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• Other features: useful as a windbreak in coastal gardens

A rounded evergreen tree with lance-shaped dark green leaves and smooth dark grey bark. In June the new silver-white leaves appear along with the golden-yellow male catkins followed in autumn by rounded acorns either singularly or in bunches. An attractive tree which tolerates salt spray and strong winds and is often seen planted as a windbreak or along avenues in coast towns.

• Garden care: When planting incorporate plenty of well- rotted organic matter in to the planting hole. Minimal pruning is required.