True service tree
The true service tree is a deciduous, broad-leaved tree
with pinnate leaves, rather rowan-like in shape. Its flowers, which
appear in late April and early May, are pale pink in colour and its
fruits are apple or pear shaped, approx. 2-3cm long and green,
brown or reddish in colour.
The true service tree, which is mainly found in southern Europe
in Mediterranean climates, is very rare in the UK. Until 1983 only
one single tree believed to be native in the UK was known, from a
site at Wyre in Worcestershire.
In 1983, many were found growing in Wales on a steep limestone
cliff at Porthkerry country park. In 1993 true service tree was
found at a second site in the Vale. Since then, four individuals
have been found at sites in Gloucestershire.
It has been estimated that the two sites in the Vale of
Glamorgan hold approximately 90% of all known UK trees. Porthkerry
is thought to have around 80-90 plants.
The true service tree is under constant threat of erosion – the
soil it grows in is very poor and landslips often occur. Those at
Porthkerry country park are also threatened by Holm oak – an
introduced species that is out-competing the true service tree. One
of the projects at the Park this year is the removal of the Holm
oak.