Plants for year-round structure

Corylus avellana ‘Contorta’ AGm

One of the best trees for the small garden, the corkscrew hazel has catkins in early spring and wonderful curly branches that really stand out in winter. Remove any non-twisted shoots. H: 6½-13ft (2-4m).

Ilex aquifolium ‘Argentea marginata’ AGm

This variegated holly looks striking as a lollipop standard, in pots positioned either side of a doorway. The creamrimmed leaves are paired with red berries in winter. H: Over 39ft (12m).

Betula utilis var. jacquemontii ‘Doorenbos’ (‘Snow Queen’) AGm

The gorgeous bark of this Himalyan birch develops fast, glowing a ghostly white when it’s just three to four years old. ‘Grayswood Ghost’ is a smaller option. H: 39-59ft (12-18m).

Fagus sylvatica AGm

Beech is great for structure when grown as hedging or topiary shapes such as columns. Its spent leaves remain on the branches throughout winter, providing a hit of warm copper colour. H: 39ft+ (12m+).

Pyrus communis ‘Conference’ AGm

A reliably self-fertile variety of pear that can be grown against a wall in an espalier shape: a series of horizontal tiers that looks particularly elegant in winter. H: Dependent on rootstock.

Taxus baccata ‘Standishii’ AGm

This dwarf golden yew stands upright like a toy soldier. The columnar shape and sunny evergreen foliage are fabulous for winter, but beware the scarlet berries – they’re poisonous. H: 39in-5ft (1-1½m).