Top 5... small weeping trees

Their iconic form and elegance will provide a colourful focal point throughout the year

1 Acer palmatum ‘Ever Red’

Japanese maple with cascading habit. Dissected leaves open in burgundy, turning bronze tones in autumn. Moist, well-drained soil in sheltered, semi-shaded position. H: 90cm (3ft), S: 1.2m (4ft). Tip Direct sun can bleach foliage colour. From www.ornamental-trees.co.uk; tel: 01943 660870.

2 Cercis canadensis ‘Lavender Twist’

Deciduous tree with intricate, slightly twisted branches. Clusters of lilac-pink pea flowers in spring. Bold, heart-shaped leaves turn yellow in autumn. Any moist, welldrained soil in sun. H: 1.8m (6ft), S: 1.5m (5ft). Tip Although very hardy provide sun and shelter to encourage maximum flowers. From www.crocus.co.uk; tel: 01344 578111.

3 Cotoneaster suecicus ‘Juliette’

Elegantly variegated, semievergreen shrub. White summer flowers produce red autumn berries. Tolerant of wind and exposure. H: 1.5m (5ft), S: 90cm (3ft). Tip Grafted as a standard, it makes a lovely specimen for a pot. From www.ornamental-trees.co.uk; tel: 01943 660870.

4 Laburnum alpinum ‘Pendulum’

Graceful, weeping form of a very popular tree. Pendulous, scented flowers in May and June. Any well-drained soil in full sun. H: 2.5m (8ft), S: 1.8m (6ft). Tip Good for exposed conditions and chalky soils. From www.longacres.co.uk; tel: 01276 476778.

5 Malus ‘Sun Rival’

Elegant crab apple of unusual umbrella shape. Red-budded flowers open white in spring, producing small vivid red fruit and yellow autumn colour. Any moist, well-drained soil in sun. H/S: 3m (10ft).

Tip Pollution tolerant, it’s great for a city garden.

From www.orangepippintrees.co.uk; tel: 01759 392007.