TREES IN LAKE MEADOWS 

Common Beech (Fagus sylvatica)  Map Ref 17 

Native to most northern countries. The tree can grow up to 30m high with a spread of 25m, mature trees have a massive multi branched dome. In beech woods they create a thick canopy that causes dense shade limiting the growth of other plants beneath. Beech trees have a smooth grey bark and produce shiny green oval leaves that have a wavy edge. It is an important tree for timber having a fine grain and being knot free, in addition it can be turned easily and bends beautifully. Chairs have been made in beech for centuries. 

Red Oak (Quercus rubra)    Map Ref 18

Native to East Canada and North East America, introduced into Britain in 1724. The fast growing, deciduous spreading tree has quite large, attractive lobed leaves. They are deep green becoming reddish brown or yellowish brown in autumn. One is located on the north bank of the boating lake and it should be noted that its leaves are more pointed than our native oak, many examples of which are on the other side of the path.