This page will be frequently updated with new species | culitivars and interesting species not commonly known, that do merit planting.

Pyrus Calleryana 'Chanticleer' Ornamental Pear.

A new cultivar in Australia, however it is grown extensively throughout Europe and North America.

In Europe it is the only Pyrus grown and planted extensively. Judging by its performance in those countries it is worth considering and should out perform the other Pyrus calleryana cultivars presently grown in Australia.

Description:

Tall conical tree fast growing tree,
with masses of pure white flowers in spring.

Large bright green foliage, late autumn | winter foliage, bright yellow through to oranges and reds.

However there is no guarantee of these colors in mild climates.

Height: Up to 15m.

Landscape Uses: Good street tree, ideal screen tree, that can be pruned into a pleached hedge or let grow naturally as it has a narrow conical habit. Tendency to hold on to its leaves well into winter makes it is an ideal screen tree.

Unique Characteristics: Vigorous. Tolerates wide variety of soils.
Fire blight resistant. Fast growing. Holds foliage until winter.

References: 'The Garden Tree', Alan Mitchell and Allen Coombes, Seven Dials, 1999. 'Garden Trees', Eyewitness Garden Handbooks, Dorling Kindersley, 1996. 'The Hillier Gardener's Guide to Trees and Shrubs', John Kelly, David and Charles, 1999.

Pyrus Nivalis Snow Pear.

While not a new cultivar this tree is not commonly known. Well worth growing because it will tolerate harsher conditions than other Pyrus but still develops a good form.

An overall softer look than other pears due to the slightly downy appearence of the foliage from which this species gets its name.

Description:

Small to medium fast growing tree with broad
to rounded canopy and pure white flowers in spring.

General shape not unlike Pyrus ussuriensis - the Manchurian Pear.

Silvery grey foliage changing to autumn foliage of yellows through to orange.

Height: Up to 12m.

Landscape Uses: Good street tree. Easily pruned. Good specimen and avenue tree. Provides contrast to green foliage.

Unique Characteristics: Silvery grey foliage and good autumn colour. Vigorous in growth and will tolerate drier conditions than other pears.

References: 'The Hillier Gardener's Guide to Trees and Shrubs', John Kelly, David and Charles, 1995.

Ficus Microcarpa 'Hillii' Hills Fig.

While not a new cultivar, this tree is becoming more commonly used.

Does well in urban situations where conditions would limit the development of other trees.

Often seen clipped as a smart ball-shaped topiary in urban developments.

Description:

Medium growing tree with broad to rounded crown, dark glossy green leaves and insignificant flowers.

Globular fruit is pink. Has attractive grey to white trunk.

Reponds well to pruning to form a dense, slightly glossy canopy ideally suited to topiary applications.

Height: Up to 20m.

Landscape Uses: Varies depending on climate; in Melbourne it is becoming popular as a clipped street tree for more confined situations. Has a vigorous root system so must be managed properly. Ideal screen tree. If pruned, makes a good formal or pleached hedge. In warmer climates it is best used as a park tree where it can reach its mature size of up to 20m with 15-20m spread.

Unique Characteristics: Adaptable to most climates and can be grown right throughout Australia, including Tasmania if planted in a protected environment. Will grow in varying soil conditions, however does require good drainage. Frost sensitive.

References: 'Australian Native Plants', John W.Wrigley and Murray Fagg, Reed New Holland, 1996.