The Four Old Men
Species: Betula pubescens, Downy Birch
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The Four Old MenSpecies: Betula pubescens, Downy Birch |
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The Four Old Men are a set of particularly fine old Downy Birches, found on Horspath Common near the edge of Shotover Country Park. Whilst old birches can be found across the park, these specimens are notable for their especially gnarled appearance and butressed trunks. Added interest is provided by a variety of mosses and other small plants that grow on their trunks and branches.
Although small, mosses and liverworts are an important part of the ecosystems in which they grow, and can be home to an array of microscopic animals, so a well-mossed tree can be regarded as an important habitat in its own right. Jacqueline Wright is a local bryologist (moss and liverwort specialist) who recently clambered up a ladder to investigate the minute plants growing on the “Four Old Men”. The following are some of the species she found: |
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