How to use the map
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Zoom in or out. You can also do this with the mousewheel or by pinching.
Marker of the position of an identified tree, while the map is zoomed out. For the details, zoom in until you see tree markers like the following …
Clicking on a tree marker brings up a window (called a "popup")
identifying the species of the tree there, with a small photo of it and buttons
to display more photos and information. NB only a few hundred of the thousands
of trees are marked!
7Marker of a tree featured on the route, numbered from the start; clicking it will zoom and centre the map on this tree, and scroll the route description to show a photo of it.
✕ Click the cross at the top right of any window, including this one, to get rid of it.
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Turn on a flashing dot which tracks your live location on the map, surrounded
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Harris Garden Tree Route for summer
The Harris Garden, located in the south-west corner of Whiteknights Park, provides a peaceful retreat from the activity of the rest of the campus of the University of Reading. It has an extensive collection of trees and shrubs offering year-round interest, in a diversity of settings, including formal gardens, parkland, woodland and orchard. It was thoughtfully designed in the 1970s as a botanical garden for horticulture, education, research and conservation, reflecting the university's long-standing commitment to plant science and landscape design.
The route begins outside the Harris Garden gate. It mostly follows the main path clockwise (as viewed on the map) around the perimeter of the Harris Garden.
The route is shown by the red line on the map, and described by the text below. The map stays in a fixed position on the screen, while the description scrolls. The trees included in the route are marked by red circles on the map. Each of these featured trees is shown and described in a white box in the text. The trees on the route are numbered in order of visiting; the number in each red circle on the map (e.g. 42) corresponds to the number in the red circle in the heading of the box describing the tree. If you click or press a red circle with a tree number in the description or on the map, the map will centre and zoom in on that tree, and the text will scroll to bring the tree's photo into view.
Please note that the photos of the trees included in the
route aren't always from the direction by which you'll approach them. They are
taken from angles that give the best view or which are least overshadowed. To
help with navigation, some annotated photos are included in the
description. They show the outlook that you will have while following the
route, with some of the featured trees that lie ahead indicated in red and
yellow. If you are reading this webpage on a device with geolocation services
(GPS etc.), you can show your present position on the map by pressing or
clicking on the button. See the map for further information on using the map.
You will pass many trees along the way which aren't featured in the route. A few of these also indicated on the navigational photos, in grey and white. Many of them are shown on the map by green tree markers, which you can click or press to see photos and information. Many more are not marked on the map, but can be seen in the satellite view.
The first tree on the route, Eucalyptus pauciflora, stands to the right of the gate. Although it's rooted inside the Harris Garden fence, it's easier to see it from the outside.
1 Eucalyptus pauciflora, Snow gum, Harris Harborne side
Eucalyptus pauciflora is a species of evergreen broadleaf flowering plants (in the Myrtaceae or Myrtle family), native to alpine and subalpine regions of south-eastern Australia. Eucalyptus pauciflora can be recognised from its smooth bark that sheds in patches, revealing a striking mosaic of white, cream, grey, and pale green. It flowers in late May and early June. Snow gums play an important ecological role by stabilising soils and providing habitat in harsh mountain landscapes.
about this species
The next trees mentioned stand on the right of the path that runs along the side of the small lawn inside the Harris Garden gate. Acer griseum is the small tree with red bark next to the path. When you are standing on the path and facing Acer griseum, Laurus nobilis is behind it, and Fraxinus angustifolia is the tall tree to the right.
2 Acer griseum, Paper-bark maple, Harris Garden
Acer griseum is a species of deciduous broadleaf flowering plants (in the Sapindaceae or Soapberry family), native to central China. Acer griseum is a small to medium-sized tree with ornamental qualities. It has distinctive cinnamon-brown bark, which peels away in thin, papery strips to reveal smooth layers beneath. It has green leaves in groups of three (in botanical terms, three leaflets comprising each compound leaf). They turn brilliant shades of red, orange, and scarlet in autumn.
about this species
3 Laurus nobilis, Bay tree or laurel, Harris Garden
Laurus nobilis is a species of evergreen broadleaf flowering plants (in the Lauraceae or Laurel family), native to the Mediterranean. Laurus nobilis is a shrub or small tree, widely cultivated for both ornamental and culinary purposes. It has glossy, dark green, aromatic leaves that are commonly used as bay leaves in cooking. Being slow-growing and tolerant of pruning, it is often used for hedging, topiary or as a container plant. Laurus nobilis is the "laurel" of classical history, from which crowns were made for athletic champions. It produces small yellowish flowers in spring, followed by dark purple berries in autumn.
about this species
4 Fraxinus angustifolia, Narrow-leaved ash, Harris Garden
Fraxinus angustifolia is a species of deciduous broadleaf flowering plants (in the Oleaceae or Olive family), native to southern and central Europe, western Asia and north Africa. Fraxinus angustifolia thrives in moist soil and typically grows along rivers and floodplains, reaching 20–30 metres. Its winter buds are brown, whereas those of the common ask Fraxinus excelsior are black. It is named for its distinctively slender leaves, and it has winged seeds (samaras), in common with other ash species. Fraxinus angustifolia is used both in forestry and as an ornamental tree. Like the common ash, it is susceptible to dieback caused by the fungus Chalara fraxinea.
about this species
Prunus serrula is on the left side of the path at the point where the lawn ends. Betula pendula is a few metres to the left of it.
5 Betula pendula, Silver birch, Harris Garden
Betula pendula is a species of deciduous broadleaf flowering plants (in the Betulaceae or Birch family), native to Britain, Europe and parts of Asia. Betula pendula is a slender tree, widely recognised for its elegant form and distinctive white, papery bark. It has light, triangular green leaves that turn bright yellow in autumn, and delicate, pendulous branches that give the tree a graceful appearance. In spring it produces catkins.
about this species
6 Prunus serrula, Tibetan cherry, Harris Garden
Prunus serrula is a species of deciduous broadleaf flowering plants (in the Rosaceae or Rose family), native to western China and the Himalayas. Prunus serrula is admired primarily for its striking smooth glossy mahogany-red bark that peels in thin, papery strips. For this year-round ornamental interest, it is planted as a specimen tree in gardens and parks. In spring, the tree produces modest clusters of small white flowers, followed by small black cherries.
about this species
After Prunus serrula, continue along the path for a few metres with trees on both sides. The ones on the left are ornamental crab apple trees of various kinds.
On the right you may notice a group of banana plants, which have enormous oblong leaves. They are not trees in a botanical sense, because their stems aren't woody. They have to be wrapped up during the winter to protect them from frost. Our climate is not warm and sunny enough for them to produce bananas.
When you enter the main expanse of the Harris Garden, don't take the path on the right. Carry straight on towards Alnus subcordata, which is a tall tree on the left of the path.
7 Alnus subcordata, Caucasian alder, Harris Garden
Alnus subcordata is a species of deciduous broadleaf flowering plants (in the Betulaceae or Birch family), native to the Caucasus and northern Iran. Alnus subcordata is a medium to large rapidly growing tree which tolerates moist conditions. Its broad rounded green leaves have a slightly heart-shaped base and turn yellow in autumn before falling. In spring, the tree produces long male catkins and smaller female cones, which persist on the branches through winter. Like other alders, Alnus subcordata has nitrogen-fixing roots that improve soil fertility, making them useful in woodland planting, land restoration, and along riverbanks or wet sites.
about this species
The group of Gleditsia caspica stand on the right side of the path. The following trees up to Arbutus × andrachnoides are also near to the path, on one side or the other.
8 Gleditsia caspica, Caspian locust, Harris Garden
Gleditsia caspica is a species of deciduous broadleaf flowering plants (in the Fabaceae or Legume, pea or bean family), native to the Caspian region of western Asia. This is a medium-sized tree with an open, spreading crown and finely divided, pinnate leaves that create a light, airy canopy and turn yellow in autumn. It is notable for its strong, often branched thorns along the trunk and branches, as well as its long, twisted seed pods that develop after flowering.
about this species
9 Cunninghamia konishii, Taiwan fir, Harris Garden
Cunninghamia konishii is a species of evergreen needleleaf coniferous plants (in the Cupressaceae or Cypress family), native to Taiwan and parts of southern China. Cunninghamia konishii is appreciated for the ornamental value of its tall, straight form and dense, glossy foliage, and also yields durable timber. It has stiff, dark green, needle-like leaves arranged spirally along the branches, which give the tree a formal, symmetrical appearance. In its native habitat it can grow into a large forest tree, while in cultivation it is slower growing and used as a specimen for parks and arboreta.
about this species
10 Araucaria araucana, Monkey puzzle tree, Harris Garden
Araucaria araucana is a species of evergreen spiny-leaf coniferous plants (in the Araucariaceae family), native to temperate forests of Chile and Argentina. Araucaria araucana is adapted to volcanic soils and harsh mountain climates. It is easily recognized by its thick, armour-like, triangular leaves that spiral densely around its branches, giving the tree a dramatic, prehistoric appearance. Its popular name derives from a comment that climbing it would be a puzzle for a monkey. Growing up to 30–40 metres tall, it develops a straight trunk with a distinctive umbrella-shaped crown as it matures. Male and female cones grow on separate trees, with the large female cones producing edible seeds that have long been an important food source for Indigenous communities. Araucaria araucana is both an ecological and cultural symbol in its native range, though it is now considered endangered due to logging and habitat loss.
about this species
11 Ginkgo biloba, Ginkgo, Harris Garden
Ginkgo biloba is a species of deciduous broadleaf non-flowering plants (in the Ginkgoaceae family), native to China. The tree is easily recognized by its distinctive fan-shaped leaves, which turn a brilliant golden yellow in autumn before falling within a few days.
Ginkgo biloba is often described as a "living fossil" because trees like the present species have existed for 170 million years, and it is the sole surviving member of an ancient group of plants. It is endangered in the wild but commonly cultivated and widely planted worldwide in urban environments, being ornamental, tolerant of air pollution and disease-resistant. Gingko biloba can grow to 30 metres and the largest living trees are estimated to exceed 3,500 years old.
The wood of Ginkgo biloba is lightweight, resilient, and suitable for furniture, carved and turned objects. Its seeds have culinary uses. Various parts of the plant have a long history in traditional and contemporary herbal medicine, but with very little scientific evidence of health benefits.
about this species
12 Arbutus × andrachnoides, Hybrid strawberry tree, Harris Garden
Arbutus × andrachnoides is a species of deciduous broadleaf flowering plants (in the Ericaceae or Heath or heather family). An ornamental shrub or small tree resulting from a natural cross between Arbutus unedo and Arbutus andrachne. It is especially admired for its smooth, cinnamon-red bark that peels to reveal lighter tones beneath. The tree typically grows 4–8 metres tall and bears glossy, dark green leaves along with clusters of small, urn-shaped white flowers in autumn, often appearing alongside round, red fruits (hence "strawberry" in its name) from the previous season.
about this species
After Arbutus, you come to a place where four paths converge. Take the left turn from the crossroads. Cryptomeria japonica is off to the left of the path at the crossroads.
13 Cryptomeria japonica, Japanese red cedar, Harris Garden
Cryptomeria japonica is a species of evergreen needleleaf coniferous plants (in the Cupressaceae or Cypress family), native to Japan and parts of China. A tall tree in its natural habitat, reaching heights of 50–70 metres, with a straight trunk and a narrow, conical crown. Its reddish-brown bark peels in long, fibrous strips, giving it ornamental interest. The tree has soft, awl-shaped needles arranged spirally along the shoots, often turning bronze in winter in cooler climates. Small, spherical cones develop at the tips of branches. Widely planted as both a forestry and ornamental species, Cryptomeria japonica is valued for its fragrant, durable wood and its elegant presence in parks and large gardens.
about this species
Continue along the path leading left from the crossroads.
14 Quercus robur cultivar, Fastigiate pedunculate oak, Harris Garden
This is a cultivated variety of Quercus robur, which is a species of deciduous broadleaf flowering plants (in the Fagaceae or Beech family). This is a fastigiate variety (meaning "having closely bunched erect parallel branches") of the common oak Quercus robur. Fastigiate oaks have an columnar form, appearing almost like a conifer from a distance. They are planted to form avenues or tall hedging.
about this species
Turn left on the path just before Cedrus deodara.
15 Cedrus deodara, Deodar cedar or deodar, Harris Garden
Cedrus deodara is a species of evergreen needleleaf coniferous plants (in the Pinaceae or Pine family), native to the western Himalayas. It is a magnificent tree, growing up to 40–50 metres tall with a towering shape, with drooping branch tips and soft, bluish-green needles arranged in dense clusters. It produces upright, barrel-shaped female cones that gradually disintegrate to release their seeds. Its wood is valued because of its durability, rot-resistant character and fine grain. The inner wood is aromatic and used to make incense; the name derives from the Sanskrit meaning "wood of the gods". The deodar is widely planted as an ornamental tree in parks and large gardens around the world.
There are three Cedrus species ("true" cedars) grown in Britain, and Whiteknights Park has examples of all three, namely Cedrus atlantica, Cedrus libani and Cedrus deodara. Although fairly similar, they can be distinguished by their general shape ("habit"), the direction in which their branch-tips point, and the length of their needles (longest in Cedrus deodara; see here for a comparison.
about this species
16 Sequoiadendron giganteum, Giant redwood or Wellingtonia, Harris Garden
Sequoiadendron giganteum is a species of evergreen needleleaf coniferous plants (in the Cupressaceae or Cypress family), native to western slopes of the Sierra Nevada in California. By volume the largest tree in the world, Sequoiadendron giganteum can reach up to 95 m in height and 12 m in diameter, and live for more than 3000 years.
When it was introduced to Britain in 1853, the species was named Wellingtonia giganteum after the Duke of Wellington. Although this scientific name was discontinued, the species is still called Wellingtonia as a common name in the UK. Wellingtonia Avenue in Finchampstead is an avenue of over 100 Sequoiadendron giganteum planted alongside the road in the 1860s as a memorial to the Duke.
about this species
After Sequoiadendron giganteum, as you come round the corner, Prumnopitys andina is by the garden wall. The pair of trees beyond on the right are Callitropsis nootkatensis.
17 Prumnopitys andina, Chilean plum yew or ileuque, Harris Garden
Prumnopitys andina is a species of evergreen needleleaf coniferous plants (in the Podocarpaceae or Podocarp family), native to the Chilean Andes. This species gets its English common name because its foliage superficially resembles that of the European yew and because its female cones resemble a small plum. The female cones transform into fleshy, berry-like structures upon maturity and have been an important food source for Indigenous communities for thousands of years. The wood is a yellowish colour and is used in furniture and construction.
about this species
18 Callitropsis nootkatensis, Nootka cypress, Harris Garden
Callitropsis nootkatensis is a species of evergreen needleleaf coniferous plants (in the Cupressaceae or Cypress family), not native in Britain.
about this species
Head across the grass to rejoin the path. When you meet it, follow it leftwards. If you don't want to cross the grass, you can retrace your steps to the junction by Cedrus deodara, and turn left there (not the way you came from).
Follow the path until it begins to bend to the right, around a circular open area. There are many varieties of ornamental cherry around this circle.
19 Prunus cultivar, Ornamental cherry, Harris Garden
This is a cultivated variety of Prunus, which is a species of deciduous broadleaf flowering plants (in the Rosaceae or Rose family). Ornamental cherry trees are varieties of several wild species of Prunus. They are beautifully flowering trees grown mainly for their masses of pink or white flowers in spring that create a striking display in parks, gardens, and streets. Many varieties also provide attractive autumn leaf colours. Ornamental cherries are usually small to medium-sized trees with spreading branches. Their bark has horizontal lines.
The Cherry Bowl was planted in 1995. The collection of Japanese flowering cherries has been selected to demonstrate the range of flower variation as well as autumn colour. They are arranged around a circular clearing, and underplanted with bulbs and wild flowers.
about this species
From the centre of the cherry circle, you have a good view of Nothofagus obliqua. With Nothofagus obliqua on your right, head across the grass towards Betula papyrifera. This is a group of three trees of the same species, one with a label. If you don't want to go across the grass here, you can stay on the path and turn left when you reach the crossroads, then turn off the path across the grass at the point where there's a large log and small conifers, in order to visit Betula papyrifera and Pseudotsuga menziesii.
20 Nothofagus obliqua, Roble beech or Patagonian oak, Harris Garden
Nothofagus obliqua is a species of deciduous broadleaf flowering plants (in the Nothofagaceae or Southern beech family), not native in Britain.
about this species
21 Betula papyrifera, Paper-bark birch or paper birch or canoe-bark birch, Harris Garden
Betula papyrifera is a species of deciduous broadleaf flowering plants (in the Betulaceae or Birch family), native to northern North America. Betula papyrifera is admired for its striking white bark that peels away in thin, papery layers. The bark beneath, and the bark of younger trees, can be orange or pink. Typically growing 15–25 metres tall, it has an open, rounded crown and ovate, serrated green leaves that turn bright yellow in autumn. In spring, the tree produces slender catkins. Paper-bark birch thrives in cool climates and well-drained soils, often colonizing areas after fire or disturbance. Historically, its bark was widely used by native peoples for making canoes, containers, and shelters, while today the tree is valued for ornamental planting, wildlife habitat, and its ecological role in early forest succession.
about this species
22 Pseudotsuga menziesii, Douglas fir, Harris Garden
Pseudotsuga menziesii is a species of evergreen needleleaf coniferous plants (in the Pinaceae or Pine family), native to western North America. The tree has a straight trunk and conical crown, growing 20–100 metres tall; the larger ones grow in coastal regions. It has soft, flat, dark green needles with a citrus-like scent when crushed. It produces distinctive cones with three-pointed bracts protruding between the scales, making it easy to identify. Pseudotsuga menziesii is widely planted in forestry because it is fast-growing and yields strong, durable wood, as well as in parks and large gardens for its impressive size and stately appearance. Its thick bark gives it excellent fire resistance and it can live for more than 1000 years.
about this species
Rejoin the path at Juniperus phoenicea. There is a pair of them, one of which is labelled. Turn left on the path there.
23 Juniperus phoenicea, Phoenician juniper, Harris Garden
Juniperus phoenicea is a species of evergreen needleleaf coniferous plants (in the Cupressaceae or Cypress family), native to western Mediterranean. Juniperus phoenicea usually grows as a dense shrub or small tree reaching 4–8 metres in height. It produces small, spherical berry-like cones that ripen from green to reddish-brown. Well adapted to hot, dry climates and poor, rocky soils, Juniperus phoenicea is commonly found in coastal areas and open woodlands, where it helps stabilize soils and provides habitat for wildlife. Its hardy nature also makes it useful for ornamental planting in dry landscapes with Mediterranean climates.
about this species
Where the fence made of branches ends on the left, a rectangular open grassy area begins on the right, with several species of pear tree. Pyrus cordata is at the right and middle along the back of the rectangle, if you are standing on the path and facing into the open area.
24 Pyrus cordata, Plymouth pear, Harris Garden
Pyrus cordata is a species of deciduous broadleaf flowering plants (in the Rosaceae or Rose family), native to Britain.
about this species
Continuing along the path, you come to Picea smithiana on the left, and a pair of Picea omorika (one of them with a label) on the right.
25 Picea smithiana, Morinda or West Himalayan spruce, Harris Garden
Picea smithiana is a species of evergreen needleleaf coniferous plants (in the Pinaceae or Pine family), native to the western Himalayas. Picea smithiana grows in mountainous forests at high elevations. It can reach heights of 40–50 metres and is especially notable for its long, slender, drooping needles that give the branches a weeping appearance. The tree forms a tall, conical crown with sweeping branches and produces long, cylindrical cones that hang downward from the branch tips. It's valued as an ornamental tree in large parks and gardens because of its distinctive shape and foliage.
about this species
26 Picea omorika, Serbian spruce, Harris Garden
Picea omorika is a species of evergreen needleleaf coniferous plants (in the Pinaceae or Pine family), native to part of the Balkan Peninsula. Picea omorika has dark green needles with silvery-white undersides, giving the foliage a distinctive shimmering appearance. It is widely planted as an ornamental tree in gardens, parks, and avenues because of its elegant, narrow form. It grows moderately slowly and tolerates a range of soils and urban conditions. It produces small purple-brown cones and maintains a spire-like shape, even at maturity.
about this species
Quercus suber stands a little way from the right-hand side of the path, on the same side as Picea omorika. Head across the grass to reach it, with a beech hedge on your left. (The hedge surrounds a small building.)
27 Quercus suber, Cork oak, Harris Garden
Quercus suber is a species of evergreen broadleaf flowering plants (in the Fagaceae or Beech family), native to the western Mediterranean. The thick, rugged bark of Quercus suber protects the tree from forest fires. It can be sustainably harvested every 9–12 years to produce natural cork without harming the tree. This provides the main source of cork for sealing wine bottles, cork flooring and the cores of cricket balls. Cork oak is adapted to hot, dry summers and poor soils. It grows up to 20 metres tall, with a broad, spreading crown and leathery, dark green leaves. It produces acorns that serve as an important food source for wildlife.
about this species
When you are standing with Quercus suber on your right, the Picea orientalis (a pair of them) are in front of you.
28 Picea orientalis, Oriental or Caucasian spruce, Harris Garden
Picea orientalis is a species of evergreen needleleaf coniferous plants (in the Pinaceae or Pine family), native to the Caucasus and northern Turkey. Picea orientalis is a large tree, growing to about 40 metres tall in the wild, with unusually short needle leaves. In April and May it bears numerous short red pollen cones, which are quite obvious on the tree. Later in the year it has long slender seed cones, which are grey, purple and brown.
about this species
At Picea orientalis, turn left and follow the hedge back to the path. Turn right on the path (away from point where you left the path) and continue to reach the next group.
29 Wollemia nobilis, Wollemi pine, Harris Garden
Wollemia nobilis is a species of evergreen spiny-leaf coniferous plants (in the Araucariaceae family), native to Australia. Although it's commonly known as the Wollemi pine, it's not a true pine. It was discovered in 1994 in a gorge in the Wollemi National Park in New South Wales. Scientists studying the tree noted that the foliage closely resembles fossils of species dating back as far as the Jurassic Period, around 200 million years ago. The Wollemi pine is classified as critically endangered with fewer than 100 adult trees known to be growing in the wild. Many thousands of Wollemi pines have been grown from seeds, cuttings and tissue culture at the Botanic Gardens of Sydney and been made available to botanic gardens around the world. Male and female cones occur on the same tree; female cones appear on higher branches and are much more rounded than the narrow male cones.
about this species
30 Abies nordmanniana equi-trojani, Turkish fir, Harris Garden
Abies nordmanniana equi-trojani is a species of evergreen needleleaf coniferous plants (in the Pinaceae or Pine family), native to north-west Turkey.
about this species
31 Metasequoia glyptostroboides, Dawn redwood, Harris Garden
Metasequoia glyptostroboides is a species of deciduous needleleaf coniferous plants (in the Cupressaceae or Cypress family), native to China. The genus Metasequoia was known only from fossil evidence and considered extinct for 5 million years, until this species was found in the 1940s in Szechuan. It is a fast-growing tree which prefers a damp habitat and is adapted to growing on flood plains. It is critically endangered, partly due to intensive rice cultivation.
about this species
Just beyond Metasequoia glyptostroboides, turn right off the path through the gap into the Conifer Circle. Chamaecyparis lawsoniana is on the right as you enter the Circle.
32 Chamaecyparis lawsoniana, Lawson cypress, Harris Garden
Chamaecyparis lawsoniana is a species of evergreen needleleaf coniferous plants (in the Cupressaceae or Cypress family), native to north-west North America. Chamaecyparis lawsoniana can live for 600 years and reach heights of 50 metres in the wild, forming a narrow, conical crown with drooping branches covered in fine, scale-like foliage that emits a scent when crushed, variously described as resinous and pungent. The small, round cones mature from green to brown, and the bark is reddish-brown and fibrous, peeling in thin strips. Chamaecyparis lawsoniana wood is light, strong, rot-resistant and aromatic. The species has a wide range of ornamental cultivars, commonly planted in gardens and landscapes.
This tree is a weeping cultivar of the species, probably 'Imbricata pendula'.
about this species
Take the first left to leave the formal garden.
Having left the formal garden, head for the purpled-leaved Acer platanoides, which is a small tree. Beyond it a path runs across a small open area of grass.
33 Acer platanoides cultivar, Purple-leaved Norway maple, Harris Garden
This is a cultivated variety of Acer platanoides, which is a species of deciduous broadleaf flowering plants (in the Sapindaceae or Soapberry family). This variety is selected for its leaf colour.
about this species
The next two trees are both near the path, on opposite sides of it, slightly to the left when you're looking towards the path from Acer platanoides. Paulownia tomentosa is a small tree on the near side of the path. Fagus sylvatica is a tall columnar tree on the other side.
34 Paulownia tomentosa, Foxglove tree, Harris Garden
Paulownia tomentosa is a species of deciduous broadleaf flowering plants (in the Paulowniaceae family), native to central and western China. It is a fast-growing tree which can reach 25 metres. It bears small clusters of fragrant, pale purple flowers in early spring, resembling foxglove flowers, giving its common name. Its leaves are large and heart-shaped.
Its wood is lightweight yet exceptionally strong, and used for furniture, musical instruments, plywood and carving. In Japan the tree was planted for a new-born daughter, and the wood was used to make furniture for her dowry.
about this species
35 Fagus sylvatica cultivar, Fastigiate beech, Harris Garden
This is a cultivated variety of Fagus sylvatica, which is a species of deciduous broadleaf flowering plants (in the Fagaceae or Beech family). This is a Dawyck beech, a fastigiate variety (meaning "having closely bunched erect parallel branches") of the common beech Fagus sylvatica. It is named after the Dawyck estate near Peebles in Scotland, where it was discovered, probably in the early 19th century.
about this species
Now follow the path, with Fagus sylvatica on your left, Paulownia tomentosa and Acer platanoides on your right. The next three trees are all on the right of the path, at the point a few metres along where it curves leftwards. At this point, Acer macrophyllum is on the right, Acer pseudoplatanus is the tall tree straight ahead, and Acer negundo is the medium-height tree just ahead and left. The route is drawn passing between Acer pseudoplatanus and Acer negundo, then rejoining the path.
36 Acer macrophyllum, Oregon or bigleaf maple, Harris Garden
Acer macrophyllum is a species of deciduous broadleaf flowering plants (in the Sapindaceae or Soapberry family), not native in Britain.
about this species
37 Acer pseudoplatanus, Sycamore, Harris Garden
Acer pseudoplatanus is a species of deciduous broadleaf flowering plants (in the Sapindaceae or Soapberry family), native to central and southern Europe and the Caucasus, and naturalised in Britain. Acer pseudoplatanus can live to 400 years and grow to 35 metres tall. Its broad, rounded crown and dense foliage provide excellent shade. It has large five-lobed leaves with blunt points, and often with black spots, due to a fungus. The tree produces hanging clusters of small, greenish-yellow flowers in spring that develop into winged seeds (samaras), joined in pairs at an angle of 90 degrees or less. (The leaves of Acer saccharum have round-ended points, only one per lobe, and its samaras are horseshoe-shaped. The leaves of Acer platanoides have sharp points, often more than one per lobe, and its samaras are widely angled.)
On account of its adaptability, attractive form and relatively fast growth, Acer pseudoplatanus is often planted parks, along streets, and in woodlands, and in reforestation and ecological restoration projects. It was introduced to Britain from mainland Europe, probably in the Middle Ages, and has been planted outside Europe as well, becoming an invasive species in some regions. Its creamy-white close-grained timber is used for musical instruments, furniture, joinery, wood flooring and kitchen utensils.
The Sycamore Gap Tree was a sycamore standing next to Hadrian's Wall in Northumberland, illegally felled in 2023. The Tolpuddle Martyrs' Tree is a sycamore in Dorset under which six agricultural labourers formed an early trades union in 1834, for which they were tried and transported to Australia, but three years later were reprieved and returned to Britain following public protest.
about this species
38 Acer negundo, Ash-leaf maple or box elder, Harris Garden
Acer negundo is a species of deciduous broadleaf flowering plants (in the Sapindaceae or Soapberry family), native to North America. Acer negundo grows quickly, tolerates harsh conditions, and thrives in a wide range of environments, including floodplains, urban areas, and disturbed soils, making it highly adaptable but sometimes invasive outside its native range. On the other hand, its relatively weak wood and its short lifespan limit its use in long-term landscaping. Native Americans had multiple uses for it, both medicinal and for its wood products: the earliest flute (620–670 AD) to be discovered in North America was made of an Acer negundo shoot. The tree produces paired winged seeds (samaras).
about this species
Continue along the path. Aesculus hippocastanum is the large tree towering above the path ahead on the right. Chitalpa tashkentensis is the small tree at its foot, with Emmenopterys henryi on the left side of the path, opposite Chitalpa.
39 Emmenopterys henryi, Harris Garden
Emmenopterys henryi is a species of deciduous broadleaf flowering plants (in the Rubiaceae or Coffee family), native to southern China. This species is named after the Irish botanist Augustine Henry who sent hundreds of plants and seeds back to Kew Garden; it is one of eleven species named after him. The flowers are spectacular and fragrant but the tree flowers infrequently.
about this species
40 × Chitalpa tashkentensis, Harris Garden
This is a hybrid species between Chitalpa and another genus of broadleaf flowering plants (in the Bignoniaceae or Trumpet vine family).
about this species
41 Aesculus hippocastanum, (European) horsechestnut, Harris Garden
Aesculus hippocastanum is a species of deciduous broadleaf flowering plants (in the Sapindaceae or Soapberry family), naturalised in Britain but not native.
about this species
After Emmenopterys henryi, continue along the path, under the shade of Aesculus hippocastanum and other tall trees. When you reach the T-junction, turn right. Eucalyptus perriniana is ahead on the left of the path.
42 Eucalyptus perriniana, Spinning gum, Harris Garden
Eucalyptus perriniana is a species of evergreen broadleaf flowering plants (in the Myrtaceae or Myrtle family), native to south-eastern Australia. Eucalyptus perriniana typically grows 5–10 metres tall and is well known for its distinctive juvenile leaves, which are round, blue-grey, and appear to be pierced by the stem, giving the impression that they "spin" around the branch in the wind. As the tree matures, the leaves may become longer and more lance-shaped. The bark is smooth and sheds in patches, revealing pale grey or cream-colored surfaces beneath. In summer, the tree produces small white flowers that attract pollinators. It is often planted as an ornamental tree in gardens and parks, on account of its unusual foliage and cold tolerance compared to many other Eucalyptus species.
about this species
From Eucalyptus perriniana, turn back across the grass, towards Quercus cerris. This is a large tree (with a label). There are two other large trees of the same species along the main path, one with a large branch reaching down to the ground, which children enjoy climbing.
43 Quercus cerris, Turkey oak, Harris Garden
Quercus cerris is a species of deciduous broadleaf flowering plants (in the Fagaceae or Beech family), native to south-eastern Europe and Asia Minor, and naturalised in Britain. Turkey oak was introduced to the UK as an ornamental tree in the 18th century. It can act as host to the gall wasp, whose larvae damage the acorns of native British oaks. Its wood is liable to cracking so is only used for fencing and similar roles.
about this species
From Quercus cerris, continue in the same direction to Juniperus communis.
44 Juniperus communis, (Common) juniper, Harris Garden
Juniperus communis is a species of evergreen needleleaf coniferous plants (in the Cupressaceae or Cypress family), native to Britain, parts of Europe, Asia and North America. This tree is a columnar variety of Juniperis communis, a hardy species with one of the widest natural distributions of any woody plant, being adaptable to poor soils, cold climates, and exposed sites. It plays an important ecological role by providing shelter and food for wildlife while also being valued in landscaping for its resilience and distinctive appearance. It can grow as a low, spreading shrub or a small tree up to about 10 metres tall, depending on environmental conditions. The plant has sharp, needle-like leaves arranged in whorls of three and produces small, berry-like cones that mature to a bluish-black color. These "juniper berries" are widely known for their use in flavouring foods and beverages, particularly gin.
about this species
At Juniperus communis, turn left towards Quercus robur. This is also in the direction of Gleditsia caspica, which we visited early in the route. Seen from Juniperus communis, Quercus petraea is to the left of Quercus robur, with another oak tree between them. Quercus robur and Quercus petraea are the two species of oak native to Britain. Oaks (the Quercus genus) are found throughout the northern hemisphere, in 400–450 species.
45 Quercus robur, Pedunculate or common oak, Harris Garden
Quercus robur is a species of deciduous broadleaf flowering plants (in the Fagaceae or Beech family), native to Britain, Europe and northern Iran. This is a large tree, which grows to 20–40 metres tall and has thick branches that form a widely spreading and open canopy. When it grows in open spaces its breadth can exceed its height. It can live for many centuries, with some individuals more than 1000 years old, such as King Offa's oak.
Quercus robur is found throughout European woodlands. It is the dominant species of tree in English woods and open landscapes, excluding forestry plantations, and a key species in forest ecosystems. There are many mature Quercus robur around Whiteknights Park, and rows of younger ones planted along both sides of Queen's Drive by SportsPark; reflecting its prevalence and my preference, it is the species with most examples in the virtual arboretum. The closely related Quercus petraea (also present in Whiteknights Park) is the only other native Quercus (oak) species, and also widespread in Britain, but less numerous in southern England, because Quercus robur does better in heavy and moist soils. Both species fit the role of "the oak" as a symbol of strength and longevity in British tradition.
The bark of mature Quercus robur is grey-brown with many closely spaced predominantly vertical grooves and ridges. The tree bears brown buds in winter, which open comparatively late in spring. Short green catkins emerge first, in early April, and leaves afterwards. The leaves are of medium size, with three to six rounded smooth-edged lobes on each side and and one at the end, the lobes not being deeply separated, and often not symmetrically arranged. The acorns (the fruit of the oak) occur in clusters of two or three, each in a cup; they are initially green and become brown. The leaves turn golden brown in autumn before falling. It is quite common to see deformed walnut-like acorns and cups; these are due to parasitisation by tiny wasps, and are called knopper galls.
Quercus robur can be distinguished from Quercus petraea by both its acorns and its leaves (see this comparison, which includes other Quercus species). Quercus robur acorns are "pedunculate" (meaning they are attached to the twigs by stalks, whereas Quercus petraea acorns lack stalks). By contrast, Quercus robur leaves have only very short stalks, being closely attached to the twig (unlike Quercus petraea leaves).
The timber of Quercus robur is hard, strong and rot-resistant, and used for structural purposes, flooring, furniture, barrels and boat-building. Historically Quercus robur was important in providing timber for the construction of the British navy, and for sheltering the fugitive King Charles II.
about this species
46 Quercus petraea, Sessile oak, Harris Garden
Quercus petraea is a species of deciduous broadleaf flowering plants (in the Fagaceae or Beech family), native to Britain, Europe and northern Iran. It is a large tree, which can live for many centuries and reach 30–40 metres tall. It develops a broad and rounded but open crown supported by a strong trunk with rugged, grey-brown bark. Quercus petraea is found throughout European woodlands, and is a key species in forest ecosystems.
The closely related Quercus robur (also present in Whiteknights Park) is the only other native Quercus (oak) species. Both are widespread in Britain. Quercus robur is more numerous in southern England, but Quercus petraea occurs in lighter soils, and generally does better in uplands, on shallow sandy soil (petraea means "rocky"), and in places with higher rainfall. Consequently Quercus petraea prefers Cornwall, Wales, Scotland and Ireland; it is the national tree of the latter country.
Quercus petraea has brown buds in winter. Short dangling catkins and leaves emerge in April. The leaves are of medium size, somewhat glossy, with 5–8 pairs of rounded smooth-edged lobes; the bays between the lobes do not go far towards the midrib of the leaf. The acorns (the fruit of the oak) occur in clusters; they are initially green and become brown. The leaves turn golden brown in autumn before falling.
Quercus petraea can be distinguished from Quercus robur by both its acorns and its leaves (see this comparison, which includes other Quercus species). Quercus petraea acorns are "sessile" (meaning they grow directly on the twigs with no stalk, whereas Quercus robur acorns have stalks). By contrast, Quercus petraea leaves are on stalks from the twig (whereas Quercus robur are closely attached); they are more oval in shape, and their lobes are more numerous and regularly arranged.
Quercus petraea has long been highly valued for its strong and durable hardwood, which is suitable for construction, furniture making, boat-building and barrel production. It has had significant impact on British history through its use in wooden ship-building.
about this species
On the far side of Quercus petraea, you rejoin the path at Alnus subcordata. Turn left to return to the entrance of the Harris Garden.