Sponsor a tree

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  Pedunculate Oak

  Suggested donation amount: £7,500

  Position: the central clearing of Echo Wood will be a special place of reflection, meeting and coming together to celebrate. It will be surrounded by 12 magnificent Oaks.

  Species overview:Almost needs no introduction! The Pedunculate (or English) Oak (Quercus robur) is the most iconic tree in Britain. Its broad canopy stands proud and some ancient oaks are over a thousand years old, including the Publow Oak at Great Avon Wood (a local Avon Needs Trees project).

  Biodiversity highlights: Supports more wildlife than any other UK tree species, hosting over 2,300 species of birds, insects, fungi, and lichens. Its acorns feed wildlife such as jays, badgers, squirrels and deer, while its trunk and leaves shelter countless invertebrates.

  Factoids/famous in history because…: The Pedunculate Oak is tied to British heritage and history—from the “Royal Oak” that sheltered Charles II to its use in building ships and historic timber structures across the isles.

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  Crab apple

  Suggested donation amount: £1250

  Position in Echo Wood:
  The Crab apples will form the second concentric ring around the clearing at Echo Wood. While smaller in stature, they make up for it in seasonal interest, including stunning spring flowers.

  Species overview:
  Crab Apples are small trees sometimes found in hedgerows, woodlands, and field edges across the UK. It produces fragrant spring blossoms and small, tart fruits in autumn.

  Biodiversity highlights:
  Its flowers provide early nectar for bees and other pollinators, while birds and mammals feed on its apples. The tree also supports a variety of insects and fungi, contributing to a healthy woodland ecosystem.

  Factoids/famous in history because…:
  The Crab Apple has featured in British folklore as a symbol of love and fertility. Its fruit has long been used in traditional cider and its naturally high pectin content makes it perfect for setting jams and jellies.

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  Bird / Wild Cherry

  Suggested donation amount: £750

  Position:
  Cherries will be the largest tree lining the walkways through Echo Wood with early, almond-scented spring flowers.

  Species overview:
  Cherries, both Wild Cherry (Prunus avium) and Bird Cherry (Prunus padus) are native British trees found along riverbanks, woodlands, and hedgerows throughout the UK. They produce fragrant white racemes of flowers in spring followed by small black fruits.

  Biodiversity highlights:
  Its blossoms attract bees and other pollinators, whilst as the name suggests, the fruits provide food for birds such as thrushes and blackbirds. The tree also hosts caterpillars of several moth species, in particular the ermine moth supporting a rich food web.

  Factoids/famous in history because…:
  Traditionally planted near homes to ward off evil spirits, the Bird Cherry features in British folklore and rural traditions. Its bitter fruits were once used in herbal remedies and country wines.

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  Dogwood

  Suggested donation amount: £250

  Position:
  Dogwoods will line the curving paths through Echo Wood guiding you along with the cherries into the central glade.

  Species overview:
  Dogwoods (Cornus spp.) are a shrub or small tree found throughout England’s woodlands and hedgerows. They are recognized for their creamy white flowers in spring.

  Biodiversity highlights:
  Dogwood flowers attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, while its berries provide autumn food for birds. Its dense thickets offer shelter for nesting wildlife and contribute to hedgerow diversity.

  Factoids/famous in history because…:
  The wood of the Dogwood is extremely hard and was once used for making tools, skewers (“dags”), and arrows—hence the name “dogwood” from “dagwood.” It’s also valued in gardens for its vivid winter color.

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  Field Maple

  Suggested donation amount: £100

  Position:
  Field Maples will make up the backbone of Echo Wood. Their yellow-green flowers will provide a fine contrast to the other spring blooms.

  Species overview:
  The Field Maple (Acer campestre) is the UK’s only native maple, common in hedgerows, woodlands, and along field margins. It’s a medium-sized, deciduous tree with distinctive lobed leaves that turn golden yellow in autumn.

  Biodiversity highlights:
  Its flowers are rich in nectar for bees and insects, and its leaves support several moth caterpillar species. Birds and small mammals feed on its winged seeds and use its branches for shelter.

  Factoids/famous in history because…:
  Field Maple wood was traditionally used for musical instruments and furniture due to its fine grain. In folklore, it’s associated with balance and protection, often planted near homes for good fortune.