Our Window on Westonbirt volunteers have explored the arboretum this week to let you know what's looking its best. Keep an eye out for the following seasonal highlights - they're not to be missed! You can also use our Arboretum Explorer to discover more tree locations around the arboretum.
Hamamelis japonica
Witch hazels are a group of shrubs and trees originating in Asia. Several new varieties have been planted at the arboretum in shades of amber and orange and you might spot these along Main Drive or Willesley Drive. But we also love more established varieties such as the yellow Japanese witch hazel at the top of Savill Glade (pictured: Hamamelis japonica). A cheering sight on a gloomy day, and sweetly scented.
Christmas box
The Christmas box (Sarcococca hookeriana) has an even stronger scent and the groups behind Great Oak Hall with their tiny white flowers and red or black berries cannot be missed.
Persian ironwood
At the entrance to Mitchell Drive or on Palmer Ride do look out for emerging flowers of the Persian ironwoods (Parrotia persica), with crimson stamens emerging from small dark bracts.
