Five multi-stem trees for a changing climate
Photograph coming soon
Suggested lead photograph: five multi-stem trees for a changing climate
For gardens facing hotter, drier summers, the five multi-stem trees we recommend are Zelkova serrata, Heptacodium miconioides, Parrotia persica, Betula nigra and Acer campestre.
The last few summers have tested some of our most familiar garden trees, and silver birch in particular struggled across the south in the heat of 2026. So when customers ask us what to plant now, these are the five multi-stems we reach for first.
1. Zelkova serrata
Japanese zelkova is elegant, vase-shaped and remarkably tough. It copes well with heat and urban conditions, and colours beautifully in autumn. Discover Zelkova serrata.
Photograph coming soon
Suggested photograph: 2. Heptacodium miconioides
2. Heptacodium miconioides
Seven son flower comes into its own late in the year, flowering when little else does. Its scented white blooms are followed by rosy calyces, and once the leaves fall its peeling bark carries the interest right through winter. Discover Heptacodium.
3. Parrotia persica
Persian ironwood is one of the finest trees for autumn colour. It has a broad, graceful shape and attractive flaking bark, and once established it shrugs off dry spells. Discover Parrotia persica.
Photograph coming soon
Suggested photograph: 4. Betula nigra
4. Betula nigra
If you love birches, river birch is our recommendation. Its shaggy cinnamon bark is spectacular, and it is far more resilient than silver birch because it copes with both heavier soils and warmer summers. Discover Betula nigra.
5. Acer campestre
Our native field maple is tough, adaptable and great for wildlife, with clear yellow autumn colour. That combination makes it a brilliant choice for exposed or challenging sites. Discover Acer campestre.
Planting for resilience
Whichever tree you choose, good planting matters as much as the tree itself. Prepare the ground well, plant at the right depth and water deeply through the first two summers, because a tree that roots in strongly copes far better with heat and drought. Our guide on how to plant a multi-stem tree walks you through it.
See them at the nursery
All five are usually on display at our Row Town showroom. Come and choose yours by eye, or book time with a specialist.