The only native pine to Britain and the national tree of Scotland. Its most recognisable feature is its distinct two-toned trunk as it matures. Its grey scaly plates at its base subtly mould into shades of brown up the trunk. This suddenly becomes a warming molten orange bark at the top by the bushy crown. It is slow developing in its youth, but once established its single springtime growth can be 70cm a year.

The needles are a little more tinged with shades of lagoon blue than the Pinus nigra. These grow in pairs and twist displaying different tones of green and blue. The cones are grey-brown which develop from the female flowers. These sit within the bushy, almost parasol canopy. A tree that will establish even in the most difficult and extreme conditions. These were recently designed and planted around an exclusive inner-city apartment block with multiple stories. The upper floors with balconies became almost part of the canopies, creating a peaceful serene environment within a busy inner-city location.

For something unique, ask for details on the Hillier Windblown Pines. These have been trained over many years, where the trunk sweeps over providing stunningly characterful forms.