5 Stunning Trees and Shrubs for Autumn
A key element of garden design is ensuring the garden has something to offer across the seasons. Trees and shrubs provide a backdrop to your summer flowers and then can start to take centre stage as the colder weather moves in. Position them in view of a window so you can have a spectacular display whatever the weather!
1. Euonymus eurapaeus (spindle)
This large, native shrub turns a fiery shade of red in the autumn months and is a real focal point in the garden. The leaves are accompanied by beautiful orange and pink winged fruit, which continue to hang on the branches after the leaves have fallen. This shrubs reaches a height of 3m but for something smaller and equally dramatic, try Euonymus alatus ‘Compactus’.
Euonymus leaves in autumn
2. Cercidiphyllum japonicum (Katsura tree)
I never fully appreciated the value of scent in a garden until I came across this tree. Its green, heart shaped leaves turn shades of yellow, orange and pink in the autumn and release the most amazing scent of toffee, caramel and candyfloss. The scent is really distinctive and strong and you get wafts as you wander round the garden. The Katsura tree will eventually grow large and has quite a wide spread so it’s one for a bigger space. However, I have tracked down a dwarf version for a smaller garden (Cercidiphyllum japonicum 'Boyd's Dwarf') and I can’t wait to plant one!
3. Viburnum plicatum f. tomentosum ‘Mariessi’
I love this shrub - it is absolutely beautiful in both the spring and autumn months. In spring, it is covered in large white lacecap flowers, which look amazing on its tiered branches. Then in autumn the leaves turn a rich shade of red and purple. Its hardy and easy to grow in sun or light shade and will reach 3m high. I noticed it suffered in last years hot, dry summer - it has responded well in wetter conditions this year but may need a little watering in long, dry periods.
4. Japanese maple
Japanese maples are delicate, graceful trees with beautiful foliage - many also have stunning autumn colour. Generally compact and slow growing, they are frequently recommended as ideal trees for small gardens. The key is finding a sheltered spot for them, avoid areas open to cold winds that can scorch the leaves. There are many to choose from - for vivid crimson autumn foliage try Acer palmatum var. dissectum 'Seiryu'.
5. Crab apple tree
Another great tree for a smaller garden, crab apples can offer so much across the seasons. In spring masses of pink or white blossom attract pollinators in the garden, then in autumn both the leaves and fruit add colour and interest. Try, for example, Malus Evereste with large white spring flowers, yellow / orange fruit in autumn and leaves that turn bronze before falling. Or Malus x robusta ‘Red Sentinel’, which produces deep, red fruit that can last on the branches through many of the winter months.
Crab apple fruit
For more inspiration, check out these guides from Gardens Illustrated and The Guardian on gardens to visit in the UK this autumn.
If you’ve found this helpful and would like further help and advice on planting your garden, please email me.
