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Scotland's Native Trees and Shrubs
Plants from the past
We have in Scotland inherited a rich and internationally important collection of native trees and woodlands. The oldest trees and woodlands are living links with history. The ancient Caledonian pines seen from the A832 south of Loch Maree provide an unbroken link dating back to the end of the last Ice Age 8,000 years ago. Many 'Ancient Woodlands' witnessed the 1745 rebellion when boars roamed wild and even earlier when the woodlands were home to wolves. The beech trees in the A93 roadside hedge at Meikleour were planted at the time of the Battle of Culloden.
Being in the presence of old trees and woodlands which have already lived a life of several hundred years can evoke in us a sense of humility - a valuable attribute for designers and carers of new landscape - and also instil a sense of responsibility for their well-being. The future of these old trees and woodlands as well as the future of new ones depends on our genuine appreciation of their value. The best of these trees and woodlands must be conserved, if for no other reason than, like old castles, cathedrals, crafts, and traditions, they enrich our lives.
This old oak in a lay-by on the A84 is a favourite for children to scramble about in and adults to enjoy in the way they please.
The future of our old trees and woodlands depends on the next generation having a genuine appreciation of their value. Children must be encouraged to appreciate them.
The Inventory of Ancient and Semi-Natural Woodlands, the Veteran Tree Initiative, the Ancient Tree Forum, the Caledonian Pinewood Inventory and an exemplary publication from Northern Ireland entitled, 'Our Remarkable Trees: A selection of Northern Ireland's special Trees' are all examples of initiatives to increase knowledge and safeguard our ancient trees and native woodland habitats.
Specialist seed archives, heritage seed nurseries and individual seed collectors and plant propagators are all contributing to securing the future of these trees. Good seed sources are, however, often not disclosed publicly for commercial reasons or because the owner does not want unauthorised collectors on his property. In an effort to increase the quality and quantity of native seed available for genetic conservation purposes The Scottish Forestry Trust has embarked on an initiative to locate and describe at least 40 natural populations of our main native species growing in Scotland. Steps will then be taken to determine the ownership of the trees and permission sought to collect the seed. It is important to have in mind that genetic variability should be maintained and so seed sources should be collected from multiple places within an area of provenance. It is recommended that seed collectors read the Forestry Commission's Practice Note No. 8, 'Using Local Stock for Planting Native Trees and Shrubs' 1999, which gives useful practical advice on seed collection.
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