1. Native / Non-native Status
Considered native to parts of southern England and much of Europe, though now rare and scattered in the UK.
2. Evergreen / Deciduous
Deciduous – loses its leaves in autumn.
3. Appearance
Leaves: Maple-like, with 3–5 pointed lobes and sharply toothed edges. About 6–14 cm long. Glossy green in summer, turning rich red and copper in autumn. Arranged alternately.
Bark: Smooth and grey when young, becoming patterned with small, scaly plates that resemble snakeskin.
Flowers/Fruit/Seeds: Flat clusters of white flowers in late spring. These are followed by small, brown, russet “chequers” (apple-like fruits) that ripen in autumn.
Overall shape: A medium-sized tree with a rounded to oval crown, often quite shapely.
4. Typical Size
7–12 m tall on average
5. Habitat & Range
Rare in the UK, mostly found on heavy clay or lime-rich soils in ancient woodlands of southern England and parts of the Midlands. Scattered across Europe into western Asia.
6. Distinctive Features (ID tips)
Maple-like leaves but with sharper teeth.
Russet-brown fruits (“chequers”).
Snakeskin-like bark.
Rare and usually in ancient woodland.
7. Seasonal Changes
Spring: Clusters of white flowers appear.
Summer: Dense green foliage.
Autumn: Striking red and bronze leaf colour, fruits ripen.
Winter: Bare with patterned bark visible.
8. Human Uses
Historically, fruits (“chequers”) were eaten when bletted (overripe and softened).
Fruits also used to flavour beer before hops became widespread.
Timber is dense and hard, valued for furniture, joinery, and decorative veneers.
9. Wildlife Value
Flowers attract pollinators, especially bees.
Fruits eaten by birds and mammals, aiding seed dispersal.
Provides habitat for woodland insects.
10. Fun Fact / Cultural Note
The fruits are thought to be the origin of the name for “Chequers,” the Prime Minister’s country house, and for chequerboard pub signs.
Because it is strongly associated with ancient woodland, the presence of Wild Service often signals sites of long ecological continuity.
11. Planting & Care (Basic Instructions)
Best time to plant: Late autumn or early spring.
Soil: Prefers fertile, heavy, clay or loamy soils; tolerates lime but not very dry or sandy conditions.
Light: Best in full sun to light shade.
Watering: Regular until established; prefers moist soils, not prolonged drought.
Spacing: Allow 6–10 m for full development.
Aftercare: Mulch base to conserve moisture. Protect young trees from browsing by deer and rabbits. Minimal pruning needed beyond removing dead or crossing branches.
12. Good for Urban or Garden Setting?
Urban: Rarely used, but can adapt if soil is suitable; not as pollution-tolerant as plane or lime.
Garden: Attractive for large gardens or estates with suitable soil; valued for autumn colour and unusual fruits, but generally too uncommon and slow-growing for small gardens.