Trees

Leaves or needles, cones or nuts? Every tree is special, whether they're native to the UK or planted for the properties of their wood. Conifers are fast growing, often with cones and most are evergreen. They generally produce lighter wood, called softwood, which is easily renewable. Conifers make up the largest group of trees we grow for timber. In comparison, broadleaves are slower growing, with most losing their leaves in the winter. They make up some of our most ancient and nature-rich woodlands. Broadleaves produce dense and strong wood, known as hardwood. ​​​​​​​From slender pines to ancient oaks, learn how to recognise the most common trees in the nation's forests and discover their varied uses.