TreesIt’s estimated that there are between 30 to 50 native species of trees in existence in the UK! Add the non-native species to be found and we have quite a selection to enjoy. Indeed, when out enjoying the fantastic offerings of the countryside, we may often stumble across woodland and, (unless we’ve taken the time to study them), we may not always be aware of the names of the delightful trees that surround us.

So, at Cherry Tree Country Clothing, we have taken it upon ourselves to explore what are, perhaps, the most common and popular species to be found, when out and about in the country side.

Different Species of Trees

The guide that follows may help you to identify some of the wonderful species to be found when visiting woodlands:

1. Beech

Beech Trees

https://flic.kr/p/5QY4Tq
Beech Wood IV rachel_thecat

This is a deciduous broad leaf tree, with a soft bark, that can grow up to 40 metres high. It is not unusual for a Beech to live for many hundreds of years, with its preference being to grow on loamy, chalky or limestone soils. The Autumn, orangey leaves are a delight and when it flowers in April or May, catkins are easily visible.

The wood from this tree is often used for making furniture or kitchen utensils.

2. Mountain Ash (or Rowan)

https://www.flickr.com/photos/dougbrown47/10088638905 Mountain Ash in Fall Display (Explored) by Doug Brown

https://www.flickr.com/photos/dougbrown47/10088638905 Mountain Ash in Fall Display (Explored) by Doug Brown

This tree is often found planted at the home of keen gardeners and produces white flowers, along with bright red/orangey berries as winder approaches.

A deciduous broad leaf, this tree will grow well at a high altitude, for example in the Scottish Highlands, and it is probably for this reason that the term ‘Mountain Ash’ is used to describe the Rowan. Interestingly, its berries can be used to make jellies!

The wood from this tree can be used to make handles for a range of tools or planks of wood and is particularly useful for making luxury walking canes.

3. Larch

Larch-TreeOften thought of as ornamental, this deciduous conifer can reach 30 metres in height! The bright green needles turn golden/yellow in autumn and it’s interesting that these trees were first introduced into the UK in 17th century. The wood from this tree is ideal for products that need to be water resistant, such as fence posts or outdoor furniture, due to its ‘rot-proof’ qualities.

Incidentally, this is the tree that provides the “Cabers” for the ‘tossing the caber’ competitions in Scotland!

4. Sycamore

sycamore_treeAs another deciduous broad leaf, this tree often grows up to 35 metres and can live quite happily for up to 400 years. This tree provides very strong wood that can be used for making items such as tables and kitchen utensils.

5. Oak

oak_treeAs probably the longest living tree, this is a broad leaf deciduous specimen, that is capable of staying around for 800 years or more!

History reveals that the Druids once burnt this wood for sacrificial reasons! In fact, the word ‘Druid’, when roughly translated, means “Oak Man”!

The oak tree will flower and produces catkins in spring. The fruit from this tree is what we all know as ‘Acorns’. The tree offers hardwood (its Latin name is Quercusrobus, which means ‘strength’) and is an ideal material for producing floor boards or beams for consruction.

6. Horse Chestnut

horse_chestnut_treeReaching heights of up to 30 metres, this deciduous broad leaf tree produces appealing white flowers. The green bumpy shells that are produced can be opened to reveal conkers and, for this reason, this specimen is often referred to as a ‘conker tree!”

Traditionally of course, children have loved playing with conkers and whilst poisonious if digested by some animals – and indeed humans- it is reported that conkers, when given to horses, help to make their coats glossy! (Do check with a specialist vet before attempting to do this through!) Interestingly, when the leaves fall off this tree, a horseshoe shaped scar is left behind – have a look for this!  Experts suggest that the wood from this tree is of little use, as it is too soft in its composure!

So, as you can see, we at Cherry Tree Country Clothing don’t just ‘talk the talk’ we actually do ‘walk the walk’ too, getting out and about, enjoying our local woodlands and the surrounding countryside!

We hope you enjoy the lovely countryside too…. and its trees!

Keywords:

1. Deciduous = Foliage being shed at the end of a season. Leaves fall off annually

2. Broad leaf = Leaves are ‘broad’ or wide, rather than needle-like