There are more than 7,000 trees in Alexandra Park and our resident expert, Stephen Middleton from The Friends of Alexandra Park, is highlighting some of his favourite species and the stories behind them.
Amelanchier (Snowy Mespilus)
Brilliant white flowers and contrasting russet leaves make the Amelanchier a real highlight in early spring. To find March’s Tree of the Month, walk up the lime tree avenue in the Grove and head left off the path just as you reach the fence surrounding the huge oak tree. You’ll find it on the border of the park.
Known scientifically as Amelanchier × lamarckii, this tree is also called Snowy Mespilus. In the United States, it goes by the names Juneberry or Serviceberry.
It is thought to be a hybrid of two North American species, most likely A. canadensis and A. laevis, though it may also be a cross with A. canadensis and A. arborea. The name Amelanchier comes from a regional French word for the plant, while lamarckii honours the French botanist, Jean-Baptiste Lamarck, known for his work on evolution.
In late February or early March, the buds begin to lengthen in preparation for a striking spring display. Now, the flowers are open and ready to be admired. The light brown young leaves gradually turn soft green, before becoming a rich orangey-red in autumn.
The snowy mespilus belongs to the rose family, like the nearby cherry trees, whose blossoms share a similar appearance. It is often multi-stemmed, and makes an excellent garden tree, compact, elegant, and never too tall.
Although not native, it has been naturalised in southeastern England since the late 19th century, meaning it reproduces in the wild.
Like all trees with showy flowers, it relies on insects for pollination rather than the wind. While it doesn’t often carry much fruit, its berries are edible and can be used in jams and pies. Historically, the tree also had medicinal uses. Despite being a hardwood, its relatively small size means it has limited economic use and is mainly planted for its ornamental beauty.
You can spot another snowy mespilus on the edge of the Pavilion car park, closest to the Graffiti Wall, at the end of a line of cherry trees. Near both of these, look out for a striking lime-green tree just beginning to flower, the Norway maple.
