Mimosa. A beautiful small evergreen tree from Australia. Covered with masses of grey-green fern-like foliage which is topped by fluffy yellow flowers in early spring. It is best grown in milder gardens in a sunny position and free-draining soil. Very fast growing once established and ideal for the exotic garden.

Ovens Wattle. This architectural evergreen originates from Australasia and is proving equally at home here forming a delicate arching shrub around 2.5 metres in height covered in a profusion of fragrant yellow flowers during late winter. It is best planted in a sunny garden and free draining soil. Also tolerant of coastal conditions.

Indian Bean Tree. Large leaved, spreading tree from the USA. It produces masses of huge, heart-shaped leaves followed by panicles of white flowers in midsummer. By the time the leaves have fallen, the tree is covered in hundreds of thin, hanging seed pods. It can be cut back each spring to encourage even bigger foliage.

Eastern Redbud. A spreading small tree with beautiful, heart-shaped, dark purple-red leaves. Deep crimson, purple or pink flowers are borne before the leaves appear. Ideally should be planted out of strong winds, which can damage the large leaves. Should be planted in full sun to part shade in free draining soil.

Honey Locust. A lovely spreading spiny tree from North America. Produces masses of handsome fern-like yellow foliage, fading to dark green in the summer and turning yellow in autumn. Inconspicuous small greenish white flowers are followed by long twisted seed pods. Will succeed in all types of well drained soils - ideal for small/medium sized gardens.

Ribbonwood. This beautiful small tree is endemic to New Zealand where it grows in areas of lowland forest. It matures to a lovely straight trunked specimen. The leaves on the young tree are bright green with toothed margins, changing to more elongate as the plant ages. Although it has an attractive dainty appearance, it can withstand strong winds and will do well in most soils.