturally. It clips to as sharp a face as any evergreen, on a fraction of the maintenance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eGreen Beech Hedging: Winter Colour Without an Evergreen\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBeech's trick is called marcescence — trim a beech hedge in late summer and the dead leaves stay attached through winter rather than falling, giving genuine screening and colour from a plant that's technically deciduous. Left unclipped, a beech tree drops its leaves like anything else; it's the annual cut that keeps the winter leaves on. That single fact is why beech reads, from a distance, almost like an evergreen hedge for most of the year.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt wants lighter, free-draining soil and a reasonably sunny spot to do this well. On heavy clay or ground that holds winter wet, beech struggles and thins at the base — hornbeam, its near-identical cousin in every respect except soil tolerance, is the honest choice there instead.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eThe Tallest Hedge on Earth Is Beech\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Meikleour Beech Hedge in Perthshire, planted in the autumn of 1745, now stands around 30 metres tall and roughly 530 metres long — Guinness-recognised as both the tallest and the longest hedge on the planet, trimmed only about once a decade. Local tradition holds that it grows so vigorously because the men who planted it fell at the Battle of Culloden the following year and never returned to tend it; the death of Robert Murray Nairne at Culloden in 1746 is recorded history, whatever truth lies behind the folklore about the hedge itself.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBeech wood has a working history to match its garden presence: it smoked much of the nation's herring and, being close-grained and hard-wearing, supplied kitchen utensils, tool handles and furniture for generations.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlanting Companions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGreen beech's most natural partner is its own purple-leaved relative, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/copper-beech-hedge-plants-fagus-sylvatica-purpurea\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ecopper beech\u003c\/a\u003e — mixing the two in one run makes the traditional tapestry hedge, since both grow at exactly the same rate. On wetter or heavier ground, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/hornbeam-hedge-plants-carpinus-betulus\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehornbeam\u003c\/a\u003e is the site-driven alternative rather than a struggling beech, and \u003ca href=\"\/products\/yew-hedge-plants-taxus-baccata\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eyew\u003c\/a\u003e is the evergreen option where winter colour matters less than year-round density. As a clean green backdrop, beech suits almost anything planted in front of it — a border from our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/perennial-plants\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eperennial plant range\u003c\/a\u003e included. Browse the rest of the \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/beech-hedging-plants-fagus\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ebeech hedging range\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy Ashridge for Your Hedge\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAshridge hedging is grown under contract by specialist UK growers, to our own specification — never surplus stock from elsewhere. We're one of the UK's largest bareroot hedging sellers, and a purpose-built cold store keeps stock in top condition all season. Bareroot green beech is guaranteed to grow for 12 months, planted and cared for correctly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eDoes green beech keep its leaves in winter?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, if trimmed — clip it in late summer and the dead brown leaves hold on the branches right through to spring, giving effective winter screening from a deciduous plant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWill beech grow on my clay soil?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot reliably — beech wants lighter, free-draining ground and struggles on heavy, wet clay. Hornbeam tolerates exactly those conditions and is the more honest choice there.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhen should I trim a beech hedge?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce a year, in late summer (August or September), is enough for a mature beech hedge. Use secateurs rather than shears so you're not slicing the larger leaves in half.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow many beech plants do I need per metre?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e3 per metre in a single row, or 4–6 per metre in a staggered double row for a fuller, faster-establishing screen.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs the trough option on this page covered by the guarantee?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo — the 12-month guarantee applies to our bareroot hedging. The instant trough option, being an established rootballed plant supplied in a container, sits outside it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eCan I mix green beech with copper beech in one hedge?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes — the classic tapestry hedge. The two grow at exactly the same rate and take the same clip, so they knit together as a single hedge rather than competing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Bareroot \/ 20\/40cm","offer_id":54992625828166,"sku":"FAGUSYL-30\/40","price":1.29,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Bareroot \/ 40\/60cm","offer_id":54992625860934,"sku":"FAGUSYL-40\/60","price":1.09,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Bareroot \/ 60\/80cm","offer_id":54992625893702,"sku":"FAGUSYL-60\/80","price":1.79,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Bareroot \/ 90\/120cm","offer_id":54992625926470,"sku":"FAGUSYL-90\/125","price":2.89,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Bareroot \/ 120\/150cm","offer_id":54992625959238,"sku":"FAGUSYL-120\/150","price":3.79,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Bareroot \/ 150\/175cm","offer_id":54992625992006,"sku":"FAGUSYL-150\/175","price":10.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Trough \/ 150\/175cm 1m Trough","offer_id":54992626024774,"sku":"FAGUSYL-150\/175cm 1m Trough","price":169.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"Trough \/ 125\/150cm 1m Trough","offer_id":54992626057542,"sku":"FAGUSYL-125\/150cm 1m Trough","price":149.94,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/green-beech-hedging.webp?v=1757102573"},{"product_id":"common-hazel-hedge-plants-corylus-avellana","title":"Hazel Hedge Plants","description":"\u003cul class=\"pdp-specs\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSold as:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot 40\/60cm to 90\/120cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePlants per metre:\u003c\/strong\u003e Single row 3\/m; staggered double row 6\/m for a thicker, faster-establishing screen\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUltimate hedge height:\u003c\/strong\u003e Whatever height you keep it clipped to — naturally bushy from the base (a tree to around 12m if left unclipped)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eGrowth rate:\u003c\/strong\u003e Around 45cm a year\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eEvergreen or deciduous:\u003c\/strong\u003e Deciduous — catkins dress the bare stems from late winter, well before the leaves appear\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUK native:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eThorny:\u003c\/strong\u003e No — thornless and safe near livestock\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBest soil and site:\u003c\/strong\u003e Any soil including damp ground, shade-tolerant; avoid very acid soil, permanently waterlogged ground, and exposed coastal sites\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRHS Award of Garden Merit:\u003c\/strong\u003e No — only named cultivars hold it, not the species\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWildlife value:\u003c\/strong\u003e The hazel dormouse's signature plant — nuts fatten it for hibernation, and spring leaves host the caterpillars it feeds on\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDelivered:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot, November to April — guaranteed to grow for 12 months, correctly cared for. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/collect-your-order-from-castle-cary\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eCollection from Castle Cary\u003c\/a\u003e also available\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eHazel hedging (\u003cem\u003eCorylus avellana\u003c\/em\u003e) is the country hedge rather than the formal one — a thornless, shade-tolerant native that grows around 45cm a year, copes with almost any soil including genuinely damp ground, and is the single most-used ingredient across our mixed native hedging packs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eHazel Hedging: The Country Native That Copes with Almost Anything\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHazel is naturally bushy from the base rather than growing into a single trunk, which is exactly what a good informal hedge wants — it fills out low down without the gappy bottom that troubles hedges left unclipped. It tolerates shade better than most native hedging, handles damp ground that would rot out drier-loving species, and shrugs off any soil short of the truly acid or truly waterlogged. The one place it struggles is directly on the coast, where salt and wind take their toll.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCoppice it — cut it back hard to the base in winter — and it regrows strongly rather than sulking, which is why hazel has been managed this way in Britain for centuries and can genuinely outlive an uncoppiced tree several times over.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eThe Dormouse's Tree\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBritain's hazel dormouse is named for this plant and depends on it directly: hazelnuts fatten the dormouse for hibernation, while the spring leaves host the caterpillars it hunts through the rest of the year (PTES). A hazel hedge left to flower and fruit properly is one of the more direct ways a garden can support a genuinely declining native mammal.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe plant runs deep into folklore too — in Celtic tradition hazel was the tree of wisdom and divination, the wood of the dowsing rod and the \"nut of knowledge\" (Woodland Trust). Coppiced hazel built rural Britain in more practical ways: thatching spars, hurdles, wattle for wattle-and-daub walls, and net stakes all came from managed hazel stands (Woodland Trust). A hazel tree left alone lives around 80 years; coppiced, it can live for several hundred — cutting it down, repeatedly, is what keeps it alive.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlanting Companions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHazel is hedging's great mixer — it's a constituent of every one of our mixed native hedging packs, more than any other species we sell. It pairs constantly with \u003ca href=\"\/products\/hawthorn-hedge-plants-crataegus-monogyna\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehawthorn\u003c\/a\u003e, its most frequent partner in the wild and in our own mixes, and with \u003ca href=\"\/products\/blackthorn-sloe-hedge-plants-prunus-spinosa\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eblackthorn\u003c\/a\u003e in the classic country matrix. If you'd rather buy a ready-made scheme, our \u003ca href=\"\/products\/mixed-conservation-hedge-plants\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003emixed conservation hedging pack\u003c\/a\u003e builds hazel in alongside its usual companions. For extra spring interest at the hedge foot, our \u003ca href=\"\/products\/mixed-naturalising-daffodil-narcissus-bulbs\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003enaturalising daffodils\u003c\/a\u003e flower before hazel leafs up. Browse the full \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/hazel-hedging-plants-corylus\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehazel hedging range\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy Buy Your Hedging from Us?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAshridge hedging is grown under contract by specialist UK growers, to our own specification — never surplus stock diverted from elsewhere. We're one of the UK's largest sellers of bareroot hedging, so stock is lifted to order and moves fast. Bareroot hazel is guaranteed to grow for 12 months, correctly planted and cared for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eCan I coppice a hazel hedge?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes — cut it back hard to the base in winter and it regrows strongly. This is traditional management for hazel, and a coppiced hazel can live for several hundred years rather than the roughly 80 years it manages left uncut.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWill hazel grow in shade or on damp ground?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes to both — hazel is more shade-tolerant than most native hedging and copes well with genuinely damp soil. It's less happy on very acid ground, permanently waterlogged sites, or directly on the coast.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs hazel safe to plant near horses or livestock?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes — hazel is thornless and not toxic, making it a safe choice near grazing animals, unlike thornier or more toxic hedging species.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhich mixed hedging packs include hazel?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAll of them — hazel is the most widely used constituent across our entire mixed native hedging range.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow many hazel plants do I need per metre?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e3 per metre in a single row, or 6 per metre in a staggered double row for a thicker, faster-establishing hedge.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eDoes hazel support any particular wildlife?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, notably the hazel dormouse — the nuts fatten it for hibernation and the spring leaves feed the caterpillars it hunts. Catkin pollen is also among the earliest food sources for bees each year.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Bareroot \/ 40\/60cm","offer_id":54992626090310,"sku":"CORYAVE-40\/60","price":1.49,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Bareroot \/ 60\/80cm","offer_id":54992626123078,"sku":"CORYAVE-60\/80","price":1.89,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Bareroot \/ 90\/120cm","offer_id":54992626155846,"sku":"CORYAVE-100\/125","price":2.69,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/common-hazelnuts-corylus-avellana-1.jpg?v=1755543128"},{"product_id":"common-native-dogwood-hedge-plants-cornus-sanguinea","title":"Common Red Dogwood Hedge Plants","description":"\u003cul class=\"pdp-specs\"\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSold as:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot whips, 40\/60cm, 60\/80cm or 90\/120cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePlants per metre:\u003c\/strong\u003e 3\/m single row, 6\/m staggered double row (grant standard)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eKept height:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1.5–2.5m as a mixed-hedge constituent or colour block\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eGrowth rate:\u003c\/strong\u003e Moderate\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDeciduous:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes — leaves turn deep red in autumn\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUK native:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eThorny:\u003c\/strong\u003e No\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBest soil\/site:\u003c\/strong\u003e Damp ground or most soils including chalk; full sun for the strongest stem colour\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWildlife value:\u003c\/strong\u003e RHS Plants for Pollinators; berries for birds; food for several moth caterpillars\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDelivery:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot, November to April\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eCommon Dogwood is the native hedgerow dogwood — a suckering, twiggy shrub that fills the middle of a mixed native hedge and turns crimson-stemmed through winter. It isn't a formal, clipped-face plant; it's a filler and a colour-bringer, most often bought alongside hawthorn and hazel to make up a proper country hedge.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIt takes damp ground happily but is equally at home on most soils, including chalk. Give it full sun if winter stem colour matters to you — in shade the stems stay green rather than turning red.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eManaging it for colour\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLeft alone, common dogwood thickens into a tall native shrub. For the strongest winter stems, treat it as a pruning-group-7 plant: cut hard, back to 5–7.5cm from the ground, in late winter to early spring — colour lives in the youngest wood, so cutting hard is the point, not a maintenance chore. Wait until the plant has been in the ground two years and growing strongly before you start. In a country hedge grown for structure rather than colour, it can simply be left to thicken with the rest of the mix.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlanting and establishment\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlant into a weed-free strip through the bareroot season, November to April, avoiding frozen or waterlogged ground. Firm in to the root collar, apply Rootgrow, and water through the whole first season — the main cause of a young hedge failing is drought, not cold. Keep the base weed-free for the first two to three years.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy Ashridge for your hedge\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAshridge hedging is grown for one purpose — to be a hedge — under contract by specialist UK growers working to our specification. We're one of the largest UK sellers of bareroot hedging, to gardeners and the trade alike, so stock is lifted to order and moves fast through a purpose-built cold store that keeps it in top condition all season. Bareroot plants establish very readily: like for like, a bareroot plant is larger, stronger and healthier than a pot-grown one, and better value for money. Common Dogwood is guaranteed to grow for 12 months, subject to our standard care conditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow many do I need per metre?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e3 plants per metre in a single row (33cm apart) for a garden hedge. For a stock-proof or grant-compliant hedge, plant a staggered double row at 6 plants per metre, rows around 40cm apart.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs Common Dogwood a UK native?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, and it's a constituent of most of our native mixed hedge packs — it's one of the standard building blocks of a proper country hedge.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhy are my dogwood's stems green rather than red?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShade is almost always the reason. The same shrub carries crimson twigs in full sun and lime-green ones in shade — if your dogwood is disappointing, check the site before anything else.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhen do I prune it for the best colour?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLate winter to mid-spring, with early-to-mid April the best balance between enjoying this winter's stems and producing next winter's. Cut all shoots back to 5–7.5cm from the ground once the plant is established.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWill it take over my hedge?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt suckers, so left unchecked it will spread within the row. Regular cutting back keeps it in bounds — it's a well-behaved constituent of a mixed hedge once it's part of your normal trimming routine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow far from my boundary should I plant?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt least 0.5m from a fence or boundary — this is also a condition of our 12-month guarantee.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePairs naturally with \u003ca href=\"\/products\/hawthorn-hedge-plants-crataegus-monogyna\"\u003eHawthorn\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"\/products\/common-hazel-hedge-plants-corylus-avellana\"\u003eHazel\u003c\/a\u003e, its constant partners in a native mix, and with \u003ca href=\"\/products\/guelder-rose-hedge-plants-viburnum-opulus\"\u003eGuelder Rose\u003c\/a\u003e for extra berries and a second flowering season. See the full \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/dogwood-hedging-plants-cornus\"\u003edogwood range\u003c\/a\u003e or browse all \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/hedging-plants\"\u003ehedging plants\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Bareroot \/ 40\/60cm","offer_id":54992626188614,"sku":"CORNSAN-40\/60","price":1.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Bareroot \/ 60\/80cm","offer_id":54992626221382,"sku":"CORNSAN-60\/80","price":2.89,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Bareroot \/ 90\/120cm","offer_id":54992626254150,"sku":"CORNSAN-90\/120","price":4.68,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/common-dogwood-cornus-sanguinea-autumn-leaves-4.jpg?v=1755634316"},{"product_id":"common-osier-willow-hedge-plants-salix-viminalis","title":"Common Osier Willow Plants","description":"\u003cul class=\"pdp-specs\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eVariety:\u003c\/strong\u003e Common Osier, the basket Willow and the fastest screen we sell\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLatin name:\u003c\/strong\u003e Salix viminalis\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSold as:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot plants, 60\/80cm tall\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eKept height:\u003c\/strong\u003e Cut to a stool each winter for rods, or left to grow as a screen\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUltimate size:\u003c\/strong\u003e 4 to 8m tall by 2.5 to 4m wide, in 2 to 5 years\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eGrowth rate:\u003c\/strong\u003e Very fast\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSpacing:\u003c\/strong\u003e 2 per metre, 50cm apart\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSoil:\u003c\/strong\u003e Wet or heavy ground for preference. Most moist soils, but not shallow chalk\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePosition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Full sun. Exposed or sheltered\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePlanting distance:\u003c\/strong\u003e At least 10m from drains and buildings, and 15m is better\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNative:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eThorns:\u003c\/strong\u003e None\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWildlife:\u003c\/strong\u003e RHS Plants for Pollinators\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHardiness:\u003c\/strong\u003e H7, hardy in the severest British winter\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDelivered:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot, November to April. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/collect-your-order-from-castle-cary\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eCollection from Castle Cary\u003c\/a\u003e also available\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eCommon Osier is the native Willow that the basket trade was built on: long, whippy, greenish-yellow rods, slender catkins before the leaves, and full height in 2 to 5 years. Grow it for weaving, for a living Willow fence or for a quick screen on wet ground, well away from drains.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCommon Osier Willow Plants\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCommon Osier Willow, Salix viminalis\u003c\/strong\u003e, is a large, fast-growing waterside shrub, with dense, flexible stems and an upright growth habit. It's very vigorous, growing up to 1.5 metres per year. It has long, slender leaves that open following the appearance of catkins in spring, which are green on females and yellow on males. In the wild, it rarely reaches more than 4-6m tall, and its full height is 4 to 8 metres. \u003cbr\u003e If you want a supply of willow withies to weave, or if you need a screen in a hurry, it's a great choice. \u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003e See our selection of \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/willow-hedging-plants-salix\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ewillow plants\u003c\/a\u003e or view our range of \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/hedging-plants\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehedging and sapling plants\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDelivery season:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot plants are delivered during late autumn and winter, approximately November-April inclusive.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eGrowing Salix viminalis\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWillows love wet soil and plenty of sun. They won't grow in salt water, but otherwise are happy in exposed coastal locations with salty winds. They'll tolerate sites with industrial pollution, but not chalk.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSpacing a row of Salix viminalis: \u003c\/strong\u003ePlant at 2 per metre, 50cm apart in a single row.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eGarden Design Ideas\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt's excellent for growing as a low maintenance tall screen or windbreak; it's extremely vigorous and its shoots don't have enough side branches to make a \"proper\" formal hedge. For extra interest and wildlife value, interplant with other \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/willow-hedging-plants-salix\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ewillow varieties\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIts matted, fibrous roots, are ideal to reduce soil erosion on banks beside water.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNote: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/trees\/why-willows-and-drains-do-not-mix\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eWillow roots will clog pipes and drains\u003c\/a\u003e if they get into them like nothing else (Poplar and Alder are close contenders), so don't plant them closer than 10-15 metres to buildings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlanting Companions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOsier is a plant for a wet-ground planting and not for a mixed garden hedge. On the same soil, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/grey-willow-hedge-plants-salix-cinerea\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eGrey Willow\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"\/products\/goat-willow-hedge-plants-salix-caprea\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eGoat Willow\u003c\/a\u003e bring the best catkins, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/purple-willow-hedge-plants-salix-purpurea\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ePurple Willow\u003c\/a\u003e gives finer rods for weaving, and \u003ca href=\"\/products\/common-alder-hedge-plants-alnus-glutinosa\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eCommon Alder\u003c\/a\u003e fixes its own nitrogen. If you plan to weave it where it stands, read \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/hedging\/to-fedge-or-not-whether-tis-better-in-willow\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eto fedge or not\u003c\/a\u003e first. Dust bareroot roots with \u003ca href=\"\/products\/rootgrow-universal-friendly-mycorrhizae-fungi\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eRootgrow\u003c\/a\u003e as you plant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy Buy Your Willow Plants from Ashridge?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eHedging and young native trees are not a sideline here: your Common Osier plants are grown for us by specialist growers. Bareroot plants are lifted to order while dormant and guaranteed for 12 months. Ashridge has sold plants since 1949 and is a Which? Best Plant Supplier 2025.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhich Willow is best for weaving?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis one. Osier is the basketry Willow: cut to a low stool each winter, it sends up long, straight, flexible rods.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eCan you make a living Willow fence with it?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. Osier is the right plant for a living Willow fence, or fedge. Push the rods in while dormant, weave them, and trim the new growth each year.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow fast does Common Osier grow?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs fast as anything we sell. It takes 2 to 5 years to reach its full height of 4 to 8 metres.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow far from drains and buildings should a Willow go?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWillow roots seek water and will find a leak in an old pipe. Keep it at least 10 metres from drains, septic tanks, walls and foundations, and 15 metres is more comfortable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWill it grow on chalk?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot well. It grows in most moist soils except alkaline ones. It wants wet or heavy ground in full sun.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eDoes it make a formal hedge?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo. The shoots are long and carry few side branches, so it makes a tall screen or windbreak and not a clipped hedge.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhen are the plants delivered?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBareroot only, from November to April, while the plants are dormant. You can order at any time of year and your plants are lifted and sent once the season opens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Bareroot \/ 60\/80cm","offer_id":54992626286918,"sku":"SALIVIM-60\/80","price":2.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/common-osier-willow-leaves-salix-viminalis-1.jpg?v=1755543129"},{"product_id":"copper-beech-hedge-plants-fagus-sylvatica-purpurea","title":"Copper \/ Purple Beech Hedging Plants","description":"\u003cul class=\"pdp-specs\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSold as:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot 40\/60cm to 150\/175cm; 1m troughs 125\/150cm; 10L potted 150\/175cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePlants per metre:\u003c\/strong\u003e Single row 3\/m; staggered double row 6\/m, or 4\/m for a fuller winter face\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUltimate hedge height:\u003c\/strong\u003e Kept at 1–5m (a tree to 25–30m unclipped)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eGrowth rate:\u003c\/strong\u003e 30–60cm a year — identical to green beech\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eEvergreen or deciduous:\u003c\/strong\u003e Deciduous — but clip it in summer and it holds coppery-purple leaves right through winter\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUK native:\u003c\/strong\u003e The species is native; the purple-leaved forms are seed-raised garden selections of it\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eThorny:\u003c\/strong\u003e No. Leaves and mast can upset dogs if eaten in quantity\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBest soil and site:\u003c\/strong\u003e Lighter, free-draining soil and full sun — both health and leaf colour depend on it. Struggles on heavy, wet ground, where \u003ca href=\"\/products\/hornbeam-hedge-plants-carpinus-betulus\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehornbeam\u003c\/a\u003e is the answer instead\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRHS Award of Garden Merit:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes — 1993, hardiness rating H6 (held by the Atropurpurea Group)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWildlife value:\u003c\/strong\u003e Mast feeds birds and small mammals in irregular \"mast years\"\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDelivered:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot, November to April. Potted and trough available beyond the bareroot season. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/collect-your-order-from-castle-cary\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eCollection from Castle Cary\u003c\/a\u003e also available\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eCopper beech hedging (\u003cem\u003eFagus sylvatica\u003c\/em\u003e Atropurpurea Group) grows exactly like ordinary green beech — same 30–60cm a year, same soil needs, same clip once a year — but with leaves that run a full colour season of their own: red on emergence, deep purple through summer, copper into autumn, then held on the branch right through winter once trimmed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCopper Beech Hedging: One Hedge, Four Colours a Year\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNew copper beech leaves actually open green or pink before darkening — a detail that catches new customers out every spring, worried their \"copper\" beech has arrived the wrong colour. It hasn't. The colour deepens through the season, and the strongest, truest purple always comes in full sun; in shade the leaves settle for a duller bronze-green. Clip in late summer with secateurs, not shears, so you're not slicing the big leaves in half, and the dead coppery foliage will stay put until new growth pushes it off in spring — the same \"everciduous\" trick that makes green beech such a good winter screen.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn every other respect it is green beech: the same growth rate, the same clipped formal habit, the same dislike of waterlogged or heavy clay ground.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eA Group, Not a Single Plant\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Copper beech\" isn't one clone but a whole group of purple-leaved seedling strains, botanically the Fagus sylvatica Atropurpurea Group — the RHS name covers synonyms including f. purpurea, 'Purpurea', 'Cuprea' and 'Atropunicea'. Because it's seed-raised rather than cloned from a single parent, no two copper beech hedges colour quite alike, and that's a feature rather than a flaw in an informal planting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMixing copper beech with ordinary green beech in a single run — the tapestry hedge — is a long garden tradition, seen at Hidcote among other gardens, and it works precisely because the two grow at the same rate and take the same clip. A run of alternating green and purple beech, or a block of each, makes a far more striking boundary than either alone.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlanting Companions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCopper beech's classic partner is \u003ca href=\"\/products\/common-green-beech-hedge-plants-fagus-sylvatica\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003egreen beech\u003c\/a\u003e itself, for the tapestry-hedge effect, or \u003ca href=\"\/products\/green-holly-hedge-plants-ilex-aquifolium\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eholly\u003c\/a\u003e for an evergreen version of the same idea. On heavier or wetter ground, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/hornbeam-hedge-plants-carpinus-betulus\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehornbeam\u003c\/a\u003e is the honest alternative rather than a struggling copper beech. As a backdrop, the deep purple foliage is a superb foil for silver-leaved and brightly coloured perennials — try it behind a border from our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/perennial-plants\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eperennial plant range\u003c\/a\u003e. Browse the rest of the \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/beech-hedging-plants-fagus\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ebeech hedging range\u003c\/a\u003e too.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy Buy Your Hedging from Us?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe're one of the UK's largest sellers of bareroot hedging, grown to our specification by specialist UK growers rather than diverted from general nursery stock. A purpose-built cold store keeps it in top condition all season. Bareroot copper beech is guaranteed to grow for 12 months, correctly planted and cared for — troughs are excluded.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs copper beech any harder to grow than green beech?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo — growth rate, soil needs and trimming are identical. The only real difference is the leaf colour, and that colour needs full sun to develop properly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhy is my copper beech hedge turning green instead of purple?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUsually shade — full sun is needed for the strongest purple colour, and shaded plants settle for a duller bronze-green. Some variation between plants is also normal, since copper beech is seed-raised rather than a single cloned variety.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eCan I mix copper beech and green beech in one hedge?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes — the classic tapestry hedge, seen in gardens like Hidcote. The two grow at exactly the same rate and take the same clip, so they knit together as one hedge rather than two competing plants.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eDoes copper beech keep its leaves in winter like green beech?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes — clip it in late summer with secateurs and the dead coppery leaves hold on the branches right through winter, giving screening cover that a true evergreen isn't needed for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhen should I trim a copper beech hedge?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce a year, in late summer (August or September), is enough for a mature hedge. Use secateurs rather than shears so you're not slicing large leaves in half.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWill copper beech grow on heavy clay soil?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot well — like green beech, it wants lighter, free-draining ground and struggles on heavy, wet clay. Hornbeam is the honest choice for those conditions instead.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Bareroot \/ 40\/60cm","offer_id":54992626549062,"sku":"FAGUSYLPUR-40\/60","price":3.9,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Bareroot \/ 60\/80cm","offer_id":54992626581830,"sku":"FAGUSYLPUR-60\/80","price":5.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Bareroot \/ 90\/120cm","offer_id":54992626614598,"sku":"FAGUSYLPUR-90\/120","price":8.79,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Bareroot \/ 120\/150cm","offer_id":54992626647366,"sku":"FAGUSYLPUR-120\/150","price":11.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Bareroot \/ 150\/175cm","offer_id":54992626680134,"sku":"FAGUSYLPUR-150\/175","price":19.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Trough \/ 125\/150cm 1m Trough","offer_id":54992626712902,"sku":"FAGUSYLPUR-125\/150cm 1m Trough","price":169.94,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Potted \/ 150\/175 10 Litre","offer_id":54992626745670,"sku":"FAGUSYLPUR-150\/175-10L","price":41.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/copper-beech-fagus-purpurea-hedge-narrow.jpg?v=1755634331"},{"product_id":"cornelian-cherry-sapling-trees-cornus-mas","title":"Cornelian Cherry Hedge Plants","description":"\u003cul class=\"pdp-specs\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eVariety:\u003c\/strong\u003e Cornelian Cherry, the edible Dogwood\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLatin name:\u003c\/strong\u003e Cornus mas\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSold as:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot plants, 60\/80cm tall\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUltimate size:\u003c\/strong\u003e 2.5 to 4m tall and as much across, in 10 to 20 years\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eGrowth rate:\u003c\/strong\u003e Slow\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlowers:\u003c\/strong\u003e Tiny, bright yellow, in clusters on bare wood in late winter\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFruit:\u003c\/strong\u003e Glossy red, edible and sharp\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAutumn colour:\u003c\/strong\u003e Purple\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePruning:\u003c\/strong\u003e Little needed. Do not coppice it\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePosition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Sun or partial shade. The more sun, the more flowers\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSoil:\u003c\/strong\u003e Any well-drained soil, chalk included\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUses:\u003c\/strong\u003e Informal flowering hedge, hedgerow or specimen\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eThorns:\u003c\/strong\u003e None\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWildlife:\u003c\/strong\u003e RHS Plants for Pollinators. One of the first flowers of the year for bees\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHardiness:\u003c\/strong\u003e H6, hardy through the British winter\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDelivered:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot, November to April. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/collect-your-order-from-castle-cary\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eCollection from Castle Cary\u003c\/a\u003e also available\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eCornelian Cherry carries clusters of tiny yellow flowers on its bare branches in late winter, earlier than almost anything else. Glossy red, sharp-tasting fruit follows, and the leaves turn purple in autumn. It is on the RHS Plants for Pollinators list.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCornelian Cherry Hedge Plants\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCornus mas\u003c\/strong\u003e, the \u003cstrong\u003eCornelian Cherry\u003c\/strong\u003e, or \u003cstrong\u003eedible dogwood\u003c\/strong\u003e, is a small tree or large shrub and is ideal as either a specimen or as part of a mixed hedge. It flowers early in the year (which is great for bees), usually starting in February, sometimes January, with loads of small, yellow, witch hazel-like flowers appearing on the bare branches. It looks fantastic when the morning or afternoon sun is behind it and shines through the branches. The flowers ripen into bright red, acidic, edible cherry-like fruits, which give this tree its common name of Cornelian Cherry (Cornel is another word for dogwood). The leaves turn a lovely reddish-purple in the autumn to finish off the show: it doesn't have brightly coloured new bark, but mature plants have moderately interesting, flaky brown bark. All of which make it one of those \"three tricks in one\" garden plants that help create year round interest.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt can reach 5 metres if it's pruned into a tree, but about 3 metres is typical for a shrub in the wild.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBrowse all of our other \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/dogwood-hedging-plants-cornus\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003evarieties of Dogwood\u003c\/a\u003e, our selection of \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/garden-shrubs\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eshrub hedging\u003c\/a\u003e or our full range of \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/hedging-plants\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehedging plants\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDelivery season:\u003c\/strong\u003e Cornelian Cherries are delivered bareroot from late autumn to early spring, November to April.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eGrowing Edible Dogwood\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDogwoods are tough shrubs that thrive in damp soils near water, but once established are also fine in dry, poor soil. They won't flower much in more than partial shade, so if you are planting them as a specimen, the more sun the better.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo be clear, this dogwood should \u003cstrong\u003enot\u003c\/strong\u003e be hard pruned down to ground level every spring as you would with an ornamental dogwood like \u003ca href=\"\/products\/midwinter-fire-dogwood-hedge-plants-cornus-sanguinea\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003emidwinter fire\u003c\/a\u003e, although it's fine to hard prune it if it gets overgrown.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHistory \u0026amp; Trivia\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFormerly classified as Cornus mascula, four of its cultivars hold the RHS Award of Garden Merit, but the plain species does not.\u003cbr\u003e\nLittle is known of its origins in Britain, except that it has been naturalised here for several hundred years and is native to Southern Europe and Turkey.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe fruit tastes like a sharp plum when fully ripe, but even slightly under ripe ones are too sour to enjoy fresh, and they do not all ripen at the same time, so it is often made into jams (you will need to add pectin).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIn the past, the fruit was commonly preserved in brine like an olive, and it's making a bit of a comeback in permaculture gardens, especially on wet ground where most fruit trees struggle.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThere is caffeine in the seeds, which can be roasted and ground into a powder.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlanting Companions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePlant it with Hazel, whose catkins open at the same time of year. For a hedge of Dogwoods grown for their winter stems, see our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/dogwood-hedging-plants-cornus\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eDogwood hedging\u003c\/a\u003e, but prune those differently. Dust the roots with \u003ca href=\"\/products\/rootgrow-universal-friendly-mycorrhizae-fungi\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eRootgrow\u003c\/a\u003e as you plant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy Ashridge for Hedging?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eHedging and young trees are not a sideline here: your Cornelian Cherry plants are grown for us by specialist growers. Bareroot plants are lifted to order while dormant and guaranteed for 12 months. Ashridge has sold plants since 1949 and is a Which? Best Plant Supplier 2025.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eCan you eat the fruit?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. The fruit is sharp even when ripe, so it is often made into jam, with added pectin.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhen does it flower?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn late winter, on bare branches, usually from February and sometimes in January.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eDo you coppice it like other Dogwoods?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo. Unlike the Dogwoods grown for coloured stems, it should not be cut to the ground each spring. Cut it back hard only if it gets overgrown.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow big does it grow?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2.5 to 4 metres tall and as much across. It is slow, and takes 10 to 20 years to get there.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs it good for bees?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. It flowers so early that it is one of the first sources of nectar in the year.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs it native?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo. It comes from southern Europe and Turkey, but it has grown wild in Britain for several hundred years.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhen are the plants delivered?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBareroot only, from November to April, while the plants are dormant. You can order at any time of year and your plants are lifted and sent once the season opens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Bareroot \/ 60\/80cm","offer_id":54992626843974,"sku":"CORNMAS-60\/80","price":3.96,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/cornelian-cherry-cornus-mas-dogwood-berries-1.jpg?v=1757073563"},{"product_id":"cotoneaster-franchetii-hedge-plants-orange-berries","title":"Cotoneaster franchetii Hedging Plants","description":"\u003cul class=\"pdp-specs\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eVariety:\u003c\/strong\u003e Cotoneaster franchetii, a semi-evergreen hedge with orange berries\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLatin name:\u003c\/strong\u003e Cotoneaster franchetii\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSold as:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot 40\/60cm. Pot-grown 40\/60cm and 120\/140cm. Instant hedge troughs, 1m long and 125\/150cm tall\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eKept height:\u003c\/strong\u003e A clipped hedge of 2 to 3m\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUltimate size:\u003c\/strong\u003e 2.5 to 4m tall and wide if left unpruned, in 10 to 20 years\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eEvergreen:\u003c\/strong\u003e Semi-evergreen: in full leaf through a mild winter, thinner after a hard one\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSpacing:\u003c\/strong\u003e 3 per metre, 33cm apart\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlowers:\u003c\/strong\u003e White, tinged pink, in early summer. Bees work them\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBerries:\u003c\/strong\u003e Orange-scarlet, from autumn into winter\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePosition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Full sun or partial shade. Exposed or sheltered\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSoil:\u003c\/strong\u003e Any well-drained soil, chalk and clay included\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eThorns:\u003c\/strong\u003e None\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHardiness:\u003c\/strong\u003e H6, hardy through the British winter\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDelivered:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot, November to April. Pot-grown, all year when in stock. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/collect-your-order-from-castle-cary\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eCollection from Castle Cary\u003c\/a\u003e also available\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eCotoneaster franchetii makes a dense, tidy hedge of 2 to 3 metres with grey-green leaves, white early summer flowers and masses of orange-scarlet berries. It is semi-evergreen and unfussy about soil, and in tests beside busy roads its hairy leaves trapped more traffic pollution than any other hedge tried.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCotoneaster franchetii Hedging Plants\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCotoneaster franchetii\u003c\/strong\u003e is a medium sized, bushy shrub that makes a dense, attractive hedging plant. It's almost evergreen in the UK; it keeps its leaves in a mild winter and loses them, usually in late winter, if the weather is harsh. This is normal and doesn't hurt the plants. It has white flowers, tinged pink, in early summer, followed by masses of decorative orange berries in autumn. Its neat green foliage clips beautifully, so you can keep it looking very tidy. \u003cbr\u003eIn a study of roadside hedges, it trapped at least 20% more particulate pollution than the other hedges tested. \u003cbr\u003e It's good for hedges up to about 2-3 metres high. \u003cbr\u003e Browse all of our other varieties of \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/cotoneaster-hedging-plants\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eCotoneaster shrubs \u0026amp; trees\u003c\/a\u003e, our selection of \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/coastal-salt-tolerant-hedging-plants\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ecoastal hedging\u003c\/a\u003e or our range of \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/hedging-plants\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehedging plants\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDelivery season:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot plants are delivered during late autumn and winter, approximately November-April inclusive. Pot-grown plants and troughs can be delivered in any month when in stock.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eGrowing Cotoneaster franchetii\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt's not fussy about soil as long as it isn't waterlogged, and it doesn't mind a bit of shade either. It likes heavy clay, and is widely planted in polluted inner city areas.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt's a well-behaved shrub for the back of a border, easy to keep looking tidy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs hedging, it's often mixed with the \u003ca href=\"\/products\/cotoneaster-simonsii-hedge-plants-red-berries\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eRed Berried Cotoneaster Simonsii\u003c\/a\u003e for a bit more colour.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSpacing a Cotoneaster franchetii hedge: \u003c\/strong\u003eLike most formal hedging, plant at 3 per metre, 33cm apart in a single row.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHistory \u0026amp; Trivia\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a Chinese plant that was brought to Europe in 1895 by the French Abbot Soulie.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt was the best of the hedges tested at trapping traffic pollution beside busy roads.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlanting Companions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe usual partner is the red-berried Cotoneaster simonsii, linked above: this one is taller and greyer, with longer leaves, and it takes partial shade where simonsii wants sun. For a screen that never thins in winter, browse our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/evergreen-hedging-plants\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eevergreen hedging\u003c\/a\u003e. Before you order, our guide to \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/hedging\/double-staggered-row-hedge-spacing-planting-distance\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehedge spacing\u003c\/a\u003e helps you count the plants. Dust bareroot roots with \u003ca href=\"\/products\/rootgrow-universal-friendly-mycorrhizae-fungi\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eRootgrow\u003c\/a\u003e as you plant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy Buy Your Hedging from Ashridge?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eHedging is not a sideline here: your Cotoneaster franchetii is grown for us as hedging by specialist growers. Bareroot plants are lifted to order while dormant and guaranteed for 12 months, and pot-grown plants and troughs can be planted in any month. Ashridge has sold plants since 1949.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs Cotoneaster franchetii evergreen?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSemi-evergreen. It stays in full leaf through a mild winter and thins in late winter after a hard one. That leaf drop is cosmetic, and the hedge refills in spring.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eDoes it really clean the air?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBeside a busy road, yes. Tests found that its rough, hairy leaves trapped at least 20% more particulate pollution than the other hedges tested. Away from traffic, plant a mixed hedge for wildlife.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs it invasive?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is not among the Cotoneasters listed on Schedule 9 for England and Wales, so it is legal to plant. Birds spread the seed, so pull up stray seedlings if you border open country.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow tall does it grow?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs a clipped hedge, keep it at 2 to 3 metres. Left unpruned, it grows 2.5 to 4 metres tall and wide in 10 to 20 years.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhen do you trim it?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter flowering. Trimming removes some of that year's berries from the cut face, so trim lightly if the berries matter to you.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eBareroot, potted or trough?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBareroot is the economical choice for a long run, planted from November to April. Pots and troughs cost more, and can be planted in any month for a quicker screen.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhen are the plants delivered?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBareroot plants are delivered from November to April, while they are dormant. Pot-grown plants can be delivered and planted in any month when you find them in stock.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Bareroot \/ 40\/60cm","offer_id":54992627007814,"sku":"COTOFRA-40\/60","price":2.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Potted \/ 40\/60cm","offer_id":54992627040582,"sku":"COTOFRA-CN-40\/60","price":14.88,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"Potted \/ 120\/140cm","offer_id":54992627073350,"sku":"COTOFRA-120\/140-7L","price":36.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"Trough \/ 125\/150cm 1m Trough","offer_id":54992627106118,"sku":"COTOFRA-120-150cm 1m Trough","price":134.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/franchets-cotoneaster-franchetii-berries-1.jpg?v=1755634421"},{"product_id":"cotoneaster-simonsii-hedge-plants-red-berries","title":"Cotoneaster simonsii Hedge Plants","description":"\u003ch2\u003eCotoneaster simonsii Hedge Plants\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHimalayan Cotoneaster \u003c\/strong\u003eis a strong growing, upright, semi-evergreen shrub that clips neatly as a hedging plant. Cotoneaster simonsii is almost evergreen; it keeps its leaves in a mild winter and loses them, usually in late winter, if the weather is harsh. This is normal and doesn't hurt the plants.\u003cbr\u003eIts small, dense leaves make it ideal for hedging and it responds well to regular clipping if you want to keep it really neat. It has lots of charming, tiny flowers in spring and bright red berries in autumn and early winter. Cotoneaster simonsii is good for hedges up to about 2 metres high. It's often planted in a mixed hedge with the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/products\/cotoneaster-franchetii-hedge-plants-orange-berries\"\u003eOrange Berried Cotoneaster franchetii\u003c\/a\u003e for a bit more colour.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBrowse all of our other varieties of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/cotoneaster-hedging-plants\"\u003eCotoneaster shrubs \u0026amp; trees\u003c\/a\u003e. Alternatively, see our selection of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/coastal-salt-tolerant-hedging-plants\"\u003ecoastal hedging\u003c\/a\u003e or view our full range of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/hedging-plants\"\u003ehedging plants\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBareroot hedge plants are delivered bareroot during winter (Nov-Apr) and are measured by their height in centimetres above the ground (the roots aren't measured).\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Bareroot \/ 40\/60cm","offer_id":54992627138886,"sku":"COTOSIM-40\/60","price":2.82,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/cotoneaster-simonsii-berries-1.jpg?v=1755543132"},{"product_id":"crab-apple-hedge-plants-malus-sylvestris","title":"Wild Crab Apple Hedge Plants","description":"\u003cul class=\"pdp-specs\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNative British hedging tree — \u003cem\u003eMalus sylvestris\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSold bareroot only, delivered November to April\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhip sizes: 40\/60cm, 60\/80cm, 90\/120cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFully hardy (RHS H6)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHeight: to 9m, though a maintained hedge is kept far lower\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRHS Plants for Pollinators\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAn outstanding pollination partner for orchard apple trees\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGuaranteed to grow for 12 months, like all our bareroot stock\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWild Crab Apple Hedge Plants\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe native wild crab apple, \u003cstrong\u003eMalus sylvestris\u003c\/strong\u003e, is one of the most useful plants in a British hedge. It carries the best blossom of any of our native hedging species — sweetly scented white flowers flushed with pink, in late spring — and it earns its place doubly, because a long flowering season also makes it one of the best pollination partners a nearby apple tree can have.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe glossy, serrated leaves turn yellow in autumn. What look like thorns on close inspection are actually spurs — short, stubby side-shoots that carry the blossom and fruit rather than defend the plant — so this is a hedge you can work with bare hands.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe plants on this page are young whips, sold for hedging and woodland planting. If you want a specimen tree rather than a hedge, our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/crab-apple-trees-malus\"\u003eornamental crab apple trees\u003c\/a\u003e are a separate range, sold in larger sizes and bred for fruit and flower rather than density — the two are not the same product and shouldn't be confused.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eFeatures\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSizes available: 40\/60cm, 60\/80cm, 90\/120cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGrows in almost any soil except very poor, dry sand or waterlogged ground\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTolerates dappled shade, though flowers and fruits best in sun\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEdible fruit, traditionally used for crab apple jelly\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFragrant white blossom flushed pink\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHeight: to 9m\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAn excellent pollination partner for orchard apple trees\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBareroot delivery only: November to April\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eGrowing Wild Crab Apple\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a tough, adaptable native that will grow almost anywhere except deep shade or very poor, dry, sandy ground. Young plants have a dense, twiggy habit, which is exactly what makes them such good hedging — left alone, they mature into an attractive, if informally shaped, small tree.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePrune lightly rather than hard: heavy cutting back encourages a flush of vigorous new stems rather than the shorter, flower-bearing spurs you actually want. Focus removal on inward-growing or crossing stems, and if a larger branch needs to come out, take it over two or three seasons rather than all at once.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe fruit is edible once cooked — classically into crab apple jelly, which sets firmly because the fruit is naturally high in pectin — but the pips, like those of other members of the rose family, contain natural toxins and should be removed rather than eaten.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch4\u003eSpacing a wild crab apple hedge\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor a standard native hedge, plant at 3 per metre in a single row (33cm apart), or 6 per metre in a staggered double row for a denser screen.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eA Hedge That Feeds Its Neighbours\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWild crab apple is the single most widely used plant across our ready-made native hedging mixes — it appears in eight of them, more than any other species in this range, including the \u003ca href=\"\/products\/mixed-conservation-hedge-plants\"\u003eMixed Conservation Hedge\u003c\/a\u003e. It pairs naturally with hawthorn, hazel, blackthorn and dog rose, the classic constituents of a native British hedgerow, and with each other they give a longer season of blossom, berry and cover than any one species alone.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIts early blossom is an important source of pollen and nectar for bees while little else is out, and the foliage feeds the caterpillars of the eyed hawk-moth, green pug, Chinese character and pale tussock moths. Blackbirds, thrushes and crows take the fruit through autumn. And unlike almost anything else you could plant in a garden hedge, it earns its keep in the orchard too: plant it near \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/apple-fruit-trees\"\u003eapple trees\u003c\/a\u003e and its long flowering window means it's still in bloom to pollinate varieties that flower earlier or later than each other.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you want the same species as a specimen tree with better-quality fruit, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/john-downie-crab-apple-trees-malus\"\u003eJohn Downie\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"\/products\/golden-hornet-crab-apple-trees-malus\"\u003eGolden Hornet\u003c\/a\u003e are bred for exactly that. Browse our full \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/native-british-hedging-plants\"\u003enative hedging range\u003c\/a\u003e or the complete \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/hedging-plants\"\u003ehedging plants\u003c\/a\u003e collection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhy Buy Wild Crab Apple from Ashridge\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHedging isn't a sideline here: it's grown for us from the outset by growers whose whole business is hedging, never surplus stock diverted from forestry or general nursery lines. Bareroot plants like these establish very readily — like for like, a bareroot plant is larger, stronger and healthier than a pot-grown one, and better value for money too. Every bareroot plant we sell, including these, is guaranteed to grow for 12 months, provided it's planted promptly and given the basic aftercare all bareroot stock needs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWill a crab apple hedge pollinate my apple trees?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. Wild crab apple flowers over a longer season than most cultivated apples, which is exactly why commercial orchards plant it deliberately as a pollination partner. A hedge of it near your apple trees does the same job.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs this the same as the ornamental crab apple trees you sell?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo. These are young whips sold for hedging. Our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/crab-apple-trees-malus\"\u003eornamental crab apple varieties\u003c\/a\u003e are named cultivars sold as specimen trees in larger sizes, bred for garden display and fruit quality rather than hedge density.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eCan I eat the fruit?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, once cooked — traditionally into a well-set jelly, since the fruit is naturally rich in pectin. Remove the seeds first; like other members of the rose family, they contain natural toxins.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs wild crab apple thorny?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo. It carries spurs — short, stubby shoots that bear the blossom and fruit — rather than thorns, so it's a comfortable hedge to maintain.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Bareroot \/ 40\/60cm","offer_id":54992627302726,"sku":"MALUSYL-40\/60","price":1.34,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Bareroot \/ 60\/80cm","offer_id":54992627335494,"sku":"MALUSYL-60\/80","price":1.64,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Bareroot \/ 90\/120cm","offer_id":54992627368262,"sku":"MALUSYL-90\/120","price":3.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/wild-crabapple-malus-sylvestris-fruit-1.jpg?v=1755385697"},{"product_id":"crack-willow-hedge-plants-salix-fragilis","title":"Crack Willow Plants","description":"\u003ch2\u003eCrack Willow Sapling Trees\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCrack Willow\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003eSalix × fragilis\u003c\/strong\u003e, is a large, wide spreading deciduous waterside tree with dark green leaves and catkins in spring. The tree has beautifully fissured bark when it's mature and an upright canopy. Fallen branches are so good at rooting in wet soil that in some parts of the country, a single crack willow has cloned itself for long stretches of river bank. All willows are good for bees and butterflies. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSee our selection of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/willow-hedging-plants-salix\"\u003ewillow hedging plants\u003c\/a\u003e or view our full range of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/hedging-plants\"\u003ehedging\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCrack Willow plants are \u003cstrong\u003eonly delivered bareroot\u003c\/strong\u003e, during winter (Nov-April). All of our young trees and shrubs are measured by their height in centimetres above the ground (the roots aren't measured).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHistory \u0026amp; Trivia\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis tree is closely related to \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/products\/white-willow-hedge-plants-salix-alba\"\u003eSalix alba,\u003c\/a\u003e and gets its name mainly because its whippy young stems are easy to snap cleanly off the branches, but also because the trunks of old trees tend to split open. \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Bareroot \/ 60\/80cm","offer_id":54992627401030,"sku":"SALIFRA-60\/80","price":2.34,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/crack-willow-mature-tree.jpg?v=1755542985"},{"product_id":"dog-rose-hedge-plants-rosa-canina","title":"Dog Rose Hedge Plants","description":"\u003cul class=\"pdp-specs\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eVariety:\u003c\/strong\u003e Dog Rose, the native wild rose for a prickly country hedge\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCommon name:\u003c\/strong\u003e Dog Rose, Wild Rose, Briar Rose\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLatin name:\u003c\/strong\u003e Rosa canina\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSold as:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot hedge plants in two sizes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePlants per metre:\u003c\/strong\u003e 3 in a single row, 6 in a staggered double row\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHeight in a hedge:\u003c\/strong\u003e About 1.5m standing alone, over 3m where it scrambles up through a mixed hedge\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHeight unpruned:\u003c\/strong\u003e 2.5 to 4m, in 5 to 10 years\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eType:\u003c\/strong\u003e Deciduous\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUK native:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eThorny:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes, with strong prickly stems\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlowers:\u003c\/strong\u003e Single, fragrant, pale pink or white, in early summer\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHips:\u003c\/strong\u003e Red, in autumn\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBest soil and site:\u003c\/strong\u003e Any drained soil, poor soil included. Sun or partial shade, north-facing sites too. Exposed or sheltered\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHardiness:\u003c\/strong\u003e H7, the hardiest rating there is\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWildlife value:\u003c\/strong\u003e RHS Plants for Pollinators. Hips for birds\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDelivered:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot, November to April. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/collect-your-order-from-castle-cary\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eCollection from Castle Cary\u003c\/a\u003e also available\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eDog Rose, Rosa canina, is a vigorous, prickly native wild rose for country hedging, with fragrant pale pink or white flowers in early summer and red hips in autumn. It is on the RHS Plants for Pollinators list and grows in sun or partial shade on any soil that drains.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eDog Rose Hedge Plants\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDog Rose\u003c\/strong\u003e is the cheapest and most commonly used native wild rose for use in prickly, secure country hedging. It's an incredibly hardy, fast-growing and versatile plant that will grow pretty much anywhere except on the very wettest sites. It carries clusters of single, scented pale pink flowers in early summer that bees love, and small red hips in autumn that attract birds. \u003cbr\u003e Standing alone, they'll grow to 1.5 metres, but when they're pushed up against other plants in a mixed hedge, they can reach over 3 metres.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eView our selection of \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/wild-rose-plants\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eroses for hedging\u003c\/a\u003e or see our range of \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/thorny-hedging-plants\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ethorny hedging plants\u003c\/a\u003e. \u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003e Rosa canina hedge plants are \u003cstrong\u003eonly delivered bareroot\u003c\/strong\u003e, during winter (Nov-April). \u003cbr\u003e All our hedge plants are measured by their height in centimetres above the ground (the roots aren't measured).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eGrowing Dog Rose\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs a hedge plant, it'll grow anywhere with a bit of sun and soil that isn't waterlogged. If you are growing it as a shrub, it likes full sun to flower and fruit really well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eSpacing a Dog Rose hedge:\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStandard country hedging: plant at 3 per metre, 33cm apart in a single row, or 6 per metre in a staggered double row, which has a W shape viewed top-down.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou can grow it as a climber\/rambler over a fence, wall, or up a tree.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eGarden Design Ideas\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt's a very common component of \u003ca href=\"\/products\/mixed-conservation-hedge-plants\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003emixed country hedging\u003c\/a\u003e. It'll make a decent enough, shaggy country hedge by itself, but it needs something like \u003ca href=\"\/products\/hawthorn-hedge-plants-crataegus-monogyna\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eHawthorn\u003c\/a\u003e or \u003ca href=\"\/products\/blackthorn-sloe-hedge-plants-prunus-spinosa\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eBlackthorn\u003c\/a\u003e to give it more structure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWild roses aren't often used as specimen shrubs, probably because there are so many \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/rose-bushes\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eamazing ornamental roses\u003c\/a\u003e to choose from, but if your priority is helping wildlife, then they're the best choice by far.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHistory \u0026amp; Trivia\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOther common names include dog, hep or bird briar, cankerberry, and cat whin.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen you see roses in medieval era heraldry, they're usually based on this one.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe oldest known specimen is the Tausendjähriger Rosenstock, the Thousand-years rosebush, growing up the side of Hildesheim Cathedral in Germany. It's about 9 metres tall and survived the carpet bombing by Allied forces that destroyed the cathedral itself in 1945, regrowing from the roots well before the cathedral was rebuilt.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt's on the RHS list of plants for pollinators.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlanting Companions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIn a native mix, Dog Rose goes with \u003ca href=\"\/products\/common-hazel-hedge-plants-corylus-avellana\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eHazel\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"\/products\/crab-apple-hedge-plants-malus-sylvestris\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eCrab Apple\u003c\/a\u003e, and with \u003ca href=\"\/products\/guelder-rose-hedge-plants-viburnum-opulus\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eGuelder Rose\u003c\/a\u003e for autumn berries. \u003ca href=\"\/products\/field-rose-briar-hedge-plants-rosa-arvensis\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eField Rose\u003c\/a\u003e is the gentler wild rose. The rest are under \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/native-british-hedging-plants\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003enative hedging plants\u003c\/a\u003e. Dust the roots with \u003ca href=\"\/products\/rootgrow-universal-friendly-mycorrhizae-fungi\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eRootgrow\u003c\/a\u003e as you plant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy Buy Hedging from Ashridge\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eHedging is not a sideline here: your Dog Rose is grown for us as hedging from the outset by specialist growers, then lifted to order while dormant. Ashridge Nurseries is a Which? Best Plant Supplier 2025, and bareroot plants are guaranteed for 12 months.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow many Dog Rose plants do I need per metre?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThree per metre, 33cm apart, in a single row. For a thicker hedge, plant six per metre in a staggered double row. Measure the run and add a few spares.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow tall does Dog Rose grow?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBy itself it makes a shrub of about 1.5 metres. Pushed up among other hedge plants it scrambles to over 3 metres. Its ultimate height is 2.5 to 4 metres.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eCan I plant a hedge of Dog Rose alone?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou can, and it will be a shaggy one. It arches and scrambles, so it is better mixed with Hawthorn or Blackthorn, which give the hedge its structure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWill Dog Rose grow in shade?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. It grows in sun or partial shade, and it tolerates poor soil and north-facing sites. It flowers and fruits best where it reaches the sun.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs Dog Rose good for wildlife?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is on the RHS Plants for Pollinators list for its open, single flowers, and the hips feed birds in autumn.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Bareroot \/ 30\/50cm","offer_id":54992627466566,"sku":"ROSACAN-40\/60","price":1.39,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Bareroot \/ 60\/80cm","offer_id":54992627499334,"sku":"ROSACAN-60\/80","price":1.89,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/dog-rose-rosa-canina-rose-flowers-1-2.jpg?v=1755264997"},{"product_id":"elder-hedge-plants-sambucus-nigra","title":"Common Elderberry \/ Elderflower Hedge Plants","description":"\u003cul class=\"pdp-specs\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLatin name:\u003c\/strong\u003e Sambucus nigra\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCommon names:\u003c\/strong\u003e Elder, Elderflower, Elderberry\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSold as:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot, 60\/80cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNative:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFoliage:\u003c\/strong\u003e Deciduous, turning pale yellow in autumn\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlowers and fruit:\u003c\/strong\u003e Fragrant cream flowers in early summer, then small black berries. Both are used in the kitchen\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUltimate size unpruned:\u003c\/strong\u003e A large shrub or small tree to about 6m tall and 2.5 to 4m wide\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSpacing:\u003c\/strong\u003e 2 plants per metre, 50cm apart\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUse:\u003c\/strong\u003e Rough country hedging and wildlife cover, on its own and not in a mixed row\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBest soil and site:\u003c\/strong\u003e Almost any, extreme chalk included. Sun or partial shade, exposed or sheltered\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHardiness:\u003c\/strong\u003e H6, hardy through the British winter\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDelivered:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot, November to April. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/collect-your-order-from-castle-cary\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eCollection from Castle Cary\u003c\/a\u003e also available\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eElder is a native large shrub or small tree with fragrant cream flowers in early summer and black berries after them, and you can use both in the kitchen. It grows almost anywhere, extreme chalk included, and it takes hard pruning. As a hedge it is rough and vigorous, so give it a run of its own.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCommon Elderberry \/ Elderflower Hedge Plants\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003eCommon Elderflower \u003c\/strong\u003eor \u003cstrong\u003eElderberry tree\u003c\/strong\u003e,\u003cstrong\u003e Sambucus nigra\u003c\/strong\u003e, is a large native shrub or small tree with graceful, fern-like leaves. It produces deliciously scented white flowers and purple berries, which are both edible. It can be used as a rough, rugged country hedging plant and will grow almost anywhere. \u003cbr\u003eLeft alone, Elderflower makes a verdant tree about 6 metres high: for more ornamental value, have a look at our \u003ca href=\"\/products\/golden-elder-plants-sambucus-nigra-aurea\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eGolden Elder\u003c\/a\u003e or the lovely cultivar \u003ca href=\"\/products\/black-lace-elder-plants-sambucus-nigra\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eBlack Lace\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBrowse our selection of \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/native-british-hedging-plants\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003enative hedging\u003c\/a\u003e or our full range of \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/hedging-plants\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehedging plants\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDelivery season:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot plants are delivered during late autumn and winter, approximately November-April inclusive.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eGrowing Elderberry\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt's indestructible and will grow practically anywhere in the UK, including piles of construction rubbish, and very sandy coastal soils. In full shade, it'll become sparse and produce few flowers, but otherwise be fine. Few shrubs are easier to grow. I once hacked an old elder to smithereens to remove it, and dumped the pieces into an area of the garden that was left to grow wild with plenty of nettles and brambles: two years later, there was an Elder thicket there, already higher than the weeds.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSpacing an Elderflower hedge: \u003c\/strong\u003eBeing such a bulky beast, a 50cm spacing is fine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis plant makes a nice solid hedge by itself, but it's aggressive and is \u003cstrong\u003enot recommended for a mixed hedge\u003c\/strong\u003e. It'll never form a tidy, formal hedge and looks best when it's allowed to get a bit overgrown.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eGarden Design Ideas\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eElder is included in some mixed hedging packs although isn't really suitable for planting in the middle of a native hedge because it'll aggressively grow into the plants beside it. You can control this with hard pruning, but to save you the effort we recommend using it only at the end of a hedge, on a strip by itself, or planting it away from the hedge and letting it grow as a large shrub or small tree. Letting it grow freely will also give you a lot more flower heads and then berries. A farm near us has about 100m of solid elder hedge that they cut back in alternating 2-3 metre sections every year, so that there is always a good crop of flowers on the sections that were not trimmed. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHistory \u0026amp; Trivia\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur own \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/blog\/elderflower-cordial-recipe\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eElderflower cordial recipe\u003c\/a\u003e makes a fabulous soft drink, and easy to prepare. With a bit more work, you can also make \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/blog\/elderberry-syrup-recipe\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eElderflower syrup\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/blog\/elderflower-champagne-recipe\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eElderflower champagne\u003c\/a\u003e. It is widely used in alcoholic drinks across Europe, such as types of Hungarian brandy and Swedish snaps. You can also try battering the flowers and quickly frying them for a cheap but exotic snack.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is usually the case with widespread native plants that are also useful to humans to have a lot of common names from various regions, which include: acte, arn, boon, bur, boor and pipe tree.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlanting Companions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eElder elbows its neighbours, so plant it at the end of a native hedge of \u003ca href=\"\/products\/hawthorn-hedge-plants-crataegus-monogyna\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eHawthorn\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"\/products\/common-hazel-hedge-plants-corylus-avellana\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eHazel\u003c\/a\u003e, or on a strip of its own. For more colour from the same plant, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/golden-elder-plants-sambucus-nigra-aurea\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eGolden Elder\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"\/products\/black-lace-elder-plants-sambucus-nigra\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eBlack Lace\u003c\/a\u003e are garden forms of it. Dust bareroot roots with \u003ca href=\"\/products\/rootgrow-universal-friendly-mycorrhizae-fungi\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eRootgrow\u003c\/a\u003e as you plant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy Ashridge?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eHedging is not a sideline here: your Elder is grown for us as hedging by specialist growers. Bareroot plants are lifted to order while dormant and guaranteed for 12 months. Ashridge has sold plants since 1949 and is a Which? Best Plant Supplier 2025.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs Elder native to Britain?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. Sambucus nigra is a native plant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow big does Elder grow?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLeft alone, it makes a bushy large shrub or small tree to about 6 metres tall and 2.5 to 4 metres wide. It tolerates hard pruning, so you can hold it well below that.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eCan you use Elder in a mixed native hedge?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe advise against it. Elder grows hard into the plants beside it. Use it at the end of a hedge, on a strip by itself, or as a free-standing shrub, where it also flowers and fruits more.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWill Elder grow on chalk?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. It thrives even on extremely chalky sites, and it is easy in any moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWill Elder grow in shade?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn partial shade, yes. In full shade it becomes sparse and carries few flowers, so give it some sun if you want Elderflowers and berries.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow do you prune an Elder hedge?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs hard as you like. To keep the flowers coming, cut alternate sections back each year, so that the sections you left alone carry the crop.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhen are the plants delivered?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBareroot only, from November to April, while the plants are dormant. You can order at any time of year and your plants are lifted and sent once the season opens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Bareroot \/ 60\/80cm","offer_id":54992627630406,"sku":"SAMBNIG-60\/80","price":2.29,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/common-elderberries-sambucus-nigra-2.jpg?v=1755634318"},{"product_id":"elegantissima-dogwood-hedge-plants-cornus-alba","title":"Elegantissima Red Dogwood Plants","description":"\u003ch2\u003eElegantissima Red Dogwood Plants\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a vigorous shrub with red young bark and variegated leaves. Cornus alba Elegantissima is generally used as an ornamental shrub. A wonderfully easy, fast-growing plant, this shrubby dogwood has variegated foliage. Its leaves have a jagged, creamy margin and an olive green centre and it produces small white flowers in May and June, which are followed by white fruit that sometimes has a hint of pale blue. Neither of these is very showy, however, and most gardeners grow Cornus alba Elegantissima for the glistening red bark of its new stems, which can transform a frozen winter landscape, especially when planted en masse. Dogwoods love moisture and are perfect plants to go on a river bank, in marshy areas or a bog garden. It makes a fine hedge plant, but \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/products\/red-siberian-dogwood-hedge-plants-cornus-alba\"\u003eCornus alba\u003c\/a\u003e is cheaper and just as good.\u003cbr\u003eCornus alba Elegantissima will reach 3 metres.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSee our selection of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/dogwood-hedging-plants-cornus\"\u003edogwoods for sale\u003c\/a\u003e or view our full range of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/hedging-plants\"\u003ehedging plants\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCornus alba Elegantissima plants are delivered bareroot during winter (Nov-April). All our hedge plants are measured by their height in centimetres above the ground (the roots aren't measured).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHistory \u0026amp; Trivia\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis variety was bred at the turn of the 20th century. It won the RHS Award of Garden Merit in 2002.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Bareroot \/ 60\/80cm","offer_id":54992627728710,"sku":"CORNALBEL-60\/80","price":3.9,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/elegantissima-red-dogwood-cornus-alba-berries-1.jpg?v=1755470157"},{"product_id":"european-larch-sapling-trees-larix-decidua","title":"European Larch Sapling Trees","description":"\u003cul class=\"pdp-specs\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eVariety:\u003c\/strong\u003e European Larch, the deciduous conifer with rusty autumn needles\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLatin name:\u003c\/strong\u003e Larix decidua\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSold as:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot saplings, 40\/60cm tall\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMature size:\u003c\/strong\u003e More than 12m tall and 4 to 8m wide, and 30 to 35m in time\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTime to full size:\u003c\/strong\u003e More than 50 years\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFoliage:\u003c\/strong\u003e Deciduous. Soft light green needles in whorls, turning yellow in autumn\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCones:\u003c\/strong\u003e Erect, up to 4cm, held on the branches for years\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUse:\u003c\/strong\u003e Woodland, shelter and big garden planting. Not for a clipped hedge\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePosition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Full sun. Stands an exposed site\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSoil:\u003c\/strong\u003e Any deep, well-drained soil, acid to neutral. Not chalk, not wet ground\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHardiness:\u003c\/strong\u003e H7, hardy in the severest British winter\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDelivered:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot, November to April. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/collect-your-order-from-castle-cary\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eCollection from Castle Cary\u003c\/a\u003e also available\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eEuropean Larch is a conifer that drops its needles: soft green in spring with small pink-red cones, rusty orange in autumn, bare all winter. It is a big tree for a big space, it wants full sun and deep, drained soil, and it is rated H7, the hardiest band there is.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eEuropean Larch Sapling Trees\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe European Larch tree, Larix decidua, is a \u003cstrong\u003edeciduous conifer\u003c\/strong\u003e, a large, graceful specimen tree that looks lovely in early spring, when the first new leaves and bright little pink-red female cones appear at the same time. The needles are richly scented and turn rusty orange in the autumn. \u003cbr\u003eMature trees produce large numbers of miniature cones with seeds that feed several bird species, and the thick, scaly bark is good for insects. The old cones stay firmly on the branches for several years, which is handy for making Christmas wreaths.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo 30-35 metres with a very narrow habit with young, spreading to a pyramid. \u003cbr\u003eYou can also buy \u003ca href=\"\/products\/japanese-larch-sapling-trees-larix-leptolepis\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eJapanese Larch\u003c\/a\u003e to create a wild looking group of trees. \u003cbr\u003eBrowse our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/large-garden-parkland-trees\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003elarge garden trees\u003c\/a\u003e, or all of our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/garden-trees-big-standards\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003etrees\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDelivery season:\u003c\/strong\u003e Larch trees are delivered bareroot from late autumn to early spring, November to April. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChoosing a size:\u003c\/strong\u003e Small trees are cheaper, easier to handle and more forgiving of less than ideal aftercare, so they're best for a big planting project. If instant impact is your priority, or if you are only buying a few plants for use in a place where it's convenient to water them well in their first year, then you may as well use bigger ones. All our bareroot trees are measured by their height in centimetres above the ground (the roots aren't measured).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eGrowing Larches\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWet sites or chalky soil aren't suitable. Larches are vigorous, light hungry trees that will shed old, low down branches if they're in the shade too much. \u003cbr\u003eYour trees can reach 45 metres, but about 30 metres is the norm.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEuropean larches of Alpine origin seem to be susceptible to canker and have been replaced in production with other strains of the species from parts of Europe where resistance is high, including trees in Scotland that came from Germany originally. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlanting Companions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePlant it with Japanese Larch, linked above, for a mixed group of the two. In a shelter belt, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/scots-pine-sapling-trees-pinus-sylvestris\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eScots Pine\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"\/products\/silver-birch-sapling-plants-betula-pendula\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eSilver Birch\u003c\/a\u003e suit the same open ground, and the evergreens are with our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/conifers-evergreen-trees\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003econifers\u003c\/a\u003e. Dust the roots with \u003ca href=\"\/products\/rootgrow-universal-friendly-mycorrhizae-fungi\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eRootgrow\u003c\/a\u003e as you plant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy Ashridge for Hedging and Young Trees?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eHedging and young trees are not a sideline here: your European Larch saplings are grown for us by specialist growers. Bareroot plants are lifted to order while dormant and guaranteed for 12 months. Ashridge has sold plants since 1949 and is a Which? Best Plant Supplier 2025.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow big does a European Larch grow?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBig. More than 12 metres tall and 4 to 8 metres across, and 30 to 35 metres in time. Give it room.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs a Larch evergreen?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo. It is a conifer that loses its needles: they come soft and green in spring, turn orange in autumn and drop.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWill it grow on chalk or wet ground?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo. It wants a deep soil that drains, acid to neutral, and full sun. Wet sites and chalk are the two to avoid.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eCan you clip it as a hedge?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo. Plant it for woodland, shelter or a specimen. It needs no pruning.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWill it take an exposed site?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. It is rated H7, the hardiest band there is, and it stands an exposed site.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat is the difference between European and Japanese Larch?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBoth are deciduous conifers, and we sell both as bareroot saplings. Plant them together for a mixed group.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhen are the plants delivered?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBareroot only, from November to April, while the plants are dormant. You can order at any time of year and your plants are lifted and sent once the season opens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Bareroot \/ 40\/60cm","offer_id":54992627827014,"sku":"LARIDEC-40\/60","price":3.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/european-larch-cones-larix-decidua-2.jpg?v=1755634396"},{"product_id":"field-maple-hedge-plants-acer-campestre","title":"Field Maple Hedge Plants","description":"\u003cul class=\"pdp-specs\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSold as:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot in four grades, 40\/60cm to 150\/175cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePlants per metre:\u003c\/strong\u003e Single row 3\/m (33cm apart); double staggered row 6\/m for a thicker or grant-compliant hedge\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUltimate hedge height:\u003c\/strong\u003e Clips to any height you keep it at. Left unclipped it grows into a tree to around 20m\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eGrowth rate:\u003c\/strong\u003e Medium. Dense, twiggy growth that thickens up quickly once established\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eEvergreen or deciduous:\u003c\/strong\u003e Deciduous. Small five-lobed leaves turn buttery yellow, sometimes red, in autumn\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUK native:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes: Britain's only native maple\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eThorny:\u003c\/strong\u003e No, and a genuinely useful trait beside gates, paths and anywhere children play\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBest soil and site:\u003c\/strong\u003e Any soil including chalk and clay, moist but well-drained; full sun or partial shade; copes well with exposed sites\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRHS Award of Garden Merit:\u003c\/strong\u003e No, but field maple holds a place on the RHS Plants for Pollinators list\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWildlife value:\u003c\/strong\u003e Supports around 15 species of moth and butterfly caterpillar; winged seeds feed tits, finches and rodents\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDelivered:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot, November to April, while dormant. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/collect-your-order-from-castle-cary\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eCollection from Castle Cary\u003c\/a\u003e also available\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eField maple hedging (\u003cem\u003eAcer campestre\u003c\/em\u003e) is Britain's only native maple, and one of a handful of thornless plants that go into our mixed country hedges. It clips into a dense, twiggy, near impenetrable hedge at whatever height you keep it, copes with chalk and exposed sites that trouble other plants, and is a safe choice beside gates, paths and anywhere children play.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eField Maple: Britain's Only Native Maple\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eField maple is the only maple that grows wild in Britain, found in ancient woodland and hedgerows across England and Wales, especially on chalky ground. The small, five-lobed leaves are bright green through summer and turn a buttery yellow in autumn, sometimes flushing red, and the bark develops a corky, ridged texture with age that adds interest through winter. Left to grow as a tree it can reach around 20m, on the Woodland Trust's figures, with a lifespan of up to 350 years, but as a hedge it's kept at whatever height suits the site, coppicing back every 5 to 10 years if it starts to outgrow its space. It's good for wildlife too: around 15 species of moth and butterfly caterpillar feed on the leaves, and the winged, helicopter-style seeds feed tits, finches and most garden rodents.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIts dense, twiggy growth is what makes it such a good hedge plant: it clips to a tight, thick face and, being thornless, it's comfortable to work beside without a scratch. It takes chalk, clay, loam and sand, including thin chalky soils where many other hedging plants struggle, and it's drought tolerant once established, so it copes well on exposed sites where other hedging sulks. Pair it with \u003ca href=\"\/products\/hawthorn-hedge-plants-crataegus-monogyna\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehawthorn\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"\/products\/blackthorn-sloe-hedge-plants-prunus-spinosa\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eblackthorn\u003c\/a\u003e for the security a thorny hedge provides; field maple is thornless, like dogwood and the guelder rose and wayfaring tree we also sell, and softens a thorny mix without weakening it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhen to Cut Field Maple\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCut a field maple hedge in spring or autumn, or in summer if it needs it. Some general tree pruning advice suggests avoiding cuts outside late autumn and midwinter, to reduce sap bleeding, but that guidance is written for large standard trees, not hedges. Field maple is one of many hedgerow plants that bleed a little when cut, and Britain's hedgerows, which contain a great deal of field maple, are trimmed on exactly this basis every year without harm.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlanting Companions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eField maple is thornless, one of several plants that soften a thorny mix without weakening it: dogwood, guelder rose and wayfaring tree do the same job elsewhere in our range. It's a constituent of our \u003ca href=\"\/products\/mixed-thornless-hedge-plants\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ethornless hedging pack\u003c\/a\u003e and our \u003ca href=\"\/products\/mixed-livestock-friendly-hedge-plants\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003elivestock-friendly hedging pack\u003c\/a\u003e, since it carries no risk to grazing animals. Browse the full \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/native-british-hedging-plants\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003enative hedging range\u003c\/a\u003e to plan a mixed scheme, or the wider \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/hedging-plants\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehedging range\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWant a bigger, ready-grown specimen instead of a hedge? Buy \u003ca href=\"\/products\/field-maple-trees-acer-campestre\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003elarger field maple trees\u003c\/a\u003e for instant impact, or browse our wider range of \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/maple-trees-acer\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003emaple trees\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy Buy Hedging from Ashridge\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAshridge hedging is grown under contract by specialist UK growers, to our own specification; never surplus stock diverted from elsewhere. We're one of the UK's largest sellers of bareroot hedging, so stock is lifted to order and moves fast. Bareroot field maple, planted and cared for correctly, is guaranteed to grow for 12 months. Established 1949.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs field maple really native to Britain?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes: it's Britain's only native maple, found wild in hedgerows and ancient woodland across England and Wales, especially on chalky soils.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow many field maple plants do I need per metre?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor a single row, plant 3 per metre, roughly 33cm apart. For a thicker or grant-compliant hedge, use a staggered double row at 6 per metre.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhen do I cut a field maple hedge?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSpring or autumn, or summer if it needs it. Field maple is an ordinary hedgerow plant and is cut on that basis; there's no need to wait for a narrow winter window.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWill field maple grow on chalk?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, better than most hedging in fact. It's one of the few plants that thrives on thin, chalky soils where other species struggle, and it's equally happy on clay, loam or sand.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs field maple safe for horses and livestock?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. Field maple carries no risk to grazing animals, unlike some of its relatives, and it's a constituent of our livestock-friendly hedging pack for exactly that reason.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eField maple hedge or field maple tree, what's the difference?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSame plant, two forms. This page is young, bareroot hedging stock that you clip to whatever height you want. Our \u003ca href=\"\/products\/field-maple-trees-acer-campestre\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003efield maple trees\u003c\/a\u003e are larger, trained as a single specimen and left to grow to their full height rather than clipped as a hedge.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Bareroot \/ 40\/60cm","offer_id":54992627990854,"sku":"ACERCAM-40\/60","price":1.29,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Bareroot \/ 60\/80cm","offer_id":54992628023622,"sku":"ACERCAM-60\/80","price":1.6,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Bareroot \/ 90\/120cm","offer_id":54992628056390,"sku":"ACERCAM-90\/120","price":2.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Bareroot \/ 150\/175cm","offer_id":54992628089158,"sku":"ACERCAM-150\/175","price":9.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Potted \/ 60\/80cm - 3 Litre","offer_id":54992628121926,"sku":"ACERCAM-60\/80-3L","price":7.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"Potted \/ 120\/150cm Potted","offer_id":54992628154694,"sku":"ACERCAM-120\/150-5L","price":19.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/maple-field-acer-campestre-hedging.jpg?v=1756674929"},{"product_id":"field-rose-briar-hedge-plants-rosa-arvensis","title":"Field Rose Hedge Plants","description":"\u003cul class=\"pdp-specs\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eVariety:\u003c\/strong\u003e Field Rose, the native rambling Rose\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLatin name:\u003c\/strong\u003e Rosa arvensis\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSold as:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot hedge plants, 50\/80cm tall\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHabit:\u003c\/strong\u003e A scrambler: it climbs through its neighbours rather than standing on its own\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUltimate size:\u003c\/strong\u003e 2.5 to 4m tall, in 2 to 5 years\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSpacing:\u003c\/strong\u003e 3 plants per metre alone, or 10% of a mixed hedge at 6 per metre\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlowers:\u003c\/strong\u003e Single, creamy-white, lightly scented, once in midsummer\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHips:\u003c\/strong\u003e Oval, orange-red\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eThorns:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes, but fewer than Dog Rose\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePosition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Full sun, with shelter. Takes some shade\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSoil:\u003c\/strong\u003e Moist but well-drained. Copes with poor soil\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNative:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWildlife:\u003c\/strong\u003e RHS Plants for Pollinators\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHardiness:\u003c\/strong\u003e H5, hardy through a cold winter\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDelivered:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot, November to April. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/collect-your-order-from-castle-cary\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eCollection from Castle Cary\u003c\/a\u003e also available\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eField Rose is the native Rose that scrambles through a hedge instead of standing on its own, with long purple stems, single creamy-white flowers in midsummer and red hips in autumn. It flowers after the other wild Roses, so a mixed hedge keeps flowering after the Dog Rose has finished. It is on the RHS Plants for Pollinators list.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eField Rose Hedge Plants\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRosa arvensis\u003c\/strong\u003e,\u003cstrong\u003e Field Rose\u003c\/strong\u003e, is a good country \u003cstrong\u003ehedging plant\u003c\/strong\u003e, suitable for any soil. It's best used in combination with other native hedging plants which can include a range of wild roses if you wish. But a simple mix might be part hawthorn, part blackthorn, part hazel and part field rose for example. The field rose is one of the prettiest of the native British wild roses. It's under-used and not appreciated as much as it deserves and because it's so well suited for use in mixed hedges up to about 3 metres tall it should get more attention.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eView our selection of \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/wild-rose-plants\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003erose hedging\u003c\/a\u003e or see our full range of \u003cstrong\u003ethorny \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/thorny-hedging-plants\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehedging plants\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSpacing hedge containing Rosa arvensis:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf grown as a single species hedge, you should plant Rosa arvensis at 3 plants per metre (i.e. 33cm apart) in a single row. Cut it back hard after planting and again a year later to encourage a thick hedge from ground level up.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHowever Field Roses are more usually grown as part of a mixed hedge, maybe making up 10% of the mixture. The whole hedge is then planted at 6 plants per metre in a staggered double row, with 33cm between each plant along the row and 40cm between the rows.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eGeneral description of Rosa arvensis plants:\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis dense growing native shrub is commonly found in country hedgerows. It's covered in single flowers in summer which are then followed in autumn by masses of shiny red hips. Grown on its own a field rose makes a rather mounded specimen, but it also rambles happily and so is an excellent addition to a mixed native hedge.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRosa arvensis hedge plants are \u003cstrong\u003eonly delivered bareroot\u003c\/strong\u003e, during winter (Nov-April).\u003cbr\u003e All our \u003cstrong\u003ehedge plants are measured\u003c\/strong\u003e by their height in centimetres above the ground (the roots aren't measured).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlanting Companions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eField Rose climbs through its neighbours, so plant it in a mix: \u003ca href=\"\/products\/hawthorn-hedge-plants-crataegus-monogyna\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eHawthorn\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/blackthorn-sloe-hedge-plants-prunus-spinosa\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eBlackthorn\u003c\/a\u003e and Hazel give it something to climb, and \u003ca href=\"\/products\/dog-rose-hedge-plants-rosa-canina\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eDog Rose\u003c\/a\u003e flowers before it. Dust the roots with \u003ca href=\"\/products\/rootgrow-universal-friendly-mycorrhizae-fungi\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eRootgrow\u003c\/a\u003e as you plant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy Ashridge for Hedging?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eHedging is not a sideline here: your Field Rose is grown for us as hedging by specialist growers. Bareroot plants are lifted to order while dormant and guaranteed for 12 months. Ashridge has sold plants since 1949 and is a Which? Best Plant Supplier 2025.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eDoes Field Rose climb?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. It sends out long, arching stems that scramble through whatever is next to it. On its own it makes a loose mound.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow tall does it grow?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2.5 to 4 metres, within a few years.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhen does it flower?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn midsummer, once, after the other wild Roses. The flowers are single, creamy-white and lightly scented.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs it native?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. It grows wild in British hedgerows and woodland edges.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs it hardy?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is H5, hardy through a cold winter, but it is not the Rose for an exposed site in the north.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow do you plant it?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCut it back hard after planting and again a year later, so the hedge thickens from the ground up.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhen are the plants delivered?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBareroot only, from November to April, while the plants are dormant. You can order at any time of year and your plants are lifted and sent once the season opens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Bareroot \/ 50\/80cm","offer_id":54992628187462,"sku":"ROSAARV-50\/80","price":3.72,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/field-rose-rosa-arvensis-flowers-3.jpg?v=1755634408"},{"product_id":"flaviramea-dogwood-hedge-plants-cornus-sericea","title":"Golden Twig Dogwood Hedge Plants","description":"\u003ch2\u003eGolden Twig Dogwood Hedge Plants\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCornus sericea Flavimarea, also known as Golden-Twig dogwood (or sometimes Cornus stolonifera Flaviramea), is a vigorous, suckering shrub. Its young stems are a clean golden yellow colour and developing an olive-green tinge as they reach the end of their first year. Which is perfect, because that is when you cut them back. The golden-twig dogwood is usually grown with other dogwoods in an ornamental display. We would suggest three colours (red, purple and yellow go very well together) with three plants of each variety occupying about 3 sq metres. It'll light your garden every day from late October to the end of March unless the flower arranger of the house gets there first... Cornus sericea Flavimarea loves growing in damp ground and will reach 3 metres eventually if it's not coppiced.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHave a look at our full range of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/dogwood-hedging-plants-cornus\"\u003edogwood shrubs and hedging plants\u003c\/a\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCornus sericea Flavimarea plants are delivered bareroot during winter (Nov-April) and are graded by their height in centimetres above the ground when planted.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHistory \u0026amp; Trivia\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis variety was bred right at the end of the 19th Century. It has won an RHS Award of Garden Merit so it has stood the test of time.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Bareroot \/ 60\/80cm","offer_id":54992628220230,"sku":"CORNSTOFLA-60\/80","price":2.79,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Potted \/ 3 Litre","offer_id":54992628252998,"sku":"CORNSTOFLA-40\/80-CN","price":9.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/golden-twig-dogwood-cornus-sericea-flaviramea-bark-1.jpg?v=1755470159"},{"product_id":"goat-willow-hedge-plants-salix-caprea","title":"Goat Willow Plants","description":"\u003cul class=\"pdp-specs\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eVariety:\u003c\/strong\u003e Goat Willow, the native Pussy Willow with silver catkins\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLatin name:\u003c\/strong\u003e Salix caprea\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSold as:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot, 60\/80cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUse:\u003c\/strong\u003e Screening, windbreaks, woodland and wildlife planting\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMature size:\u003c\/strong\u003e 8 to 12m tall and 4 to 8m wide if left, in 10 to 20 years. Kept far smaller by cutting\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eGrowth:\u003c\/strong\u003e Fast\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNative:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCatkins:\u003c\/strong\u003e Silver-grey, in spring before the leaves. Male catkins turn gold with pollen. These plants are raised from seed, so each may be male or female\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBest soil and site:\u003c\/strong\u003e Deep, moist soil that drains, in full sun. Copes with ordinary soil better than most willows. Dislikes shallow chalk\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWildlife:\u003c\/strong\u003e RHS Plants for Pollinators\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHardiness:\u003c\/strong\u003e H6, hardy through the British winter\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDelivered:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot, November to April. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/collect-your-order-from-castle-cary\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eCollection from Castle Cary\u003c\/a\u003e also available\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eGoat Willow is the native Pussy Willow: a fast, tough small tree with oval leaves and silver-grey catkins in spring, before the leaves, which are an early feast for bees. It copes with ordinary soil better than most willows, and it makes a quick screen or windbreak.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eGoat Willow Sapling Trees\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGoat Willow trees\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003eSalix caprea\u003c\/strong\u003e, are one of the \u003cstrong\u003ePussy Willows\u003c\/strong\u003e, which have fluffy silver catkins which appear in early spring, while the branches are still bare, and have a lovely silver, silky coating of hairs before they ripen. These are great for bees and Salix caprea is well known for being a favourite with many species of caterpillar. The goat moth also lays its eggs around the trunk of this tree. Goat Willow is unlike other willow trees, with its oval leaves and its ability to grow on drier soil than most willows. It also doesn't propagate well from cuttings (these are grown from seed). It can be grown as a screening tree up to about 8-12 metres high. It's a decent windbreak tree.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSee our selection of \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/willow-hedging-plants-salix\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ewillow hedging plants\u003c\/a\u003e or view our full range of \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/hedging-plants\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehedging\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGoat Willow plants are \u003cstrong\u003eonly delivered bareroot\u003c\/strong\u003e, during winter (Nov-April). All of our young trees and shrubs are measured by their height in centimetres above the ground (the roots aren't measured).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCommon Names: \u003c\/strong\u003eGoat Willow, Great Sallow \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHistory \u0026amp; Trivia\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSalix caprea\u003c\/strong\u003e means Goat willow and this name probably comes from an illustration in a famous \"herbal\" (an old name for a book on plants) by Hieronymus Bock, published in 1546. The picture showed a goat grazing on the tree and this book was still around when the tree came to be named with the modern system over 200 years later. It seems likely that this was the inspiration for the name, rather than the tree being especially popular with goats, who are known to eat almost anything.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is native to Britain and to much of Europe.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlanting Companions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/products\/grey-willow-hedge-plants-salix-cinerea\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eGrey Willow\u003c\/a\u003e is its near twin, and the one for wetter ground. \u003ca href=\"\/products\/common-hazel-hedge-plants-corylus-avellana\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eHazel\u003c\/a\u003e gives you catkins at the same time of year, and on really wet soil you can add \u003ca href=\"\/products\/common-alder-hedge-plants-alnus-glutinosa\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eAlder\u003c\/a\u003e. See all our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/native-british-hedging-plants\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003enative hedging\u003c\/a\u003e. Dust bareroot roots with \u003ca href=\"\/products\/rootgrow-universal-friendly-mycorrhizae-fungi\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eRootgrow\u003c\/a\u003e as you plant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy Ashridge for Native Trees?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eHedging and young native trees are not a sideline here: your Goat Willow plants are grown for us by specialist growers. Bareroot plants are lifted to order while dormant and guaranteed for 12 months. Ashridge has sold plants since 1949 and is a Which? Best Plant Supplier 2025.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs Goat Willow the same as Pussy Willow?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. Goat Willow and Grey Willow are both sold as Pussy Willow, for their soft, silver-grey catkins. In the north it is also called Palm Willow, because it stands in for palm on Palm Sunday.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWill every plant have the fluffy catkins?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe showy catkins that turn gold are on male plants. Ours are raised from seed, so you cannot tell which you have until they flower. Female catkins are longer and green.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eCan you weave with Goat Willow?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo. Its twigs are brittle, so it is the one willow you cannot weave with. Osier is the weaving willow. Goat Willow makes excellent charcoal instead.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow big does Goat Willow grow?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLeft alone, it reaches 8 to 12 metres tall and 4 to 8 metres wide in 10 to 20 years. You can keep it far smaller by cutting it back.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow close to a house can you plant it?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKeep any willow at least 10 metres from drains and buildings, and 15 metres if you can. Its roots go looking for water.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eDoes it need wet soil?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo. It likes deep, moist soil, but it copes with ordinary garden soil better than most willows. It dislikes shallow chalk.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhen are the plants delivered?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBareroot only, from November to April, while the plants are dormant. You can order at any time of year and your plants are lifted and sent once the season opens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Bareroot \/ 60\/80cm","offer_id":54992628351302,"sku":"SALICAP-60\/80","price":2.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/goat-willow-trees-salix-caprea-4.jpg?v=1755634439"},{"product_id":"golden-privet-hedge-plants-ligustrum-aureum","title":"Golden Privet Hedging Plants","description":"\u003cul class=\"pdp-specs\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCommon name:\u003c\/strong\u003e Golden Privet\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLatin name:\u003c\/strong\u003e Ligustrum ovalifolium 'Aureum'\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNative:\u003c\/strong\u003e No. A garden form of a Japanese plant\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFoliage:\u003c\/strong\u003e Semi-evergreen. Rich yellow leaves, some with a green centre\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSold as:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot plants at 30\/40cm, 40\/60cm and 60\/80cm. Pot-grown in a 2 litre pot\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePlants per metre:\u003c\/strong\u003e 3, at 33cm apart\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBest soil and site:\u003c\/strong\u003e Any well-drained or moist, well-drained soil. Full sun for the best colour\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eClipping:\u003c\/strong\u003e Clips to a formal face and suits topiary. Old hedges take hard pruning\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eThorns:\u003c\/strong\u003e None\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWildlife:\u003c\/strong\u003e RHS Plants for Pollinators\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHardiness:\u003c\/strong\u003e H5, hardy through a cold winter\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRHS Award of Garden Merit:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDelivered:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot, November to April. Pot-grown, all year when in stock. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/collect-your-order-from-castle-cary\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eCollection from Castle Cary\u003c\/a\u003e also available\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eGolden Privet is Green Privet with colour: a dense, semi-evergreen hedging plant with rich yellow leaves that clips to a formal face and suits topiary. It wants full sun to hold its colour, grows on any well-drained soil, and holds the RHS Award of Garden Merit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eGolden Privet Hedging Plants\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGolden Privet Hedging, Ligustrum ovalifolium Aureum\u003c\/strong\u003e, is a variety of \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/privet-hedging-plants-ligustrum\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ePrivet\u003c\/a\u003e with rich yellow variegated edges to its leaves.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt's a popular hedge plant, especially for the inner city, and it's suitable for topiary.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is every bit as tough and tolerant of poor soils as the other privets, although we recommend using \u003ca href=\"\/products\/green-garden-privet-hedge-plants-ligustrum-ovalifolium\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003egreen privet instead\u003c\/a\u003e if your site is in full shade.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGolden Privet is good for hedges up to between 3-4 metres high, but can reach a full 6 metres.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGolden Privet is sold two ways. Bareroot plants are delivered during winter, November to April, and are the best value for a hedge. Potted plants in 2 litre pots are available outside the bareroot season.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChoosing a size:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWhen you are ordering Golden Privet plants for a hedge, we generally recommend that you use smaller plants. They're cheaper than large plants, easier to handle and they'll establish well in poor conditions. Use larger plants if you want a taller hedge quickly, or if you want to clip them for topiary.\u003cbr\u003eAll our \u003cstrong\u003ehedge plants are measured\u003c\/strong\u003e by their height in centimetres above the ground (the roots or pots aren't measured).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSpacing a Golden Privet hedge:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlant Golden Privet hedging at 3 plants per metre, 33cm apart.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eGeneral description of Golden Privet plants:\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGolden Privet is a large, vigorous bush with bright leaves that clip easily into a formal semi-evergreen hedge. It's great for growing in trouble spots in the city. It does really well on poor or dry soils, in partial shade and it isn't affected by air pollution. It can grow in exposed sites near the sea, although constant wind will slow its growth.\u003cbr\u003eIf it's grown as a specimen shrub, it'll produce good sized cones (called panicles) of scented white flowers in summer that attract butterflies. These will mature into shiny, bitter little fruits that are eaten by several types of songbirds.\u003cbr\u003eOld privet hedges respond very well to hard pruning.\u003cbr\u003ePrivet can lose its leaves in harsh winters: this is normal and doesn't hurt your plants.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHistory \u0026amp; Trivia\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis Japanese plant was recorded by Western botanists in 1862 and introduced to Britain soon afterwards. You may see it listed in some old books as Ligustrum ovalifolium Aureomarginatum. It has won an RHS Award of Garden Merit for handsome plants that are easy to grow.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlanting Companions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eGreen Privet, linked above, is the one for full shade, and the two planted together give you a two-tone hedge. \u003ca href=\"\/products\/wild-common-privet-hedge-plants-ligustrum-vulgare\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eWild Privet\u003c\/a\u003e is the native one, for the country, the coast and hard winters. Dust bareroot roots with \u003ca href=\"\/products\/rootgrow-universal-friendly-mycorrhizae-fungi\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eRootgrow\u003c\/a\u003e as you plant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy Ashridge?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eHedging is not a sideline here: your Golden Privet is grown for us as hedging by specialist growers. Bareroot plants are lifted to order while dormant and guaranteed for 12 months. Ashridge has sold plants since 1949 and is a Which? Best Plant Supplier 2025.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWill Golden Privet keep its colour in shade?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo. It survives in shade and turns green. If your site is in full shade, plant Green Privet, and keep Golden Privet for a place in the sun.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs it as hardy as ordinary Privet?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHardier. Golden Privet is rated H5, hardy through a cold winter, and Green Privet H4, which is not what most people expect of a variegated plant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs Golden Privet evergreen?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSemi-evergreen. It keeps its leaves through most winters and can drop them in a harsh one. That is normal and does your plants no harm.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow tall does it grow?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe say it is good for hedges of 3 to 4 metres and can reach 6 if left alone. Left alone, it reaches 2.5 to 4 metres.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eDoes a Golden Privet hedge flower?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnly if you clip it lightly or not at all. A tight formal hedge flowers little. Left as a shrub, it carries scented white flowers in summer, then black berries.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eCan you cut back an old Privet hedge?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. Old Privet hedges respond very well to hard pruning, and Golden Privet is in pruning group 1.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhen are the plants delivered?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBareroot plants are delivered from November to April, while they are dormant. Pot-grown plants can be delivered and planted in any month when you find them in stock.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Bareroot \/ 30\/40cm","offer_id":54992628515142,"sku":"LIGUOVAAUR-30\/40","price":2.45,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Bareroot \/ 40\/60cm","offer_id":54992628547910,"sku":"LIGUOVAAUR-40\/60","price":3.6,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Bareroot \/ 60\/80cm","offer_id":54992628580678,"sku":"LIGUOVAAUR-60\/80","price":4.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Potted \/ 2 Litre","offer_id":54992628613446,"sku":"LIGUOVAAU-2L","price":11.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/golden-privet-leaves-ligustrum-ovalifolium-aureum-1.jpg?v=1755543156"},{"product_id":"gouchaultii-dogwood-hedge-plants-cornus-alba","title":"Gouchaultii Red Dogwood Plants","description":"\u003ch2\u003eGouchaultii Red Dogwood Plants\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCornus alba Gouchaultii\u003c\/strong\u003e is a vigorous shrub with coloured young bark and variegated leaves. Dogwoods are popular because they're fast growing, happy in almost any soil and have a great winter colour. Gouchaultii boasts all of those qualities and adds to them with its variegated, pink-tinged foliage. With large, wrinkled leaves that have margins ranging in colour from cream to yellow and random wine coloured splashes, this is possibly the most interesting dogwood to look at during the summer months. If left unpruned, it'll produce small white flowers from May to June, which develop into pretty white berries that are sometimes shot with blue, like a mature cheese. However, it's the shiny red bark, rather than the flowers and fruit, that is of interest to most gardeners. Few plants can light up a winter scene like dogwood, once their leaves have fallen. They can be used to great effect dotted around the garden or in big clumps and go well beside a pond or river. Cornus alba Gouchaultii will reach 2-3 metres.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSee our selection of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/dogwood-hedging-plants-cornus\"\u003edogwood hedging and shrubs\u003c\/a\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCornus alba Gouchaultii plants are delivered bareroot during winter (Nov-April). All our hedge plants are measured by their height in centimetres above the ground (the roots don't count...).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHistory \u0026amp; Trivia\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese plants hail from the lands between Siberia and North Korea. This particular variety was bred in the 1880's. It's one of the best dogwoods for frost pockets and cold areas.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Bareroot \/ 60\/80cm","offer_id":54992628941126,"sku":"CORNALBGOU-60\/80","price":4.98,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/gouchaultii-dogwood-cornus-alba-bark-2.jpg?v=1755470159"},{"product_id":"green-garden-privet-hedge-plants-ligustrum-ovalifolium","title":"Green Privet Hedging Plants","description":"\u003cul class=\"pdp-specs\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eVariety:\u003c\/strong\u003e Green Privet, the fast, clipped hedge for towns, shade and poor soil\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCommon name:\u003c\/strong\u003e Green Privet, Garden Privet\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLatin name:\u003c\/strong\u003e Ligustrum ovalifolium\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSold as:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot hedge plants, 40\/60cm and 60\/80cm tall. Pot-grown in a 2 litre pot\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePlants per metre:\u003c\/strong\u003e 3 in a single row\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e A formal hedge, clipped to the height you want\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eGrowth rate:\u003c\/strong\u003e Fast\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eType:\u003c\/strong\u003e Semi-evergreen: it keeps its leaves through most winters and drops some in a hard one\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUK native:\u003c\/strong\u003e No. It comes from Japan\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eThorny:\u003c\/strong\u003e No\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlowers:\u003c\/strong\u003e White and fragrant in midsummer, where the hedge is left unclipped\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBest soil and site:\u003c\/strong\u003e Any soil that is not waterlogged, poor and compacted soil included. Sun or partial shade. Takes roadside pollution\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHardiness:\u003c\/strong\u003e H4, hardy through an average winter\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWildlife value:\u003c\/strong\u003e RHS Plants for Pollinators\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTrim:\u003c\/strong\u003e Two or three times in the growing season, stopping in late summer\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDelivered:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot, November to April. Pot-grown, all year when in stock. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/collect-your-order-from-castle-cary\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eCollection from Castle Cary\u003c\/a\u003e also available\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eGreen Privet, Ligustrum ovalifolium, is a fast growing, semi-evergreen hedge plant that clips into a neat, formal hedge. It grows in sun or partial shade on poor, compacted soil and beside busy roads, and objects only to waterlogged ground.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eGreen Privet Hedging Plants\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGreen Privet \u003c\/strong\u003emakes a tough and resilient semi-evergreen hedge plant that can grow to 4 metres if left to its own devices and it does it super efficiently. It grows quickly, clips neatly and manages to flourish even in poor, compacted soil or when in the shade. All this makes it the most popular member of our range of \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/privet-hedging-plants-ligustrum\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eprivet hedging\u003c\/a\u003e. It seems to be oblivious to pollution and so is perfectly happy next to a busy road, occluding street lights. As a result, it's THE most valuable hedge for that tricky combination of an urban area and poor soil. The only thing that Green Privet doesn't enjoy is being waterlogged so make sure that you give it decent drainage. The leaves are small, oval-shaped and slightly pointed at the end. They're a matt green, uniform in colour and knit together to make a lovely, luxurious hedge that will fill a gap or form a boundary in no time at all. In about July the plant is swathed in long, sweet-smelling, white flowers. If neglected, green privet can be rejuvenated by hard pruning back down to the ground from where it'll rise, phoenix-like, over the next couple of seasons. In a very hard and frosty winter, green privet may lose its leaves but soon recovers them once spring arrives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eGarden Design Ideas\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLigustrum ovalifolium makes an excellent boundary hedge, especially where you want protection from traffic noise and light (not to mention the odd passer by) all year round. It grows fast and so will quickly screen out an unsightly low building or wooden fence. Because it's so tough you can plant privet where you may have despaired of ever being able to do better than bare soil. If you are growing it where there is some light then add in a bit of Rosa Rugosa, another tough hedging plant that will produce pink or white flowers in the summer and handsome hips in the autumn. And while you are planting your hedge, add a few clumps of Narcissi at the edge of the trench to bring some spring cheer (it also saves you digging twice). For the more artistic, you can also do some pretty fancy topiary with privet. Generally, the long hedge clipped in the form of a dragon or a reclining lady is made from Green privet.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHistory \u0026amp; Trivia\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGreen privet is a Japanese plant that was introduced to Britain in 1885. The Victorians fell in love with it because it grew happily in their polluted, smoggy inner cities. Birds love the berries in autumn and it's a stick insect's essential diet in the UK.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlanting Companions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/products\/golden-privet-hedge-plants-ligustrum-aureum\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eGolden Privet\u003c\/a\u003e is the same hedge with yellow-edged leaves, for colour in a sunny spot. Where you want a taller formal hedge and the soil is decent, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/common-green-beech-hedge-plants-fagus-sylvatica\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eBeech\u003c\/a\u003e is the deciduous alternative. The true evergreens are under \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/evergreen-hedging-plants\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eevergreen hedging\u003c\/a\u003e. Dust the roots with \u003ca href=\"\/products\/rootgrow-universal-friendly-mycorrhizae-fungi\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eRootgrow\u003c\/a\u003e as you plant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy Buy Hedging from Ashridge\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eHedging is not a sideline here: your Privet is grown for us as hedging from the outset by specialist growers. Bareroot plants are lifted to order while dormant and guaranteed for 12 months. Ashridge Nurseries holds the Feefo Platinum Trusted Service Award.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs Green Privet evergreen?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSemi-evergreen. It keeps most of its leaves through a normal winter and drops some in a hard one, then leafs up again in spring.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow many Privet plants do I need per metre?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThree per metre, 33cm apart, in a single row. Measure the run, multiply by three and add a few spares.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWill Privet grow in shade?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBetter than almost anything else we sell. It also takes poor, compacted soil and traffic fumes, which is why it became the standard town hedge. It will not take waterlogging.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow often should I trim a Privet hedge?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTwo or three times through the growing season, stopping in late summer so that soft new growth is not caught by frost. It grows fast, so it needs it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eCan I cut an overgrown Privet hedge back hard?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. Privet regrows from old wood, even when cut almost to the ground, which most hedge plants will not do. It recovers over the next couple of seasons.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs Privet hardy enough for a cold garden?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is rated H4, hardy through an average winter. On a cold, exposed inland site a hard winter can cut it back, and Beech is the safer choice there.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Bareroot \/ 40\/60cm","offer_id":54992629039430,"sku":"LIGUOVA-40\/60","price":2.25,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Bareroot \/ 60\/80cm","offer_id":54992629072198,"sku":"LIGUOVA-60\/80","price":2.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Potted \/ 2 Litre","offer_id":54992629104966,"sku":"LIGUOVA-2L","price":14.98,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/green-privet-hedge-ligustrum-ovalifolium-1.jpg?v=1755634452"},{"product_id":"grey-willow-hedge-plants-salix-cinerea","title":"Grey Pussy Willow Plants","description":"\u003cul class=\"pdp-specs\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eVariety:\u003c\/strong\u003e Grey Willow, the Pussy Willow for the wettest ground\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLatin name:\u003c\/strong\u003e Salix cinerea\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSold as:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot plants, 60\/80cm tall\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUltimate size:\u003c\/strong\u003e 4 to 8m tall by 2.5 to 4m wide, in 5 to 10 years\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePruning:\u003c\/strong\u003e Coppice every 2 or 3 years in March for the best catkins\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCatkins:\u003c\/strong\u003e Silver-grey, turning yellow with pollen, before the leaves\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSoil:\u003c\/strong\u003e Wet ground, marsh and damp soil. Not shallow chalk\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePosition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Full sun. Exposed or sheltered\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePlanting distance:\u003c\/strong\u003e At least 10m from drains and buildings, and 15m is better\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNative:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eThorns:\u003c\/strong\u003e None\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWildlife:\u003c\/strong\u003e RHS Plants for Pollinators\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHardiness:\u003c\/strong\u003e H7, hardy in the severest British winter\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDelivered:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot, November to April. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/collect-your-order-from-castle-cary\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eCollection from Castle Cary\u003c\/a\u003e also available\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eGrey Willow is a large native shrub or small tree of bogs and riverbanks, grown for its silver-grey Pussy Willow catkins, which open before the leaves and feed early bees. It takes wetter ground than Goat Willow, coppices well, and belongs well away from drains.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eGrey Pussy Willow Plants\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGrey Pussy Willow\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003eSalix cinerea\u003c\/strong\u003e, is a large native shrub or a small, stubby tree that is found in boggy ground and riversides across the country. Along with goat willow, Salix cinerea is often referred to as Pussy Willow because of its beautiful catkins. Before they ripen, they're covered in neat, silver-grey hairs that look equally lovely on the bare branches or in a vase... Salix cinerea can be coppiced and pollarded: it tends to form a fairly low tree anyway but if you want more upright growth, keep removing the lower side branches each year. Pussy Willows are the earliest to flower, providing a key source of early nectar and pollen to bees as they gear up for the year.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSee our selection of \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/willow-hedging-plants-salix\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ewillow hedging plants\u003c\/a\u003e or view our full range of \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/hedging-plants\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehedging\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGrey Pussy Willow plants are \u003cstrong\u003eonly delivered bareroot\u003c\/strong\u003e, during winter (Nov-April). All of our young trees and shrubs are measured by their height in centimetres above the ground (the roots aren't measured).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCommon Names: \u003c\/strong\u003eGrey Willow, Pussy Willow, Grey Sallow\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHistory \u0026amp; Trivia\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGrey willow is often planted along loose banks to stabilise the soil with its fibrous roots.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlanting Companions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIts near twin is \u003ca href=\"\/products\/goat-willow-hedge-plants-salix-caprea\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eGoat Willow\u003c\/a\u003e, which has the bigger catkins and prefers ordinary soil. On properly wet ground, plant Grey Willow with \u003ca href=\"\/products\/common-osier-willow-hedge-plants-salix-viminalis\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eCommon Osier\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"\/products\/common-alder-hedge-plants-alnus-glutinosa\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eCommon Alder\u003c\/a\u003e. Before you choose the spot, read \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/trees\/why-willows-and-drains-do-not-mix\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ewhy Willows and drains do not mix\u003c\/a\u003e: the young tree in that article is a Grey Willow. Dust bareroot roots with \u003ca href=\"\/products\/rootgrow-universal-friendly-mycorrhizae-fungi\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eRootgrow\u003c\/a\u003e as you plant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy Buy Your Willow Plants from Ashridge?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eHedging and young native trees are not a sideline here: your Grey Willow plants are grown for us by specialist growers. Bareroot plants are lifted to order while dormant and guaranteed for 12 months. Ashridge has sold plants since 1949 and is a Which? Best Plant Supplier 2025.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eGrey Willow or Goat Willow?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGrey Willow for wetter ground, and because it coppices well. Goat Willow for ordinary soil and the bigger catkins.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs Grey Willow the same as Pussy Willow?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBoth Grey Willow and Goat Willow are sold as Pussy Willow, after the soft, silver-grey catkins that open before the leaves.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow big does it grow?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt grows 4 to 8 metres tall and 2.5 to 4 metres wide in 5 to 10 years, and makes a large shrub of around 5 metres.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow do you prune it?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is in pruning group 7. For the best show of catkins, cut it back every two or three years in March.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow far from drains and buildings should a Willow go?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWillow roots seek water and will find a leak in an old pipe. Keep it at least 10 metres from drains, septic tanks, walls and foundations, and 15 metres is more comfortable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat soil does it need?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAny deep, moist soil in full sun, and it is happiest in wet ground. Avoid shallow chalk.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhen are the plants delivered?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBareroot only, from November to April, while the plants are dormant. You can order at any time of year and your plants are lifted and sent once the season opens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Bareroot \/ 60\/80cm","offer_id":54992629694790,"sku":"SALICIN-60\/80","price":2.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/willow-grey-salix-cinerea-catkins-1.jpg?v=1756594794"},{"product_id":"guelder-rose-hedge-plants-viburnum-opulus","title":"Guelder Rose Hedge Plants","description":"\u003cul class=\"pdp-specs\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eVariety:\u003c\/strong\u003e Guelder Rose, the native viburnum with lacecap flowers and red berries\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCommon name:\u003c\/strong\u003e Guelder rose, water elder\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLatin name:\u003c\/strong\u003e Viburnum opulus\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSold as:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot hedge plants, 40\/60cm, 60\/80cm and 90\/120cm tall\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePlants per metre:\u003c\/strong\u003e 3 in a single row, 6 in a staggered double row\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e A hedge clipped to the height you want. A large shrub if left alone\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eGrowth rate:\u003c\/strong\u003e Vigorous\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eType:\u003c\/strong\u003e Deciduous\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUK native:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eThorny:\u003c\/strong\u003e No\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlowers and fruit:\u003c\/strong\u003e White lacecaps in late spring and early summer. Translucent red berries that hang into winter\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAutumn colour:\u003c\/strong\u003e Red\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBest soil and site:\u003c\/strong\u003e Chalk, clay, loam or sand, any pH. Sun or partial shade, exposed or sheltered\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHardiness:\u003c\/strong\u003e H6, hardy through the British winter\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWildlife value:\u003c\/strong\u003e RHS Plants for Pollinators. Berries for birds\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePrune:\u003c\/strong\u003e After flowering, and only if you can spare the berries\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePlant:\u003c\/strong\u003e November to April, while dormant\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDelivered:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot, November to April. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/collect-your-order-from-castle-cary\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eCollection from Castle Cary\u003c\/a\u003e also available\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eGuelder Rose, Viburnum opulus, is a vigorous, thornless, native deciduous shrub for mixed country hedges, with white lacecap flowers in late spring and early summer, translucent red berries into winter and red autumn leaves. It grows on chalk, clay, loam or sand in sun or partial shade.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eGuelder Rose Hedge Plants\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGuelder Rose\u003c\/strong\u003e, Viburnum opulus, is one of Britain's most beautiful native shrubs, often used in a mixed country hedge. The flowers are quite unique, with a ring of dainty little smooth star shaped flowers rising above a bed of even smaller, bud-like blooms. The smaller flowers will ripen into blood-red fruit in time for the autumn display. The large, three lobed leaves (like a maple, which has more lobes) colour up in autumn with a jumble of pink, yellow \u0026amp; red tones (depending on the soil) that bleed together in a rough, rustic manner. It can grow to about 5 metres high.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eIt's a natural companion to \u003ca href=\"\/products\/wayfaring-tree-hedge-plants-viburnum-lantana\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eViburnum lantana\u003c\/a\u003e in a mixed hedge, and we grow two more ornamental varieties that can also make good hedges, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/dawn-viburnum-bodnantense-plants\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eViburnum bodnantense Dawn\u003c\/a\u003e and the evergreen \u003ca href=\"\/products\/eve-price-viburnum-tinus-plants\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eViburnum tinus Eve Price\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003cbr\u003e\nBrowse our selection of \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/native-british-hedging-plants\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003enative hedging\u003c\/a\u003e or see our full range of \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/hedging-plants\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehedging plants\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eGuelder Rose hedge plants are \u003cstrong\u003eonly delivered bareroot\u003c\/strong\u003e, during winter (Nov-April).\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChoosing a size:\u003c\/strong\u003e When you are ordering plants for a hedge, we recommend smaller plants if you aren't in a rush. They're cheaper and easier to handle than large plants, and will give you a bushy hedge with little effort.\u003c\/p\u003e  \u003ch3\u003eGrowing Guelder Rose\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eIn the wild, it's often found in dappled woodland shade, but it needs full sun to give you the best show of flowers. It'll grow pretty much anywhere, including shady sites under large trees and chalky soils. It prefers a moist soil and will tolerate periods of waterlogging.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAs a specimen shrub, it'll need little attention, just prune out the oldest stems from time to time.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSpacing a Guelder Rose\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cstrong\u003ehedge: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eStandard country hedging: plant at 3 per metre, 33cm apart in a single row, or 6 per metre in a staggered double row, which has a W shape viewed top-down.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003ch3\u003eGarden Design Ideas\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eIt makes an excellent mixed hedge plant, typically with \u003ca href=\"\/products\/hawthorn-hedge-plants-crataegus-monogyna\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehawthorn\u003c\/a\u003e to provide thorns and more strength.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eGiven full sun, it's a fine, low maintenance ornamental shrub for any garden.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHistory \u0026amp; Trivia\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt isn't a rose at all, it is closely related to the \u003ca href=\"\/products\/elder-hedge-plants-sambucus-nigra\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eelderflowers\u003c\/a\u003e. The name probably comes from the Dutch region of Gelderland.\u003cbr\u003e\nOther common names include\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003eWater elder, Cramp bark, Gatten, Whitten, and the European cranberry bush.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eTheir berries were one of the secondary food sources that our ancestors depended upon in hard times. Although it is possible to make jam with them, we don't recommend eating them fresh, as even slightly unripe fruit will cause stomach upsets.\u003cbr\u003e\nWhen civilisation collapses again, and you find yourself living in the woods with nowhere to charge your phone, you could certainly feed yourself by boiling them up into a soup. Until then, we would leave the berries for the birds: bullfinches and mistle thrushes (which have the most charming scientific name: Turdus viscivorus) are especially partial to them.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIn parts of Eastern Europe and Russia, the berries represent the beauty of a young woman and are a standard subject for Khokhloma painting. There is a song traditionally sung at weddings that begins:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cblockquote\u003eGuelder rose, guelder rose, guelder rose mine!\u003cbr\u003e\nIn the garden there is raspberry, raspberry mine!\u003cbr\u003e\nUnder a pine, under a green pine\u003cbr\u003e\nLay me to sleep!\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFour of its cultivars hold an RHS Award of Garden Merit, so in our eyes it does as well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBees: \u003c\/strong\u003eIt is on the RHS list of Plants for pollinators, beloved by bees and butterflies.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlanting Companions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eGuelder rose is a mixer, not a soloist. \u003ca href=\"\/products\/common-hazel-hedge-plants-corylus-avellana\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eHazel\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"\/products\/common-native-dogwood-hedge-plants-cornus-sanguinea\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eCommon Dogwood\u003c\/a\u003e are its thornless native partners. To have the mixing done for you, it is an ingredient of three of our packs: the \u003ca href=\"\/products\/mixed-conservation-hedge-plants\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003econservation mix\u003c\/a\u003e, the \u003ca href=\"\/products\/mixed-thornless-hedge-plants\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ethornless mix\u003c\/a\u003e and the \u003ca href=\"\/products\/mixed-livestock-friendly-hedge-plants\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003estock-friendly mix\u003c\/a\u003e. \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/native-bluebell-bulbs\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eNative bluebells\u003c\/a\u003e suit the foot of any of them.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy Ashridge for Your Hedge\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAshridge was established in 1949 and is a Which? Best Plant Supplier 2025. Your guelder rose is grown for us as hedging from the outset by specialist growers, lifted to order and kept dormant in a cold store. Bareroot plants are guaranteed for 12 months.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs guelder rose a rose?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo. It is a viburnum, with fifteen other common names, water elder, crampbark and whitten tree among them. The flat white lacecap flowers earned it the rose.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhen should I prune guelder rose?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter flowering, unless you want the fruit. The berries are the best thing about it, so prune only what you must.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat is the difference between guelder rose and wayfaring tree?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGuelder rose has lobed, maple-like leaves and red berries. Wayfaring tree has oval, grey, downy leaves and berries that turn from red to black. Both are native, thornless viburnums.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow many guelder rose plants do I need per metre?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThree per metre in a single row, 33cm apart, or six per metre in a staggered double row with the rows 40cm apart. In a mixed hedge, count it in with the rest.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWill guelder rose grow in shade?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. It grows in sun or partial shade, in any aspect, exposed or sheltered. It flowers and fruits best in full sun, so give it the brighter side of the hedge.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhich hedge packs include guelder rose?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThree: the native conservation mix, the native thornless mix and the stock-friendly farm mix. Buy it singly to gap up an old hedge or to add more berries to a new one.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Bareroot \/ 40\/60cm","offer_id":54992629760326,"sku":"VIBUOPU-40\/60","price":1.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Bareroot \/ 60\/80cm","offer_id":54992629793094,"sku":"VIBUOPU-60\/80","price":2.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Bareroot \/ 90\/120cm","offer_id":54992629825862,"sku":"VIBUOPU-90\/120","price":4.25,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/guelder-rose-viburnum-flowers.jpg?v=1755264763"},{"product_id":"hawthorn-hedge-plants-crataegus-monogyna","title":"Hawthorn Hedge Plants","description":"\u003cul class=\"pdp-specs\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSold as:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot whips and older plants, 40\/60cm to 120\/150cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePlants per metre:\u003c\/strong\u003e Single row 3\/m (33cm apart); double staggered row 6\/m for a stock-proof or grant-compliant hedge\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUltimate hedge height:\u003c\/strong\u003e Kept at 1.5–3m (a small tree to around 15m left unclipped)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eGrowth rate:\u003c\/strong\u003e 40–60cm a year — one of the fastest native hedges\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eEvergreen or deciduous:\u003c\/strong\u003e Deciduous — but the dense, twiggy, thorny structure still turns wind and stock in winter\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUK native:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eThorny:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes — the point of it. Safely grazed by livestock even so\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBest soil and site:\u003c\/strong\u003e Any soil except waterlogged ground; full sun to part shade; thrives on exposed, coastal and town sites\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRHS Award of Garden Merit:\u003c\/strong\u003e No — but hawthorn holds a place on the RHS Plants for Pollinators list\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWildlife value:\u003c\/strong\u003e Supports more than 300 insect species, more than almost any other UK hedge plant\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDelivered:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot, November to April, while dormant. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/collect-your-order-from-castle-cary\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eCollection from Castle Cary\u003c\/a\u003e also available\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eHawthorn hedging (\u003cem\u003eCrataegus monogyna\u003c\/em\u003e) is Britain's classic stock-proof native — a fast, thorny, deciduous hedge that puts on 40–60cm a year and turns wind, livestock and intruders alike once it thickens up. It's frothy with white blossom in May, hung with red haws by autumn, and the backbone species behind almost every mixed native hedge we sell.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eHawthorn Hedging: Britain's Fastest Stock-Proof Native\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGive hawthorn a hard cut at planting — by about a third — and it responds by thickening from the base rather than racing upward and leggy, which is exactly what a stock-proof hedge needs. It's the one native exception to the usual \"never cut back hard at planting\" rule that governs beech, hornbeam and most other hedging: hawthorn wants it, and skipping the cut is the single most common reason a new hawthorn hedge stays thin and gappy at the bottom.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce established, there's remarkably little hawthorn won't grow through. We've seen it thriving on a raised mound barely above the water table in a bog, on salt-blasted sand just behind a beach, and wedged between industrial units getting perhaps three hours of midsummer sun. It's slower in full shade than hazel or privet, and it won't grow at true water level like willow or dogwood — but short of that, hawthorn shrugs off conditions that would set most hedging back.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eThe Thorn That Named Hedging\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Haw\" — the fruit, and the root of \"hawthorn\" itself — comes from the Old English word for hedge, so the plant is named after the very thing it makes. The blossom gave English its \"May\": Shakespeare's \"rough winds do shake the darling buds of May\" and the old saying \"ne'er cast a clout till May be out\" both mean the same thing — don't put away your winter coat until the hawthorn is actually flowering, calendar be damned. \"Quickthorn\" tells the trade's own origin story: a \"quickset\" hedge is one grown from living, rooted plants rather than built dead from timber — quite literally the birth of the nursery trade Ashridge belongs to.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWildlife makes the strongest case for it. A single hawthorn supports more than 300 insect species — among the highest counts of any British hedge plant — feeding birds, moths and pollinators through spring blossom, summer leaf and autumn haws (Woodland Trust). It's also one of the few plants named outright in police-backed Secured by Design guidance on defensive planting: a thorny hawthorn hedge under a window does a job no fence can (Secured by Design).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlanting Companions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHawthorn is a mixer by nature — it's rarely planted alone in the countryside, and it shouldn't be in the garden either. It pairs constantly with \u003ca href=\"\/products\/common-hazel-hedge-plants-corylus-avellana\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehazel\u003c\/a\u003e, its most frequent partner in the wild and in our own mixes, and with \u003ca href=\"\/products\/blackthorn-sloe-hedge-plants-prunus-spinosa\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eblackthorn\u003c\/a\u003e, the other classic thorny matrix species. If you'd rather not choose species yourself, our \u003ca href=\"\/products\/mixed-conservation-hedge-plants\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003emixed conservation hedging pack\u003c\/a\u003e builds hawthorn into a ready-made native scheme. For extra spring interest at the hedge foot, naturalised bulbs such as our \u003ca href=\"\/products\/mixed-naturalising-daffodil-narcissus-bulbs\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003enaturalising daffodils\u003c\/a\u003e flower before the hawthorn leafs up. Browse the full \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/hedging-plants\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehedging range\u003c\/a\u003e to plan a mixed scheme.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy Buy Your Hedging from Us?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAshridge hedging is grown under contract by specialist UK growers, to our own specification — never surplus stock diverted from elsewhere. We're one of the UK's largest sellers of bareroot hedging, so stock is lifted to order and moves fast. Bareroot hawthorn, planted and cared for correctly, is guaranteed to grow for 12 months. Established 1949.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow many hawthorn plants do I need per metre?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor a single row, plant 3 per metre (roughly 33cm apart). For a thicker, stock-proof or grant-compliant hedge, use a staggered double row at 6 per metre, with the two rows about 40cm apart and plants offset in a zigzag.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhen can I plant bareroot hawthorn hedging?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBareroot hawthorn plants from November to April, while the plants are dormant. Our cold store keeps stock genuinely dormant well into spring, so a March or early April delivery is not too late.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eShould I cut my hawthorn hedge back at planting?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes — cut new hawthorn plants back by about a third straight after planting. This is the one common exception to the usual advice against hard cutting at planting, and it's what makes a hawthorn hedge thicken from the base instead of growing thin and leggy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhen am I not allowed to cut my hawthorn hedge?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFarmland hedges may not be cut between 1 March and 31 August, to protect nesting birds. Garden hedges are exempt from this legal ban, though an active nest is always protected wherever it's found.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs hawthorn safe next to horses and livestock?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. Hawthorn is the classic stock-proof choice and is safely grazed by livestock — it's the backbone of our \u003ca href=\"\/products\/mixed-livestock-friendly-hedge-plants\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003elivestock-friendly hedging pack\u003c\/a\u003e, unlike thornier or more toxic species that need keeping away from grazing animals.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhich mixed hedging packs include hawthorn?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHawthorn is a constituent of most of our mixed native packs, including the conservation, countryside stewardship and livestock-friendly packs — it's the most widely used matrix species across our mixed hedging range.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Bareroot \/ 40\/60cm","offer_id":54992630022470,"sku":"CRATMON-40\/60","price":0.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Bareroot \/ 60\/80cm","offer_id":54992630055238,"sku":"CRATMON-60\/80","price":1.39,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Bareroot \/ 90\/120cm","offer_id":54992630088006,"sku":"CRATMON-90\/120","price":2.49,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Bareroot \/ 120\/150cm","offer_id":54992630120774,"sku":"CRATMON-120\/150","price":4.29,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/hawthorn-hedging.webp?v=1776770280"},{"product_id":"hornbeam-hedge-plants-carpinus-betulus","title":"Hornbeam Hedging Plants","description":"\u003cul class=\"pdp-specs\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSold as:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot 40\/60cm to 150\/175cm; 1m trough 150\/175cm; 10L potted 150\/175cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePlants per metre:\u003c\/strong\u003e Single row 3\/m; staggered double row 6\/m, or 4\/m for the fullest winter face\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUltimate hedge height:\u003c\/strong\u003e Kept at 1–4m (a tree to around 25m unclipped)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eGrowth rate:\u003c\/strong\u003e 20–40cm a year\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eEvergreen or deciduous:\u003c\/strong\u003e Deciduous — clip it and it holds brown winter leaves, a touch less reliably than beech\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUK native:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eThorny:\u003c\/strong\u003e No — and not toxic, so a safe choice near horses and livestock\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBest soil and site:\u003c\/strong\u003e The beech alternative for wet, heavy, clay, exposed, shady and frost-pocket ground — more wind- and cold-tolerant than beech\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRHS Award of Garden Merit:\u003c\/strong\u003e No — the species doesn't hold it; only the columnar cultivar 'Fastigiata' does, and that isn't sold as hedging\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWildlife value:\u003c\/strong\u003e Seeds and catkins feed birds, notably the hawfinch, and small mammals\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDelivered:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot, November to April. Potted and trough available beyond the bareroot season. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/collect-your-order-from-castle-cary\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eCollection from Castle Cary\u003c\/a\u003e also available\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eHornbeam hedging (\u003cem\u003eCarpinus betulus\u003c\/em\u003e) is the deciduous native to reach for wherever \u003ca href=\"\/products\/common-green-beech-hedge-plants-fagus-sylvatica\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ebeech\u003c\/a\u003e struggles — heavy clay, wet ground, deep shade or a frost pocket. It grows 20–40cm a year, takes a formal clipped face just as well as beech, and is tough enough that we've heard from customers whose entire new planting died back in a dry summer except the hornbeam.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eHornbeam Hedging: The Answer Where Beech Won't Grow\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChoosing between beech and hornbeam comes down to your soil, not your taste. On drier, free-draining ground, beech edges it — very slightly better winter leaf retention, and it's the more traditional choice. On anything heavier, wetter, shadier or more exposed, hornbeam is the honest answer: it copes with conditions that leave beech thin and unhappy, and it's every bit as capable of a crisp formal face once established.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eClip it in September, or twice a year if you want the tightest possible finish, and — like beech — the dead leaves stay on the branch through winter rather than falling, giving you a screen when deciduous planting would otherwise leave a gap. It renovates well too: hard cutting back into old wood is safe and the hedge recovers strongly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eThe Hardest Wood in Europe\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHornbeam timber is the hardest grown anywhere on the continent — hard enough to have earned the nickname \"ironwood\" (Woodland Trust). That density made it the material of choice for jobs nothing softer could do: ox-yokes, butchers' chopping blocks, mill cogs, coach wheels and piano hammers (Woodland Trust; Hopes Grove). Even the name argues about the hardness — the Woodland Trust reads \"hornbeam\" as Old English for \"hard tree\", while the trade tells it differently, as the beam between the horns of an ox-yoke. Both explanations point at the same quality: this is about as tough as British timber gets.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlanting Companions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHornbeam's natural partner is \u003ca href=\"\/products\/common-green-beech-hedge-plants-fagus-sylvatica\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003egreen beech\u003c\/a\u003e — the two are effectively interchangeable in formal design, with the choice made by soil rather than looks — and it sits alongside \u003ca href=\"\/products\/yew-hedge-plants-taxus-baccata\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eyew\u003c\/a\u003e where an evergreen formal alternative is wanted instead. It also pairs well with shade-tolerant \u003ca href=\"\/products\/common-hazel-hedge-plants-corylus-avellana\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehazel\u003c\/a\u003e on the same difficult ground. Hornbeam trains well into pleached hedges too, and underplanting the bare trunks with naturalised bulbs such as our \u003ca href=\"\/products\/mixed-naturalising-tulip-bulbs\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003enaturalising tulips\u003c\/a\u003e is a traditional way to dress the base. Browse the full \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/hornbeam-hedging-plants-carpinus\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehornbeam hedging range\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy Ashridge for Your Hedge\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAshridge hedging is grown for us under contract, to our own specification, by specialist UK growers — never surplus stock. We're one of the largest UK sellers of bareroot hedging, so it's lifted to order and moves fast. Bareroot hornbeam is guaranteed to grow for 12 months, correctly planted and cared for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eBeech or hornbeam: which should I choose?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChoose hornbeam for wet, heavy, clay, exposed or shady ground; choose beech on drier, free-draining soil, where it holds its winter leaves very slightly more reliably. Both take a formal clip equally well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eDoes hornbeam keep its leaves in winter like beech?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, if trimmed — clip it in late summer and the dead brown leaves stay on the branches through winter, a touch less consistently than beech but still an effective screen.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs hornbeam safe to plant near horses or livestock?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes — unlike yew, hornbeam is not toxic, making it a safe choice near grazing animals.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eCan I cut back an overgrown hornbeam hedge hard?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes — hornbeam takes hard renovation well and regrows strongly from old wood, so an overgrown hedge can be reduced significantly without killing it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow many hornbeam plants do I need per metre?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlant at 3 per metre in a single row, or for the fullest formal hedge, a staggered double row at 4–6 per metre with rows around 40cm apart.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWill hornbeam grow in shade?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes — hornbeam tolerates shade well, which is exactly why it's the recommended alternative wherever beech is struggling for light as well as on damp or heavy ground.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Potted \/ 150\/175 10 Litre","offer_id":54992630317382,"sku":"CARPBET-150\/175-10L","price":39.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Bareroot \/ 40\/60cm","offer_id":54992630350150,"sku":"CARPBET-40\/60","price":0.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Bareroot \/ 60\/80cm","offer_id":54992630382918,"sku":"CARPBET-60\/80","price":1.19,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Bareroot \/ 80\/100cm","offer_id":54992630415686,"sku":"CARPBET-80\/100","price":1.49,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Bareroot \/ 100\/125cm","offer_id":54992630448454,"sku":"CARPBET-100\/125","price":2.49,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Bareroot \/ 120\/150cm","offer_id":54992630481222,"sku":"CARPBET-120\/150","price":3.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Bareroot \/ 150\/175cm","offer_id":54992630513990,"sku":"CARPBET-150\/175","price":6.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Trough \/ 150\/175cm 1m Trough","offer_id":54992630546758,"sku":"CARPBET-150\/175cm1m Trough","price":199.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/hornbeam-instant-hedging-trough.jpg?v=1755205288"},{"product_id":"japanese-larch-sapling-trees-larix-leptolepis","title":"Japanese Larch Tree","description":"\u003ch2\u003eJapanese Larch Tree\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003eJapanese Larch\u003c\/strong\u003e is a deciduous (non-evergreen) conifer. It has a vibrant autumn colour that lasts for a few weeks, as the needles take some time to fall. It looks really bright in spring, when the needles are grass green and the branches are studded with small, creamy young cones and male flowers. \u003cbr\u003eIn areas where canker is a problem for the European Larch*, this disease resistant tree is often planted instead.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou can interplant with \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/products\/european-larch-sapling-trees-larix-decidua\"\u003eEuropean Larch\u003c\/a\u003e to give natural looking variety to a mixed stand of trees. \u003cbr\u003eBrowse our variety of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/large-garden-parkland-trees\"\u003elarge trees\u003c\/a\u003e, or our full range of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/garden-trees-big-standards\"\u003etrees\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDelivery season:\u003c\/strong\u003e Larches are delivered bareroot during late autumn and winter, approximately November-March inclusive. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChoosing a size:\u003c\/strong\u003e Small plants are cheaper and more forgiving of less than ideal aftercare, so they're best for a big planting project. If instant impact is your priority, or if you are only buying a few plants for ornamental use in a place where it's convenient to water them well in their first year, then you may as well use bigger ones. All our sapling trees are measured by their height in centimetres above the ground (the roots aren't measured).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFeatures\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHeight: To 20-30m\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSoil: Well drained, moist, high altitude sun.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUse: Coast, soil reclamation, timber, mixed woodland\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAttractive new foliage in Spring, yellow autumn colour.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBareroot delivery only: November-March \u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eGrowing Japanese Larches\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChalky soil isn't suitable. Your trees are happy in exposed, wind-blasted places and at altitude. Their native range is mountains where rainfall is high and drainage is good, so they dislike dry sites and love a moist soil, but not low-lying areas that get waterlogged in winter. \u003cbr\u003eLarches are vigorous trees that need plenty of light to look good. They'll tolerate quite a lot of shade, but they'll grow sparsely and look disappointing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHistory \u0026amp; Trivia\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLarix kaempferi's wild range is a just small part of Honshu, the central island of Japan. Their Japanese name is Karamatsu. It is now grown all over the world in temperate regions and has been used widely in British forestry.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt was introduced by John Veitch in 1861. The name kaempferi is in honour of the German scientist Engelbert Kaempfer, who visited Japan for a few years in the 1680's and 90's. Apart from a handful of port quarters, the country was closed to foreigners during this period, so his visit was exceptional and his writings were some of the only information that Western world had about Japan until the Americans nudged the country to open up with gunboats in 1854.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e*European larches of Alpine origin seem to be susceptible for canker and are also being replaced with other strains of the species from parts of Europe where resistance is high.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Bareroot \/ 30\/50cm","offer_id":54992630808902,"sku":"LARILEP-30\/50","price":3.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/japanese-larch-leaves-larix-kaempferi-1.jpg?v=1755543165"},{"product_id":"kesselringii-dogwood-hedge-plants-cornus-alba","title":"Kesselringii Purple Dogwood Plants","description":"\u003ch2\u003eKesselringii Purple Dogwood Plants\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCornus alba Kesselringii\u003c\/strong\u003e is a vigorous shrub with fabulous deep purple, almost black, young bark rich green foliage that turns a deep wine red in autumn. \u003cbr\u003e\nIt's usually hard pruned as a specimen shrub, but like any dogwood it could go in a mixed hedge to add a little colour.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eVery dark bark makes exciting contrasts in a mixed group of dogwoods such as golden-green \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/products\/flaviramea-dogwood-hedge-plants-cornus-sericea\"\u003eFlaviramea\u003c\/a\u003e and bright red \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/products\/westonbirt-dogwood-hedge-plants-cornus-alba\"\u003eSibirica\u003c\/a\u003e. Striking when there is snow on the ground.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe dark stems are also great for arranging with cut flowers. It prefers a sunny spot and is suitable for any soil but will grow happily in a bog. Cornus alba Kesselringii will reach 3 metres.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eView our full selection of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/dogwood-hedging-plants-cornus\"\u003edogwood shrubs\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\nCornus alba Kesselringii plants are delivered bareroot during winter (Nov-April). Their height is measured in centimetres above the ground (roots or pots aren't measured).\u003c\/p\u003e \u003ch3\u003eHistory \u0026amp; Trivia\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eThis variety was bred at the start of the 20th century and is a flower arranger's favourite.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Bareroot \/ 60\/80cm","offer_id":54992630907206,"sku":"CORNALBKES-60\/80","price":4.98,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/cornus-kesselringii-purple-dogwood-bark-1.jpg?v=1755391708"},{"product_id":"king-edward-flowering-currant-hedge-plants-ribes-sanguineum","title":"Flowering Currant Plants, King Edward VII","description":"\u003ch2\u003eFlowering Currant Plants, King Edward VII\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRibes King Edward VII\u003c\/strong\u003e, is a pretty flowering shrub that makes a good informal hedging plant. It'll grow on any soil with decent drainage.\u003cbr\u003eRibes King Edward VII is good for hedges up to about 2-3 metres high.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFruit:\u003c\/strong\u003e It does produce edible fruit, but honestly we would leave them for the birds: they're nowhere near as nice as the big crops of delicious currants you'll get from our varieties of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/currants-bushes\"\u003ered, white or blackcurrant plants\u003c\/a\u003e!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRibes King Edward VII hedge plants are delivered bareroot during winter (Nov-April) and pot-grown year round.\u003cbr\u003eBareroot bushes are cheaper than pot grown plants. Pot grown plants are available in the largest sizes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSee our selection of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/garden-shrubs\"\u003ehedge shrub plants\u003c\/a\u003e or view our full range of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/hedging-plants\"\u003ehedging\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChoosing a size:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWhen you are ordering Ribes King Edward VII plants for a hedge, we generally recommend that you use the smaller, bareroot plants. They're cheaper than the larger, pot-grown plants, easier to handle and they'll establish well in poor conditions.\u003cbr\u003eUse the bigger, pot-grown plants if you want a taller hedge quickly or for instant impact as a specimen shrub.\u003cbr\u003eAll our \u003cstrong\u003ehedge plants are measured\u003c\/strong\u003e by their height in centimetres above the ground (the roots or pots aren't measured).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSpacing a Ribes King Edward VII hedge:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlant Ribes King Edward VII hedging at 3 plants per metre, 33cm apart.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eGeneral description of Ribes King Edward VII plants:\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis \u003cstrong\u003eornamental currant\u003c\/strong\u003e is an elegant shrub carrying strongly scented dark pink, almost purple, flowers in April and dark berries in summer. These are edible, but they don't taste as good as a proper fruiting currant.\u003cbr\u003eThis is an excellent plant for difficult positions as it grows in just about any soil. It can be used as a specimen shrub or an informal single species hedge. For a secure hedge, we advise interplanting it with a tough, thorny plant like hawthorn or blackthorn.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHistory \u0026amp; Trivia\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis North American species has been growing wild in Britain since the first half of the 1800's. This variety was bred during the reign of Queen Victoria, but she died before it was released, and it was named after the new king.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Bareroot \/ 60\/80cm","offer_id":54992631038278,"sku":"RIBESANKIN-60\/80","price":3.48,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Potted \/ 3 Litre","offer_id":54992631071046,"sku":"RIBESANKIED-3L","price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"Bareroot \/ 40\/60cm","offer_id":54992631103814,"sku":"RIBESANKIED-40\/60","price":2.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/king-edward-ribes-sanguineum-flowers-1.jpg?v=1755466818"},{"product_id":"korean-fir-sapling-trees-abies-koreana","title":"Korean Fir Sapling Trees","description":"\u003ch2\u003eKorean Fir Sapling Trees\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUse:\u003c\/strong\u003e Specimen tree, screening, not for hedging\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e Up to 15m - slow growing\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eGrowth:\u003c\/strong\u003e Slow. Compact, straight trunk, bushy Christmas tree shape\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSoil:\u003c\/strong\u003e Deep, slightly acidic, well-drained\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLight:\u003c\/strong\u003e Full sun\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eType:\u003c\/strong\u003e Small evergreen conifer\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAvoid:\u003c\/strong\u003e Urban pollution, exposed sites\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSpecies:\u003c\/strong\u003e Abies koreana\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAwards:\u003c\/strong\u003e RHS Award of Garden Merit\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDelivery:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot only, Nov-March\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eAppearance, Growth \u0026amp; Uses\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKorean Fir is a beautiful, slow-growing evergreen conifer that develops into an attractive screening tree with a distinctive straight trunk and bushy, compact form. \u003cbr\u003eUnlike its giant relatives, Abies koreana reaches a manageable 8-15 metres at maturity, suitable for most gardens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe attractive, dark green, glossy needles have silvery-white undersides, creating a vibrant two-tone effect when the foliage moves in the breeze.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis species has a classic Christmas tree silhouette when young, maturing into a columnar form with distinctive whorled branches. The bark becomes furrowed with age, and the growth habit remains neat and compact.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKorean Fir is prized for its ornamental purple cones, which appear upright on the branches like candles before maturing to brown and breaking apart while still on the tree.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt excels as an architectural specimen tree, providing year-round structure and evergreen interest. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBrowse other \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/large-garden-parkland-trees\"\u003e \u003cstrong\u003elarge garden trees\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e, other \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/conifers-evergreen-trees\"\u003e \u003cstrong\u003econifers\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e, or our full range of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/garden-trees-big-standards\"\u003e \u003cstrong\u003etrees\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eGrowing Conditions\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSoil:\u003c\/strong\u003e Deep, neutral to slightly acidic\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLight:\u003c\/strong\u003e Full sun preferred\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMoisture:\u003c\/strong\u003e Moist but well-drained\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAvoid:\u003c\/strong\u003e Urban pollution, very exposed sites\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMaintenance:\u003c\/strong\u003e Minimal - no pruning required\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHardiness:\u003c\/strong\u003e Very hardy (H7)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKorean Fir thrives in deep, neutral to slightly acidic soils with good drainage and consistent moisture. It performs best in cooler climates and needs shelter from cold winds, particularly when young.\u003cbr\u003eUnlike many conifers, it's sensitive to urban pollution and performs better in rural environments.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlant in full sun for best development, though it tolerates partial shade. The slow growth rate means minimal maintenance once established.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eGarden Design Ideas\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePerfect for focal points in lawns, framing views, and as a backdrop and windbreak for a large flower border.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUse Korean Fir as a specimen tree in prominent positions where its architectural form can be appreciated year-round.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCreate elegant evergreen groupings by planting several Korean Firs at 5-8 metre spacing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe compact mature size is ideal for most gardens, where larger conifers would be overwhelming.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHistory \u0026amp; Trivia\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbies koreana is native to the mountains of South Korea, where it's called Gusang namu and grows in cool, moist conditions at high altitudes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIntroduced to Britain in 1905, Korean Fir quickly gained recognition for its ornamental value, enhanced by producing cones at a young age compared to other firs.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn its native habitat, Korean Fir is endangered. The slow growth rate that is so garden-friendly makes it vulnerable in the wild, where faster-growing species outcompete it.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe wood isn't commercially important due to slow growth, softness, and susceptibility to rotting outdoors.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Bareroot \/ 20\/40cm","offer_id":54992631136582,"sku":"ABIEKOR-15\/30","price":4.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/korean-fir-cones-abies-koreana.jpg?v=1755543170"},{"product_id":"lawsons-cypress-hedge-plants-chamaecyparis-lawsoniana","title":"Lawson's False Cypress Hedge Plants","description":"\u003ch2\u003eLawson's False Cypress Hedge Plants\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLawsons Cypress, Chamaecyparis lawsoniana\u003c\/strong\u003e, is an evergreen, coniferous \u003cstrong\u003ehedging plant\u003c\/strong\u003e or large, quite narrow tree. \u003cbr\u003eLawsons Cypress can reach over 40 metres if it grows freely as a tree.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eLawsons Cypress hedge plants are \u003cstrong\u003eonly delivered bareroot\u003c\/strong\u003e, during winter (Nov-April).\u003cbr\u003eAll our \u003cstrong\u003ehedge plants are measured\u003c\/strong\u003e by their height in centimetres above the ground (the roots aren't measured).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSee our selection of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/evergreen-hedging-plants\"\u003eevergeen hedging\u003c\/a\u003e or see our full range of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/hedging-plants\"\u003ehedging plants\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSpacing a Lawsons Cypress hedge:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlant Lawsons Cypress hedging at 3 plants per metre, 33cm apart.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eGeneral description of Lawsons Cypress plants:\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSometimes called False Cypress, this is a large, fast growing evergreen tree that makes an excellent screen or windbreak. It clips very well, so it can be grown as a hedge, but it must be clipped regularly because overgrown hedges can't be hard pruned. The slightly drooping foliage is darker than that of leylandii.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough this natural species variety doesn't hold an RHS Award of Garden Merit, it has produced an exceptionally high number of cultivars, about 30, that do. Since these differ only in appearance, you could say that this variety is an honourary holder of the award.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHistory \u0026amp; Trivia\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis tree was discovered in Northern California in the 1850's during a search for a missing botanist called John Jeffrey. The first seeds raised in Britain were grown at the Lawson Nursery in Edinburgh. The timber of this tree is very popular in Japan for building coffins. In its native range this tree can reach 70 metres tall.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Bareroot \/ 30\/50cm","offer_id":54992631333190,"sku":"CHAMLAW-30\/50","price":1.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/lawsons-false-cypress-mature-tree.jpg?v=1755542990"},{"product_id":"midwinter-fire-dogwood-hedge-plants-cornus-sanguinea","title":"'Midwinter Fire' Dogwood Plants","description":"\u003cul class=\"pdp-specs\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eVariety:\u003c\/strong\u003e Midwinter Fire, a Dogwood that lives up to its name\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCommon name:\u003c\/strong\u003e Midwinter Fire Dogwood\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLatin name:\u003c\/strong\u003e Cornus sanguinea 'Midwinter Fire'\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSold as:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot plants at 30\/40cm, and pot-grown in a 3 litre pot\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSize:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1.5 to 2.5m tall and wide if left alone, in 2-3 years. Smaller when coppiced\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWinter stems:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yellow at the base, shading to orange and red at the tips\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLeaves and flowers:\u003c\/strong\u003e Deciduous. Small white flowers in summer, orange-yellow autumn leaves\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePruning:\u003c\/strong\u003e Coppice in spring, every other year\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBest soil and site:\u003c\/strong\u003e Most soils, wet ground included. Sun or partial shade, with full sun for the best colour\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUse:\u003c\/strong\u003e Specimen shrub, massed winter planting, low ornamental hedge\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHardiness:\u003c\/strong\u003e H6, hardy through the British winter\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRHS Plants for Pollinators:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDelivered:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot, November to April. Pot-grown, all year when in stock. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/collect-your-order-from-castle-cary\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eCollection from Castle Cary\u003c\/a\u003e also available\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eMidwinter Fire is a deciduous Dogwood grown for the colour of the current year's winter stems, which run from yellow at the base to orange and red at the tips. It grows 1.5 to 2.5 metres tall in most soils, in sun or partial shade, and we coppice ours every other spring to keep the colour coming.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003e'Midwinter Fire' Dogwood Plants\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCornus Midwinter Fire\u003c\/strong\u003e, is a medium-sized, deciduous shrub with dense, upright growth and blazing red, gold-yellow and orange winter bark: the closest thing to coral this side of the sea, surely one of the most striking of the shrubby dogwoods.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe summer leaves are green, turning an excellent orange-yellow in the autumn, with small white flowers in May and June. \u003cbr\u003eWhich is all nice enough, but its real glory is in winter, when it'll light your garden up on the dismal days between November and March. It'll reach 2 metres.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt really has no rival, and every garden should have one. No other garden shrub radiates such light and beauty over such an extended period of time, from the end of October through to late March\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eView our selection of \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/dogwood-hedging-plants-cornus\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003edogwood shrubs\u003c\/a\u003e or see our full range of \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/hedging-plants\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehedging\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDelivery season:\u003c\/strong\u003e Dogwood plants are delivered bareroot during late autumn and winter, approximately November-April inclusive.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eGrowing Cornus Midwinter Fire\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLike all dogwoods, it loves damp ground, but once it's established it'll grow happily on a dry bank. It'll grow faster in the sun, but partial shade is fine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo keep those beautiful new stems coming, coppice them by cutting them down to the base in spring, every one or two years: cut above the third bud up from soil level on new plants. Mature plants will develop a stool, and you can use your own judgement about how much you remove, depending on how you like to manage your plants. Give them a nice mulch afterwards to help them bounce back vigorously.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eGarden Design Ideas\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOf all the dogwoods, this one lights up the garden in Winter, wonderful as a stand-alone shrub in a small garden.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe think Midwinter Fire Dogwood is at its best in a massed planting, with or without other dogwoods to set it off like the purple \u003ca href=\"\/products\/kesselringii-dogwood-hedge-plants-cornus-alba\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eKesselringii\u003c\/a\u003e or the red \u003ca href=\"\/products\/westonbirt-dogwood-hedge-plants-cornus-alba\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eWestonbirt\u003c\/a\u003e. It's not as vigorous as the other dogwoods, so plant it at the front if you are using it in a mixed patch.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt goes well with pretty much any \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/evergreen-hedging-plants\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eevergreen\u003c\/a\u003e as a backdrop, and because you chop it down so often, all sorts of \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/spring-flowering-bulbs\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003espring flowering bulbs\u003c\/a\u003e can be deployed to provide interest while it regrows.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt's an interesting choice for an ornamental hedge that has no security or privacy purpose, because it needs to be cut close to the ground every other year (if you want that winter bark). For this purpose, a 50-75cm spacing is fine, because you aren't trying to make it into a proper barrier. For a real hedge, we would use \u003ca href=\"\/products\/common-native-dogwood-hedge-plants-cornus-sanguinea\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ecommon dogwood\u003c\/a\u003e instead.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlanting Companions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003ca href=\"\/products\/flaviramea-dogwood-hedge-plants-cornus-sericea\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eGolden Twig Dogwood\u003c\/a\u003e carries the same colour range upward into yellow, and the two are coppiced together. Plant \u003ca href=\"\/products\/galanthus-nivalis-snowdrop-bulbs\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eSnowdrops\u003c\/a\u003e and other early bulbs at the foot, where they flower while the stems are at their best, and put an evergreen behind so the stems stand out. Dust bareroot plants with \u003ca href=\"\/products\/rootgrow-universal-friendly-mycorrhizae-fungi\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eRootgrow\u003c\/a\u003e as you plant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy Buy Hedging from Ashridge\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eHedging is not a sideline here: your Dogwood is grown for us by specialist growers, and bareroot plants are lifted to order while dormant and guaranteed for 12 months. A pot-grown plant delivered leafless between November and March carries the same guarantee. Ashridge is a Which? Best Plant Supplier 2025.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eDo you cut Midwinter Fire back every year?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo. Give it a hard prune every couple of years, which keeps it compact without exhausting it. Leave a new plant alone for its first two years.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhy has my Dogwood lost its colour?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe colour is in the youngest stems, and old wood fades. Coppice the plant in spring and the new shoots that follow will colour up by winter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow big does Midwinter Fire grow?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1.5 to 2.5 metres tall and as wide, reached in 5 to 10 years. Coppiced every other year it stays well below that.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow far apart do you plant Dogwood for winter colour?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor a block of colour, plant at 50 to 60cm. For a low ornamental hedge, 50 to 75cm is fine, because you are not trying to make a barrier.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWill Midwinter Fire grow in wet soil?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. Like all Dogwoods it likes damp ground, and it grows in most soils in sun or partial shade. Once established it also copes with a dry bank.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhen are Dogwood plants delivered?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBareroot plants are delivered from November to April, while they are dormant. The plant in a 3 litre pot can be delivered and planted in any month when you find it in stock.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Bareroot \/ 30\/40cm","offer_id":54992631759174,"sku":"CORNSANMIDFI-30\/40","price":6.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Potted \/ 3 Litre","offer_id":54992631791942,"sku":"CORNSANMIDFI-CN-50\/70","price":13.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/midwinter-fire-dogwood-cornus-sanguinea-winter-1.jpg?v=1755634596"},{"product_id":"nordman-fir-sapling-trees-abies-nordmanniana","title":"Non-Drop Christmas Tree Saplings","description":"\u003cul class=\"pdp-specs\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCommon name:\u003c\/strong\u003e Nordmann Fir, Caucasian Fir, Non-Drop Christmas Tree\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLatin name:\u003c\/strong\u003e Abies nordmanniana\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eType:\u003c\/strong\u003e Large evergreen conifer\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSold as:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot saplings in two sizes, and pot-grown in a 3 litre pot\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMature size:\u003c\/strong\u003e More than 12m tall, in time 30m or more, and 4 to 8m wide. 20 to 50 years to full height\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eShape:\u003c\/strong\u003e Narrowly conical, with a straight trunk and down-swept branches\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUse:\u003c\/strong\u003e Specimen tree, tall screening, growing your own Christmas tree. Not for a clipped hedge\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBest soil and site:\u003c\/strong\u003e Moist but well-drained, slightly acid soil: loam, clay or sand. Full sun, with shelter\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePruning:\u003c\/strong\u003e None needed\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHardiness:\u003c\/strong\u003e H7, hardy in the severest British winter\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDelivered:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot, November to April. Pot-grown, all year when in stock. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/collect-your-order-from-castle-cary\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eCollection from Castle Cary\u003c\/a\u003e also available\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eNordmann Fir is the Christmas tree that holds its needles, an evergreen conifer with glossy dark green foliage and a narrow conical shape. Left to grow it makes a large tree of 30 metres or more, in moist, slightly acid soil in full sun. These are young saplings, bareroot or in a 3 litre pot.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eNon-Drop Christmas Tree Saplings\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eAppearance, Growth \u0026amp; Uses\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNordmann Fir is a magnificent evergreen conifer that develops into an impressive specimen tree with a distinctive straight trunk and perfect Christmas tree silhouette. \u003cbr\u003eThis majestic tree reaches up to 60 metres in ideal conditions, but is quite slow growing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe dense, glossy, dark green needles create an attractive layered appearance on the symmetrical branches, maintaining an elegant architectural presence.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt maintains its classic conical form throughout its life. The bark becomes attractively furrowed with age, and the overall form remains impressively columnar and neat.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt excels as a tall screening tree, providing year-round privacy and wind protection, although it's not recommended as a frontline windbreak tree in very exposed areas.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBrowse other \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/large-garden-parkland-trees\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003elarge garden trees\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e, other \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/conifers-evergreen-trees\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003econifers\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e, or our full range of \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/garden-trees-big-standards\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003etrees\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eGrowing Conditions\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSoil:\u003c\/strong\u003e Deep, well-drained soils\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLight:\u003c\/strong\u003e Full sun. Young trees tolerate shade\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMoisture:\u003c\/strong\u003e Tolerates various moisture levels once established\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAvoid:\u003c\/strong\u003e Waterlogged or very dry soils, urban pollution\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMaintenance:\u003c\/strong\u003e Minimal once established\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHardiness:\u003c\/strong\u003e Very hardy, reasonably wind resistant\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNordmann Fir thrives in deep, well-drained soils, preferring a moist, acidic site.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt won't grow on shallow chalk, but should tolerate mildly alkaline soils.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt's not suitable for dry sites or polluted urban areas.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYoung trees are shade-tolerant, but want to grow up into the sun reasonably quickly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eGarden Design Ideas\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUse Nordmann Fir as a magnificent specimen tree in large gardens where its full height and perfect symmetry can be appreciated. \u003cbr\u003ePlant as a single focal point or in small groups at 4-6 metre spacing for dramatic landscape impact.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePerfect for framing views and creating vertical structure in large garden designs. \u003cbr\u003eThe dense foliage provides year-round screening and privacy. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHistory \u0026amp; Trivia\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbies nordmanniana is native to the mountains of Turkey, Georgia, and the Caucasus region, where it grows in cool, moist mountain forests at high altitudes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIntroduced to Britain in 1848, it became the preferred Christmas tree species from the 1950's, when its excellent needle retention after being cut down was widely known. \u003cbr\u003eOn the living tree, each needle remains for up to 20 years, longer than any other fir species.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt's named after Alexander von Nordmann (1803 to 1866), a Finnish Professor of Botany in the Russian Empire (Finland became independent from Russia in 1917). \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn its native habitat, Nordmann Fir can live for over 500 years. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe timber, classed as a whitewood (as opposed to redwood), is used for construction and paper production.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlanting Companions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWe sell two other conifers as young plants for the same kind of planting: \u003ca href=\"\/products\/norway-spruce-hedge-plants-picea-abies\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eNorway Spruce\u003c\/a\u003e and the native \u003ca href=\"\/products\/scots-pine-sapling-trees-pinus-sylvestris\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eScots Pine\u003c\/a\u003e. Dust the roots of bareroot saplings with \u003ca href=\"\/products\/rootgrow-universal-friendly-mycorrhizae-fungi\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eRootgrow\u003c\/a\u003e as you plant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy Ashridge?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAshridge has sold trees since 1949 and is a Which? Best Plant Supplier 2025. Your bareroot Nordmann Fir saplings are lifted to order while dormant and guaranteed for 12 months. The pot-grown plant can be planted in any month, and real people answer the phone in Somerset.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhy is Nordmann Fir called the non-drop Christmas tree?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBecause it holds its needles after it is cut, which is why it has been the preferred Christmas tree in Britain since the 1950s. The needles are soft, glossy and dark green.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow fast does a Nordmann Fir grow?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSlowly to begin with, then at a moderate pace. It takes 20 to 50 years to reach full height, which is 30 metres or more if you leave it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eCan you grow Nordmann Fir as a hedge?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo. It is not suitable for clipped hedging, and it needs no pruning at all. Grow it as a specimen, in a group, or as a tall screen.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat soil does Nordmann Fir need?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMoist but well-drained soil that is slightly acid: loam, clay or sand. It will not grow on shallow chalk or on dry ground, but should take a mildly alkaline soil.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eDoes it need full sun?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA grown tree does. Young trees tolerate shade, but they want to grow up into the sun reasonably quickly. Give yours some shelter from the strongest winds.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhen are the saplings delivered?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBareroot saplings come from November to April, while they are dormant. The plant in a 3 litre pot can come in any month when you find it in stock.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Bareroot \/ 15\/30cm","offer_id":54992631955782,"sku":"ABIENOR-15\/20","price":3.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Bareroot \/ 30\/50cm","offer_id":54992631988550,"sku":"ABIENOR-30\/50","price":3.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Potted \/ 3 Litre","offer_id":54992632021318,"sku":"ABIENOR-3L","price":8.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/nordmann-fir-tree-abies-nordmanniana-2.jpg?v=1755634624"},{"product_id":"norway-spruce-hedge-plants-picea-abies","title":"Norway Spruce Sapling Trees","description":"\u003cul class=\"pdp-specs\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eVariety:\u003c\/strong\u003e Norway Spruce, the traditional Christmas tree, as young saplings\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLatin name:\u003c\/strong\u003e Picea abies\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSold as:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot saplings, 30\/50cm tall\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUse:\u003c\/strong\u003e Windbreaks, shelter belts, evergreen hedging and growing your own Christmas trees\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMature size:\u003c\/strong\u003e More than 12m tall and more than 8m wide, up to 30m\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eEvergreen:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes. Dark green, glossy needles\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCones:\u003c\/strong\u003e Light brown, hanging, up to 15cm long\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNative:\u003c\/strong\u003e No\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBest soil and site:\u003c\/strong\u003e Acid or neutral soil that is moist but drains well. Not chalk. Full sun. Exposed or sheltered\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHardiness:\u003c\/strong\u003e H7, hardy in the severest British winter\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDelivered:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot, November to April. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/collect-your-order-from-castle-cary\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eCollection from Castle Cary\u003c\/a\u003e also available\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eNorway Spruce is the traditional Christmas tree: a fast-growing evergreen conifer with dark, glossy needles and long hanging cones. These young bareroot saplings are for windbreaks, shelter belts, hedging and growing your own Christmas trees, on any moist, acid or neutral soil.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eNorway Spruce Sapling Trees\u003c\/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe Common Norway Spruce, Picea abies, is what most people call the traditional \u003cstrong\u003eChristmas tree\u003c\/strong\u003e, although the \"non-drop\" \u003ca href=\"\/products\/nordman-fir-sapling-trees-abies-nordmanniana\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eNordmann fir\u003c\/a\u003e has become popular. When it's grown out in the open, with full sun, it'll take a classic Christmas tree shape, with a broad base of spreading branches close to the ground and a gently tapering shape towards the top. It decorates itself with quite long, cigar shaped cones that hang down from the branches.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eIf it's grown in a forest situation, it'll lose its lowest branches as they're shaded out and concentrate on growing straight up. Eventually, it'll become a tall, slender tree to 40 metres with a clear trunk for over half its height and quite a small, narrow canopy.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eBut when \u003cstrong\u003eclipped as a hedge\u003c\/strong\u003e, it makes an excellent windbreak.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eYou can also buy \u003ca href=\"\/products\/colorado-blue-spruce-sapling-trees-picea-pungens-glauca\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eBlue Spruce\u003c\/a\u003e for more ornamental foliage.\u003cbr\u003e\nBrowse our other \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/evergreen-hedging-plants\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eevergreens\u003c\/a\u003e, or our full range \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/hedging-plants\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehedging and saplings\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDelivery season:\u003c\/strong\u003e Spruce are delivered bareroot during late autumn and winter, approximately November-April inclusive.\u003c\/p\u003e  \u003ch3\u003eGrowing\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eChalky soil isn't suitable. Your trees will grow in any soil type that is fairly moist and fertile. When the trees are young, they'll tolerate quite a lot of shade and simply grow slowly, working their way into the light. Exposed, windy locations are fine.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003ch3\u003eWhat Tree is a Christmas Tree?\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cul\u003e \u003cli\u003eNorway Spruce, Picea abies, is a cheap option that \u003cstrong\u003esmells great\u003c\/strong\u003e, but drops its needles quite quickly indoors, so it's better for outdoor use or when buying an indoor tree last minute.\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003eThe most traditional Christmas Tree in the UK is the \u003ca href=\"\/products\/scots-pine-sapling-trees-pinus-sylvestris\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eScots Pine\u003c\/a\u003e, Pinus sylvestris, which holds its needles pretty well, but is no longer in demand compared to the other species.\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003eThe \u003ca href=\"\/products\/nordman-fir-sapling-trees-abies-nordmanniana\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eNordman Fir\u003c\/a\u003e, Abies nordmanniana, known as the Non-Drop Christmas tree, has become the \u003cstrong\u003emost popular for indoor use\u003c\/strong\u003e, especially for people buying their tree early.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlanting Companions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFor a Christmas tree that holds its needles indoors, plant \u003ca href=\"\/products\/nordman-fir-sapling-trees-abies-nordmanniana\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eNordmann Fir\u003c\/a\u003e. \u003ca href=\"\/products\/scots-pine-sapling-trees-pinus-sylvestris\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eScots Pine\u003c\/a\u003e is our native conifer, and \u003ca href=\"\/products\/colorado-blue-spruce-sapling-trees-picea-pungens-glauca\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eBlue Spruce\u003c\/a\u003e has the most ornamental foliage. On chalk, where Spruce fails, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/yew-hedge-plants-taxus-baccata\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eYew\u003c\/a\u003e is the evergreen to use. Dust bareroot roots with \u003ca href=\"\/products\/rootgrow-universal-friendly-mycorrhizae-fungi\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eRootgrow\u003c\/a\u003e as you plant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy Ashridge for Hedging and Young Trees?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eHedging and young native trees are not a sideline here: your Norway Spruce saplings are grown for us by specialist growers. Bareroot plants are lifted to order while dormant and guaranteed for 12 months. Ashridge has sold plants since 1949 and is a Which? Best Plant Supplier 2025.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eDoes a Norway Spruce drop its needles?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIndoors, yes, quite quickly. It smells wonderful, so it suits an outdoor tree or one brought in at the last minute. Nordmann Fir is the one that holds its needles.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWill Norway Spruce grow on chalk?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo. It wants acid or neutral soil that is moist but drains well. On chalk, plant Yew for an evergreen screen.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow big does Norway Spruce grow?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is a fast-growing conifer. It reaches more than 12 metres tall and 8 metres wide, up to 30 metres, in 20 to 50 years. Trimmed as a hedge, it stays where you keep it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eCan you grow Norway Spruce as a hedge?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, clipped as a hedge it makes an excellent windbreak. Trim the green growth only, and keep the base of the hedge in the light so that it stays clothed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWill it grow in shade?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYoung trees tolerate quite a lot of shade and grow slowly towards the light. For a dense hedge or a well-shaped Christmas tree, give it full sun.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs Norway Spruce native to Britain?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo. It is not native. Scots Pine is the native conifer to choose if that matters to your planting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhen are the plants delivered?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBareroot only, from November to April, while the plants are dormant. You can order at any time of year and your plants are lifted and sent once the season opens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Bareroot \/ 30\/50cm","offer_id":54992632086854,"sku":"PICEABI-30\/50","price":2.55,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/norway-spruce-hedge-picea-abies-2.jpg?v=1755634626"},{"product_id":"oleaster-hedge-plants-elaeagnus-angustifolia","title":"Elaeagnus (Oleaster) Hedge Plants","description":"\u003cul class=\"pdp-specs\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCommon names:\u003c\/strong\u003e Oleaster, Russian Olive\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLatin name:\u003c\/strong\u003e Elaeagnus angustifolia\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNative:\u003c\/strong\u003e No. Russia to Iran\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSold as:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot hedge plants, 60\/80cm tall\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eEvergreen:\u003c\/strong\u003e No. Deciduous, with silvery leaves and thorns\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHedge height:\u003c\/strong\u003e Up to about 4m\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSize unpruned:\u003c\/strong\u003e 4 to 8m tall and wide, usually about 6m\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSpacing:\u003c\/strong\u003e 3 plants per metre\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlowers:\u003c\/strong\u003e Small, creamy-yellow and fragrant, in summer\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePosition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Full sun. Takes coastal wind and exposure\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSoil:\u003c\/strong\u003e Well-drained, poor and dry soils included. May yellow on shallow chalk\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWildlife:\u003c\/strong\u003e RHS Plants for Pollinators\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHardiness:\u003c\/strong\u003e H5, hardy through a cold winter\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDelivered:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot, November to April. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/collect-your-order-from-castle-cary\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eCollection from Castle Cary\u003c\/a\u003e also available\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOleaster is a thorny, silver-leaved deciduous shrub for poor, dry soil and windy sites by the sea, with small, fragrant, creamy-yellow flowers in summer that put it on the RHS Plants for Pollinators list. It makes a hedge up to about 4 metres high.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eElaeagnus (Oleaster) Hedge Plants\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eElaeagnus angustifolia, Oleaster \u003c\/strong\u003eor \u003cstrong\u003eRussian Olive,\u003c\/strong\u003e is a big \u003cstrong\u003edeciduous \u003c\/strong\u003ethorny shrub that thrives in poor soil by the sea and is able to grow on almost pure sand.\u003cbr\u003eElaeagnus angustifolia is good for hedges up to about 4 metres high.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eElaeagnus angustifolia hedge plants are \u003cstrong\u003eonly delivered bareroot\u003c\/strong\u003e, during winter (Nov-April).\u003cbr\u003eAll our \u003cstrong\u003ehedge plants are measured\u003c\/strong\u003e by their height in centimetres above the ground (the roots aren't measured).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSpacing an Elaeagnus angustifolia hedge:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlant Elaeagnus angustifolia hedging at 3 plants per metre, 33cm apart.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eGeneral description of Elaeagnus angustifolia plants:\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a hardy hedging plant for poor soils and windy sites on the coast. It's thorny and has silvery, fragrant foliage. The small, abundant yellow flowers aren't very showy, but they have a good scent that carries well. These mature into small silver-orange berries, which are edible, although they don't have much flavour and tend to be quickly picked off by birds. As a shrub, Oleaster is also good for small gardens. Oleaster's roots \u003cstrong\u003efix nitrogen\u003c\/strong\u003e, so it'll thrive on the worst soils.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eView our selection of \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/coastal-salt-tolerant-hedging-plants\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ecoastal hedging\u003c\/a\u003e plants or see our full range of \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/hedging-plants\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehedging\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHistory \u0026amp; Trivia\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCommon Names: \u003c\/strong\u003eOleaster, Silver berry bush, Russian olive, Wild olive\u003cbr\u003eElaeagnus angustifolia's native range is from Russia to Iran, where its berries are dried, powdered and added to milk for drinking. It has been grown in Britain since the 1500s.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlanting Companions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFor a seaside hedge or shelter belt, Oleaster's natural partners are \u003ca href=\"\/products\/sea-buckthorn-hedge-plants-hippophae-rhamnoides\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eSea Buckthorn\u003c\/a\u003e, which has the same silver leaf, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/tamarisk-hedge-plants-tamarix-tetrandra\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eTamarisk\u003c\/a\u003e and the \u003ca href=\"\/products\/red-ramanas-rose-hedge-plants-rosa-rugosa-rubra\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eRed Ramanas Rose\u003c\/a\u003e. Dust the roots with \u003ca href=\"\/products\/rootgrow-universal-friendly-mycorrhizae-fungi\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eRootgrow\u003c\/a\u003e as you plant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy Ashridge for Hedging?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eHedging is not a sideline here: your Oleaster is grown for us as hedging by specialist growers. Bareroot plants are lifted to order while dormant and guaranteed for 12 months. Ashridge has sold plants since 1949 and is a Which? Best Plant Supplier 2025.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWill Oleaster grow by the sea?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. It tolerates coastal winds and dry soil, and it grows in very sandy ground. It needs full sun.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow tall does an Oleaster hedge grow?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKeep it as a hedge up to about 4 metres. Left unpruned, it grows 4 to 8 metres tall and wide, usually about 6 metres.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs Oleaster evergreen?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo. It is deciduous. The leaves are dark green above and silvery beneath, on red-tinted, silvery shoots that are sometimes spiky.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat soil does it need?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAny well-drained soil, however poor. The one caution is that the leaves may yellow on shallow, chalky soil.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs it good for bees?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. It is on the RHS Plants for Pollinators list. The small, creamy-yellow flowers open in summer and are fragrant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow far apart do you plant it?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThree plants per metre, 33cm apart, in a single row.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhen are the plants delivered?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBareroot only, from November to April, while the plants are dormant. You can order at any time of year and your plants are lifted and sent once the season opens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Bareroot \/ 60\/80cm","offer_id":54992632119622,"sku":"ELAEANG-60\/80","price":3.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/elaeagnus-angustifolia-berries.jpg?v=1755543139"},{"product_id":"pink-snowberry-hedge-plants-symphoricarpos-chenaultii","title":"Pink Snowberry Hedge Plants","description":"\u003ch2\u003ePink Snowberry Hedge Plants\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSymphoricarpos chenaultii \u003c\/strong\u003e,\u003cstrong\u003e Snowberry\u003c\/strong\u003e, is a vigorous, medium sized, deciduous hedging shrub, although it's \"semi-evergreen-ish\" in warmer, sheltered areas in the South.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt's good for bushy, informal hedges up to about 2.5 metres, spreading up 3 metres across when grown freely as a specimen bush.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSee our selection of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/native-british-hedging-plants\"\u003enative hedging\u003c\/a\u003e plants or view our full range of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/hedging-plants\"\u003ehedging\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSymphoricarpos hedge plants are \u003cstrong\u003eonly delivered bareroot\u003c\/strong\u003e, during winter (Nov-April).\u003cbr\u003eAll our \u003cstrong\u003ehedge plants are measured\u003c\/strong\u003e by their height in centimetres above the ground (the roots aren't measured).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Pink Snowberry is a vigorous, medium sized, deciduous hedging shrub. It forms dense thickets without any attention and so its often planted to provide cover for game and other wildlife. The white flowers are abundant in summer and ripen into plentiful pink berries. These aren't of much interest to birds, so they decorate the slender, arching branches until the winter frosts. The berries are edible, but they don't have much flavour and eating too many may give you an upset stomach.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSpacing a Symphoricarpos chenaultii hedge:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlant Symphoricarpos chenaultii hedging at 3 plants per metre, 33cm apart.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHistory \u0026amp; Trivia\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis hybrid was identified by Alfred Rehder (1863-1949) at Harvard University's Arnold Arboretum, and subsequently sold by \u003cspan\u003eFrench nurseryman, Monsieur le Chevalier \u003c\/span\u003eLéon Chenault \u003cspan\u003e(1853–1930)\u003c\/span\u003e of Orléans, France, in 1912.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe parent species are the hardy Symphoricarpos orbiculatus, whose native range in the eastern United States is separate from that of the prettier Mexican Symphoricarpos microphyllus.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Bareroot \/ 40\/60cm","offer_id":54992633037126,"sku":"SYMPCHE-40\/60","price":2.46,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/pink-snowberry-bush-berries.jpg?v=1755543045"},{"product_id":"portuguese-laurel-hedge-plants-prunus-lusitanica-angustifolia","title":"Portugal Laurel Hedge Plants","description":"\u003cul class=\"pdp-specs\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eVariety:\u003c\/strong\u003e Portugal Laurel, the elegant evergreen hedge for almost any site\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLatin name:\u003c\/strong\u003e Prunus lusitanica\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSold as:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot, 20\/40cm. Pot-grown in P9 pots, and at 160\/180cm in 20 litre pots\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFoliage:\u003c\/strong\u003e Evergreen. Deep green, glossy leaves on dark red stalks\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlowers and fruit:\u003c\/strong\u003e Fragrant white flowers in early summer on a hedge that is not clipped hard, then small, dark purple fruit\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHedge height:\u003c\/strong\u003e From 1.5m upwards\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUnpruned size:\u003c\/strong\u003e More than 12m tall and 8m wide in time, as a tree\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePlanting distance:\u003c\/strong\u003e 2 to 3 plants per metre in a single row\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBest soil and site:\u003c\/strong\u003e Any moist but well-drained soil, including poor, shallow chalk. Sun or partial shade. Not waterlogged ground\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWildlife:\u003c\/strong\u003e RHS Plants for Pollinators\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHardiness:\u003c\/strong\u003e H5, hardy through a cold winter\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRHS Award of Garden Merit:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes (1993)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDelivered:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot, November to April. Pot-grown, all year when in stock. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/collect-your-order-from-castle-cary\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eCollection from Castle Cary\u003c\/a\u003e also available\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePortugal Laurel is a dense evergreen hedge with deep green, glossy leaves on dark red stalks. It grows in sun or partial shade on almost any soil that drains, poor shallow chalk included, and clips to a formal finish. It holds the RHS Award of Garden Merit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePortugal Laurel Hedge Plants\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePortuguese laurel\u003c\/strong\u003e is considerably more elegant and pleasing to the eye than its cousin, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/cherry-laurel-hedge-plants-prunus-laurocerasus-rotundifolia\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eCommon Laurel\u003c\/a\u003e, and is even tougher and more versatile. The vigorous leaves are lush and glossy and a deep, rich, dark green, looking a little like bay leaves, a bit darker than common laurel. The young spring foliage has a pink tinge, which remains on the rhubarb red leaf stalks after the leaves mature and looks especially good in winter. If it's not trimmed hard, it'll produce creamy white candelabras of flowers, called racemes, with yellow centres in June. These have a fine scent, similar to hawthorn, and lots of pollen. The flowers are followed by berries that turn from red to purple as they age. See \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/laurel-hedging-plants\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eour other Laurels here\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe smallest size is available bare root in the winter, but larger, potted plants are available all year round. If your site is really dry, you are best off planting bare root and small, to give the plant a chance to set strong roots for its size before growing up top.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eGarden Design Ideas\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is the plant for that impossible spot where nothing grows: in the shade of the neighbour's \u003ca href=\"\/products\/leylandii-hedge-plants-cupressus-leylandii\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eLeylandii\u003c\/a\u003e hedge, abutting the Northfacing wall, on chalky uplands or windy sites by the sea. The only place it can't grow in is waterlogged soil. \u003cbr\u003eDespite the name, this Laurel is hardy throughout the British Isles.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn a city, this laurel eats pollution for breakfast, blocks light, acts as a windbreak, all while looking formal when you clip it tidily. A Portuguese laurel hedge is a larder of berries for birds (not humans: the leaves and berries are harmful if eaten, and the fruit turns bitter, which discourages children from eating them even if they could reach that high), especially when you clip it every other year. \u003cbr\u003eIt provides excellent game cover and was specifically used for this because it was believed that the berries improved the flavour of the birds.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGrown as a single stemmed tree, Portuguese Laurel will top 15 metres tall. \u003cbr\u003eIt can be clipped into lollipops or other basic topiary shapes like mushrooms, ovals and blocks.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePrune in February, July and October to really keep them crisp. \u003cbr\u003eUnderplant with Skimmia or Sarcococca, which also look at their best in winter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHistory \u0026amp; Trivia\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLaurels are members of the cherry family. This one was introduced into Britain from Madeira via Portugal in 1648 during the reign of Charles I. The original specimen grew at Oxford Botanic Garden until it was cut down in 1826. On arrival, it was considered tender and was grown in glass house orangeries. At some point, someone left a plant outside over winter, perhaps by mistake, and it was \"discovered\" to be completely frost hardy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlanting Companions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFor a brighter green leaf, compare it with \u003ca href=\"\/products\/cherry-laurel-hedge-plants-prunus-laurocerasus-rotundifolia\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eCherry Laurel\u003c\/a\u003e. For the darkest and most formal evergreen hedge, look at \u003ca href=\"\/products\/yew-hedge-plants-taxus-baccata\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eYew\u003c\/a\u003e. You can see every choice in our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/evergreen-hedging-plants\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eevergreen hedging\u003c\/a\u003e range. Dust bareroot roots with \u003ca href=\"\/products\/rootgrow-universal-friendly-mycorrhizae-fungi\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eRootgrow\u003c\/a\u003e as you plant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy Ashridge for Hedging?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eHedging is not a sideline here: your Portugal Laurel is grown for us as hedging by specialist growers. Bareroot plants are lifted to order while dormant and guaranteed for 12 months. Ashridge has sold plants since 1949 and is a Which? Best Plant Supplier 2025.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow far apart do you plant Portugal Laurel?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlant 2 to 3 to the metre in a single row. Use the closer spacing for small bareroot and P9 plants, and the wider one for the large pot-grown size.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWill Portugal Laurel grow on chalk?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. It even thrives on poor, shallow, chalky soils. The one thing it will not stand is waterlogged ground, so pick another plant for a wet site.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eDoes Portugal Laurel grow in shade?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. It grows in sun or partial shade, and we find it copes with the shade cast by buildings and by other hedges.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhen should you trim a Portugal Laurel hedge?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLate spring or early summer. One trim a year is enough for a hedge. Use secateurs on a short run to avoid cutting the leaves in half.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs Portugal Laurel hardy?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. It is rated H5, hardy through a cold winter anywhere in the British Isles. It also stands wind, and sites near the sea.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eShould you buy bareroot or pot-grown plants?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSmall bareroot plants cost least and establish well, above all on a dry site. Choose the large pot-grown size for an instant screen, and water it well through its first summer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhen are the plants delivered?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBareroot plants are delivered from November to April, while they are dormant. Pot-grown plants can be delivered and planted in any month when you find them in stock.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Bareroot \/ 20\/40cm","offer_id":54992633069894,"sku":"PRUNLUS-30\/50","price":4.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Potted \/ 160\/180cm 20L Pot","offer_id":54992633102662,"sku":"PRUNLUS-160\/180-20L","price":79.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"Potted \/ P9 (9cm Pot)","offer_id":54992633135430,"sku":"PRUNLUS-P9","price":7.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/portugal-laurel-berries-prunus-lusitanica-1.jpg?v=1755543196"},{"product_id":"purging-buckthorn-hedge-plants-rhamnus-cathartica","title":"Purging Buckthorn Hedge Plants","description":"\u003ch2\u003ePurging Buckthorn Hedge Plants\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCommon or \u003cstrong\u003ePurging Buckthorn, Rhamnus cathartica\u003c\/strong\u003e, is a hardy, deciduous spiny native that can be used for country hedging. A large shrub or bushy small tree naturally, it has lush green leaves that clip well into a dense hedge. Purging Buckthorn is good for hedges up to about 6 metres high on any well-drained soil. Browse our other \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/buckthorn-hedging-plants\"\u003evarieties of Buckthorn hedge plants\u003c\/a\u003e. Alternatively, see our selection of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/native-british-hedging-plants\"\u003enative hedging\u003c\/a\u003e plants or view our full range of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/hedging-plants\"\u003ehedging\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRhamnus cathartica'sflowers are green and insignificant, so you won't really notice them, but they attract plenty of bees and butterflies. The abundant small berries are red as they ripen, turning black when they mature in the autumn, which looks good next to the leaves as they turn yellow.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDelivery season:\u003c\/strong\u003e Purging Buckthorn bare-root plants are delivered in winter and are only planted when they're dormant, from November to April. They can be pre-ordered in summer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFeatures\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSize sold: 60-80cm.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHedge Height: Up to 6m.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSoil: All well-drained types.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUse: Native\/country.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSingle Row: 3\/m.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eColour: Deciduous, yellow autumn leaves, red\/black berries.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBest for informal native country hedges.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eGrowing Purging Buckthorn\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePurging Buckthorn will grow well in any moist but well-drained soil, including on shady sites, such as under large trees. It'll tolerate chalky soil and coastal sites well, but not waterlogged nor dry shade.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMake sure the planting area is weed-free and enrich soil with well-rotted manure or compost before planting. Keep plants well-watered until established. Trim once a year in winter until the hedge is mature.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSpacing a Purging Buckthorn hedge:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePlant at 3 plants per metre, 33cm apart.\u003cbr\u003eYou can also plant Purging Buckthorn at 6 plants per metre in a staggered double row, with 33cm between each plant along the row and 40cm between the rows.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eGarden Design Ideas\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePurging Buckthorn is a great addition to a \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/products\/mixed-conservation-hedge-plants\"\u003emixed native hedge\u003c\/a\u003e if you're looking to attract more wildlife into your garden. A typical country hedge also includes hawthorn, and the more plants you use, the better for the bugs and birds.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you're looking for plants that ease the transition from a cultivated garden into the wild countryside beyond, this is an excellent choice. Its berries turn red before ripening to black, contrasting with the yellowing of the leaves before they fall.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor an informal yet secure barrier for your garden, Rhamnus cathartica is worth considering, with short shoots often ending in a spine. Add some \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/products\/blackthorn-sloe-hedge-plants-prunus-spinosa\"\u003eblackthorn\u003c\/a\u003e to beef up the thorny factor. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHistory \u0026amp; Trivia\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe black berries are popular with birds in winter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNative throughout Europe, south to Morocco and east as far as Kyrgystan.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePurging buckthorn gets its common name from its medicinal use in the past to encourage vomiting and diarrhoea. It is mildly poisonous, so it's probably better to leave this piece of traditional medicine in the past (for now...). However, birds love the berries, and it has no effect on them.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAccording to the famed astrologer-physician Nicholas Culpepper (1616-54), buckthorn was also known in the 17th Century as harts'-horn, Herba-stellaria, Sanguinarea, Herb-eve, Herb-ivy, Wort-cresses and Swine-cresses. Bruised leaves applied to a wound would stop it from bleeding and would cause warts 'to waste away in a short time'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOther common names include French berry, rainberry or Rhineberry thorn and waythorn.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFeatures\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlowers \u0026amp; Bees: \u003c\/strong\u003ePurging Buckthorn and the related \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/products\/alder-buckthorn-hedge-plants-frangula-alnus\"\u003eAlder Buckthorn\u003c\/a\u003e are the only food sources for Common Brimstone butterflies (Gonepteryx rhamni).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Bareroot \/ 60\/80cm","offer_id":54992633233734,"sku":"RHAMCAT-60\/80","price":3.65,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/purging-buckthorn-berries-rhamnus-cathartica-2.jpg?v=1755634687"},{"product_id":"purple-berberis-thunbergii-atropurpurea-hedge-plants","title":"Purple Barberry Hedge Plants","description":"\u003ch2\u003ePurple Barberry Hedge Plants\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUse:\u003c\/strong\u003e Secure hedge, specimen shrub\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e Up to 1.5m\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eGrowth:\u003c\/strong\u003e Medium. Dense, thorny habit\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSoil:\u003c\/strong\u003e Any well-drained soil\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLight:\u003c\/strong\u003e Sun to partial shade\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eType:\u003c\/strong\u003e Deciduous thorny shrub\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSpecies:\u003c\/strong\u003e Berberis thunbergii Atropurpurea\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRHS Plants for Pollinators\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBareroot Delivery:\u003c\/strong\u003e Nov-April Only\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePot Grown Delivery:\u003c\/strong\u003e Year-round\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eAppearance, Growth \u0026amp; Uses\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBerberis Atropurpurea is the purple-red leaved variety of Japanese Barberry. This medium-sized deciduous shrub creates an excellent prickly hedge or specimen with its vandal-proof spines and graceful arching stems.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSmall yellow, pink-tinged flowers appear in April and May, attracting bees before developing into bright red berries in summer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe distinctive small leaves are purple for most of the year, transforming into deep red in a striking autumn display, giving loads of ornamental value throughout the growing season.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt's quite shade-tolerant, perfect for hedges up to 1.5 metres high.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFeatures\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBrowse our other \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/berberis-hedging-plants-barberry\"\u003eberberis varieties\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBrowse our full range of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/hedging-plants\"\u003ehedging plants\u003c\/a\u003e or \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/garden-shrubs\"\u003eornamental shrubs\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eGrowing Conditions\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSoil:\u003c\/strong\u003e Any well-drained including clay and chalk\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLight:\u003c\/strong\u003e Full sun to partial shade\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMoisture:\u003c\/strong\u003e Drought tolerant when established\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAvoid:\u003c\/strong\u003e Full shade, waterlogged soils\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMaintenance:\u003c\/strong\u003e Clips well, can be coppiced\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHardiness:\u003c\/strong\u003e Very hardy, coastal and urban tolerant\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThrives in any well-drained soil including heavy clay and chalk. \u003cbr\u003eTolerates coastal conditions and exposed windy spots well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eQuite shade tolerant and grows well in dappled shade under larger trees, though best colour develops in sunnier positions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCan be prone to mildew on dry soils, prevent this by mulching well every year.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eGarden Design Ideas\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCreates an attractive backdrop with dramatic foliage colour that can be repeated through borders using other dark-leaved shrubs like Cotinus coggygria, \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/products\/black-lace-elder-plants-sambucus-nigra\"\u003eSambucus 'Black Lace'\u003c\/a\u003e and Physocarpus 'Diabolo'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe purple foliage combines beautifully with vibrant yellows of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/products\/little-gold-star-rudbeckia-fulgida-plants\"\u003eRudbeckia 'Gold Star'\u003c\/a\u003e and Achillea, and the purples of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/products\/amistad-salvia-plants\"\u003eSalvia 'Amistad'\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/products\/hidcote-english-lavender-plants\"\u003eLavender 'Hidcote'\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSpecimen shrubs can be lightly trimmed in winter or coppiced to encourage brighter stem and summer foliage colour.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePerfect for mixed hedging with \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/products\/berberis-thunbergii-hedge-plants-green-japanese-barberry\"\u003egreen berberis\u003c\/a\u003e to create striking colour contrasts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHistory \u0026amp; Trivia\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJapanese Barberry was introduced to Europe in the 1860s and these red-purple forms were cultivated in the early 20th century.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe species is named after Carl Peter Thunberg, the Swedish naturalist who identified the shrub on a visit to Japan, where he was stationed at Dejima, a Dutch trading post in Nagasaki, from 1775-1776. \u003cbr\u003eHe described Japanese berberis in his Flora Japonica, published in 1784.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Bareroot \/ 30\/60cm","offer_id":54992633266502,"sku":"BERBTHUAT-40\/60","price":1.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Potted \/ 40\/60cm","offer_id":54992633299270,"sku":"BERBTHUAT-40\/60-CN","price":7.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/purple-barberry-flower-berberis-atropurpurea-1.jpg?v=1756636477"},{"product_id":"purple-filbert-hazel-hedge-plants-corylus-maxima","title":"Purple-Leaved Filbert Hazel Hedging","description":"\u003ch2\u003ePurple-Leaved Filbert Hazel Hedging\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePurple \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHazel\u003c\/strong\u003e,\u003cstrong\u003e Corylus maxima Purpurea\u003c\/strong\u003e, is a variety of Filbert Hazel with superbly rich purple leaves, grown for its ornamental value in borders and garden hedges, rather than for farm or wildlife hedges, where \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/products\/common-hazel-hedge-plants-corylus-avellana\"\u003eCommon hazel\u003c\/a\u003e is best.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt's very hardy, suitable for any soil, and quite shade-tolerant, making it one alternative to \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/products\/copper-beech-hedge-plants-fagus-sylvatica-purpurea\"\u003eCopper Beech\u003c\/a\u003e (which needs sun and well drained soil).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePurple Hazel is a good a specimen tree, with long pink catkins in early spring that attract bees, followed by dark plum-purple foliage that turns into a jumble of different colours in autumn.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNote that this \u003cstrong\u003eCorylus maxima Purpurea hedging\u003c\/strong\u003e is \u003cstrong\u003enot the cultivar '\u003c\/strong\u003eRed Filbert', but you will see it called Purple or Red (Leaf) Filbert around the place.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePurple leaf hazelnuts are edible like any other, but smaller than \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/products\/cosford-cobnut-hazel-trees\"\u003eCosford Cob\u003c\/a\u003e, our recommended variety for nut harvesting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt can reach about 8-10 metres.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFeatures\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAny moist soil.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGreat purple leaves, good alternative to Copper Beech\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eJumbled Autumn colour\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVigorous, bushy tree\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNuts inferior to other Hazels\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNot as shade-tolerant as Common Hazel\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCan be used as country hedging (but not native)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMax. Height: 10m\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBareroot Delivery Only: Nov-April\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAll our \u003cstrong\u003esapling trees are measured\u003c\/strong\u003e by their height in centimetres above the ground (the roots or pots aren't measured).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBrowse our full range of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/edible-nut-trees\"\u003enut trees\u003c\/a\u003e or see the full variety of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/fruit-trees\"\u003efruit trees\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSpacing a Purple Hazel hedge:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFor a normal garden boundary hedge, plant at 3 plants per metre (every 33cm) in a single row. For security, mix in thorny plants such as \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/wild-rose-plants\"\u003ewild roses\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/products\/hawthorn-hedge-plants-crataegus-monogyna\"\u003eHawthorn\u003c\/a\u003e for a native wildlife hedge, or \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/products\/purple-berberis-thunbergii-atropurpurea-hedge-plants\"\u003epurple leaf berberis\u003c\/a\u003e to match colours.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA stock-proof country hedge requires 2 staggered single rows (i.e. start one row 16.5cm after the other), with 40cm between rows. That works out at 6 plants per metre in total.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAn interior, decorative garden hedge for can be planted at 2 plants per metre (every 50cm) in a single row.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Bareroot \/ 40\/60cm","offer_id":54992633397574,"sku":"CORYMAXPUR-40\/60","price":5.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Bareroot \/ 30\/50cm","offer_id":54992633430342,"sku":"CORYAVEMAPU-30\/50","price":4.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/purple-hazel-leaves.jpg?v=1755424183"},{"product_id":"purple-willow-hedge-plants-salix-purpurea","title":"Purple Willow Sapling Trees","description":"\u003cul class=\"pdp-specs\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eVariety:\u003c\/strong\u003e Purple Willow, or Purple Osier\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLatin name:\u003c\/strong\u003e Salix purpurea\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSold as:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot plants, 60\/80cm tall\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUltimate size:\u003c\/strong\u003e 4 to 8m tall by 2.5 to 4m wide, in 10 to 20 years, if never cut\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eGrowth rate:\u003c\/strong\u003e Fast\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eShoots:\u003c\/strong\u003e Arching and purplish, best on young growth\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCatkins:\u003c\/strong\u003e Slender and silvery, on bare shoots in early spring\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUses:\u003c\/strong\u003e Low screens and hedges, and fine rods for weaving\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSoil:\u003c\/strong\u003e Deep, moist soil. Not shallow chalk\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePosition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Full sun. Copes with the coast\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePlanting distance:\u003c\/strong\u003e At least 10m from drains and buildings, and 15m is better\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNative:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWildlife:\u003c\/strong\u003e RHS Plants for Pollinators\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHardiness:\u003c\/strong\u003e H6, hardy through the British winter\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDelivered:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot, November to April. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/collect-your-order-from-castle-cary\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eCollection from Castle Cary\u003c\/a\u003e also available\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePurple Willow is a native Willow grown for its arching purple shoots, which colour best on young growth, and for slender silvery catkins in early spring. It makes a low screen or hedge, gives finer rods for weaving than Osier, and is on the RHS Plants for Pollinators list.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePurple Willow Sapling Trees\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePurple Willow, Salix purpurea\u003c\/strong\u003e, also called Purple Osier, is more of a large, bushy shrub than a small tree. Salix purpurea has magnificent, striking purple young shoots, which provide ornamental value in winter both on the plant and when cut and brought indoors. The catkins are less showy than on some other willows as they appear around the same time as the leaves open so they tend to be somewhat hidden. But the bark is a glory. To produce the best colour, the plant should be coppiced on a two yearly cycle with half being cut to the ground each spring. This way you will always have height to the plant and a good amount of young growth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSee our selection of \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/willow-hedging-plants-salix\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ewillow hedging plants\u003c\/a\u003e or view our full range of \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/hedging-plants\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehedging\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Salix purpurea plants are \u003cstrong\u003eonly delivered bareroot\u003c\/strong\u003e, during winter (Nov-April). All our plants are measured by their height in centimetres above the ground (the roots aren't measured).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHistory \u0026amp; Trivia\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBeing a small, very vigorous willow, this is one of the favoured types for supplying withies: stems of various sizes for making wicker objects. Osier is an old name for both the withy and the plant. Willows have shallow, wide ranging roots and are great for preserving river banks and other loose soil. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAll willows are excellent for bees, butterflies and moths.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlanting Companions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOn the same wet ground, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/common-osier-willow-hedge-plants-salix-viminalis\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eCommon Osier\u003c\/a\u003e gives coarser rods for weaving, and \u003ca href=\"\/products\/grey-willow-hedge-plants-salix-cinerea\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eGrey Willow\u003c\/a\u003e brings the catkins. If you plan to weave it where it stands, read \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/hedging\/to-fedge-or-not-whether-tis-better-in-willow\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eto fedge or not\u003c\/a\u003e first. Dust the roots with \u003ca href=\"\/products\/rootgrow-universal-friendly-mycorrhizae-fungi\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eRootgrow\u003c\/a\u003e as you plant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy Ashridge for Hedging?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eHedging and young native trees are not a sideline here: your Purple Willow plants are grown for us by specialist growers. Bareroot plants are lifted to order while dormant and guaranteed for 12 months. Ashridge has sold plants since 1949 and is a Which? Best Plant Supplier 2025.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhich Willow makes the best low screen?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis one. It is the least unruly of our Willows, and it is grown for hedges and screens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs it purple all over?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo. The shoots are purplish, and the leaves are blue-green.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow do you keep the colour?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCut half the plant to the ground each spring, so each stem is cut every two years. The young shoots carry the best colour.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs it good for weaving?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. Its rods are finer than those of Common Osier, which suits finer work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow far from drains and buildings should a Willow go?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWillow roots seek water and will find a leak in an old pipe. Keep it at least 10 metres from drains, septic tanks, walls and foundations, and 15 metres is more comfortable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWill it grow on chalk?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot on shallow chalk. It wants a deep, moist soil.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhen are the plants delivered?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBareroot only, from November to April, while the plants are dormant. You can order at any time of year and your plants are lifted and sent once the season opens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Bareroot \/ 60\/80cm","offer_id":54992633463110,"sku":"SALIPUR-60\/80","price":2.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/purple-willow-tree-catkins-salix-purpurea-2.jpg?v=1755543201"},{"product_id":"aspen-sapling-plants-populus-tremula","title":"Trembling Aspen Sapling Trees","description":"\u003cul class=\"pdp-specs\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eVariety:\u003c\/strong\u003e Aspen, the native Poplar with trembling leaves\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLatin name:\u003c\/strong\u003e Populus tremula\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSold as:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot saplings, 60\/80, 100\/125 and 150\/175cm tall\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMature size:\u003c\/strong\u003e More than 12m tall and more than 8m wide\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTime to full size:\u003c\/strong\u003e 20 to 50 years. Very fast-growing\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLeaves:\u003c\/strong\u003e Rounded, bronze when young, yellow in autumn, trembling in the lightest breeze\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHabit:\u003c\/strong\u003e Broad-crowned. It can sucker freely\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePosition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Full sun. Exposed or sheltered\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSoil:\u003c\/strong\u003e Any moist soil. Keep it well away from buildings and drains\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNative:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHardiness:\u003c\/strong\u003e H7, hardy in the severest British winter\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDelivered:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bareroot, November to April. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/collect-your-order-from-castle-cary\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eCollection from Castle Cary\u003c\/a\u003e also available\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAspen is our one native Poplar, grown for the sound and shimmer of leaves that tremble in the lightest air. It is very fast, rated H7, good on wet ground and useful as a screen or shelter belt, and its roots are vigorous, so it belongs out in the open and not near the house.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eTrembling Aspen Sapling Trees\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePopulus tremula\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003eAspen Poplar\u003c\/strong\u003e, is a vigorous, suckering tree that thrives on wet soils. Populus tremula isn't suitable for a clipped hedge.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt can be grown as a screening tree up to about 25 metres high. The plants on this page are young saplings. You can also buy \u003ca href=\"\/products\/aspen-trees-populus-tremula\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003elarger Aspen poplar trees\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePopulus tremula saplings are \u003cstrong\u003eonly delivered bareroot\u003c\/strong\u003e, during winter (Nov-April).\u003cbr\u003eAll of our young trees and shrubs are measured by their height in centimetres above the ground (the roots aren't measured).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBrowse our variety of \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/large-garden-parkland-trees\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003elarge trees\u003c\/a\u003e for your garden or view our full range of \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/garden-trees-big-standards\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003etrees\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eGeneral description of Aspen Poplar plants:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCommon Names: \u003c\/strong\u003eTrembling Aspen, Quaking Aspen\u003cbr\u003eThis is a fairly large, fast-growing deciduous tree with a creamy yellow autumn colour and delicate leaves on thin stalks that tremble in a breeze. The Aspen produces grey catkins in early spring, which provide food for bees.\u003cbr\u003eIt's not much of a hedge plant but is ideal for forest and large garden use. It's used as a fast growing screening tree, often to complement an evergreen hedge.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlanting Companions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAspen is a pioneer, and its natural company is other pioneers: \u003ca href=\"\/products\/silver-birch-sapling-plants-betula-pendula\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eSilver Birch\u003c\/a\u003e on drier ground and \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/alder-trees-alnus\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eAlder\u003c\/a\u003e where it is wet. All three sit among our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/native-british-trees\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003enative trees\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/wildlife-ecology-trees\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003etrees for wildlife\u003c\/a\u003e. Dust the roots with \u003ca href=\"\/products\/rootgrow-universal-friendly-mycorrhizae-fungi\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eRootgrow\u003c\/a\u003e as you plant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy Ashridge for Hedging and Young Trees?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eHedging and young native trees are not a sideline here: your Aspen saplings are grown for us by specialist growers. Bareroot plants are lifted to order while dormant and guaranteed for 12 months. Ashridge has sold plants since 1949 and is a Which? Best Plant Supplier 2025.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhy do Aspen leaves tremble?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe leaf stalk is flattened from side to side, so the slightest breeze sets the leaf trembling.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs Aspen native to Britain?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. It is the only Poplar in our range that is native.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow big and how fast does it grow?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWell over 12 metres tall and 8 metres across in time, and it grows very fast.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow close to a house can you plant Aspen?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot close. The roots are vigorous, so keep it well away from buildings and give it open ground.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eDoes Aspen sucker?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt can, freely. Cut out any suckers that are in the way in autumn or winter. In a woodland or shelter belt they simply thicken the planting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eCan you use it for hedging?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo. It is not a plant for a clipped hedge. Use it as a screen, a shelter belt or a woodland tree.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhen are the plants delivered?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBareroot only, from November to April, while the plants are dormant. You can order at any time of year and your plants are lifted and sent once the season opens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Bareroot \/ 60\/80cm","offer_id":54999112941894,"sku":"POPUTRE-60\/80","price":3.72,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Bareroot \/ 150\/175cm","offer_id":54999112974662,"sku":"POPUTRE-150\/175","price":9.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Bareroot \/ 100\/125cm","offer_id":54999113007430,"sku":"POPUTRE-100\/125","price":7.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/poplar-aspen-populus-tremula-trees-1.jpg?v=1755205144"},{"product_id":"bird-cherry-hedge-plants-prunus-padus","title":"Bird Cherry Hedge Plants","description":"\u003ch2\u003eBird Cherry Hedge Plants\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBird Cherry, Prunus padus\u003c\/strong\u003e, is a small tree or large shrub that makes a good country \u003cstrong\u003ehedging plant \u003c\/strong\u003efor very poor dry soils, as long as there is plenty of sun.\u003cbr\u003eBird Cherry will reach 10 metres if it grows freely as a tree.\u003cbr\u003eThe plants on this page are young saplings, ideal for planting as hedging or in woodland projects. You can also buy \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/products\/bird-cherry-trees-prunus-padus\"\u003elarger Bird Cherry trees\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003cbr\u003eBrowse our other varieties of wild and cultivated \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/cherry-blossom-trees-prunus\"\u003eCherry Blossom trees\u003c\/a\u003e, our selection of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/native-british-hedging-plants\"\u003enative hedging\u003c\/a\u003e, or our full range of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/hedging-plants\"\u003ehedging plants\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBird Cherry hedge plants are \u003cstrong\u003eonly delivered bareroot\u003c\/strong\u003e, during winter (Nov-April).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChoosing a size:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWhen you are ordering Bird Cherry plants for a hedge, we generally recommend that you use plants that are graded at 40\/60cm or 60\/80cm. They're cheaper than large plants, easier to handle and they'll establish well in poor conditions.\u003cbr\u003eUse the larger 120\/150cm tall plants if you want a mature hedge quickly or for instant impact as a specimen tree or shrub.\u003cbr\u003eAll our \u003cstrong\u003ehedge plants are measured\u003c\/strong\u003e by their height in centimetres above the ground (the roots aren't measured).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSpacing a Bird Cherry hedge:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlant Bird Cherry hedging at 3 plants per metre, 33cm apart.\u003cbr\u003eYou can also plant Bird Cherry at 6 plants per metre in a staggered double row, with 33cm between each plant along the row and 40cm between the rows.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eGeneral description of Bird Cherry plants:\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Bird Cherry is native cherry tree that grows quickly to a final height of about 10 metres. It has cone-shaped strings of scented white flowers in May\/June. The dark fruit that ripen in autumn are edible but taste quite bitter; with a good dose of sugar, you can experiment with using them in jams, but we think that it's best to just leave them for the birds. The leaves look great in autumn. Bird Cherry Trees grow almost anywhere except on wet soils. \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Bareroot \/ 60\/80cm","offer_id":54999122051398,"sku":"PRUNPAD-60\/80","price":2.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Bareroot \/ 90\/120cm","offer_id":54999122116934,"sku":"PRUNPAD-90\/120","price":5.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Bareroot \/ 120\/150cm","offer_id":54999122084166,"sku":"PRUNPAD-120\/150","price":6.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/bird-cherry-prunus-padus-fruit-3.jpg?v=1755634232"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/collections\/green-beech-bareroot-hedging-plants-fagus-sylvatica-90-120cm.jpg?v=1790604148","url":"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/bareroot-hedging-plants.oembed?page=6","provider":"Ashridge Nurseries","version":"1.0","type":"link"}