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The Spindle Tree

Updated: Sep 30, 2020

Ancient woodland indicator?



Such a pretty tree, about 15 feet tall with the most delicate flowers that open to reveal a shiny bright orange seed or berry.


In late September when most of the other trees in the woodland are losing colour and shedding leaves, the spindle tree creates blossoms of the most gorgeous pink that stand out brightly in the hedgerow.


The spindle tree is a native species of the UK but is rarely seen in our hedgerows these days. It can be a sign that the trees and hedges around have been generated from an ancient woodland site.


The spindle is a poisonous plant and the trees and berries although attractive, should not be eaten.


The wood from the spindle tree is strong and the branches are thin, making it ideal for making spindles for spinning wheels.


Remember Sleeping Beauty? She pricked her finger on a spindle and went to sleep for a hundred years. The spindle tree is definitely not as toxic as that, but it certainly makes sense of the story.

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Regis Croft, Somerset, England

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