Common trees in the UK

Get to know some of the most common tree species found across the UK, from oaks and sycamores to birches and beeches. Understanding the trees in your area helps with proper care, maintenance, and long-term health. As experienced tree surgeons, we’re familiar with the unique needs of each species and how to manage them safely and responsibly.

English Oak (Quercus robur)

The English Oak is one of the UK’s most iconic native trees, known for its strength, longevity, and broad, spreading canopy. It can live for several hundred years and support more wildlife species than any other native tree, including birds, insects, fungi, and lichens. Oaks are slow-growing and develop a dense crown with heavy limbs, which can become hazardous if not properly managed. Due to their size and structure, regular inspections are essential. Recommended services include crown thinning to reduce wind resistance, deadwood removal to prevent limb drop, and structural pruning to guide healthy growth. For older oaks, veteran tree care such as bracing and habitat conservation may also be appropriate.

Silver Birch (Betula pendula)

The Silver Birch is a graceful, medium-sized deciduous tree easily recognised by its striking white bark and delicate, airy foliage. Native to the UK, it thrives in a range of soils and is commonly found in woodlands, parks, and gardens. Silver Birches are fast-growing but relatively short-lived compared to other native trees, typically living 60–90 years. They provide valuable habitat for insects and birds and are often planted for their light canopy and ornamental appeal. Recommended tree services include light crown thinning to maintain its elegant form, formative pruning in early years to encourage a balanced structure, and removal of dead or crossing branches to promote overall health and safety.

Scots Pine (Pinus sylvestris)

The Scots Pine is the UK’s only native conifer and one of the most recognisable evergreen trees, with its tall, straight trunk and reddish-brown upper bark. It can live for several hundred years and is often found in heathlands, woodlands, and large estates. This hardy species supports a wide range of wildlife and is well-adapted to poor soils and exposed locations. Due to its height and long limbs, it can be vulnerable to storm damage and deadwood accumulation over time. Recommended tree services include deadwood removal to reduce risk, selective pruning of lower limbs for clearance or light access, and periodic health inspections to monitor for pests like pine sawfly or signs of root issues in older specimens.

Common Ash (Fraxinus excelsior)

The Common Ash is a tall, graceful native tree known for its light, airy canopy and distinctive black buds. It plays a vital role in British woodlands and hedgerows, supporting a wide range of wildlife. However, it is currently under serious threat from ash dieback disease (Hymenoscyphus fraxineus), a fungal infection that causes leaf loss, branch dieback, and eventual tree failure. Due to this risk, regular monitoring is essential. Recommended tree services include tree health assessments, selective crown reduction or removal of hazardous limbs, and, in advanced cases, full tree removal for safety. Early intervention helps manage risk and may prolong the life of affected trees where safe to do so.

Beech (Fagus sylvatica)

Beech is a majestic native tree valued for its smooth, grey bark and dense, broad canopy that provides excellent shade. It thrives in well-drained soils and is commonly found in woodlands and parks across the UK. Beech trees produce distinctive coppery leaves in autumn and beech nuts that support wildlife. Due to its dense foliage, regular maintenance such as crown thinning is important to allow light penetration and reduce wind resistance. Recommended tree services include pruning for structural integrity, removal of dead or diseased branches, and pollarding or crown reduction in urban or confined spaces to manage size and safety.

Sycamore (Acer pseudoplatanus)

Sycamore is a fast-growing, robust tree widely found across the UK, known for its large, lobed leaves and distinctive winged seeds called “keys.” Although not native, it has become naturalised and is valued for its resilience in urban and rural environments alike. Sycamores can develop dense canopies and strong, spreading branches that may require regular management. Recommended tree services include crown thinning to improve light and air circulation, removal of deadwood to reduce hazards, and formative pruning to maintain a strong branch structure and prevent future issues.

Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna)

Hawthorn is a hardy, native plant commonly found in hedgerows and woodlands throughout the UK. While often classed as a shrub due to its dense, thorny growth habit, hawthorn can also develop into a small tree reaching up to 5–10 meters if left untrimmed. It is known for its clusters of white spring flowers and bright red berries, which provide essential food for birds and wildlife. Hawthorns are often used as natural barriers and benefit from regular maintenance to keep them healthy and manageable. Recommended tree services include hedge trimming to maintain shape and density, coppicing or pollarding to encourage vigorous new growth, and removal of dead or diseased wood to promote overall vitality.