Take action
Become a member
Memberships builds our community and gives us a predictable income, which lets us plan and sustain longer projects that can have a greater impact. The more members we have, the more we can do to protect the Sussex countryside and coast.
Make a donation
Membership builds our community and gives us a predictable income, which lets us plan and sustain longer projects that can have a greater impact. The more members we have, the more we can do to protect the Sussex countryside and coast.
Overview
Spindle is most striking in the autumn when its narrow, oval leaves turn reddish-orange and clusters of bright pink-and-orange berries hang from its twigs. These berries provide food for all kinds of creatures, including mice, birds and even Red Foxes, but are poisonous to us.
Key Facts
- Spindle has slightly square stems and thin, straight twigs; smooth, green bark; narrow, shiny leaves that turn orange-red in autumn; and characteristic pink fruits that contain bright orange seeds.
- The very straight, hard wood of Spindle was traditionally used for making ‘spindles’ for spinning wool.
- Spindle grows on limestone soils, and is also frequently planted in parks and gardens.
- Height: 6-9m
Status
Common.
Seasonality
All year round
