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Rosa canina (Dog Rose) 

Description: By far the most common wild rose in England this attractive white flowered rose climbs other plants using its barbed hooks and is often found in hedges, scrubby or disturbed areas. The fruits are vibrant red ovals called hips with each hip containing hairy seeds. 
 
Uses: Pound for pound the flesh of a rosehip had more vitamin C than a lemon and has often been made into a syrup and eaten. Tis happened especially during both world wars. Rose hip oil is a popular skin care product and the hairy seeds are an irritant that has been used to make itching powder. 
 
Conservation Value: The flower of the Dog Rose is an important source of nectar for insects and the hips are eaten by various birds including Blackbirds and Waxwing. 
 
Preferred Locations: This species can be found throughout many habitats and most soil types though it does avoid very acidic area. It can grow in full sun or in semi shade and can tolerate occasional dampness but not permanently wet locations. 
 
Size: Can grow up to 3m if supported but tends to spread lengthways through other plants. 

Sorbus torminalis (Wild Service Tree) 

Other Names: Chequers, Chequers Tree 
 
Description: This mediums sized deciduous tree is a real stunner in springtime with its clusters of pretty white flowers but its now a rare species and hard to find. It is scattered throughout the country but often isolated to ancient woodland, semi-ancient woodland and old hedges where it still holds out. The brown bark is patterned with cracked square plates and the twigs are slender, shiny and grey- brown in colour. The leaves are a similar shape to a Maple (Canadian Flag) and turn a deep, rich red before falling in autumn. 
 
Uses: While the wood has a fine grain and a silvery sheen it has never been used much commercially. The fruits were often found in markets in the not too distant past and were used for flavouring alcoholic drinks such as Whisky. 
 
Conservation Value: Its flowers are a good source of pollen for insects and the fruits are eaten by birds. 
 
Preferred Locations: This species grows best on clay, rocky areas and lime based soils. It can tolerate occasional waterlogging but is a light demanding tree and can be out competed by other broadleaf species. 
 
Size: Usually reaches a heights or between 15 and 25 metres. 
 
Time to reach full height: 50 years 
 
Lifespan: 100 to 200 years 
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