| Also known as willow-leaved sea buckthorn, this is the definite guerrilla tree. Fast growing and very wind-resistant, it is an excellent pioneer species for re-establishing woodlands as it suckers freely (new trees pop out from it’s roots especially if they are cut in spots occasionally, more than a metre away from the trunk with a spade).
It succeeds in most soils as long as they are not too dry, as it self fertilises the soil with nitrogen. An aggressive root system binds the soil together, prevents erosion and gets it ready for other plants |
 |
.
Recent research has shown that this is the most nutritious fruit that can be grown in Britain. It is very rich in vitamin C and many other vitamins and minerals plus bioflavinoids and essential fatty acids. The fruit is rather small and fiddly to pick, however. The flavour is like a sharp lemon, most people find it acceptable raw though it is too acid for them to eat in quantity. Cooked, it makes a delicious syrup.
Recent research has shown that regular consumption of the fruit can prevent and even cure cancer. The wood can be used for fuel and the plant has a wide range of medicinal applications.
Your park needs it!
Type - Deciduous tree Hight - Up to 15m tall. Climate - Not hardy in the colder areas of Britain, needs sun, min -10c. Flowers - Spring. Dioecious - Male and female plants must be grown if seed is required.
Other pioneer warrior species…
nitrogen fixing Alder (especially A.glutinosa native, A. rubra is faster) and Gorse (very thorny, avoid wet and chalky soil). White Poplar and Aspen, have an aggressive root system especially in clay soil that can structurally damage buildings. Just stick branches of Willow in wet soil (Bowles Hybrid fastest), and Elderrberry in a shady spot, for birds.
Thanks to the plasterers in manchester for the studio space @ the plastering company