Trees play an invaluable role in maintaining ecosystems and providing sustenance and habitats around the UK – and the world.
There are more than 60,000 species of tree around the world, and the UK is home to a small proportion of these – around 60 native and 100 non-native species. We’ve looked into the most common British trees to discover which species are more numerous than others.
What’s the most common tree in the UK?
Sitka spruce (Picea sitchensis)
While it's not known for certain, the Woodland Trust believe the sitka spruce is likely to be the most abundant species in the UK, having been planted on an industrial scale over several decades.
English oak (Quercus robur)
tThe English oak tree is among the UK’s most common trees, and the Woodland Trees believes it to be the most common canopy dominant species in the UK's broadleaf woods, following its recent Bunce survey. Forestry statistics agree that the oak is the most common species in England, but the high numbers of birch in Scotland bump that higher up the list.
A single tree might live for up to 1,000 years – and can support more biodiversity than any other plant. Hundreds of different insect species feed on oak, while fungi and lichens also thrive around their base. They’re particularly common in southern and central England.
Silver birch (Betula pendula)
Particularly common on heaths and in woodlands, the silver birch is easily identified by its white bark, triangular leaves and catkins.
Alder (Alnus glutinosa)
Alders enjoy moist ground, so are often found on marshes and in wet woodland. They play a crucial role in the ecosystem of wetlands, enriching the soil and supporting a wide range of wildlife, including insects and birds.
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