The Trees at Keele
Whitebeam Sorbus aria
A European deciduous tree with many cultivars in gardens. Typically compact and domed, with few upswept branches and almost-white underside of the leaves. It generally favours dry limestone and chalk soils. The cream-white flowers appear in May, are insect pollinated, and go on to produce scarlet berries, which are often eaten by birds.
Location : a row of 7 trees by the Chancellor's Building; square L6; tags 3242 - 3248.