Multistem trees (two or more stems growing from one root) were heavily featured in the show gardens at this year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show (check out “The Meta Garden”, “Morris & Co.” and “Alder Hey Urban Foraging Station” to name but a few). Here’s why….
Multistems are perfect for those of us who don’t want to wait. For the same girth as a single stem tree, a multi-stem provides instant architectural structure and shade by having a broader foliage canopy. Essentially, more bang for your buck!
The specimen therefore has a greater presence and makes an excellent garden feature.
Here are some multistems we recommend:
Amelanchier – Commonly known as Juneberry, is a deciduous shrub, multistem or small tree celebrated for its ornamental value. In spring, it showcases profuse clusters of delicate white flowers, followed by small, edible purple-black berries in early summer. The foliage is characterized by elliptical leaves that are bonze tinged when young and then turn vibrant shades of orange and red in autumn. With a compact and upright habit, is favoured for providing visual interest throughout the seasons and attracting wildlife with its blossoms and fruits. Height 5-7m.
Betula (Birch) – Betula pendula, commonly known as the Silver Birch or European White Birch, is a graceful deciduous tree native to Europe and parts of Asia. This medium to large-sized tree belongs to the Betulaceae family and is widely appreciated for its elegant appearance and distinctive white bark. Adaptable and hardy, Betula pendula thrives in well-drained soils and is commonly found in a variety of landscapes, including woodlands, parks, and gardens. It prefers full sun to partial shade. Due to its fast growth and light, airy canopy, the Silver Birch is often used as an ornamental tree, providing dappled shade and a sense of natural elegance to outdoor spaces.
Osmanthus aquifolium – An evergreen shrub with attractive foliage and delightful fragrance. The holly-like leaves are serrated and glossy dark green. In late summer to early autumn tiny white flowers appear with a sweet fragrance that entices pollinators, followed by blue/black berries. A low maintenance and dense plant that is an excellent choice to add to the borders or as a feature plant.
Grow in moist but well drained soil in full sun or partial shade.
Prunus ‘Kanzan’ (Ornamental Cherry) – Prunus ‘Kanzan’ is quite possibly the most popular cherry tree planted in Britain, with its signature pink blossom. Introduced in the 1900s it has won numerous horticultural accolades over a number of years, including the RHS Award of Garden Merit in 2002. Its profusion of vivid dark pink double flowers in spring are considered by some, perhaps unfairly, as garish, though it is fair to say this tree is a real show-off! Foliage appears a coppery red colour, the leaves are fairly large and serrated on the edges, turning brilliant orange and coppery red in autumn.
Prunus serrula (Tibetan Cherry) – Commonly known as the Tibetan Cherry, this captivating deciduous tree is celebrated for its distinctive and ornamental features. It boasts a polished, mahogany-coloured bark that exfoliates in thin, coppery strips, creating a unique and eye-catching visual texture. The leaves are dark green, turning yellow in the autumn. Clusters of small, white flowers bloom in spring, contributing to its seasonal charm. This is a sought-after choice for gardens, providing year-round interest and natural beauty. Height 4-8m.
Uplighting, or even string lights, will enhance your show stopping multistem.
You may also be interested in: