Woodland is, of course, comprised of trees. Hob Hey Wood, as ancient semi-natural woodland contains a large variety of native trees and shrubs as well as some non-native species. This blog gives some information on the trees that can be found in the wood, and where to find them. See how many you can spot.
Alder
This moisture-loving tree can be found on the stream bank to the north end of the wood as well as down by the river. A very valuable tree which can take over in the right conditions.
Crab apple
There is a huge crab apple on the left side of the path about halfway along from the main bridge to the north bridge. In spring it looks spectacular when in blossom.
Ash
Very common in the wood with some ancient specimens that look really eerie at night (like the one to the right). This is one of the largest tree species and can easily exceed 60 feet in height. This tree can be seen at the north bridg. For directions to the bridges listed in this blog, consult the map in the 'about us' section of this website.
Beech
There are two large specimen beech trees in the wood and several smaller ones. The biggest can be found at the middle bridge. In autumn the bronze leaves look spectacular in the sunlight as can be seen in the picture on the right.
Silver birch
This beautiful tree can be found in the north end of the wood and looks beautiful summer or winter.
Hawthorn
A common tree particularly on the woodland edges.
Hazel
A small tree that produces the eponymous nuts in autumn and beautiful catkins in winter. Found all over the wood.
Holly
This sharp-leaved tree can be found all over the wood.
Oak
The largest and oldest tree species in Hob Hey Wood and found all over the wood. The largest specimen has a girth of over 3 metres and is probably over 200 years’ old (see the picture on the left)! This tree can be found by the middle bridge.
Yew
There are three small specimens of yew of two species (common and (probably Irish yew) in the wood which can live for thousands of years.
In addition to the native trees above, there are several non-native species present.
Norway maple
This lovely tree can be found to the left of the main bridge about 20 yards away.
Horse chestnut
There are several specimens in the wood including a huge one by the main bridge and a tree on its side by the southern bridge (see the picture on the right). Get your conkers here!
Wild Cherry
There are a couple of small examples of this native tree in the wood. Probably, these were seeded from the new wood which was planted with wild cherry 17 years ago.
Turkey oak
There are quite a few Turkey oaks throughout Hob Hey. They are nowhere as useful to wildlife as our native oaks.
Sycamore
The most invasive species in the wood. Large trees and small saplings can be found everywhere. Not as good for wildlife as native trees they can take over woodland.
If anyone wants any guidance as to where specific trees can be found, please email us.
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