Parrotia Persica Tree (12L, 5-6ft)

If you are looking for incredible autumn colours, the Parrotia persica is the tree you need to plant in your garden. It grows to a large size and puts on a magnificent display when its glossy, deeply ribbed mid-green foliage turns to fiery vivid yellow, then burning orange, and finally an intense red and purple colour palette. The tree holds its leaves for a long time and the autumn display can last for many weeks. Children love to collect these amazing leaves and press them to dry. They can be used for school projects, arts and crafts projects and make great home décor displays when placed into glass containers.

Persian Ironwood trees also delight with their unique flaking bark, which sheds as they mature. The bark is silvery grey and as the tree ages, it flakes off, revealing shades of pink, green and yellow young bark.

Parrotia persica trees have a wide spreading habit and often grow multiple thick stems creating a unique look. In late winter, insignificant red flowers bring colour to the stark branches. The flowers are actually petal-less and what you see is the red stamens. The flowers are followed in spring by the newly emerging leaves.

This wonderful tree has all-year round interest and will become a focal point in your garden. It will reach heights of 8m and a spread of 10m in a 20 year period, making it perfect for large gardens. It will thrive in any fertile, moist but well drained soil, in full sun or partial shade. Acidic soils increase the vibrancy of the autumn leaves.

Plant one as a statement tree in the centre of your garden and surround with a lovely rockery. Persian Ironwood trees also make great border trees to block out unsightly walls and offer privacy from neighbours.