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Abies amabilis Pacific fir. A large evergreen tree from Western N.America, growing 6 m (20 ft) in 10 years. Has beautiful silvery-white bark when young and very resinous winter buds. The young shoot tips can be used to make a fragrant tea. The timber is valued for construction, joinery etc. Likes a moist acid soil and sun or part shade; hardy to -20°C. Abies balsamea Balsam fir. A medium or large evergreen tree from the Northern parts of N.America. Has very resinous winter buds. Grows 4 m (13 ft) in 10 years. The shoot tips are used to make a tea, and a sweet gummy exudation from the trunk is edible. Resin from the buds is used medicinally and in scientific laboratories. Timber is valued for construction etc. Likes an acid site in sun or part shade; hardy to -35°C. Abies grandis Grand fir. A very large, fast-growing evergreen tree from Western N.America, growing 5 m (16 ft) in 10 years. The fragrant young shoots are used to make a tea. The timber is valued for construction, joinery etc., and the young tops used as Xmas trees. Tolerates deep shade; hardy to -20°C. Abies nobilis Noble fir. Large evergreen tree growing 50m (160 ft) high from the Western USA. Tops of young trees used as Xmas trees; timber valuable for construction etc. Likes an acid soil and tolerates deep shade when young. Hardy to -20°C. Acanthopanax senticosus Siberian ginseng. (Syn. Eleutherococcus s.) A large shrub from Siberia growing to 7 m (23 ft) high. Fruits are juicy and edible, the size of peas. The roots are used as a ginseng substitute - widely in Asia. Likes sun and a well drained site. Hardy to about -25°C Acca sellowiana (Syn. Feijoa sellowiana) Pineapple guava. Bushy evergreen shrub with grey-green leaves growing to 2 m (6 ft) high or more. Large flowers are white and purple in midsummer, and are followed by reddish-green edible fruits 5 cm (2”) long in hot summers. The fruits are delicious, being aromatic, with a pineapple-strawberry flavour. The flowers are also edible raw, being sweet crisp and delicious. Can be used for hedging in mild maritime areas - hardy to -12°C. Likes sun and a well-drained soil; good on walls in cooler climes. Acer campestre Field maple. The familiar native medium tree, reaching 15 m (50 ft) high at maximum (6 m in 10 years). The leaves turn a clear yellow in autumn. The sap is edible (like maple syrup). A good hedging, bee and wildlife plant; the timber is valued for flooring, joinery, carving etc. Likes a position in sun or part shade; hardy to -25°C. Acer ginnala Amur Maple. A large shrub or small tree of vigorous, spreading habit, native to Japan and China, vigorous, spreading and growing to 6m (20 ft) high. Very hardy (to -45°C), tolerates part shade and good in windbreaks; also used for snow fences in cold areas. The leaves can be made into a tea, whilst the dried leaves are valued for dyeing in China. Source of nectar and pollen for bees in spring. The bright green leaves turn to orange and vivid crimson in autumn. Acer macrophyllum Oregon maple. A large tree from Western N.America. The dark shining green leaves turn a clear yellow in autumn, and the clusters of large yellow flowers and bristly fruits are very ornamental. A good producer of edible sap. The flower clusters are edible raw (sweet) and it is a good bee plant. Timber is used for joinery etc. Likes a moist position in sun or part shade; hardy to -20°C. Acer negundo Box elder. A fast-growing, bushy-headed large North American tree, growing 5 m (16 ft) in 10 years. A source of edible sap and a good bee plant; the timber is used for joinery, cooperage etc. Likes sun or part shade; hardy to -40°C. Acer platanoides Norway maple. A large vigorous tree from Europe, commonly planted in Britain. Grows 6 m (20 ft) in 10 years. The leaves turn a bright clear yellow in autumn. A good producer of edible sap; the bark supplies dyes. A good bee plant. The timber is valued for musical instruments, joinery etc. Likes sun or part shade; hardy to -20°C. Acer pseudoplatanus Sycamore. The familiar large European tree, often seen planted and naturalised in Britain. It isn't all bad: it is a good producer of edible sap, is an excellent windbreak tree and bee plant; and its timber is valued for joinery, flooring, utensils etc. Any soil in sun or part shade; hardy to -20°C. Acer rubrum Red maple. A North American large tree, whose foliage turns rich red and scarlet in autumn. A good producer of edible sap; also a bee plant and the source of a blue dye from its bark. Timber is used for furniture etc. Likes a moist, slightly acid soil in sun or part shade; hardy to -35°C. Acer saccharinum Silver maple. Large tree from Eastern N.America growing to 30 m (100 ft) high or more. The sap is edible like other maples. A blue dye is obtained from the bark and the tree is a bee plant. The timber is valuable for construction etc. Hardy to -30°C. Achillea millefolium Yarrow. Mat-forming perennial, spreading via rhizomes. Edible leaves, medicinal, bee plant, ground cover, accumulator. Likes sun and a well drained site; hardy to –40 °C Actinidia arguta Hardy Kiwi. A vigorous climbing shrub from Japan, growing to 6m (20 ft) high or more within 10 years. Very good against a wall - leafs out quite early in spring and young plants may require protection against late frosts. Flowers well in the South and West of Britain and bears excellent edible sweet fruits 25 mm (1") across. Likes full sun and a well-drained, moist soil. Dioecious; very hardy, to -25°C or more. NB Protect from cats who love to eat the plant! Actinidia chinensis Smooth kiwi. Not to be confused with the better known and hairy skinned A.deliciosa, this is a smooth skinned climber with large smooth-skinned fruits of excellent flavour. The sap from stems can be used as a glue and the plant for facade insulation. Dioecious; hardy, to -15°C. NB Protect from cats who love to eat the plant! Actinidia kolomikta Manchurian gooseberry. A vigorous climber, reaching 15m (50 ft) high by climbing through large trees. Leaves are variegated; it needs a well-drained soil and part shade and tolerates quite deep shade. Edible plum-sized fruit; young leaves have also been eaten. Good facade insulation. Dioecious; hardy to at least -25°C. Growth 4m (17 ft) in 10 years. NB Protect from cats who love to eat the plant! Actinidia polygama Silver vine. Another climbing kiwi, reaching 5 m (16 ft) high, from Japan. The fruits are edible, the leaves used medicinally and the plant can be used for facade insulation. Likes sun and a well-drained soil; hardy to about -20°C. NB Protect from cats who love to eat the plant! Agastache foeniculum Anise hyssop. A perennial growing to 90 cm (3 ft) high, which likes a sunny position and a well-drained soil. The leaves and flowers are edible raw, with an excellent sweet aniseed flavour. The plant can also be used medicinally and is liked by bees. Hardy to -10ºC. Agastache rugosa Korean mint. Perennial growing to 60 cm (2 ft) high or more, with spikes of blue flowers much loved by bees. The leaves are anise-flavoured and used as a flavouring and for teas; also medicinally in Chinese medicine. Likes a well-drained soil and sun; hardy to -10ºC or so. Ailanthus altissima Tree of heaven. A medium to large tree from N.China, growing 7 m (23 ft) in 10 years. The bark is used medicinally, the leaves for silkworm fodder, and the timber for construction, joinery etc. Attracts beneficial insects. Any soil in sun or part shade; hardy to -23°C. Ajuga reptans Bugle. Evergreen native perennial growing to 30 cm (1 ft) high, spreading. The leaves & stems are used medicinally, and the flowers are attractive to bees and butterflies. Any soil in part or full shade. Akebia quinata Chocolate vine. A climber form China and Japan, growing up to 10 m (32 ft) high; semi-evergreen with fragrant flowers. The seed pods it produces in good summers contain a delicious chocolate-like edible pulp, while the young shoots are edible raw or pickled. Leaves are used to make a tea. Stems are sometimes used for basketry. Prefers a sunny site; hardy to -23°C. Akebia trifoliata Three leaf akebia. Another climber from Japan and China, growing up to 6 m (20 ft) high. The sweet pulp from the seeds pods is edible, and the leaves are used in teas. Stems are sometimes used for basketry. Prefers a sunny site; hardy to -23°C. Alchemilla mollis Lady’s mantle. Perennial from Northern Europe growing to 50 cm (20”) high. The leaves, stems and roots are all well known medicinal parts, and the plant makes a good ground cover in shade – tolerates deep shade. Alliaria petiolata Garlic mustard. Native European hedgerow plant growing to 1.2 m (4 ft) high. The leaves are edible with a garlic/mustard flavour (gets hotter over the season). Also edible are the seeds and roots as a condiment. Good wildlife and bee plant. Sun or part shade. Allium babingtonii Null Allium carinatum pulchellum Keeled garlic. Bulbous, clump-forming perennial to 60 cm (2 ft) high, virtually evergreen, with rich purple flower in summer. Does not produce bulbils. Edible leaves & flowers – garlic flavour. Likes sun and a well-drained site; hardy to -15°C Allium moly Golden garlic. Perennial from Southern Europe growing to 30 cm (1 ft) high which likes sun or light shade. It has edible leaves, flowers and bulbs, all with a mild garlic flavour. Bees like the flowers. Hardy to -15°C. Allium neapolitanum Daffodil garlic. A perennial from Europe which produces edible, garlic-flavoured bulbs, young leaves (excellent in salads) and flowers (good in salads). Leaves are retained in most winters and can be used in winter salads; top dies down in midsummer until autumn. Prefers sun, though it is one of the few Alliums to tolerate deep shade in a well-drained location. Hardy to -12°C. Allium schoenoprasum Chives. Well known perennial from Europe, growing to 60 cm (2 ft) high when it flowers. Usually grown for the edible leaves, excellent raw in salads or cooked. The flowers can also be eaten, and bees love the flowers. Likes sun or light shade. Hardy to -23°C. Allium senescens Ballhead onion. Vigorous bulbous perennial to 60 cm (2 ft) high with purplish-pink flowers in summer. Edible bulbs, leaves, young shoots. Likes sun and a well-drained site; hardy to -20°C Allium sphaerocephalum Round headed garlic. Bulbous perennial to 90 cm (3 ft) highwith pinkish-red flowers in summer. Sometimes produces bulbils. Edible bulbs, leaves. Likes sun and a well-drained site; hardy to -20°C Allium stipitatum Bulbous perennial to 1.4 m (4½ ft) high, producing masses of star-shaped lilac flowers in summer. Edible large bulbs. Likes sun and a well-drained site; hardy to -10°C Allium tuberosum Garlic chives, Chinese chives. Chinese perennial growing to 50 cm (20”) high which needs a sunny site. Well known for its edible leaves with a garlic flavour; also edible are the bulbs, seeds and flowers. Also used medicinally. Bees like the flowers. Hardy to -15°C. Allium ursinum Ramsons, wild garlic. A perennial woodland plant forming dense carpets of garlic-flavoured foliage from early spring until midsummer. Excellent as a garlic-substitute; flowers and bulbs are edible as well as the leaves - all being garlic flavoured. Has similar medicinal properties to garlic, and a good bee plant. Hardy to -23°C. Alnus cordata Italian Alder. A medium sized tree from Italy, fast growing and very wind-hardy. Tolerates much drier conditions than most alders and one of the best temperate Nitrogen-fixing species for drier areas. Excellent in windbreaks, growing 50-100 cm per year. A source of pollen for bees in March. The sap is edible (tapped and processed), while the timber is used for furniture, charcoal and gunpowder, clogs, water pumps, turnery etc. Give full sun or part shade. Hardy to -20°C and excellent in Britain. Alnus glutinosa Common or European alder. The native British alder, a fast-growing large tree eventually reaching 25m (80 ft+). One of the best nitrogen-fixing species to use in damp or wet areas with good light. Excellent in hedges and windbreaks, with growth of 1m (3 ft) per year common for the first 10 years. Good source of pollen for honey and bumble bees in February and March. Several dyes are obtained from parts of the plant and the bark was used for tanning. The timber is traditionally used for charcoal and gunpowder, pumps and sluices, clogs and carving; furniture and plywood. Hardy to -30°C or more. Alnus incana Grey alder. A fast-growing European large tree, growing 6 m (20 ft) in 10 years. Nitrogen-fixing like other alders. It is a good early bee plant and the leaves and bark are used medicinally. The wood is used for clogs, turnery, carving etc. Likes a moist site in sun or part shade; hardy to -40°C. Alnus rubra Red alder. Another nitrogen-fixing, large, fast-growing tree which makes an excellent windbreak. The sap, buds and inner bark have all been eaten, the bark used for dyeing red, and the timber is used for furniture, turnery, clogs, canoes and to smoke fish. Likes a reasonably moist soil and sun or part shade; hardy to -20°C. Alnus sinuata Sitka alder. One of the smaller alders, a small tree from Western N.America. Like all alders, it fixes nitrogen and makes some of it available to other plants. Makes a good hedging plant. Likes a moist site in sun or part shade; hardy to -25°C or more. Alnus viridis Green alder. One of the smaller alders, this is a medium shrub from central Europe reaching 2.5 m (8 ft) high and in spread. Like other alders, it is an excellent nitrogen-fixer, and is a good candidate for underplanting where there is partial shade. It is also very wind-hardy and suitable for hedges and windbreaks. A red dye has been obtained from the inner bark. Likes a moist or wet soil in sun or part shade. Hardy to about -25°C. Amelanchier alnifolia Saskatoon, Regent serviceberry. One of the best North American Amelanchiers for fruit, the saskatoon is a large shrub reaching 5m (16 ft) with rounded leaves and tasty, sweet blue-black fruit about ½" (12 mm) across produced abundantly. Good in windbreaks and hedges, and sometimes used for erosion control. Source of pollen for bees in April. Likes a moist, sunny site but tolerates some shade. Growth 3m (10 ft) in 10 years; hardy to -25°C. Amelanchier canadensis Serviceberry. A large shrub or small tree from Eastern North America growing to 8 m (27 ft) high. White flowers in spring are followed by edible sweet bluish fruits. Good in hedges, bees like the flowers, and the wood is sometimes used for handles and fishing rods. Prefers a moist sunny site; hardy to -25°C. Amelanchier lamarckii Apple serviceberry. A large Canadian shrub, reaching a maximum 10 m (32 ft) high; grows about 60 cm (2 ft) per year. Like most other 'Juneberries', it bears good crops of sweet, tasty, succulent, apple-flavoured fruits around June. Also good in hedges. Likes sun or part shade. Hardy to -25°C. Amorpha canescens Lead plant.. A small shrub from Central N.America, growing to 1.2 m (4 ft) high. A nitrogen-fixing legume, its leaves are used to make a tea, pustules on the plant contain an insecticide, and the plant is used for erosion control. Likes a dry sunny site and tolerates wind; hardy to -40°C. Amorpha fruticosa False indigo. A medium Sized North American shrub, growing to 3-4 m (10-13 ft) high. It is a nitrogen-fixing legume. The crushed seeds have been used as a condiment (though they may not be wholesome); resinous pustules on the plant contain an insecticidal compound effective against aphids and cattle flies. The plant contains small amounts of indigo pigment and can be used to make a blue dye. A good wildlife plant. Needs a well-drained soil and sun or light shade; hardy to -40°C. Angelica archangelica Angelica. a large biennial from slightly shady places in Europe, growing to 2 m (7 ft) high. Stems are edible, often candied. All parts are used medicinally, the essential oil is used in perfumery and as a food flavouring. Likes a moist slightly acid soil with some shade; hardy to -25°C. Angelica sylvestris Wild angelica, woodland angelica. A large biennial or perennial of part shady places in Europe, this angelica has edible young leaves and stems when cooked, with a typical angelica flavour; the seeds are used as a flavouring and the root is also edible cooked. The roots and seeds are used medicinally. Tolerates sun or deep shade. Anthriscus sylvestris Cow parsley, wood chervil. Well-known hedgerow perennial, which is closely related to chervil. Leaves are used as a herb – chervil flavour. Likes sun or part shade; hardy to -15°C Aquilegia vulgaris Columbine. A short-lived European perennial growing to 1.1 m (4 ft) high. The flowers are edible - sweet, rich in nectar. The flowers, leaves and stems are all medicinal, the seeds are insecticidal. Likes a moist soil and part shade; hardy to -25°C. Aralia chinensis Chinese angelica tree. A large shrub from Northeastern Asia, growing to 5 m (16 ft) high. The young shoots are edible (cooked) with an angelica flavour. The stem and roots are used medicinally. Bees also like the plant. Likes a partly shaded site; hardy to -20°C. Aralia elata Japanese angelica tree. A large prickly Japanese shrub, reaching 10 m (32 ft) high or more, growing about 40 cm per year. The young cooked shoots are edible, with an Angelica flavour. A source of nectar for bees in summer, while all parts have been used medicinally. Likes a position in part shade. Hardy to -30°C or so. Arbutus unedo Strawberry tree. A small bushy evergreen tree from southern Europe, reaching 10m (32 ft) high. Produces abundant red strawberry-like fruits 20 mm across with a delicate flavour. Good in hedges; good source of late nectar and pollen for bees in October-December. The bark and leaves have been used both for tanning and medicinally. Growth 2.5m (8 ft) in 10 years; hardy to about -15°C. Arctostaphylos uva-ursi Bearberry, Kinnikinnick. A prostrate, spreading evergreen shrub from Northern temperate regions; grows 30 cm (1 ft) high. The pea-sized fruits are edible, while the leaves are used medicinally, in teas, for tanning and dyeing. Good ground cover and bee plant. Likes an acid soil and a position in sun or part shade; hardy to -25°C. Aronia melanocarpa Black chokeberry. A shrub from North America, growing to 2.5 m (8 ft) high. It grows in any soil, in sun or part shade. It bears lots of black fruits, 7 mm across, which are edible with a good flavour when cooked in pies etc. Hardy to -25ºC. Artemisia dracunculus Tarragon. Perennial plant from southern Russia, source of the familiar herb. As well as the edible leaves, the essential oil is used as a flavouring and the leaves are used medicinally. Likes a dry sunny site; hardy to -15°C. Watch out for slug predation. Artemisia vulgaris Mugwort. European perennial, growing to 2.5 m (8 ft) high when in flower. The leaves can be eaten raw and used as a flavouring; but mainly used for the medicinal leaves and shoots. The essential oil is used in perfumery. Likes a moist but well drained sunny site; hardy to -30°C. Asclepias incarnata Swamp milkweed. Perennial growing to 1 m (3 ft) high with pinkish-purple flowers from summer to autumn. All the milkweeds have edible young shoots (cooked like asparagus) and flowers buds (with a pea flavour). A fibre is produced from the stems, and the seed floss is water-repellent and formerly used in life jackets. The stems produce a latex in small amounts which makes a high quality rubber. Prefers a moist soil and sun; protect young plants from slugs. Hardy to -35ºC. Asclepias speciosa Showy milkweed. A vigorous perennial growing 75 cm (2½ ft) high, spreading, with woolly leaves and purple-pink flowers in summer. See A.incarnata details for uses. Likes a moist soil and sun; protect young plants from slugs. Hardy to -40ºC. Asclepias syriaca Common milkweed. A perennial growing 1 m (3 ft) high or more and spreading freely, with purple and pink flowers in summer. See A.incarnata details for uses. Likes a well drained soil and sun; protect young plants from slugs. Hardy to -35ºC. Asclepias tuberosa Butterfly weed, Pleurisy root. A tuberous perennial growing 75 cm (2½ ft) high with yellowish-orange flowers in summer. See A.incarnata details for uses; this species has flowers very rich in nectar (which can crystallise and hang in lumps) which makes a sweet summer snack. A long-used medicinal plant. Likes a well-drained soil and sun; protect young plants from slugs. Hardy to -35ºC. Asimina triloba Pawpaw. A large North American shrub reaching up to 12 m (40 ft) high with large bottle-shaped fruits of fine flavour. Needs a moist, sunny position in Britain, where fruits are produced in good summers. The bark and leaves are pesticidal and medicinal, while the stringy inner bark has been used for fishing lines. Grows 4 m (13 ft) high in 10 years; hardy to around -20°C. Seeds and plants are from improved fruiting cultivars. Asperula odorata Sweet woodruff. European perennial growing to 50 cm (20”) high. Flowers are edible in salads and the leaves as a flavouring. The leaves and stems are used medicinally, the plant can be used as a ground cover and bees like the flowers. Dyes are obtained from all parts. Likes a moist shady site; hardy to -20°C. Astragalus glycyphyllos Milk vetch. A perennial legume from Europe, growing 60 cm (2 ft) high. Likes a well-drained soil and a sunny position. The foliage is palatable to stock and used for fodder; the leaves have been used to make a tea. Nitrogen-fixer, hardy to -20°C or more. Atriplex canescens Saltbush, Grey sage brush. An evergreen shrub with silvery-grey leaves, reaching 2m (7 ft) high. The leaves and shoots make an excellent spinach with a good flavour, and the seeds are also edible cooked. Very wind-hardy and suitable for hedges in mild and maritime areas; needs a sunny, well-drained site. Hardy to -15°C. Atriplex halimus Tree purslane, Mediterranean salt bush. An evergreen shrub with silvery-grey leaves, to 2m (7 ft) high but often smaller. The leaves and shoots are excellent lightly cooked, and the seed is also edible. Good in maritime hedges, and used to stabilise sand dunes. Needs a sunny site and not too acid a soil; hardy to -10°C. Berberis aggregata Salmon barberry. A medium sized deciduous shrub from W.China, densely-branched and reaching 2.5 m (8 ft) high. Light yellow flowers are followed by masses of cinnamon red edible fruits (fairly acid, lemony flavour - a lemon substitute). Good in hedges. Likes sun or part shade; hardy to -20°C. Berberis aristata Nepal barberry. A deciduous barberry from Nepal, a medium shrub to 3 m (10 ft) high. It bears large (12 mm, ½") edible fruits with a good sweet-acid flavour, and the flower buds have also been eaten. The stem bark is used medicinally. A good hedging plant, and the roots yield a good yellow dye. Likes sun or part shade, hardy to -20°C. Berberis asiatica Himalayan barberry. An evergreen berberis from the Himalayas, a vigorous large shrub to 3.5m (12 ft) high preferring a part shady site. Edible fruits, 8 mm across, ripening blue-black. Hardy to about -15°C. Berberis buxifolia Magellan barberry. An evergreen shrub from Southern Chile growing to 3 m (10 ft) high. The large black fruits are eaten cooked or used in preserves. Also used as a hedging plant. Likes a partly shaded site; hardy to -20°C. Berberis darwinii Darwin's barberry. An evergreen shrub to 3m (10 ft) high, thriving in the British climate and producing an abundance of edible fruits in early summer. Likes a part shady site, and tolerates quite deep shade; good in hedges. Very good as an understorey crop. The bark and roots yield a yellow dye; the plant is a source of nectar and pollen for honey and bumble bees in April and May. Hardy to -15°C. Berberis lycium Indian barberry. A semi-evergreen barberry from the Himalayas, making a shrub to 3m (10 ft) high. Good sized (10 mm) edible juicy purple fruits with a good acid flavour; the cooked leaves and shoots are also reported as edible. Leaves are used to make a tea. Good in hedges; likes a part shady site. Hardy to -20°C. Berberis vulgaris Barberry, Pipperidge. The native British barberry, a deciduous shrub to 3m (10 ft) high bearing lots of clusters of bright red, egg-shaped edible fruits (very acid, lemony, used as a lemon substitute, to make a drink or for preserves). The flowers, leaves and shoot tips have also been eaten. Likes a sunny or part-shady site; very good in hedges. Source of nectar and pollen for honey and bumble bees in May. Several parts of the plant have been used for dyeing and medicinally. Hardy to -35°C. Berberis wilsonii Wilson's barberry. A dense spiny shrub to 1 m (3 ft) high from W.China. Light yellow flowers are followed by edible fruits (acid and lemony - good lemon substitute). A good bee plant, supplying nectar and pollen to honey and bumble bees in summer. A useful ground cover plant. Hardy to -20°C. Betula lenta Sweet birch. Large tree from Eastern North America, growing to 25 m (80 ft) high there. The sap is edible when tapped; also eaten are the leaves, young shoots (made into a tea) and bark. A medicinal oil (wintergreen) is distilled from the bark which is itself used medicinally. The bark has been used for roofing and waterproofing canoes; and the timber is valued for construction etc. Likes a sunny well-drained site; hardy to -35°C. Betula papyrifera Paper birch, Canoe birch. This is the tree many of the north American Indians used the water-resistant bark of to line their canoes and make waterproof wrappings, torches, baskets, paper and roof linings. A large tree to 30m (100 ft) high with white papery bark, very hardy, with edible young leaves, shoots and catkins; the sap is edible and used to make syrup (like maple syrup), wine and vinegar. The timber is used for shoe lasts, veneers and plywood. Growth is 6m (20 ft) in 10 years. Extremely hardy. Betula pendula Silver birch. A medium or large tree from Europe and Asia, with distinctive white bark and weeping branches. Fast growing, about 80 cm (2½ ft) per year, reaching 20 m (70 ft) high at maximum. Likes dryish soils on the acid side, and tolerates part shade; extremely hardy, to about -40°C. The wood is used for fuel, furniture, utensils, turnery, wooden nails, cooperage, flooring, handles, clothes pegs etc. Edible parts include the leaves, sap (tapped in the same way as maples), and inner bark; these parts have also been used medicinally. The branches make good besoms. The tree acts as a green manure tree by shedding nutrient-rich leaves which enrich the surrounding soil. Betula pubescens Downy Birch. Native to Europe and northern Asia, the downy birch is often mistaken for the common silver birch: it also has white bark and differs by being less weeping and by having smooth downy shoots. A fast growing tree reaching 25m (80 ft+), and growing to 8m (25 ft) ten years after planting. Likes damper locations than the silver birch, soils on the acid side, and tolerates part shade; extremely hardy, to -35 or -45°C. Like the silver birch, the plant has numerous uses: the wood is used for fuel, furniture, utensils, turnery, wooden nails, cooperage, flooring, handles, clothes pegs etc. Edible parts include the leaves, sap (tapped in the same way as maples), and inner bark; these parts have also been used medicinally. The branches make good besoms. The tree acts as a green manure tree by shedding nutrient-rich leaves which enrich the surrounding soil. Broussonetia papyrifera Paper mulberry. A rounded small tree or large shrub, growing to 8 m (25 ft) high, with large grey-green leaves. Small flowers are followed by mulberry-like, sweet edible orange-red fruits in autumn (on female trees - dioecious). The roots, leaves, bark and fruits are all used medicinally. Cultivated in Asia for the fibre made from its bark: can be beaten flat to make a cloth. Likes a sunny and sheltered site - hardy to -10°C. Bunium bulbocastanum Pig nut, Earth chestnut. European perennial. The tubers it forms are edible, as are the leaves, seeds and flowers - all cooked and with a caraway flavour. The tubers are also used medicinally and can be fed as fodder. Prefers a slightly alkaline and well drained soil. Buxus sempervirens Box. Small bushy evergreen tree with glossy dark green leaves. Has valuable very hard timber and medicinal leaves. Likes part shade and a fertile, well-drained soil; hardy to -20°C Calamintha grandiflora Garden calamint, Mountain balm. A spreading, many-branched, bushy aromatic perennial to 60 cm (2 ft) with a minty fragrance; bears numerous pink flowers in summer. The leaves are used as a flavouring and for teas; bees love the flowers. Makes a good ground cover plant. Likes any reasonable soil and sun or part shade; hardy to -23ºC. Calamintha nepeta Calamint savory, Lesser calamint. A wide spreading perennial growing to 60 cm (2 ft) high, with stems rooting as they go, with white-lilac flowers in profusion from spring to summer. The leaves are used as a flavouring and for teas, also medicinally; bees love the flowers. Makes a very good ground cover plant. Likes any reasonable soil and sun or part shade; hardy to -20ºC. Calamintha sylvatica Calamint, Mountain mint, Mountain balm. A strong growing European perennial, growing to 80 cm (32”) high. Likes a well drained soil and a sunny site. The leaves are edible as a pungent flavouring (with a pennyroyal aroma) and made into a refreshing tea; the leaves and stems are also used medicinally. Makes a good ground cover plant. Butterflies and bees love the flowers. Hardy to -20°C. Calendula officinalis Marigold. The familiar self-seeding annual grows 40-60 cm high with masses of bright yellow flowers liked by bees and hoverflies. The aromatic leaves and flower petals are edible in salads and used medicinally; the flowers dye yellow. The oil from the seeds is now used industrially. A very good companion plant, for example with potatoes; once sown it will self-seed forever. Likes a position in sun or part shade. Calluna vulgaris Ling, Heather. A familiar moorland plant from Europe, making a dwarf evergreen shrub up to 1 m (3 ft) high. The flower heads and young shoots are used to make a tea and beer. Flowers are used medicinally, bees love the flowers and the plant makes a good ground cover. Needs A well-drained, acid soil and full sun or part shade; hardy to -25°C. Calycanthus floridus Carolina allspice, Spicebush. A dense bushy shrub to 3m (10 ft) high, with aromatic leaves and bark usable as a spice or flavouring, with a cinnamon flavour. Likes a moist, sunny spot. Hardy to -23°C. Camassia quamash Quamash. North American bulbous perennial growing to 80 cm (32”) high. The bulbs are edible, usually cooked, with a chestnut flavour. Likes a sunny or part shady site which is moist and well drained; hardy to -20°C. Campanula lactiflora Milky bellflower. A large perennial, growing up to 1.5 m (5 ft) high, self-seeds readily. The leaves are edible, being mild-flavoured and fine for salads. Bees love the summer flowers for their nectar and pollen. Likes sun or part shade, hardy to -20°C. Campanula latifolia Giant bellflower. A native harebell, a perennial growing 1.2 m (4 ft) high, which self-seeds readily and makes a good ground cover. Leaves, young shoots and flowers are edible, good in salads. Bee plant. Likes part or full shade, hardy to -35°C. Campanula rapunculoides Creeping bellflower. A perennial from North America, growing up to 1.2 m (4 ft) high, which self-seeds rampantly and makes a good ground cover. As well as having pleasant edible leaves, this species also has a nice edible root (raw or cooked), and dyes have been obtained from the aerial parts. Likes sun or part shade; hardy to -35°C. Campanula rapunculus Rampion. European biennial growing to 1 m (3 ft) high. Formerly grown for its edible roots (raw or cooked – sweet); also has edible young leaves and shoots. Bees like the flowers. Prefers a moist or wet acid soil and sun or part shade. Campanula takemisiana A bellflower growing to 50 cm (20”) high, flowering in summer and spreading fairly freely to form large clumps; bears large white flowers in summer. The leaves and leaf stems are edible, tasting much like lettuce, good in salads; they can become bitter in summer during dry spells. The flowers can also be used in salads. Likes a well-drained site and sun or part shade. Caragana arborescens Siberian pea shrub. A large leguminous shrub from Siberia, reaching 6 m (20 ft) high and growing some 40 cm per year. The seeds, produced in numerous pods following yellow flowers, are edible when cooked (having a pea flavour), as are the young pods. A fibre is obtained from the bark. Bees visit the flowers and the species is a good fixer of nitrogen. A very hardy hedging and windbreak tree, hardy to -40°C. Carpinus betulus Hornbeam. A large European tree growing up to 30 m (100 ft) high - 8 m (27 ft) in 10 years. The leaves have been used medicinally, but mainly used for its valuable timber which is very hard. Also used in hedges and windbreaks, and a yellow dye is obtained from the bark. Any soil, tolerates deep shade when young; hardy to -20°C. Catalpa bignonioides Indian bean. Medium spreading tree with white flowers in summer followed by long slender seed pods. Pods, seed & bark are all medicinal; also a bee plant. Likes a fertile, moist but well-drained soil and sun, plus shelter from strong winds; hardy to -20°C. Ceanothus sanguineus Oregon tea. Shrub from Western North America growing to 3 m (10 ft) in height and spread. A nitrogen-fixer which likes a well drained soil and sun or light shade. The leaves are used to make a tea. Bees love the flowers. Hardy to about -20°C. Cedrus atlantica Atlas cedar. A large stately evergreen tree from North Africa, growing to 30 m (100 ft) or more there. Most valued for the essential oil distilled from the wood which is used medicinally and in perfumery and toiletries; the timber is also valued for construction etc. Likes a dry sunny site; hardy to -15°C. Cedrus libani Cedar of Lebanon. Large coniferous tree with wide-spreading branches, growing to 30 m (100 ft) high and wide. Valued for the essential oil distilled from the wood which is used medicinally and in perfumery and toiletries; the timber is also valued for construction etc. Likes a dry sunny site; hardy to -15°C. Celastrus orbiculatus Bittersweet. A vigorous climber from Northeastern Asia, growing to 12 m (40 ft) high - half this in 10 years. The young leaves are eaten cooked; the plant is medicinal and can also be used for facade insulation. Tolerates part shade; hardy to -25°C. Celtis australis European Hackberry, Nettle tree. A tree from Southern Europe, reaching to 25 m (80 ft) high there. It produces edible fruits (1 cm, 0.4” across) and seeds. The leaves are medicinal and a yellow dye is obtained from the bark. The timber is hard and durable. Likes a sunny site; hardy to -15°C. Celtis occidentalis Hackberry. Tree from North America, growing to 18 m (60 ft) high. It bears sweet edible fruits and seeds. The roots furnish a dye, and the timber is used for furniture making etc. Also used in shelterbelts. Likes a sunny site; hardy to -40°C. Centranthus ruber Jupiter’s beard, Red valerian. A compact and sprawling, fast-growing evergreen perennial to 90 cm (3 ft) high, bearing numerous fragrant flowers from spring to summer. The young leaves are edible raw or cooked (a broad bean flavour), and the roots are edible cooked. The plant is used medicinally and is liked by bees and butterflies. Makes a good ground cover. Any well drained soil in sun or light shade; hardy to -23ºC. Cephalotaxus fortunei Chinese plum yew. A large evergreen shrub, growing 6m (20 ft) high with a bushy form. The large fruits are edible, being sweet with a hint of pine in the flavour; they are produced abundantly and regularly in Britain, even in shade. The plum yews thrive in shade (even dense shade) beneath other trees and are ideal understorey crops. The large oily seeds of this species may be edible. Dioecious, so both sexes of plant must be grown for fruit; growth 2m (7 ft) in 10 years. The leaves have long been used in China for their anti-cancer properties. Hardy to -15°C. Ceratonia siliqua Carob. Small evergreen tree from the Middle East. A nitrogen-fixing legume, it produces the well known carob beans which are edible, as are the young pods. The seed pods are used medicinal and bees love the flowers. Tannin is sometimes extracted from the bark. Needs a hot sunny site; hardy to about -5°C. Cercidiphyllum japonicum Katsura tree. Tree from Japan growing to 30 m (100 ft) there; grows 3.5 m (12 ft) in 10 years. The timber is highly valued for joinery, cabinet work, furniture etc. Likes a moist soil and part shade; hardy to -20°C. Cercis canadensis Redbud. A North American round-headed tree to 14m (45 ft) high, preferring a neutral or alkaline soil and part or full shade. A legume, however not now believed to fix nitrogen. The flowers are edible raw (nice in salads), the buds pickled or cooked, and the young pods cooked. Source of nectar & pollen for honey bees in April and May. Hardy to about -25°C. Cercis occidentalis California redbud, Western redbud. A large Californian shrub growing to 5 m (16 ft) high. A nitrogen-fixer. Its pods and seeds are edible cooked, the flowers can be eaten in salads, and bees love the flowers. Likes a sunny and well-drained site; hardy to -12ºC. Cercis siliquastrum Judas tree. A small, ornamental tree reaching 6m (20 ft) high, needing a well drained soil and sunny location. Lilac flowers cover the branches in May, followed by conspicuous purple-tinted seed pods in summer. The flowers are edible raw in salads, the flower buds may be pickled like capers, and the seed pods have also been eaten. Nectar and pollen source for bees in spring. Hardy to -20°C. Chaenomeles cathayensis Chinese/ Cathay Quince. A shrub from central China, growing to a height of 2.5 m (8 ft). Any soil or position in sun or shade. Like others of this family, it bears aromatic fruits which are very large - 10-15 cm (4-6”) long - and can be eaten cooked (they make a good lemony jelly). The fruits are freely produced in Britain and ripen in warm summers. Also a bee plant. Hardy to about -20ºC. Chaenomeles japonica Japonica, Dwarf quince. A small shrub, reaching 1m (3 ft) high and across. Bright orange flowers are followed by yellow, fragrant, edible fruits 1½" (40 mm) across (best cooked), freely produced. Ground cover and bee plant. Hardy to -23°C. Chaenomeles speciosa Japanese quince. A vigorous, wide-spreading shrub with tangled spiny branches and glossy dark green leaves. Grows to 2.5 m (8 ft) high and twice that in spread. Crimson flowers in spring are followed by aromatic greenish-yellow fruits, to 6 cm (2½”) long, edible when cooked like those of C.japonica. Fruits freely in the UK. A good bee plant which can be used for hedging. Grow in any soil or situation, even deep shade, though fruiting will be best in sun. Hardy to -23°C. Chamaemelum nobile Roman chamomile. Evergreen perennial from Europe, growing to 40 cm (16”) high. The plant is widely used medicinally - mostly the flowers, also the essential oil and herb. The flowers make a fine herb tea. The essential oil is used in perfumery. The plant is a good mineral accumulator. Likes a well drained sunny site, preferably neutral to alkaline soil; hardy to -25°C. Chenopodium bonus-henricus Good king Henry. European perennial growing to 80 cm (32”) high. The leaves and young shoots make a good spinach when cooked. The plant is also used medicinally and as a ground cover. Gold and green dyes can be obtained from the plant. Likes a position in sun or part shade; hardy to -20°C. Chenopodium virgatum A rare Japanese annual plant growing to 60 cm (2 ft) high, but often flopping over, which should be sown in spring. It produces numerous stalkless reddish edible fruits (to 1 cm across) over the summer all along the stems, which make a nice nibble on a hot summer’s day in the garden and add a pleasant juiciness to salads. Grows in any reasonable soil in sun. Chimonanthus praecox Wintersweet. A large shrub from China growing to 4 m (13 ft) high. The flowers are edible - used for flavouring and to make a tea. They are also used medicinally and to make perfumes. Likes a well drained, sunny site; hardy to -15°C. Cladrastis lutea Yellow wood. A small tree from Southeastern USA, growing to 10 m (33 ft) or more high. As well as being a nitrogen--fixing legume, a yellow dye is obtained from the wood (hence the name), bees love the flowers, and the timber is valued for cabinet work and gun stocks. Likes a well drained soil and sun or light shade; hardy to -35°C. Claytonia sibirica (Montia sibirica) Siberian purslane. Not from Siberia, this North American short-lived perennial grows 20 cm high in a any moist soil in sun or part or full shade. The leaves are edible, raw (an excellent salad plant – beet flavour) or cooked, and the plant can be used for ground cover - it self-seeds freely. Hardy to -35ºC. Clematis vitalba Traveller's Joy, Old man's beard. The familiar native woodland and hedge climber, which is a vigorous plant sometimes climbing over 10 m (32 ft) into trees. The young shoots are edible, and the leaves and shoots used medicinally. Stems are good for basketry. A good bee plant. Likes part or full shade; hardy to -25°C. Clethra barbinervis A large Japanese shrub reaching 5m (16 ft) high, with edible leaves. Likes an acid soil and part or full shade - suitable as an understorey shrub. Hardy to about -18°C. Colutea arborescens Bladder senna. A medium or large deciduous shrub from the Mediterranean region, growing up to 5 m (16 ft) high; naturalised in Britain. A nitrogen-fixing legume. A good hedging and bee plant; the leaves have been used medicinally, and the wood is used for implements, small furniture items and makes good fuel. Likes full sun and a well-drained soil; hardy to -20°C. Conopodium majus Pig nut. A European perennial growing to 30 cm (1 ft) high. The tubers are edible, raw or cooked, with a flavour like that of Brazil nuts. Requires a neutral or acid soil and tolerates a partly shaded site. Cornus alba Tatarian dogwood, Red-barked dogwood. A medium shrub from Siberia, growing to 3 m (10 ft) high, with brightly coloured red stems: very ornamental. Makes a good bee and hedging plant. Prefers a position in part shade; hardy to -35°C. Cornus canadensis Creeping dogwood, Dwarf cornel. Unlike most Cornus, this is a creeping perennial woodland plant from North America. It only grows 20 cm (8") high but spreads rapidly once established, making an excellent ground cover in shady locations. It also bears edible red fruits. Likes a moist acid soil and a position in part or full shade; hardy to -45°C. Cornus capitata Bentham’s cornel. A large bushy evergreen shrub or small tree growing to 10 m (33 ft) high or more from the Himalayas. It bears large edible fruits, up to 25 mm (1”) across, which look like strawberries. Likes a sunny site; hardy to -15°C or so. Cornus controversa Giant dogwood. A large shrub or tree growing up to 16 m (50 ft) high from Japan and China; grows 30 cm per year. The wood is used for turnery and the flowers are followed by edible fruits. Likes sun or part shade; hardy to -20°C. Cornus florida Flowering dogwood. A large shrub or small tree, reaching up to 10 m (32 ft) high, from North America; grows 40 cm per year. Has highly ornamental white flowers. The bark is used medicinally and the hard wood for hubs, bearings, handles etc. Likes an acid soil and sun or part shade; hardy to -25°C. Cornus kousa chinensis Chinese dogwood. A Chinese variety of C.kousa which flowers and fruits more readily, this makes a large shrub or small tree up to 7 m (23 ft) high, growing about 25 cm per year. Has richly-coloured foliage in the autumn. The fruits, about 20 mm in diameter, are edible with sweet, juicy, delicious pulp; young leaves are also edible. Prefers full sun but tolerates quite deep shade (where flowering is inhibited). Hardy to -20°C or so. Cornus mas Cornelian cherry. A small tree/ large shrub from Central and Southern Europe, quite at home in Britain. The cherry-like fruits are edible (raw, cooked or dried) with a plum flavour when fully ripe; flowers are used as a flavouring and seeds have been used to make a coffee. Bark and fruits have been used medicinally, while the hard wood is used for skewers, javelins, spokes, gears etc. Also a bee plant. Tolerates deep shade, though fruits best in sun; hardy to -23°C. Cornus officinalis Japanese cornelian cherry. A small Japanese tree, closely related to C.mas, growing to 6 m (20 ft) high. It bears edible cherry-like fruits. The fruits and stem bark are used medicinally. Hardy to -20°C. Cornus sanguinea Dogwood. Native to Europe and Asia, the dogwood is a large upright shrub to 4 m (13 ft) high. The oil from the seeds and pericarp is edible (after refining) and used for soaps and as a fuel. The black berries are used for dyeing and the hard timber for skewers, toothpicks, cogs, basketry etc. Tolerates deep shade; hardy to -25°C. Coronilla emerus Scorpion senna. Rounded bushy shrub to 2 m (6 ft) high and wide, bears yellow flowers from spring to autumn, followed by slender pods. A good nitrogen-fixing legume, and the plant is used medicinally. Likes sun and a well-drained soil; hardy to -15°C. Cotinus coggyria Smoke bush. A large deciduous shrub from Southern Europe and Asia, growing to 5 m (16 ft) high (3 m in 10 years); a common ornamental, its name comes from the tufts of wispy flowers. The leaves are used for tanning (hence an alternative name 'Venetian sumach') and a yellow dye is obtained from the shoots. A good bee and hedging plant. Likes full sun and a well-drained site; hardy to -20°C. Crambe cordifolia Colewort. A perennial brassica growing to 200 cm (6 ft) high or more with very large dark green leaves. The young leaves are edible, usually as a cooked vegetable; the young flowering shoots are eaten, cooked like broccoli. Can be used as a ground cover plant. Grows in most soils in sun or part shade; hardy to -20ºC. Crambe tatarica Tartar bread plant. Perennial from Europe and Asia growing to 1 m (3 ft) high, liking a sunny position. The leaves and stems are eaten like seakale (usually blanched), and the thick roots are used as a vegetable and are dried and ground into a flour. Bees love the flowers. Hardy to -20°C or more. Crataegus arnoldiana A small round-headed tree from North America growing to 6 m (20 ft) tall. It bears very nice sweet, tasty and juicy red fruits in early autumn. Grows in any reasonable soil in sun or part shade; hardy to -23ºC. Crataegus azarolus Azarole, Mediterranean medlar. A small tree or large shrub to 10m (32 ft) high, bearing edible apple-flavoured yellow or orange fruits 1" (25 mm) across. Likes a sunny position. Hardy to -20°C. Crataegus douglasii Black haw. A small tree from Western N.America, growing 10 m (32 ft) high. It bears edible, sweet, 12 mm (½") black fruits in abundance and is a bee plant. Any soil in sun or part shade; hardy to -20°C. Crataegus durobrivensis A rare small round-headed hybrid tree from North America growing to 6 m (20 ft) tall. It bears very nice sweet, tasty and juicy red fruits, 16 mm (0.7”) across, in early autumn. Grows in any reasonable soil in sun or part shade; hardy to -25ºC. Grafted plants. Crataegus ellwangeriana A rare small round-headed tree from the Eastern USA, growing to 6 m (20 ft) tall. It bears very nice sweet, tasty and juicy red fruits, 20 mm (0.8”) across, in early autumn. Grows in any reasonable soil in sun or part shade; hardy to -25ºC. Grafted plants. Crataegus mollis Red haw. Another small tree from North America, growing 10 m (32 ft) high or more. The red fruits are borne in large clusters; they are edible, 12-25 mm (½-1") across. The wood is used for turnery. Likes sun or part shade; hardy to -23°C. Crataegus monogyna Hawthorn, Quick, May. The familiar native small tree which is common in hedges and woodland edges. It grows to about 10 m (32 ft) high (6 m, 20 ft, in 10 years). The young leaves are edible - raw in salads or in teas, and the fruits are edible, usually used in preserves. The seeds can be made into a coffee. Several parts are used medicinally. Makes an excellent stockproof hedging plant, also a bee plant. The wood makes good fuel. Any soil in sun or part shade; hardy to -23°C. Crataegus oxycantha Midland hawthorn. The other native Crataegus to Britain, this is similar to the hawthorn but is smaller (reaching 6 m, 20 ft) and has fewer thorns. Uses the same as C.monogyna. Hardy to about -20°C. Crataegus tanacetifolia Syrian haw. Rounded small thornless tree growing to 10 m (30 ft) high, often less. Fragrant white flowers in summer are followed by rounded, aromatic, orange-red edible fruits, up to 2.45 cm (1”) across, of good flavour. Cupressus macrocarpa Monterey cypress. A large, fast growing evergreen tree from California. In the west of Britain it makes one of the best windbreak and shelterbelt trees, especially near the coast. A good nurse tree for other species. The durable timber is valued for construction, joinery etc. Likes a sunny site; hardy to -15°C. Cynara cardunculus Cardoon. Tall perennial from the Mediterranean region growing to 2 m (7 ft) high. The blanched leaf stalks are cooked as a celery-like vegetable; also edible are the cooked roots, young leaves & stalks, and unopened flower buds (like artichokes). The dried flowers curdle milk. The leaves are also used medicinally and bees love the flowers. Likes a moist well drained soil and sun or light shade. Hardy to -10°C or so. Cynara scolymus Globe artichoke. Tall perennial from Europe, growing 2 m (7 ft) high. Usually grown for the edible flower receptacles; also edible are the blanched leaves and stalks when cooked. The leaves are used medicinally and bees love the flowers. Likes a moist well-drained soil and sun; hardy to -15°C. Cyperus esculentus sativus Tiger nut, Chufa. Tuberous perennial from Asia and Africa, growing to 90 cm (3 ft) high. The small tubers are well known as sweet nutty snacks and can be ground to make a flour. An edible oil can be extracted from the tubers, which are also much loved by rooting pigs and water fowl. Likes a moist or wet acid soil and sun or part shade; hardy to -10°C. Supplied as small tubers. Cytisus scoparius Broom. An evergreen native shrub, growing 3 m (10 ft) high within a few years. A nitrogen-fixing legume, vigorous and healthy, which needs a sunny position and a well-drained soil. The seeds can be used to make a coffee, while the flower buds may be pickled (use with care - may be toxic to some people). A very wind-hardy hedging plant; several dyes are obtained from the plant, which provides food for bees and butterflies. Hardy to about -20°C. Daphne mezereon Mezereon. A European shrub growing to 1.8 m (6 ft) high. The bark, fruits and roots are all used medicinally (NB: poisonous!) and also provide yellow and green-brown dyes; bees love the flowers in late winter/early spring. Likes a part shady site; hardy to -30°C. Decaisnea fargesii Blue bean. A large deciduous shrub from Western China, growing to 5 m (16 ft) high - 3 m in 10 years. It bears huge pinnate leaves, yellow flowers and remarkable metallic-blue seed pods the shape of broad bean pods. These pods are edible raw, with a sweet, rather delicate flavour. Likes a moist site in sun or part shade; hardy to -20°C. Diospyros lotus Date plum. A medium-sized tree from E.Asia, bearing yellow or purple edible fruits the size of small tomatoes; these have an excellent rich flavour when fully ripe (may require bletting or allowed to be frosted to remove astringency) - bears readily in S.England. Likes a moist site in sun or part shade; dioecious; hardy to -23°C. Diospyros virginiana American persimmon. A wide-spreading tree growing to 18 m (60 ft) high. Bears excellent edible sweet fruits which hang on the tree well into winter; readily bears in Britain; fruits have an excellent rich flavour when fully ripe (may require bletting or allowed to be frosted to remove astringency). The seeds can be used for coffee, and leaves are used to make a tea similar to sassafras tea. A good bee plant with hard wood. Likes a position in sun or part shade; dioecious and hardy to -25°C. Drimys winterii Winter's bark. A large evergreen shrub from South America whose aromatic, pungent bark is used as a spice (a pepper substitute). Likes a moist acid soil and a part shady site. Hardy to -12°C, needs the protection of a wall outside of the SW. Duchesnea indica Perennial, usually evergreen, which spreads rapidly by runners to form a reasonable ground cover. Looks very like the strawberry family. Only reaches 10 cm (4”) high, and grows in sun or deep shade. The fruits and leaves are edible; these are the flowers are also used medicinally. Hardy to about -20°C. Echinacea purpurea Purple coneflower. Perennial from the Eastern USA growing to 1.5 m (5 ft) high when flowering. The roots are now ell known for their medicinal properties - strengthening the immune system - and are widely used in herbal medicine. Likes a moist, well-drained soil and sun or part shade; hardy to -35°C. Protect from slugs! Elaeagnus angustifolia Russian olive, Oleaster. A large deciduous shrub to 7m (22 ft) high with silvery foliage; vigorous and a nitrogen-fixer which benefits the surrounding plants. Numerous edible silvery-amber, oval fruits, ½" (12 mm) across. An excellent hedging plant, needing sun or part shade. Growth 2m (7 ft) in 10 years; hardy to -40°C. Elaeagnus commutata Silver berry. A large nitrogen-fixing shrub, growing to 5 m (16 ft) high, 20 cm per year, with silvery leaves and fruits. The egg-shaped fruits are edible, usually sweetened or cooked; the seeds are also edible. The fibrous bark is used to make ropes etc. A good hedging and bee plant. Likes full sun and a well-drained soil; hardy to -40°C. Elaeagnus multiflora Cherry elaeagnus, Goumi. A deciduous elaeagnus from Japan and China, a spreading shrub to 3m (10 ft) high, nitrogen-fixing and producing an abundance of large cherry-sized dark red edible fruits. Good hedging plant. Growth 2m (7 ft) in 10 years; hardy to about -20°C. Elaeagnus umbellata Autumn olive. A large, spreading, vigorous shrub to 10m (32 ft) high; nitrogen-fixing and benefiting other nearby plants. Bears pale red, juicy, sweet-acid edible fruits in autumn; the seeds are also edible. Fruits are borne at about 6 years of age. Useful in hedges, as a dune stabiliser and as a nurse plant. Growth 2.5m (8 ft) in 10 years; hardy to -35°C. Ephedra nevadensis Mormon tea. A shrub from the Western USA growing to 1 m (3 ft) high. The sweet fruits are eaten as are the cooked seeds; the stems are used to make a tea, medicinally and are used for dyeing. Likes a well-drained light soil and sun; hardy to -18°C or so. Erigeron glaucus Beach aster. A tufted evergreen perennial to 25 cm (10”) high with very pretty mauve & yellow flowers from spring to summer. Can be used for ground cover and bees and butterflies love the flowers. Likes a well-drained soil and sun; hardy to -12ºC or more. Eryngium campestre Field eryngo, Snakeroot. A European perennial growing to 60 cm (2 ft) high. The young shoots are cooked and eaten, and the roots cooked or candied. The roots and fresh plant are used medicinally. Likes a well drained soil and sun; hardy to -20°C. Euonymus europaeus Spindle tree. A large shrub or small tree from Europe, growing up to 7 m (24 ft) high - 3 m (10 ft) in 10 years. Roots, bark and fruits are used medicinally; the fruits give a yellow dye and are insecticidal. Used as a dune stabiliser. The timber is hard and used for small items. Any soil in sun or part shade; hardy to -30°C. Eupatorium perforatum Boneset, Throughwort. Perennial from North America growing to 1 m (3 ft) high. Widely used as a medicinal plant in North America, with the leaves and stems used. Grows in any reasonable soil in sun or part shade; hardy to -25ºC. Filipendula ulmaria Meadowsweet. European perennial growing to 2 m (7 ft) high when flowering. The leaves can be used for tea, the flowers for wine and the roots cooked and eaten; the aerial parts are medicinal, and all parts give dyes. A good mineral accumulator which attracts bees and beneficial insects. An essential oil from the plant is sometimes used in perfumery. Likes a part or fully shaded site and a moist soil; hardy to -30°C. Foeniculum vulgare Fennel. Perennial from southern Europe growing to 2 m (6 ft) high. All parts have the well-known anise flavour and can be used for flavouring; the leaves and seeds are used medicinally and in herb teas. Attracts bees and beneficial insects; also a mineral accumulator. Likes sun or part shade and a well-drained soil; hardy to -20°C. Fragaria vesca Wild strawberry, woodland strawberry. A low growing semi-evergreen perennial plant, spreading and rooting as it goes. Most folk know the wild strawberry and its small but very tasty fruits. Strawberries make a good component of a ground cover layer beneath or around other plants. The fruits and leaves are used medicinally, and bees love the flowers. Grow in any soil in sun or part shade; hardy to -23ºC. Fraxinus excelsior Ash. The well-known native European tree, making a large vigorous tree growing 30 m (100 ft) high or even more; growth 10 m (32 ft) in 10 years. The keys (Immature seeds+wings) are traditionally made into a pickle. Leaves, seeds and bark are used medicinally. The timber is valued for construction, shipbuilding, to make veneers and furniture, and makes great fuel. Likes a moist soil and sun or part shade; hardy to -30°C. Fraxinus ornus Manna ash. A small tree from Southern Europe, growing 8 m (27 ft) high; grows 60 cm (2 ft) per year. In Southern Europe, cuts are made in the bark and the gummy exudation that forms is used both for food and medicinally. Likes a moist site and sun or part shade; hardy to -20°C. Galium verum Lady’s bedstraw. European perennial growing to 1.2 m (4 ft) high. The flowering tops can be used to make a tea; also used medicinally and to curdle mil. All parts give dyes. Bees and butterflies love the plant. Likes a moist soil and some shade; hardy to -30°C. Gautheria shallon Salal, Shallon. A small evergreen shrub 1-1.8m (3-6 ft) high, vigorous and spreading freely to make a good ground cover. Freely bears large clusters of dark purple edible fruits, 10 mm across, with a good flavour. Likes an acid, moist soil and part or full shade - an excellent understorey crop. Also a bee plant. Hardy to -20°C. Genista tinctoria Dyer's greenweed. A dwarf shrub from Europe, growing 1 m (3 ft) high; a nitrogen-fixing legume. All aerial parts are used medicinally and for dyeing. A bee plant and ground cover plant; a fibre is obtained from the stems. Needs full sun and a well-drained soil; hardy to -40°C. Gentiana lutea Yellow gentian. European perennial growing to 2 m (6 ft) high when flowering. Well known as a source of edible rhizomes – used commercially in various liqueurs. The dried tap root is used medicinally. Prefers sun and a well drained acid soil. Hardy to -25°C. Geum rivale Water avens. Perennial from Northern temperate regions, growing to 30 cm (1 ft) high. The roots are used as a flavouring and to make a drink (chocolate flavoured). The roots are also used medicinally, bees like the flowers, and it is a ground cover plant for wet sites. Likes wet soil or water and sun; hardy to -25°C. Geum urbanum Wood avens, Herb bennet. European perennial growing to 60 cm (2 ft) high. The roots can be eaten cooked, and all parts can be used for flavouring (with a clove/cinnamon flavour). The roots and leaves are used medicinally. Bee plant. Likes some shade and a moist soil; hardy to -20°C. Gingko biloba Maidenhair tree. A large tree from China, growing 30 m (100 ft) high (about 3 m in 10 years). The seeds, about the size of hazelnuts, are edible when roasted and an edible oil can be obtained from them; a popular food crop in China. The leaves are now used in modern medicine and the wood for chopping blocks and carving. Likes a position in full sun; dioecious and hardy to -25°C. Gleditsia triacanthos Honey locust. A large tree to 20m (70 ft) high, leguminous but not a nitrogen-fixer. Has long seed pods which contain seeds in a sweet edible pulp; the young seeds and young pods are also edible cooked. The pods are the basis for developing agroforestry systems as sheep in particular are fond of using them for fodder when they drop. The tree is also used for erosion control, and is a bee plant; the timber is valuable. Growth is 4m (13 ft) in 10 years; hardy to -35°C. Glycyrrhiza echinata Russian liquorice. Perennial legume from Southern Europe, growing up to 1 m (3 ft) high. Sometimes cultivated as an annual. The roots are edible raw - they are the source of Russian and German liquorice. Also used medicinally, and a good ground cover. Deep rooted and an excellent mineral accumulator as well as fixing nitrogen. Likes a moist soil and part or full shade; hardy to -12°C. NB plants doesn’t start growing until late May or June - be patient! Glycyrrhiza glabra Liquorice. Perennial legume from Southern Europe, growing up to 1.2 m (4 ft) high. Sometimes cultivated as an annual. The roots are edible raw - they are the source of common liquorice. Also used medicinally, and a good ground cover. Deep rooted and an excellent mineral accumulator as well as fixing nitrogen. Likes a moist soil and part or full shade; hardy to -12°C. NB plants doesn’t start growing until late May or June - be patient! Gymnocladus dioica Kentucky coffee tree. A large North American tree, growing up to 25 m (80 ft) high; grows 6 m (20 ft) in 10 years. Large compound leaves turn a clear yellow in autumn. The seeds, borne in pods, can be roasted and made into a coffee, while the bark and pods contain saponins and can be used as soap sources. The wood is valued for cabinet work and fencing. A dioecious legume which doesn’t fix nitrogen, & which likes sun or part shade; hardy to -25°C. Halesia carolina (H.tetraptera) Snowdrop tree, Wild olive. A large shrub or small spreading tree to 6m (20 ft) high. White, bell-shaped flowers in spring are followed by pear-shaped, four-winged fruits, edible when green in summer with a nice pea flavour. Likes a moist acid soil and sun or part shade. Hardy to -23°C. Hamamelis virginiana Witch hazel. A large North American shrub from forest understories, growing to 5 m (16 ft) high, 30 cm per year. Bright yellow flowers open in the autumn as the leaves fall. The oily seeds are edible, but the plant is best known for its medicinal leaves and inner bark. Branches are used as diviner's rods. Likes a moist, slightly acid soil and sun or part shade; hardy to -35°C. Helianthus maximiliani Maximilian sunflower. Tall tuberous perennial from North America. Produces edible tubers (a perennial artichoke). Likes a well-draned soil; hardy to -30°C Helleborus foeditus Hellebore. Erect perennial with hairless stems, flowering from winter to spring. Evergreen ground cover, bee plant, medicinal plant. Likes sun or shade and a soil not acid; hardy to -20°C Hemerocallis minor Grassleaf daylily. Semi-evergreen perennial with long narrow leaves and bright flowers in summer. Has edible flowers, young leaves & shoots cooked; ground cover. Likes sun; hardy to -30°C Herniaria glabra Rupturewort. European evergreen perennial growing 30 cm (1 ft) high. The leaves and flowering shoots have long been used medicinally. Also makes a good ground cover plant. Likes sun and a well-drained acid soil. Hardy to -25°C. Heteromeles arbutifolia Christmas berry. A large evergreen Californian shrub growing up to 9 m (30 ft) high. The fruits, the size of peas, are edible raw or cooked in early winter (tasting like haws). Leaves, stems and fruits give dyes; bees also like the flowers. Likes a well-drained soil and sun; hardy to about -8°C. Hibiscus syriacus Mallow. A medium deciduous shrub from China and India, growing to 3 m (10 ft) high though often less. The young leaves and flowers are used in teas, and the flowers for dyeing. The bark and roots are used medicinally. Likes a moist site in the sun; hardy to -20°C. Hippophae rhamnoides Sea buckthorn. A large shrub or small tree native to Britain, growing 6m (20 ft) high or more; nitrogen-fixing. Produces abundant fruits which are edible (cooked and sweetened) - they are very high in Vitamins A & C. Used as a sand dune stabiliser; all parts yield a yellow dye; also a bee plant. Likes a well drained, sunny site and grows in any soil. Dioecious, so both sexes are needed for fruit. Growth 3.5m (12 ft) in 10 years; hardy to -35°C. Hippophae salicifolia Willow-leaved sea buckthorn. A medium sized Himalayan tree growing to 15 m (50 ft) high; dioecious. Female trees bear numerous fruits in the autumn which are edible (usually cooked - acid raw) with a lemony flavour and very high in Vitamin C. The leaves, shoots are fruits are used medicinally. A nitrogen-fixer which grows in most soils in a sunny position. Hardy to -10°C or so. Holodiscus discolor Ocean spray. A large shrub from Western North America, growing to 5 m (16 ft) high - 3 m (10 ft) in 10 years. It bears edible fruits, raw or cooked. The very hard wood does not burn easily and is used to make kitchen implements etc. Likes a moist soil and sun or part shade; hardy to about -20°C. Hovenia dulcis Japanese raisin tree. A small tree from China and Mongolia (not Japan!). Has ornamental, glossy foliage. The enlarged fruit stalks are edible, being sweet, succulent and with a raisin-like flavour. Also used medicinally. This species is used in China in the reforestation of sandy soils. Likes a well-drained soil and full sun; hardy to -20°C. Hypericum androsaemum Tutsan. A small native bushy shrub to 1 m (3 ft) high with yellow flowers in summer followed by red then black fruits (not edible). Bees love the flowers and the plant is used medicinally. Makes a good ground cover plant. Grows in any reasonable soil in sun or shade, tolerant of exposure; hardy to -20ºC. Hypericum calycinum A small trailing shrub to 30 cm (1 ft) high from the Mediterranean with grey-green leaves and deep yellow flowers in summer, loved by bees. Makes a good ground cover. Likes a well drained soil and sun; hardy to -20ºC. Hypericum perforatum St John’s wort. A European perennial growing 90 cm (3 ft) high, liking a well-drained site. A long-used medicinal plant, now becoming popular because of its effectiveness for depression and other nervous complaints. It is also a good dye plant with several dyes obtained. Hardy to -30°C. Hyssopus officinalis Hyssop. Evergreen perennial from Southern Europe, growing to 60 cm (2 ft) high. The leaves are used as a flavouring; the flowers are edible, and the essential oil from leaves is used for flavouring and in perfumery. The leaves and stems are used medicinally. Attracts bees and butterflies. Likes a sunny, well-drained soil; hardy to -25°C. Idesia polycarpa Igiri tree. A tree from Japan and China, reaching 15 m (50 ft) high. Dioecious. It bears edible fruits, the size of currants. Likes a moist soil and sun or part shade; hardy to -20°C. Ilex aquifolium Holly. The familiar large native shrub with prickly glossy green leaves, which can grow to 10 m (32 ft) high or more. The leaves, fruit and bark have all been used medicinally. Often found as part of ancient mixed hedges. The wood is unusual in that it burns well when green, though it is also valued for inlay work, veneers, musical instruments etc. Also a bee and wildlife plant. Grows almost anywhere, including in deep shade; hardy to -18°C. Inula helenium Elecampine. European perennial growing to 3 m (10 ft) high when flowering. Well known as a source of edible roots, used as a flavouring and eaten candied; the young leaves can be cooked and eaten (bitter). The roots are also used medicinally and are a source of a blue dye. Likes a moist soil and part or full shade; hardy to -25°C. Isatis tinctoria Woad. Well known European biennial, growing to 1.2 m (4 ft) high. The leaves are used to furnish an excellent dark blue dye. Bees like the flowers. Likes sun and a well-drained soil; hardy to -15°C. Juncus inflexus Hard rush. An evergreen perennial waterside or marsh plant from central and Southern Europe, with strong triangular stems growing to 1.2 m (4 ft) high. Used along water courses for erosion control. The stems are used for basketry and matting. Makes good water fowl fodder and cover. Likes a moist/wet site in sun or part shade; hardy to -25°C or more. Juniperus communis Juniper. The well known evergreen shrub which yields the edible fruit used in gin. A variable shrub to 5m (16 ft) high, though often lower, the fruits are used for flavouring. Also used as a nurse shrub and in hedges, and the foliage is used to smoke hams and cheeses. Dioecious, so both sexes are needed for fruit. Hardy to -35°C. Juniperus sabina Savin. An evergreen shrub from Southern Europe, growing to 3 m (10 ft) high. Dioecious. The needles and essential oil from the branches are used medicinally (NS: poisonous!); the oil is also used in perfumery. Can be used as a ground cover. Likes a site in sun or part shade; hardy to -25°C. Juniperus scopulorum Rocky mountain juniper. Evergreen tree from Western North America, growing to 12 m (40 ft) high; a slow growing shrub in Britain. Dioecious. The fruits (pea sized) are edible raw or cooked, and can be roasted to make a coffee or infused to make a tea. The fruits and twigs are used medicinally. The durable timber is highly valued. Likes an alkaline site in sun or part shade; hardy to -25°C. Juniperus virginiana Eastern red cedar, Pencil cedar. A tall, fast-growing narrow coniferous tree from North America, often grown as an ornamental in Europe. The small blue fruits are edible, while the leaves and an oil distilled from them are used medicinally. Fruits and foliage yield dyes. The timber is valued for construction, joinery etc and was used for pencils, hence the name. Likes a position in sun or part shade; hardy to -25°C or more. Kerria japonica Japanese rose. A medium deciduous shrub from China, growing 2 m (7 ft) high, with bright yellow flowers in Spring - often grown as an ornamental. Makes a good component of a mixed hedge, and the young leaves are edible. Likes a moist location in sun or part shade; hardy to -20°C. Koelreuteria paniculata Golden rain tree. A small to medium deciduous tree from China and Korea, growing up to 15 m (50 ft) high in Britain. Huge yellow flowers in summer are followed by spectacular red seed pods - very ornamental. The leaves and roasted seeds are edible; the flowers are used medicinally and for dyeing. A good bee plant. Likes a well-drained site in full sun; hardy to -20°C. Laburnum anagyroides Golden chain, Laburnum. A small leguminous tree from central and Southern Europe, with masses of bright yellow flowers in spring. A popular ornamental. A good nitrogen-fixing species which succeeds in almost any situation. The timber is one of the hardest and heaviest of all European trees: it is valued for cabinet and instrument making. Like other Laburnums, the leaves and seeds (borne in pods) are poisonous. Likes sun or part shade; hardy to -20°C. Lamiastrum galeobdolon Yellow archangel. Perennial which spreads via rhizomes and stolons, producing yellow flowers in summer. An evergreen ground cover with edible young leaves/shoots. Likes shade; hardy to -20°C Larix decidua Larch. Large European coniferous tree - not evergreen - growing to 30 m (100 ft) high - 5 m (16 ft) in 10 years. The inner bark is used medicinally (and can be eaten in times of famine), and the needles and bark provide dyes. The timber is highly valued for construction etc. Any soil in sun or part shade; hardy to -30°C. These seeds are from a registered seed stand of trees of good form. Lathyrus sylvestris Flat pea, Wood pea. A perennial legume of the sweet pea family, with similar colourful flowers, a scrambling tendril climber to 2 m (6 ft) high. A good nitrogen fixer and bee plant which tolerates considerable shade. Can be used as a green manure plant and for erosion control; also as a fodder plant. Grows in most soils and hardy to -20°C. Laurus nobilis Bay tree, Laurel, Sweet bay. A large evergreen shrub or small tree, very tolerant of exposure in maritime situations where it makes a good hedge. The leaves are the familiar 'bay leaves' of kitchen use everywhere: but they are much better fresh from your own tree than dried! The oily seeds are used as an insect repellent and to make soaps, and the hard wood is used for carving and fine cabinet work. Bees love the flowers. Likes a sunny position; hardy to about -15°C, but re-sprouts well if it is ever damaged by severe winter weather. Lavandula angustifolia Lavender. A dwarf evergreen shrub from the Mediterranean region, growing to 60 cm (2 ft) high. Well known for its medicinal leaves and flowers, and the essential oil from the flowers which is widely used in perfumery and toiletries. The leaves and flowers can be used for flavouring and bees adore the plant. Likes a well-drained soil and sun; hardy to -20°C. Leonurus cardiaca Motherwort. A very hardy perennial from Europe growing to 1.5 m (5 ft) high. The flowering tops are aromatic and used as a flavouring, and the flowers used to make a tea. The leaves and stems are used medicinally and provide a green dye. Bees like the flowers. Likes a well-drained soil and shade. Lespedeza bicolor Bush clover. A medium deciduous shrub from Eastern Asia, growing to 3 m (10 ft) high. A legume, fixing large amounts of nitrogen. The young leaves, stems, flowers and seeds are all edible when cooked, and the leaves are used as a tea substitute. Roots and leaves are used medicinally. Esteemed as a fodder plant (fresh or made into hay) and a good bee plant. Widely used for soil conservation and its wildlife value. Likes a well-drained soil in full sun; hardy to -23°C. Levisticum officinale Lovage. A vigorous, deep-rooted, large perennial growing to 2 m (7 ft) high. All parts are strongly aromatic with a yeasty-celery flavour and make a good celery-substitute; the young stems and leaves are usually used (raw or cooked) but roots and seeds are also edible. Attractive to bees and hoverflies. Likes a moist soil and a position in sun or part shade; hardy to -25°C. Libocedrus decurrens Incense cedar. A large evergreen tree from the Western USA, growing there to 30 m (100 ft) high, with very aromatic leaves. The timber is very durable and highly valued for construction, furniture, sleepers, fencing etc. Tolerates part shade; hardy to -15°C. Limnanthes douglasii Poached egg plant. An annual from Western North America, which self-seeds, forming carpets of foliage and very attractive yellow and white flowers which the hoverflies and bees love. A very good plant to sow near and around others which are susceptible to aphid attack. Makes a reasonable ground cover beneath bush fruit until the summer. Often continues to grow over mild winters and flowers in the spring. A must for every garden! Likes sun or part shade and a soil on the acid side. Lindera benzoin Spice bush, Wild allspice. A large aromatic shrub to 6m (20 ft) high, with all parts usable as an allspice flavouring; the leaves are used to make a tea. Likes a moist, acid soil and part shade; dioecious so both sexes are needed for fruit. Hardy to -23°C. Lindera obtusiloba Japanese allspice. A large aromatic shrub to 10 m (33 ft) high. Leaves and others parts are used for flavouring and to make a tea. Likes a moist acid soil and part shade; hardy to -20°C. Linum perenne Perennial flax. Clumping perennial with blue flowers over a long period in summer. A fibre plant, with edible & medicinal seed, and a bee plant. Likes sun and a well-drained soil; hardy to -15°C Liquidambar styraciflua Sweet gum. A large North American tree, with brilliant coloured autumn foliage. The name comes from the edible gummy exudation from the trunk. A balsam, extracted from the wood, is used medicinally, in soaps and perfumes. The timber, known as 'Satin walnut' is highly valued for furniture, veneers, cooperage etc. Likes a moist acid soil in sun or part shade; hardy to -20°C. Liriodendron tulipifera Tulip tree. A large North American tree, growing to 30 m (100 ft) high or more (4 m in 10 years). The bark and roots are used for flavouring food and beer, while the inner bark is used medicinally. A good bee tree, with the leaves supplying a golden dye. The timber is valued for construction, roof shingles, fencing etc. Likes a moist soil and sun or part shade; hardy to -25°C. Lonicera periclymenum Honeysuckle. A vigorous climber, growing high into trees. Stems are used for basketry, flowers & leaves are medicinal. Sun or part shade; hardy to -25°C Lotus corniculatus Bird’s foot trefoil. A nitrogen-fixing ground cover with masses of yellow flowers in summer. A bee plant, fodder plant, and has medicinal flowers. Likes sun and a well-drained soil; hardy to -20°C Lotus uliginosus Greater bird’s foot trefoil. Native nitrogen-fixing ground cover with masses of yellow flowers in summer. A bee plant, fodder plant, and mineral accumulator. Likes sun and a well-drained soil; hardy to -20°C Lupinus arboreus Tree lupin. A small or medium sized evergreen shrub from California, naturalised in S.England. Grows to 3 m (10 ft) high within a few years; relatively short-lived. An excellent nitrogen-fixing legume species, very wind hardy and good in hedges and windbreaks. Also a bee plant, dune stabiliser and the flowers yield a yellow dye. Likes a slightly acid soil and full sun; hardy to about -12°C. Lupinus perennis Wild lupin. A perennial from North America, growing 60 cm (2 ft) high. The seeds are edible after cooking (used any way that cooked beans are); the young seedpods are also edible cooked. An excellent nitrogen-fixing legume which also accumulates other minerals. Leaves and flowering stems are used for dyeing and bees love the flowers. Likes a well-drained, slightly acid soil and full sun; hardy to -25°C. Maackia amurensis A shrub or tree to 15m (50 ft) high, leguminous and nitrogen-fixing. Has edible young leaves and valuable timber. Used in reforestation as a green manure tree. Needs a sunny, well-drained site. Growth 2m (6 ft) in 10 years; hardy to -23°C. Maclura pomifera Osage orange. A tree up to 18m (60 ft) high, bearing large pale-yellow fruits which are not edible - in fact they are insecticidal, and the oil from them can be used as a lubricant. Good in hedges and windbreaks. Dyes, rubber and medicinal products can all be obtained from this species. Likes a sunny, well-drained soil; dioecious. Growth 6m (20 ft) in 10 years; hardy to -23°C. Magnolia kobus Kobus magnolia. A deciduous large shrub or small tree to 10m (32 ft) high from Northern Japan. The flowers and flower buds are edible when cooked, and the leaves are used as a flavouring and to make a tea. Source of pollen for bees in April. Likes a moist sunny site. Hardy to about -25°C. Magnolia virginiana Sweet bay, Swamp bay. A semi-evergreen large shrub or small tree to 5m (16 ft) or more with leaves edible as a flavouring. The roots and bark have medicinal uses; it is also a bee plant. Likes a moist sunny or part shady site. Hardy to -23°C. Mahonia aquifolium Oregon grape. A small evergreen shrub growing 1-1.5 (3-5 ft) high, tolerating deep shade. The blue-black fruits, 10 mm across, are edible as are the bright yellow flowers. Dyes can be made from the fruit, shoots and roots. An excellent ground cover and a superb understorey crop; also good in hedges. A good early source of nectar and pollen for honey and bumble bees. Hardy to -23°C. Mahonia japonica A Japanese evergreen shrub growing to 2 m (6 ft) high. Grows in most soils and sun or shade. Like other Mahonias, it bears edible fruits which are 9 mm across, on the acid side but nice if sweetened; these ripen in late spring - May usually. Hardy to -15ºC. Mahonia nervosa Water holly, Oregon grape. A small evergreen spreading shrub to 1m (3 ft) high, tolerating deep shade. The blue-black fruits, 10 mm across, are edible as are the flowers and young leaves (cooked). An excellent ground cover and understorey crop. Also used for hedges; a source of nectar and pollen for bees. Hardy to -20°C. Mahonia repens Creeping barberry, Creeping Oregon grape. A spreading evergreen shrub to 60 cm (2 ft) high, tolerating deep shade. Bloomy black fruits, 10 mm across, are edible. An excellent ground cover and understorey crop; also used for hedges. Hardy to -20°C. Malva alcea Hollyhock mallow. A robust upright perennial growing to 1 m (3 ft) tall, freely flowering in summer and autumn with large purple-pink flowers, will self-sow. The leaves are excellent in salads with a mild flavour; the flowers are also very good in salads. The leaves are medicinal and a fibre has been made from the stems; various dyes are made from the plant; bees love the flowers. Grow in any soil in sun or part shade; hardy to -25ºC. Malva moschata Musk mallow. A robust native upright perennial growing to 1 m (3 ft) tall, freely flowering in summer and autumn with pale pink or white flowers, will self-sow. The leaves are excellent in salads with a mild flavour; the flowers are also very good in salads. All parts are medicinal and a fibre has been made from the stems; various dyes are made from the plant; bees love the flowers. Grow in any soil in sun or part shade; hardy to -35ºC. Malva sylvestris Common mallow. Annual or short-lived native bushy perennial growing 1 m (3 ft) high, bearing large pinkish-purple flowers from spring to autumn; again with very good edible leaves and flowers. All parts are medicinal and a fibre has been made from the stems; various dyes are made from the plant; bees love the flowers. Grow in any soil in sun or part shade; hardy to -23ºC. Malva verticillata Crispa Chinese mallow. Short-lived perennial or annual, but one which self-seeds readily even in shady conditions. Grows about 1.5 m (5 ft) high in sun or shade. It has excellent edible leaves - which can be very large, up to 30 cm (1 ft) across - with a mild flavour and good texture: an excellent salad plant. Long cultivated for its leaves. ‘Crispa’ is a form which has wavy edged leaves. The seeds and roots are medicinal and dyes are made from the plant. Grow in any soil in sun or part shade; hardy to -20°C. Marrubium vulgare Hoarhound. European perennial growing to 60 cm (2 ft) high. The leaves are used as a flavouring and the essential oil from leaves as a flavouring in liqueurs. The flowering plant is used medicinally. Dyes are obtained from the stems and leaves, and bees love the flowers. Likes a moist soil and sun; hardy to -25°C. Melissa officinalis Lemon balm. The familiar perennial herb with lemon-scented leaves which are excellent as a flavouring, in salads and teas. Planted thickly, it is a useful ground cover plant; it self-seeds readily and spreads quickly if allowed. Bees love the flowers. A good mineral accumulator. Tolerates most soils in a sunny or partly shaded position; hardy to -25°C. Mentha aquatica Water mint. A native European mint, a vigorous spreading perennial growing 60 cm (2 ft) high. The leaves (and the oil extracted from them) have a good minty flavour and are used as kitchen herbs. An excellent bee and butterfly plant. When growing in or near flowing water it purifies the water, so is a good plant to used in reed bed sewage systems. Likes a moist or wet site in sun or part shade; hardy to -20°C. Mentha longifolia Horsemint. A vigorous native mint, found in moist spots in sun or part shade. Grows to 1m (3 ft) high and has edible leaves, flowering tops, and essential oil as a flavouring. Leaves are also used medicinally. Forms a ground cover and bees & butterflies love the flowers. Hardy to -20°C. Mentha piperita Peppermint. The familiar hybrid mint used for flavouring, herb teas etc. It is a vigorous spreading perennial, growing to 90 cm (3 ft) high and forming a ground cover; likes sun or part shade and a moist soil. As well as being edible and medicinal, bees love the flowers and all aerial parts are useful for dyeing. Hardy to -35°C. Mentha pulegium Pennyroyal. European perennial growing 40 cm (16”) high, liking a moist site. Leaves are used as a flavouring and the plant is a well-known medicinal herb. A good bee and butterfly plant. Hardy to -15°C. Mentha spicata Spearmint, Green mint. The familiar mint found in garden herb beds. It is a vigorous spreading perennial, growing to 1m (3 ft) high and forms a ground cover. Likes sun or part shade and a moist soil; hardy to -35°C. The leaves and essential oil are edible as a flavouring, medicinal, used in perfumery etc. Bees and butterflies love the flowers. Mentha suaveolens Apple mint, Round-leaved mint. Another vigorous mint from Europe, this one a spreading perennial growing 1 m (3 ft) high which likes a moist soil and sun or part shade; hardy to -20°C. Leaves are used for flavouring, bees love the flowers, and forms a ground cover. Metasequoia glyptostroboides Dawn redwood. Large deciduous fast-growing tree from Southeastern China, growing to 35 m (120 ft) or more. It has very valuable timber, similar to that from the other redwood species, which is very durable and can be used for construction and any exterior use. Likes a moist climate, a moist soil and sun or part shade; hardy to -20°C. Micromeria thymifolia A rare evergreen perennial from North America, growing in dry sunny locations. It has very aromatic leaves with a minty-thyme flavour, used for flavouring and to make teas. Bees love the flowers. Monarda didyma Sweet bergamot, Oswego tea. A North American perennial growing 1-1.2 m high with scarlet or pink flowers in summer. The leaves can be used as a flavouring or for tea (added to China tea, they produce a taste like Earl Grey tea); the flowers are also edible. Much loved by bees. Grows in any soil, in sun or part shade; hardy to -25ºC. Morus alba White mulberry. A hardy, small or medium tree from China, growing up to 15 m (50 ft) high. It bears sweet edible fruits (not always white) which can also be dried or made into wine. The leaves and fruits are used medicinally. The inner bark is used to make a fibre. A bee plant and silkworm fodder. Needs a position in sun; hardy to -20°C. Morus alba tatarica Russian mulberry. The hardiest mulberry, a small bushy-headed tree to 6m (20 ft) high, often used in windbreaks. The sweet fruits are edible, as are young leaves & shoots (cooked). The inner bark is used to make paper and rope. Growth 4m (13 ft) in 10 years; hardy to -25°C. Morus nigra Black mulberry. Small tree from Western Asia, growing to 10 m (32 ft) high, sometimes more. The fruits are sweet and edible with a good flavour. Leaves, bark and fruits are used medicinally. The timber is valued for musical instruments, inlays, veneers etc. Needs a position in full sun; hardy to about -20°C. Myosotis scorpioides Water forget-me-not. A marginal aquatic perennial with creeping rhizomes, and bright blue flowers in summer. Has medicinal leaves and bees like the flowers. Likes sun and a wet site; hardy to -20°C. Myrica californica Californian wax myrtle / bayberry. A large evergreen shrub from California; grows to 9 m (30 ft) high. The leaves are used as a flavouring and made into a tea. The waxy covering of the fruit can be melted off and used to make aromatic candles and soaps. Makes a good informal hedge; also a bee plant. A good nitrogen-fixing understorey plant. Dioecious; likes a moist, acid or neutral soil and tolerates considerable shade; hardy to -15°C. Myrica cerifera Wax myrtle. A large evergreen shrub from North America, possibly naturalised in S.England; grows to 9 m (30 ft) high. The leaves and fruits are used as a flavouring and made into a tea; the root bark and leaves are used medicinally. The waxy covering of the fruit can be melted off and used to make aromatic candles and soaps. A blue dye is obtained from the fruits. Makes a good informal hedge; also a bee plant. A good nitrogen-fixing understorey plant. Dioecious; likes a moist, acid or neutral soil and tolerates considerable shade; hardy to -20°C. Myrica pensylvanica Northern bayberry. A medium deciduous shrub from North America, possibly naturalised in S.England; grows to 3 m (10 ft) high. The leaves and fruits are used as a flavouring; the root bark and leaves are used medicinally. The waxy covering of the fruit can be melted off and used to make aromatic candles and soaps. A green dye is obtained from the leaves. Makes a good informal hedge; also a bee plant. A good nitrogen-fixing understorey plant. Dioecious; likes a moist, acid or neutral soil and tolerates considerable shade; hardy to -40°C. Myrica rubra Chinese bayberry. Large evergreen shrub from China and Japan, growing there up to 15 m (50 ft) high. A nitrogen-fixing plant. It has edible fruits to 25 mm (1”) in diameter. Bark fruits and seeds are used medicinally. Likes an acid soil and sun or part shade; not very hardy, only tolerating a few degrees of frosts. Myrtus communis Myrtle. A dense evergreen shrub reaching 5 m (16 ft) high (25 cm per year) with fragrant leaves. The fruits, leaves, flower buds and the oil from buds/leaves are all edible, used as a flavouring. The oil is also used in perfumery, and the plant is used by bees. Makes a good hedging plant in mild areas. Likes a neutral or alkaline soil and full sun; hardy to about -10°C. Myrtus ugni (Syn. Ugni molinae) Chilean guava. A small Chilean evergreen shrub, growing up to 1.5 m (5 ft) high. It bears fruits 1-1.5 cm (0.4-0.6”) across with a very good strawberry flavour in late autumn and early winter; fruits at a young age. The seeds can be used to make a coffee, and the leaves used for a tea. Bees like the flowers. Likes a well-drained soil and sun; hardy to about -10°C. Nandina domestica Heavenly bamboo. Evergreen or semi-evergreen shrub to 2 m (6 ft) high with upright shoots and bamboo-like leaves (it is not a bamboo!) Star shaped white flowers in summer are followed by round bright red fruits, 8 mm across, which are edible. Young leaves are also sometimes eaten. Likes sun or part shade and a well-drained sheltered site; hardy to -15°C. Nasturtium officinale Watercress. Aquatic perennial which likes being by running water, but will grow in other damp sites. Grows to 50 cm (18”) high, and spreading twice that where it is comfortable, trailing and rooting as it goes; has small white flowers. You’ll know that the leaves are edible, with a strong peppery flavour. They are also medicinal, and bees love the flowers. Grow in any wet or damp soil; hardy to -20°C. Nepeta cataria Catnep, Catmint. A grey-haired perennial to 60 cm (2 ft) high with white and purple flowers. The leaves and flowering shoots are used as a flavouring (mint-like) and for teas; all parts are used medicinally. Bees love the flowers. Makes a good ground cover plant. Leaf extracts are herbicidal and insect-repellent. This plant attracts cats. Thrives in any well-drained soil in sun or part shade; hardy to -35ºC. Nyssa sylvatica Tupelo, Black gum. A large tree from Eastern USA, growing to 25 m (80 ft) high - 4 m (13 ft) in 10 years. It bears edible fruits (currant size) eaten raw or in preserves, a dye is obtained from the bark, and bees like the flowers. The timber is tough and heavy. Likes a moist soil and sun or part shade; hardy to -25°C. Olea europaea Olive. Small evergreen tree from the Mediterranean region which hardy needs describing; grows to 6 m (20 ft) high. Source of the fruits which are usually pickled, and the oil from fruits used for all culinary purposes. The oil, leaves and bark are used medicinally. Likes a sunny site and well-drained soil; hardy to -10°C or so once established. Origanum vulgare Oregano, Pot marjoram. A bushy, woody-based perennial growing 45-60 cm (18-24”) high and wide, with dark green leaves and tiny mauve flowers in summer, much loved by bees. Likes a well drained soil and sun or part shade. The leaves are used as a culinary herb, as is the essential oil from them. Also used medicinally, and for dyes. The plant is supposed to repel ants and other insects. Makes a good ground cover in sunny locations. Grow in any well drained soil in sun or part shade; hardy to -23°C. Osmanthus fragrans Fragrant olive. A small evergreen tree from China and Japan, growing to 9 m (30 ft) high or more there. The flowers are used for flavouring and in teas (a peach or apricot flavour), and the unripe fruits are pickled; flowers, bark and roots are used medicinally. Likes most soils an sun or part shade; hardy to -10°C. Ostrya carpinifolia Hop hornbeam. Tree from Southern Europe, growing up to 18 m (60 ft) high - 3 m (10 ft) in 10 years. The wood is hard, very tough, and close grained - used for general carpentry and charcoal. Any soil in sun or part shade; hardy to -20°C. Oxydendrum arboreum Sorrel tree. A large shrub or small tree from North America, growing up to 10 m (32 ft) high (4 m in 10 years). The leaves are edible, being quite tender with an excellent mild lemony sorrel flavour. The leaves are also used medicinally, and the species is a bee plant. Likes a moist, slightly acid soil and sun or part shade; hardy to -20°C. Oxyria digyna Mountain sorrel. A perennial from Northern temperate regions, growing 50 cm high. The leaves are edible raw in salads, with an excellent lemony flavour and almost succulent texture. A dye is obtained from the flowers. Self-seeds readily. Likes a moist, slightly acid soil in sun or part shade; hardy to -40°C. Panax ginseng Ginseng. Woodland perennial from China and Korea growing to 80 cm (32”) high. Well known for its roots, which are the source of ginseng used medicinally. Likes shade and an acid woodland soil; hardy to -18°C. Parthenium integrifolium Wild quinine. Aromatic American perennial to 1.2 m (4 ft) high. Leaves are used medicinally to treat fevers. Hardy to –30°C Parthenocissus quinquefolia Virginia creeper. A vigorous, tall-growing and self-clinging vine, excellent for covering high walls, trees etc and for ground cover. The blue-black fruits are edible, and the stems have been eaten when peeled and cooked. The fruits also yield a dye, while the stems are used for basketry; also a bee plant. Likes a position in part or full shade; hardy to -35°C. Parthenocissus tricuspidata Japanese ivy, Boston ivy. Vigorous, tall-growing and self-clinging vine, reaching high into trees and covering walls etc. The sap is sweet and edible, branches are used for basketry, bees like the flowers, and makes a vigorous ground covering plant. Any soil - prefers some shade, tolerates deep shade; hardy to -25°C. Passiflora caerulea Blue passion flower. If you see a climbing passion flower outside in Britain, then this is probably the species it will be. A vigorous, rampant species which is evergreen in mild areas, with large beautiful flowers in summer and autumn. These are followed by ovoid, orange-red fruits 1-1½" long, which can be used as a flavouring (especially the tasty fruit pulp). Also a bee plant. Hardy to -15°C, perennial in cold climates. Paulownia tomentosa Empress tree, Foxglove tree. A fast growing upright tree (to 12 m, 40 ft in the UK) with very large bright green leaves and fragrant pinkish flowers in late spring. The leaves, flowers and inner bark are all used medicinally. Widely grown in China and elsewhere as a fast growing timber tree, the wood used for all general construction purposes. Likes a fertile well-drained soil in sun; very tolerant of atmospheric pollution. Hardy to -23°C. Phellodendron amurense Amur cork tree. A medium deciduous tree from Northern China, growing 15 m (50 ft) high. Older trees have distinctive corky bark. The seeds, bark and fruits are all used medicinally; the seeds are also insecticidal. The bark yields a yellow dye. A good bee plant, with timber valued for joinery, furniture etc. Likes a moist position in sun or part shade; hardy to -35°C. Phormium colensoi Mountain flax. An evergreen shrub 1.2-2m (4-6 ft) high with sword-shaped leathery leaves. These leaves produce a strong fibre suitable for ropes, paper etc. They can also be used as twine merely by splitting and using fresh. Likes a sunny spot; tolerates exposure and suitable for hedging. Hardy to -12°C. Phormium tenax New Zealand flax. An evergreen shrub, usually 2-3m (6-10 ft) high with sword-shaped leathery leaves. These leaves produce a strong fibre suitable for ropes, paper etc. They can also be used as twine merely by splitting and using fresh; or whole for basketry. Likes sun or part shade; tolerates exposure and suitable for hedging. Bee plant. Hardy to -12°C; naturalised in SW England. Physalis alkekengi Chinese lantern, Japanese lantern, Winter cherry. A vigorous spreading perennial growing 30-60 cm (1-2 ft) high of the potato family. The ripe fruits are orange-scarlet, borne inside a papery calyx or ‘lantern’, and are edible with a tomato-strawberry flavour. Bees like the flowers. Likes a reasonably well-drained site in full sun or part shade; hardy to -20ºC. Protect new growth from slugs. Phytolacca americana Pokeweed. An American perennial plant with large flowering stems to 4 m (13 ft) high. Best known as a medicinal plant (roots used) and for the fruits which furnish a red ink and dye. Bees like the flowers. Likes a moist soil and tolerates part shade; hardy to -25°C. Picea glauca White spruce. A large Canadian coniferous tree, growing to 30 m (100 ft) high (3 m in 10 years). Spruce oil, distilled from the twigs and leaves, is edible, used as a flavouring. A good shelterbelt tree, with timber valued for construction, musical instruments etc. Likes a moist acid soil and sun; hardy to -40°C. Pimpinella saxifaga Burnet saxifrage. A European perennial growing 1 m (3 ft) high which grows in most soils. The young leaves and shoots are eaten in salads, the seeds as a condiment and an essential oil is distilled from the root as a flavouring. The leaves and roots are medicinal. Good at attracting beneficial insects. Hardy to -25°C. Pinus albicaulis Whitebark pine. Small evergreen tree from Western North America, growing to . It bears quite large edible seeds (8-12 mm, 0.3-0.5” long) - and bears well in Britain. The wood is sometimes used for joinery etc. Any light soil in sun; hardy to -30°C. Pinus armandii Armand’s pine, Chinese white pine. Evergreen tree from Western China, growing to 20 m (70 ft) or more - 4 m (13 ft) in 10 years. Bears edible seeds, up to 13 mm (0.5”) long - fruits well in Britain. The timber is used for construction, joinery and furniture. Any light soil in sun; hardy to -15°C. Pinus cembra Arolla pine, Swiss stone pine. An evergreen tree up to 25m (80 ft) high but often less, with a conical habit; the seeds from cones are ½" (12 mm) long and edible. Turpentine is made from the needles. Hardy to -30°C. Pinus cembroides edulis Rocky Mountain piñon. Evergreen tree from Southwestern N.America, growing there to 15 m (50 ft) high - smaller in Britain. It bears very large excellent edible seeds (12-18 mm, 0.5-0.75” long). The needles are used to make a tea. The timber is used for posts. Prefers a dry warm climate - best in the South and East of Britain. Likes a sunny site and acid light soil; hardy to -30°C. Pinus cembroides monophylla Single leaf piñon. Small evergreen tree from Southwestern USA, growing to 10 m (33 ft) high. Bears very large excellent edible seeds up to 20 mm (0.8”) long. The timber is used for joinery etc. Prefers a dry warm climate - best in the East of Britain. Likes a sunny site and light soil; hardy to -20°C. Pinus coulteri Big cone pine. Evergreen tree from California with very large cones, growing to 30 m (100 ft) high - 5 m (16 ft) in 10 years. Bears large edible seeds, 12 mm (0.5”) long - bears well in Britain. The timber is used for construction, joinery etc. Likes sun and a light soil; hardy to -15°C. Pinus flexilis Limber pine. Evergreen tree from Western North America, growing to 15 m (50 ft) high or more. Bears edible seeds, 8-12 mm (0.3-0.5”) long. The timber is used for construction, joinery and cabinet work etc. Likes sun and a light soil; hardy to -30°C. Pinus jeffreyi Jeffrey pine. A large evergreen tree from Western North America. Likes a well-drained soil on the acid side and full sun. The seeds are edible and quite large, 10-15 mm long. Grows well and bears cones in Britain. Hardy to -15 or -20ºC. Pinus koraiensis Korean nut pine. An evergreen tree to 25m (80 ft) high but often half that, with a loose conical habit. The seeds from cones are ½" (12 mm) long and edible. Hardy to -30°C. Pinus nigra austriaca Austrian pine. Large European evergreen tree, growing to 30 m (100 ft) high - 6 m (20 ft) in 10 years. Used as a shelterbelt tree, as a source or resin and turpentine, but mostly used as a major forestry tree, the timber being used for construction, marine uses etc. Likes sun and a well-drained soil; hardy to -20°C. Pinus nigra corsicana Corsican pine. Large evergreen tree from Corsica, growing to 45 m (150 ft) high - 8 m (27 ft) in 10 years. Used as a shelterbelt tree, as a source or resin and turpentine, but mostly used as a major forestry tree, the timber being used for construction, marine uses etc. Likes sun and a well-drained soil; hardy to -20°C. Pinus pinaster Maritime pine. Large evergreen tree from Southwestern Europe, growing to 30 m (100 ft) or more in height - 6 m (20 ft) in 10 years. Bears edible seeds, 10 mm (0.4”) long. A major source of resin, giving pitch, tar and turpentine. Also used for shelterbelts and stabilising sand dunes. The timber is valued for construction etc. Likes a light soil and sun; hardy to -15°C. Pinus pinea Umbrella pine, Stone pine. A medium sized evergreen tree from the Mediterranean region, growing 15 m (50 ft) high or more. After 10-15 years, it bears cones with large edible seeds - the most important source of pine kernels for commerce. The shoot tips are used to make a tea, while the timber is used for construction, joinery etc. Likes a sunny site and is happy in much of Britain; hardy to about -15°C. Pinus radiata Monterey pine. Large. fast-growing evergreen tree from California, growing to 35 m (120 ft) or more there - 10 m (33 ft) in 10 years. A major forestry and agroforestry tree (the latter in New Zealand), with the timber being used for all construction purposes etc. Also used as a sand dune stabiliser and source of resin. Likes sun and a light acid soil - prefers the South and West of Britain; hardy to -15°C. Pinus sibirica Siberian nut pine. An evergreen medium-sized tree from Siberia, extremely hardy. The large cones bear many large edible seeds with shells which are easily cracked. Prefers the North and West of the U.K. Hardy to -35°C or below. Pinus sylvestris Scots pine. Large evergreen tree from Scotland, growing to 36 m (120 ft) high - 6 m (20 ft) in 10 years. A major forestry tree in Europe, producing good quality timber used for all construction purposes etc. The young shoots and essential oil from them are used medicinally. Likes sun and a well drained soil; hardy to -30°C. Plantago lanceolata Ribwort plantain. Well known perennial plant found in pasture. The young leaves can be eaten raw or cooked, also used medicinally. The plants are good mineral accumulators and are a source of dyes. Any site on sun or part shade; hardy to -20°C. Platanus acerifolia London plane. Large hybrid tree growing to 35 m (120 ft) high - 5 m (16 ft) in 10 years. Tolerant of pollution - often grown as a street tree. The timber is tough and difficult to split, and is valued for cabinet making and inlay work. Likes sun and a fertile well-drained soil; hardy to -20°C. Polemonium caeruleum Jacob’s ladder. A spreading perennial from Europe & Asia growing to 60 cm (2 ft) high. Has small leaflets and blue flowers. The herb is medicinal; bees love the flowers. Likes a shady site in a humus-rich acid soil. Polemonium reptans Abscess root. A North American perennial growing 30 cm (1 ft) high. Likes a moist soil and sun or part shade. It makes a good ground cover plant, and the dried roots have long been used medicinally. Likes a shady site in a humus-rich acid soil; hardy to -25ºC. Polygonatum odoratum Solomon’s Seal. Creeping perennial with arching stems to 90 cm (3 ft) high. A ground cover with medicinal rhizomes. Likes sun or part shade and a humus-rich soil; hardy to -25°C. Poncirus trifoliata Trifoliate orange, Japanese bitter orange. A large spiny shrub to 7m (22 ft) high, though often less; closely related to the Citrus family. Bears yellow or orange fruits 1-2" (3-5 cm) in diameter (freely borne in SW Britain), the juice of which can be used as a lemon substitute; young leaves have also been eaten cooked. A good hedging plant (stockproof; needs sheltered position in Britain) and a bee plant. Growth 2m (7 ft) in 10 years; hardy to -23°C. Potentilla glandulosa Perennial from North America, growing to 60 cm high and spreading by runners. Grow in most soils in sun or part shade. The leaves and shoots are used to make a tea, and the plant makes a good component of ground cover. Hardy to -15ºC. Potentilla rupestris European perennial, growing to 45 cm high and spreading by runners. Grows in most well-drained soils in sun or part shade. The leaves are used to make a tea, and the plant makes a good component of ground cover. Hardy to -25ºC. Primula denticulata Drumstick primula. Perennial from the Himalayas, growing to 30 cm (1 ft) high. The flowers are edible raw - good in salads. The roots are used medicinally. Makes a good ground cover plant. Likes a moist soil and sun or part shade; hardy to -25°C. Prunella vulgaris Self heal. A native perennial plant, growing in most soils as long as they are not too dry. It grows to about 40 cm high and makes a good ground cover in sun or part shade. The leaves are edible (need washing to remove bitterness) and have many medicinal effects. Bees and butterflies like the plant. Very hardy. Prunus cerasifera Cherry plum, Myrobalan. A small tree growing some 8 m (26 ft) high (4 m in 10 years) and bearing yellow or red plum-sized fruits which are edible, sweet and juicy; they may hang on the tree until October. Good in hedges and windbreaks. Also an early source of nectar and pollen for honey & bumble bees. Likes sun or part shade; hardy to -25°C. Prunus laurocerasus Laurel, Cherry laurel. A vigorous evergreen shrub from Southeastern Europe, growing to 8 m (27 ft) high - 6 m (20 ft) in 10 years. Widely used as a hedging and shelter plant. The fruits (currant sized) are edible raw or cooked, being sweet and pleasant when ripe; the leaves are insecticidal. Bees love the flowers. Likes a moist well-drained soil and sun or shade - tolerates deep shade; hardy to -15°C. Prunus lusitanica Portuguese cherry laurel. Evergreen tree or shrub from Spain and Portugal, growing to up to 18 m (60 ft) high; often a shrub to 6 m (20 ft) high. Widely used as a hedging and shelterbelt tree. Bees love the flowers. Likes a moist well-drained soil and sun or part shade; hardy to -15°C. Prunus mahaleb St Lucie cherry. A small European tree, growing to 7 m (23 ft) or more in height; often cultivated as an ornamental for its flowers. The leaves are edible, used as a flavouring; the seed kernels are also apparently edible when cooked. A useful windbreak and erosion control tree, sometimes used as a rootstock for other cherries. The wood is used for pipes and walking sticks. Likes a moist site in full sun; hardy to -20°C. Prunus padus Bird cherry. The other native cherry to Britain, the bird cherry is a medium tree to 15 m (50 ft) high. The black fruits are bitter raw, but can be eaten cooked or used to flavour wine etc. The bark and twigs are used medicinally, while a dye is obtained from the bark. A bee plant and soil stabiliser; the wood is used for furniture and joinery. Likes a moist soil and sun to heavy shade; hardy to -30°C. Prunus serotina Black cherry, Rum cherry. A large North American columnar tree, reaching up to 30 m (100 ft) high with white flowers. The fruits are edible when cooked and have long been used to flavour rum and brandy; they have also been used in cough mixtures. A bee plant, the roots furnishing a dye, whose timber is valued for cabinet making. Likes a moist soil and full sun; hardy to -30°C. Prunus spinosa Blackthorn, Sloe. The familiar native large shrub, growing in hedges and woodland edges up to 8 m (26 ft) high. As well as the fruit being edible when cooked (also used to make wine and sloe gin of course), the flowers are edible in salads. Several parts are medicinal and are used for dyeing. Makes a good hedging plant, and bees love the flowers. Likes a moist soil and sun or part shade; hardy to -25°C. Prunus tenella Dwarf Russian Almond. A shrub which grows 1.5 m (5 ft) tall in sun on most soils, this produces large fruits in late summer about 25 mm across, with a good flavour. The seeds are rather bitter and best not eaten, though they have been and are less bitter on some bushes. Can also be used as a ground cover, and has been used as a cold-hardy almond rootstock. Very cold-hardy, to -45ºC. Prunus tomentosa Nanking cherry. A medium sized shrub from Asia, growing to 2.5 m (8 ft) high. It bears edible small fruits, for which it is cultivated in parts of Asia. Grow two plants for cross pollination. Likes sun and a well-drained site; hardy to -30°C or so. Pseudocydonia sinensis Chinese quince. A small Chinese tree growing to 6 m (20 ft) high. It bears huge aromatic fruits, 12-17 cm (5-7”) long, which are edible, eaten raw or cooked in the same way as other quinces. It likes a well drained soil and sun; hardy to -20°C. Pseudotsuga menziesii Douglas fir. A very large evergreen tree from Western North America, growing to 70 m (230 ft) high - 8 m (27 ft) in 10 years. Very widely grown as a timber tree, the wood being used for all construction purposes. The shoot tips are used to make a tea, the bark is used for tanning. Likes a moist acid soil and sun or shade; hardy to -20°C. Ptelea trifoliata Hop tree. A large shrub from Eastern North America, growing to 5 m (16 ft) high. It bears large bunches of hop-like winged fruits which are eaten as a snack and can be used as a hop substitute in making beers. The roots, root bark and leaves are medicinal, and bees like the flowers. Likes a moist soil and part or full shade; hardy to -25°C. Pterocarya fraxinifolia Caucasian wing nut. A large deciduous tree from the Caucasus, growing up to 30 m (100 ft) high (8 m in 10 years) with a short thick trunk. Long fruiting catkins are followed by strings of edible seeds. The timber is used for matches, clogs and fuel. Likes a moist site in full sun; hardy to -15°C. Pueraria lobata Kudzu vine. A very vigorous climbing shrub from China and Japan, reaching 6 m (20 ft) high or more in Britain; perennial in cold climes. A nitrogen-fixing legume. The roots are starchy and edible when cooked, the flowers are edible cooked or in pickles, the stems and young leaves are edible raw or cooked with a pea-like flavour. The plant is much used in Chinese medicine. A fibre (Kudzi) is made from the stems into cloth and paper. Very deep rooting, accumulating minerals as well as nitrogen, it prevents soil erosion and is a good ground cover. It has good fodder value too. It needs a moist but well-drained soil in full sun; hardy to -20°C. Pulmonaria officinale Lungwort. Evergreen European perennial growing 30 cm (1 ft) high, liking shade and any soil. Well known for its medicinal leaves and flowering shoots, the leaves are also edible, though bland. Makes a good ground cover plant in shade. A good early bee plant. Hardy to -20°C. Pycnanthemum pilosum Mountain mint. Perennial from the USA growing to 1.4 m (4½ ft) high when flowering. The leaves and flower buds are delightfully minty and used as a flavouring and to make teas. Bees like the flowers. Moist soils in sun or part shade; hardy to -25°C Pyrus calleryana Callery pear. A medium sized tree from China. Most useful as a vigorous rootstock for cultivated pears: it is resistant to fireblight and produces large trees. Its own small fruits are edible, usually cooked. Likes full sun or part shade and a moist soil; hardy to -23°C. Pyrus communis Common pear, Wild pear. A columnar medium sized tree with dark glossy green leaves, white flowers in spring, followed by edible pear fruits in autumn. Can grow to 15 m (50 ft) high. A parent of cultivated pears, native to Europe and long naturalised in Britain, the fruits often need bletting (after ripening indoors) and are sometime best cooked. A dye can be obtained from the leaves and the tree can be used in shelterbelts. The timber is highly prized by cabinet makers. Likes sun or part shade and a reasonable soil; hardy to -25°C. Quercus ilex Holm oak, Holly oak. Usually a small or medium sized dense evergreen tree in Britain, originating from SW Europe but now naturalised along many parts of the coast of S.England. Grows about 7 m in 10 years. These seedlings are grown from seeds collected from local trees which bear sweet acorns with very little astringency. The seeds are edible after washing (raw or cooked) with a fine flavour. Roasted seeds can be used to make a coffee. Makes a good maritime hedging plant and the wood makes good fuel and charcoal. Tolerates quite deep shade; hardy to about -15°C. Reichardia picroides French scorzonera. Rosette-forming short-lived perennial from Southern Europe growing 45 cm (18”) high when in flower. Likes sun or part shade and any soil, though it dislikes wet soils in winter. The leaves are an excellent salad crop and don’t get eaten by slugs! Roots are also edible raw or cooked. Hardy to -10°C or so, but self-sows anyway. Rhamnus cathartica Buckthorn. A large shrub from Northern temperate regions, growing to 6 m (20 ft) high - half that in 10 years. The fruit and bark are used medicinally and as dye sources, the branches for basketry, and the shrub in hedges. Bees like the flowers. Any soil in sun or part shade; hardy to -25°C. Rhamnus frangula Alder buckthorn. A native European medium shrub, growing 3 m (10 ft) high. The bark is medicinal, while dyes are obtained from the bark, leaves and fruits. A good bee and butterfly plant, also good in hedges. The wood is very hard and traditionally used for show lasts and wooden dowels; it is also valued for making the best charcoal for gunpowder. Likes a moist soil and sun or part shade; hardy to -35°C. Rheum officinale Medicinal rhubarb. A large perennial from China and Tibet, growing to 1.5 m (5 ft) across and 2 m (6 ft) high with very large leaves. Grow in any moist, well-drained soil in sun or shade. Makes a good ground covering plant, and the leaf stalks are edible in the same way as ordinary rhubarb; the roots are used medicinally. Hardy to -15ºC. Rhus glabra Smooth sumach. A shrub to 3m (10 ft) high, with fruit clusters which are soaked in water to make a lemonade-like drink; young shoots are also edible raw. Dyes, tannins and medicinal products are obtained from several parts. Tree used in hedging and for erosion control; good bee plant in summer. Growth 3m (10 ft) in 10 years; hardy to -40°C. Rhus typhina Staghorn sumach. A small suckering North American tree, growing 10 m (32 ft) high (3 m in 10 years). The fruits can be steeped in water to make a lemonade-like refreshing drink; the fruits can also be eaten cooked. Dyes are obtained from the fruit and leaves, leaves and bark are used for tanning, the hollowed branches can be used as pipes, it is a good bee plant and also suitable for hedging and windbreaks. Several medicinal uses. Dioecious; likes a well drained soil and a position in sun or part shade; hardy to about -35°C. Ribes alpinum Alpine currant, Mountain currant. A suckering shrub 1.2-2m (4-6 ft) high forming thickets. The red berries are edible. A good ground cover plant, suitable for including in hedges; very shade tolerant. Dioecious, hardy to -35°C. Robinia pseudoacacia Black locust. A large thorny North American tree, naturalised in Britain. Grows quickly up to 25 m (80 ft) high and suckers freely. Seeds, young pods and flowers are edible when cooked, several parts are used medicinally, dyes are obtained from leaves and bark, leaves are insecticidal, bees love the flowers, and the valuable timber is used for construction, fencing, flooring etc. Like a well-drained soil and full sun; hardy to about -35°C. Rosa moyesii Moyes rose. An erect, open shrub to 3m (10 ft) high, with large edible bright crimson hips 2" (50 mm+) long. Hardy to -20°C. Rosa rubiginosa Sweet briar, Eglantine. A strong growing, medium-sized shrub to 2 m (7 ft) high with stout, erect stems, aromatic leaves and fragrant flowers. The large fruits (hips) are edible, as are the fragrant flower petals (raw in salads). Good in hedges. Likes a moist position in full sun; hardy to -20°C. Rosa rugosa Ramanas rose. A vigorous medium bushy shrub, reaching 2.5 m (8 ft) high within a few years. Bears large edible hips (hairs around seeds must be removed), the flowers are used in teas and preserves. Excellent in hedges and windbreaks, also a good dune and soil stabiliser; also a bee plant. Many medicinal uses. Any reasonable soil in full sun; hardy to -40°C. Rosmarinus officinalis Rosemary. Evergreen shrub from Southern Europe with tough aromatic leaves, growing to 2 m (6 ft) high. Source of the familiar leaves used for flavouring (especially meat); the flowers are also edible in salads. The leaves and essential oil are used medicinally and the oil in perfumery and toiletries. Bees love the flowers. Needs a warm sunny site and well-drained soil; hardy to -15°C. Rumex sangineus Red-leaved dock, Bloodwort. Perennial from Europe and Asia, growing to .1 m (3 ft) high, with red-veined leaves. The young leaves make a good cooked vegetable and can be added raw to salads. The roots are used medicinally. A good mineral accumulator. Any soil in sun or part shade; hardy to -20°C. May self-seed. Rumex Schavel An evergreen sorrel from Eastern Europe, growing to 1.2 m (4 ft) high when flowering. It has very nice edible leaves, larger than many sorrel species. Grows in any soil in sun or part shade, and will self-seed around the garden. Very hardy. Ruscus aculeatus Butcher’s broom. A dwarf evergreen shrub to 75 cm (30”) high with spine-tipped dark green leaves. Has medicinal uses, shoots used for brooms. Sun or shade and any soil; hardy to -15°C. Ruta graveolens Rue. A dwarf evergreen shrub from Southern Europe, growing to 50 cm (20”) high. The leaves can be used as a flavouring, but better known as a medicinal plant which attracts bees and beneficial insects. The essential oil is used in perfumery; also used as a ground cover. Can cause skin irritation. Likes a well-drained soil and sun or light shade; hardy to-25°C. Sagittaria sagittifolia Arrowhead. Marginal aquatic plant to 90 cm (3 ft) high with arrow-shaped leaves. Bears edible tubers in the pond soil. Hardy to -15°C. Salvia officinalis Sage. A hummock-forming evergreen shrub about 60 cm (2 ft) high and wide, with soft grey-green aromatic leaves and purple flowers in summer. Needs a well-drained soil and sun - winter wet can be fatal. The leaves and flowers are edible as a culinary herb (the flowers are particularly good in salads) and are used medicinally. Bees love the flowers. The essential oil from the plant is used in numerous soaps, shampoos, perfumes etc. Makes a good ground cover plant in sunny situations. Hardy to -23°C. Sambucus caerulea Blue elderberry. A small tree from Western North America, growing to 4 m (13 ft) high. The blue fruits are edible in the same way as other elderberries; the flowers too are edible cooked or made into drinks. A hedging and bee plant, the wood of which used to be used for making bows. Likes a moist soil and sun or part shade; hardy to -20°C. Sambucus nigra Elderberry. Our native elder, a small tree to 6m (20 ft) high, bearing large bunches of edible flowers (raw/in drinks) and black fruits (raw or cooked). Many parts have medicinal uses and furnish dyes; leaves are insecticidal. Good in fruiting hedges. Growth 4m (13 ft) in 10 years; hardy to about -20°C). Sambucus racemosa Red berried elder. A European shrub to 3m (10 ft) high, bearing dense clusters of edible flowers and bright scarlet fruits which are used in the same ways as the black fruited elder. Good in hedges. Hardy to -25°C. Sanguinaria canadensis Bloodroot. Woodland perennial, spreading via rhizomes, growing 15 cm (6”) high. Medicinal roots, red dye from roots, bee plant. Likes shade and a humus-rich soil; hardy to -30°C. Sanguisorba minor Salad burnet. An evergreen perennial growing some 60 cm (2 ft) high, flowering from spring to summer, with an extensive root system. The young leaves are available all year and are edible in salads with a mild flavour. The leaves & stems are used medicinally and the plant is a good mineral accumulator; bees like the flowers. Prefers a well-drained, calcareous soil, but will grow in most situations including in grass. Hardy to -23ºC. Sanicula europaea Wood sanicle. Smallish woodland perennial with shiny green leaves and pinkish-white flowers in late spring & summer. All parts are medicinal; a mineral accumulator and ground cover. Likes shade and a neutral or alkaline soil; hardy to -20°C Saponaria officinalis Soapwort. A perennial from Europe, growing 60 cm (2 ft) high, spreading more. As well as being a good ground cover plant (spreading vigorously), the leaves and roots contain saponins and can be used as soap sources: merely soak leaves/stems in warm/hot water, then use the soapy water to wash clothes etc. The flowers furnish dyes, whilst bees and butterflies feed on the nectar; the roots and flowering plant are also used medicinally. Likes a moist position in sun or part shade; hardy to -25°C. Sassafras albidum Sassafras. A long-lived, columnar to upright large tree, spreading by suckers, growing to 25 m (80 ft) high. It has aromatic dark green leaves which turn yellow to orange in autumn, and tiny yellow flowers in spring as the leaves emerge. The leaves, shoots, and root bark are all used as a flavouring, notably in beers but also in cooking; the root bark and essential oil are used medicinally. The plant repels insects and a dye is made from the wood. Likes a deep acid fertile soil and sun or part shade. Hardy to -23°C. Satureja montana Winter savory. A dwarf evergreen Shrublet from Europe, growing to 50 cm (20”) high. The leaves and flowering tops are well known as a flavouring, especially with beans. Also medicinal, and the essential oil is used in perfumery. Bees like the flowers. Likes a well-drained soil and sun; hardy to -20°C. Schisandra chinensis Magnolia vine. A strong-growing climbing shrub Japan and Korea, reaching 9 m (30 ft) high. The fragrant flowers are followed by scarlet edible fruits. the young leaves are also edible when cooked. Fruit, leaves and bark are all used medicinally. Dioecious; likes part shade; hardy to -25°C. Scirpus lacustris (Schoenoplectus l.) Great bulrush. Perennial aquatic plant from temperate regions, growing to 3 m (10 ft) high or more. Edible parts include the young roots and rhizomes (cooked), the stem bases (raw or cooked), seeds and young shoots (raw or cooked). The stems can be used for baskets, mats etc. A water purifier and good fowl fodder which also prevents erosion. Likes sun and water or at least wet soil! Hardy to -25°C. Sedum rupestre Jenny stonecrop. A mat-forming evergreen perennial growing 20 cm (8”) high. Likes a well-drained site in sun or part shade. Makes a good ground cover; the young shoots and leaves are edible, raw or cooked, in moderation. Hardy to -15ºC. Sedum telephium Orpine. An evergreen perennial with succulent leaves from Europe, growing to 60 cm (2 ft) high. The leaves are edible (raw) - very nice - and the plant makes a good ground cover plant (self-seeding freely). Also a bee plant. Likes a well-drained site, and happy in sun, part or deep shade; hardy to -20°C. Sequioa sempervirens Coast redwood. The well-known fast growing coniferous tree from Western North America, reaching 100 m (330 ft) high there; it is also very happy in the West of Britain, growing 1 m per year. A fibre can be made from the bark, and the timber is extremely durable, used for sleepers, joinery, fencing, water pipes, cooperage etc. Likes a moist soil and sun or part shade; hardy to -15°C. Sequioadendron giganteum Wellingtonia, Sierra redwood. Another fast growing evergreen, from California, which reaches 50 m (150 ft) there; it also likes the West of Britain, growing 70 cm per year. The timber is extremely durable, used for sleepers, joinery, fencing, water pipes, cooperage etc. Likes a moist soil and sun or part shade; hardy to -20°C. Shepherdia argentea Buffalo berry. A medium or large thorny shrub from N.America, growing 3-6 m (10-20 ft) high (to 4 m in 10 years). An excellent nitrogen-fixing species. The scarlet fruits are edible raw (if bletted or frosted) or cooked, with a sweet-acid flavour. Very good in hedges and windbreaks; also a bee plant. Dioecious; likes full sun or part shade and a well-drained soil; hardy to -40°C. Shepherdia canadensis Russet buffalo berry. A medium shrub from North America, growing to 2.5 m (8 ft) high. An excellent nitrogen-fixing species to use as a green manure shrub. It produces edible fruits (bletted or frosted) and is good in hedges & windbreaks. Dioecious; likes a well-drained soil & full sun; hardy to -40°C. Silybum marianum Milk thistle. Biennial rosette-forming plant with spiny leaves. A valuable medicinal plant. Likes sun and a well-drained soil, not acid; hardy to -15°C. Smilacina racemosa False spikenard. A woodland perennial from North America, growing to 1 m (3 ft) high when flowering. It bears very nice edible small fruits – treacle flavoured. The young shoots can be eaten cooked, and the plant makes a good ground cover in shade. Likes a moist acid soil and part or full shade; hardy to -25°C. Smilax aspera Sarsaparilla. A vigorous evergreen climber from Southern Europe to Asia, growing to 15 m (50 ft) high into trees. The young shoots are eaten cooked as a vegetable; the roots are used medicinally. Used for hedging in warm climates Likes a site in sun or light shade; hardy to -5°C. Smyrnium olusatrum Alexanders. A vigorous biennial of the umbellifer family, native to Europe and brought to Britain by the Romans, where it soon naturalised. Grows to 75-120 cm high in most soils. The young shoots, leaves, flower buds and roots are all edible, with a celery-like flavour; the seeds are peppery and can be ground as a condiment. Virtually evergreen over the winter and a very useful winter salad and cooking vegetable. Solidago canadensis Goldenrod. Perennial from North America, growing to 1.5 m (5 ft) high. The flowers are edible in salads and the leaves used to make a tea. All parts are used medicinally. The flowers are used for dyeing and a rubber is extracted from the plant; bees like the flowers. Most soils in sun or part shade; hardy to -25°C. Sophora japonica Japanese pagoda tree. A large tree from China and Korea, growing to 25 m (80 ft) high (4.5 m in 10 years). A legume, probably fixing nitrogen. The young leaves and flowers can be eaten cooked and made into a tea; all parts are used medicinally. The seed pods yield a dye. A useful bee plant; the timber is used for tool handles etc. Likes a well-drained soil and full sun; hardy to -23°C. Sorbus aria Whitebeam. A medium tree from Europe, growing 12 m (40 ft) high (6 m in 10 years). Produces masses of fruits which are edible if bletted, frosted or cooked; the fruits are also used medicinally. A bee and hedging plant, the timber of which is valued for turnery, carving and tool handles. Likes a neutral or alkaline soil and sun or part shade; hardy to -20°C. Sorbus aucuparia Rowan, Mountain ash. A small or medium European tree, growing up to 15 m (50 ft) high, though usually less. The fruits are edible if cooked (usually made into preserves), while the leaves and flowers are used in teas. All parts are used for tanning and dyeing. The timber is used for fuel, turnery, fencing etc. A hedging, shelterbelt and bee plant. Likes a site in sun or part shade; hardy to -40°C. Sorbus domestica Service tree, Checker tree. A medium tree from Southern & Eastern Europe, growing to 15 m (50 ft) high. Bears large crops of large (25 mm, 1") fruits which are edible bletted or cooked, with a an excellent rich flavour when fully ripe; the fruits are commercially used as a source of fruit juice. The timber makes good fuel and the bark is used for tanning. Likes sun or part shade; hardy to -20°C. Sorbus intermedia Swedish whitebeam. A medium tree from Northwestern Europe, growing to 12 m (40 ft) high (6 m in 10 years). The fruits it produces are edible (may need bletting or frosting). A good bee and hedging plant. Likes sun or part shade; hardy to -20°C. Sorbus torminalis Wild service tree. A tree to 15m (50 ft) high with ascending branches and maple-like leaves. It bears edible sweet russety-brown fruits 12-18 mm across (best eaten bletted or after a frost, when they have pleasant baked-apple flavour). Good in hedges. Growth 5m (16 ft) in 10 years; hardy to -20°C. Spartium junceum Spanish broom. An upright shrub with slender dark green shoots and narrow dark green leaves, growing to 3 m (10 ft) high. It bears numerous pea-like, fragrant yellow flowers from early summer to early autumn. A nitrogen-fixer; a fibre is made from the stems which is used for rope and fabrics. Small stems are used for basketry. The flowers can be used to dye yellow, and an essential oil is made from the flowers and used in perfumery. It needs a well-drained soil and full sun - thrives in coastal situations. Hardy to -12°C. Stachys sylvatica Hedge woundwort. A native perennial growing 90 cm (3 ft) high and spreading quickly, liking a part-shaded site and any soil. The whole plant is medicinal (as the name suggests), used as a styptic. A tough fibre can be obtained from the stems and a yellow dye from the herb. Bees love the flowers. Makes a good ground cover plant in woodland edge situations. Hardy to -25°C. Staphylea pinnata Bladder nut. A large vigorous shrub from Europe and Asia, growing 5 m (16 ft) high in 10 years. It produces edible seeds 1 cm across tasting rather like pistachio nuts. Likes a moist soil and sun or part shade; hardy to -20°C. Staphylea trifoliata American bladder nut. A large shrub from N.America, growing 5 m (16 ft) high in 10 years. It produces edible seeds 6 mm across tasting rather like pistachio nuts; the seeds can be pressed to extract an edible oil. Likes a moist soil and sun or part shade; hardy to -23°C. Symphoricarpus alba Snowberry. A vigorous, spreading and suckering shrub from Western North America, long naturalised in Britain; grows to 1.2 m (4 ft) high. The stems are excellent for basketry and the plant attracts beneficial insects and bees; the roots and inner bark are used medicinally. Useful in hedges and shady locations. Grows in most soils and tolerates deep shade; hardy to -35 C. Syringa vulgaris Wild lilac. A large shrub from Eastern Europe, often grown ornamentally for its flowers and naturalised in many places; grows to 7 m (23 ft) high (4 m in 10 years). The flowers are edible, raw in salads or cooked. The branches are used in basketry and the plant makes a good understorey in windbreaks. Likes a neutral or alkaline soil and full sun; hardy to -25°C. Tanacetum parthenium Feverfew. Perennial from Europe and Asia, growing 60 cm (2 ft) high; likes sun and any soil, self-sows prolifically. A well-known medicinal herb. The flower buds have insecticidal qualities similar to pyrethrum. Hardy to -20°C. Tanacetum vulgare Tansy. Perennial from Europe, growing to 1 m (3 ft) or more in height, which spreads aggressively. Likes a sunny or light shady location and a moist soil. Most useful in the garden for its ability to accumulate minerals from the subsoil, and to attract predators of a number of insect pests - good under fruit trees. It is also a bee plant, dyes are obtained from the aerial parts, and the leaves and flowers are medicinal (use with caution). Foliage is used as an insect repellent. Hardy to -25°C. Taxodium distichum Swamp cypress. A large conifer - not evergreen - from the Southern USA, growing to 40 m (130 ft) high - 5 m (16 ft) in 10 years. Can be coppiced, unlike most conifers. It has exceptionally durable timber which is highly valued for anything in contact with water, also other exterior uses. Likes a sunny site and moist or wet soil - one of the few trees to tolerate periods of waterlogging. Hardy to -20°C. Taxus baccata Yew. The familiar small to medium evergreen tree from Europe, growing up to 14 m (46 ft) high. The seeds are poisonous but the red flesh around them is sweet and edible. The leaves, poisonous to livestock, contain valuable anti-cancer compounds and are insecticidal. The timber is valued for flooring, veneers etc. Often used for ornamental hedges. Dioecious, tolerating deep shade; hardy to -20°C. Thalictrum minus Perennial from Europe, growing to 1.5 m (5 ft) high. Likes a well-drained soil and sun or part shade. Makes quite a good ground cover plant; the leaves and roots are medicinal. Hardy to -20ºC. Thuja occidentalis American arbor-vitae, White cedar. A medium evergreen tree from North America, growing to 15 m (50 ft) high (3 m in 10 years). The young shoots have a pleasant fruity odour when crushed and are used to make a tea; the shoots and an oil from the leaves is used medicinally. The timber is durable and valued for roof shingles, exterior boarding, fencing, sleepers, canoes etc. Likes a moist soil and full sun; hardy to -40°C. Thymus serpyllum Wild thyme. A prostrate evergreen shrublet growing 20 cm (8”) high. Leaves are used for flavouring. A good bee plant and ground cover for rocky sites. Likes a well-drained neutral to alkaline soil and sun; hardy to -25°C or so. Thymus vulgaris Thyme. Familiar prostrate evergreen shrublet from Southern Europe, growing to 40 cm (16”) high. The leaves are used as a flavouring, and the leaves and flowering shoots medicinally. An essential oil is also used medicinally, in perfumery and toiletries. A good bee plant and ground cover for rocky sites. Likes a well-drained neutral to alkaline soil and sun; hardy to -20°C or so. Tiarella cordifolia Foam flower, Cool wort. Evergreen perennial from North America, growing 30 cm (1 ft) high. Likes a site in part or deep shade, in any soil. Often used ornamentally as a good ground cover plant in woodland; the roots, leaves and stems are used medicinally. Hardy to -35ºC. Tilia americana American lime/linden, Basswood. A medium tree in cultivation from North America, with large broad leaves. It has edible sap (tapped like maples), leaves and young buds (raw in salads), flowers (raw and to make a tea) and seeds (chocolaty). An important bee plant; the inner bark furnishes a fibre. The timber is used for joinery, musical instruments etc. Likes a position in sun or part shade; hardy to -35°C or more. Tilia cordata Small leaved lime. A large tree, growing sometimes to 40m (130 ft) high. The young leaves are edible (raw); the sap is edible in the same way as maple sap; flowers are used to make a tea; and seeds are edible. Very good bee plants. Good in hedges and shelterbelts; a good green manure plant, with falling leaves high in nutrients. Growth 8m (26 ft) in 10 years; hardy to -35°C. Tilia platyphyllos Large leaved lime. A large tree, growing sometimes to 40m (130 ft) high. The young leaves are edible (raw); the sap is edible in the same way as maple sap; flowers are used to make a tea; and seeds are edible. Very good bee plants. Good in hedges and shelterbelts; a good green manure plant, with falling leaves high in nutrients. Growth 8m (26 ft) in 10 years; hardy to -35°C. Tilia tomentosa Silver lime. A large tree from Southeastern Europe, growing to 20 m (70 ft) or more in height (5 m in 10 years). Free from aphids. The young leaves are edible raw or cooked, and the flowers used to make a tea. A good bee plant (though the flowers have a narcotic effect on them). The timber is used for panelling, carving, furniture etc. Likes a position in sun or part shade; hardy to about -20°C. Toona sinensis Chinese cedar. A medium sized deciduous tree from China, often grown ornamentally; fast growing in most soils, even chalk. Cultivated in China for its edible young shoots and leaves which are cooked and have an onion/garlic flavour. The timber is also valued but it can be kept shrubby by harvesting the shoots. Hardy to -35ºC. Trachycarpus fortunei Chusan palm. A hardy palm with large, fan-shaped leaves, growing to 12m (40 ft) high in Britain. The flowers, flower buds and terminal buds are all edible. Leathery leaves produce a fibre. Growth 3m (10 ft) in 10 years; hardy to -12°C. These seeds are from plants in Devon which regularly fruit. Trifolium repens White clover. A familiar perennial plant of fields and lawns, white clover is one of the most vigorous clovers for our climate and fixes a lot of nitrogen into the soil. It grows in most soils except very acid, in sun or shade - it tolerates quite a lot of shade. Though slow to start growth, it soon speeds up and can quickly cover a fair area and become a good ground cover, spreading via its creeping stems and seeds. It tolerates cutting and is quite long-lived. The flowers are edible, nice in salads, as are the leaves and young seedpods (though they are less interesting). Bees of course love the flowers. Semi-evergreen in mild climes. Hardy to -25ºC. Trifolium rubens Red trefoil. A perennial from central and Southern Europe with erect stems, spreading via rhizomes. Large, reddish-purple, cylindrical flowers are loved by bees. Like all in the clover family, it is a good fixer of nitrogen. It is one of the few clovers to survive in open woodland and tolerate shade. Needs a well drained soil; hardy to at least -20°C. Tsuga canadensis Eastern hemlock. Large evergreen tree from Eastern North America, growing to 45 m (150 ft) high - 5 m (16 ft) in 10 years. A major forestry tree, with the timber used for all construction purposes etc. The bark is used for tanning and dyeing. The leaves are used to make a beer and the essential oil from them as a flavouring. Likes a moist acid soil and sun or shade; hardy to -20°C. Tsuga heterophylla Western hemlock. Large evergreen tree from Western North America, growing to 30 m (100 ft) high. A major forestry tree, with the timber used for all construction purposes etc. The bark is used for tanning and dyeing. The leaves are used to make a tea and a beer and the essential oil from them as a flavouring. Likes a moist soil and sun or shade; hardy to -25°C. Ulex europaeus Gorse, Furze, Whin. The well known small prickly evergreen shrub from Western Europe, growing to 1.5 m (5 ft) high, with bright yellow flowers at almost any time of the year. Good dyes are obtained from the flowers, and the plant's wind-tolerance makes it an excellent nurse or windbreak shrub. Also good at stabilising soils. The branches burn readily and make good kindling. Bees love the flowers and goats like to nibble the foliage! A good nitrogen-fixing legume species, which needs sun and a well-drained soil; hardy to -20°C. Ulmus glabra Wych elm, Scotch elm. Large European tree growing to 30 m (100 ft) high - 6 m (20 ft) in 10 years. Best known for its durable timber, especially in contact with water - used for waterwheels etc, as well as furniture etc. Often grows in hedges. The suckers are used for basketry and a fibre can be obtained from the bark, which is also medicinal. Grows in most soils in sun or part shade; hardy to -25°C. Not as susceptible to Dutch elm disease as the English elm. Ulmus pumila Siberian elm. A small tree from Northern Asia, growing to 10 m (32 ft) high. One of the few elm species resistant to Dutch elm disease. The young leaves and buds, and immature fruits are edible. The wood is very decay-resistant in water and valued for waterwheels etc. Sun or part shade; hardy to -35°C. Vaccinium myrtillus Bilberry, Whortleberry. A dwarf European shrub, often found on moorlands, growing to 50 cm (20”) high. It bears sweet-acid edible fruits, 12 mm (0.5”) across, eaten raw, dried or cooked; the leaves can be used to make a tea. The leaves and fruits are also used medicinally. Bees love the flowers. It needs a sunny site and very acid well-drained but moist soil; hardy to -30°C. Valeriana officinalis Valerian. European perennial growing 1.5 m (5 ft) high when flowering, liking sun or part shade and most soils. A well-known and frequently used medicinal plant, sometimes commercially cultivated. Makes a good liquid plant feed and compost activator. Watch out for cats who love to roll on the plant! Hardy to -20°C. Viburnum lentago Mooseberry. A small deciduous shrub from North America, growing 1.5 m (5 ft) high. White flowers in spring are followed by red edible fruits. Needs a moist position in part or full shade; hardy to -23°C. Viburnum opulus Guelder rose, Cranberry bush, Cramp bark. A large European shrub, growing to 4.5 m (14 ft) high. It bears large clusters of bright red fruits which are edible when cooked (they are mildly poisonous raw) - used as a cranberry substitute. The fruits and bark are used medicinally, and the fruits as a food colouring. A good hedging and bee plant. Likes a moist site in sun, part shade or quite deep shade; hardy to -35°C. Viburnum rufidulum Southern black haw. A large upright deciduous shrub from North America, growing up to 10 m (32 ft) high. White flowers are followed by blue-black, large edible fruits. Likes a moist soil and sun or part shade; hardy to -20°C. Viburnum tinus Laurustinus. A large bushy evergreen shrub to 4 m (13 ft) high with white flowers in winter. A good hedging plant, tolerating trimming, also a bee plant. Likes sun or part shade; hardy to -15°C. Viburnum trilobum American cranberry bush, Highbush cranberry. A shrub to 4m (13 ft) high, closely related to the guelder rose. Bears good crops of bright red fruits up to 12 mm (½") across, which can be made into a slightly bitter jelly like rowan jelly. Hardy to -40°C. Viola odorata Sweet violet. A tiny evergreen perennial from Europe, growing 20 cm (8”) high. The leaves, flower buds and flowers are all edible raw, and an oil distilled from the leaves and flowers in used in liqueurs and perfumery. The roots, leaves and flowers are used medicinally. Can be used as a ground cover plant. A woodland floor plant which likes a moist soil and part or full shade; hardy to -25°C. Vitex agnus-castus Chaste tree. An aromatic medium shrub from Southern Europe, growing to 3 m (10 ft) high, sometimes more. The fruits and seeds are used as a pepper substitute and the leaves as a spice. The leaves are also used medicinally. Branches are used for basketry and the bush is a bee plant. Likes a well-drained soil and full sun; hardy to -15°C. Wisteria sinensis Chinese wisteria. A vigorous climbing (twining) plant from China, growing to 10 m (33 ft) high or more - half that in 10 years. A nitrogen-fixing plant which acts as a green manure shrub. The flowers are edible (usually cooked) and seeds have been eaten but are not recommended - they are used medicinally. A fibre, paper and cloth can be made from the bark. Used as a screening vine and facade insulation; bees love the flowers. Needs a warm sunny site and well-drained soil; hardy to -20°C. Yucca baccata Spanish bayonet. An evergreen shrub with sword-like tough leaves and impressive flower spikes from the Southern USA, growing to 1 m (3 ft) high or more. The tough leaves can be used for basketry and to make a fibre, also split and used as twine. The roots are a source of a soap substitute, and edible parts include the flowers, flower stalks and fruits, Likes a very well drained soil and sun; hardy to -15°C or so. Zanthoxylum alatum Nepal pepper. A large shrub from the Himalayas growing to 4m (13 ft) high. The seeds are peppery and can be used as a spice and pepper substitute (as in China). Needs a sunny site. Growth 4m (13 ft) in 10 years; hardy to -20°C. Zanthoxylum americanum Prickly ash, Toothache tree. A small tree to 8m (26 ft) high. Young leaves, seeds and bark are all edible, being used as a spice. Seeds, root bark and branches are used medicinally. Needs a sunny site. Hardy to -35°C. Zanthoxylum piperitum Pepper tree, Japanese prickly ash. A shrub growing 3-6m (10-20 ft) high. The seeds are used as a spice and pepper substitute in China and Japan - indeed the plant is cultivated commercially for the seeds. Also edible are the young leaves, flowers, and bark - also all used as a spice. Needs a sunny position; hardy to -20°C. Zanthoxylum schinifolium Szechuan pepper. A very aromatic shrub from China and Japan growing 2 m (6 ft) or more high. The leaves can be used as a flavouring, but the main use is the peppercorn-like black seeds, which are used a spice (peppery and fragrant) - grown commercially as a spice crop in Asia. Grows well in any reasonable soil in sun or light shade; hardy to -20ºC. Zelkova serrata Japanese zelkova. A large Japanese tree growing to 30 m (100 ft) high. Valued for its timber which is tough, hard and beautifully grained - used for construction, furniture, flooring etc. The leaves are sometimes used for fodder and young leaves can be eaten. Likes a moist soil and sun or part shade; hardy to -25°C; very occasionally attacked by Dutch elm disease. Zizyphus jujube Chinese date, Jujube. A large shrub up to 9m (30 ft) high. Bears edible fruits which are cherry to plum sized and very sweet; the oil from the seeds is also edible. Fruits are also used medicinally. A good bee plant. Needs a sunny, sheltered site. Growth 2m (7 ft) in 10 years; hardy to -20°C.

For more information about these excellent growing containers for trees, shrubs and other plants, click here.

'Sherwood’ - 12 cm deep and have a cell volume of 175 cc; eight books, each with 4 cells, fit in a tray, hence there are 32 cells per tray. This size has the option of a clear plastic propagating lid.

'Fleet' - 20 cm deep with a cell volume of 350 cc; ten books, each with 4 cells, fit in a tray, hence there are 40 cells per tray.

Rootrainer prices (including postage – England, Wales & lowland Scotland only; Grampian, Highland, N.Ireland – add £15 carriage; please ask for a quote elsewhere in the World) :