At this time of year choosing a plant of the month becomes an easier task, many of the plants which have given their all during the spring and summer have left the stage.  Now it is the time for the structural plants and those which have a year round interest to shine.  For this month we have chosen a fabulous and unusual tree, the Betula albosinensis ‘Red Panda’ for our plant of the month.

Whilst we love the stark white trunks of the Betula utilis Jacquemontii it is nice to have a change and this tree certainly is a show stopper.

Coppery red bark peels to reveal grey and purple beneath becoming more noticable in the colder months, particularly striking when underplanted with billowing grasses or dogwood.

This birch will grow into a medium sized tree with an upright form making it a good choice for medium size gardens away from buildings and underground pipes.

Plant in either full sun or dappled shade in most soil types where the long pendulous catkins emerge at the same time as the new leaves to give a fresh, airy canopy during the year.

Awarded the prestigious RHS Award of Garden Merit this tree plays a useful ecological role too.

So, why not try something a little different to the usual birch offerings and plant a real show stopper.