Why Plant Native Irish Trees and Hedging? Biodiversity, Heritage and Long-Term Value

Planting native Irish trees and hedging is one of the most effective ways to support biodiversity while creating a resilient, beautiful garden. Native species evolved in Ireland over thousands of years, making them uniquely suited to our climate, soils and wildlife.

Whether you’re planting a boundary, shelter belt or wildlife hedge, choosing native trees helps restore lost habitats and reconnects our gardens to Ireland’s natural landscape.

The Benefits of Native Trees and Hedging

1. Essential for Irish biodiversity

Native hedging species such as hawthorn / whitethorn (An Sceach Gheal), hazel (An Coll), holly (An Cuileann) and rowan (Caorthann) support far more wildlife than non-native plants.

They provide:

• early nectar for pollinators

• berries, nuts and seeds for birds and mammals

• dense shelter for nesting and overwintering

Native hedgerows also act as vital wildlife corridors, helping species move safely across the landscape.

2. Naturally suited to Irish conditions

Because native trees belong here, they establish more reliably in Irish gardens. Once planted and settled, they generally require less maintenance and are better able to cope with wind, rain and seasonal variation.

This makes native hedging a strong long-term choice for both rural and urban gardens.

3. Improve soil, drainage and garden resilience

Tree roots stabilise soil, reduce erosion and improve water absorption. In gardens, native trees and hedging create shelter, improve microclimates and support healthier growing conditions for surrounding plants.

Over time, they help build a more balanced and resilient ecosystem.

4. A long-term investment

Planting native trees is an investment measured in decades, not seasons. A well-established hedge or tree will continue to grow stronger and more valuable over time — benefiting wildlife, landscape and future generations.

5. Deep roots in Irish culture and mythology

Trees have long held meaning in Irish history and folklore.

• Oak (An Dair) symbolised strength and endurance

• Hazel (An Coll) was associated with wisdom and knowledge

• Rowan (Caorthann) was believed to offer protection

• Ash (An Fuinseog) was linked to balance and healing

Hawthorn trees, in particular, were often regarded as fairy trees — respected as sacred markers in the landscape. These stories reflect a long-standing reverence for trees as living beings, not just resources.

Planting Native Trees Today

In a country that has lost much of its native woodland, planting native trees and hedging is a practical and meaningful way to restore biodiversity. Whether you’re creating a boundary, improving habitat or simply planting something that truly belongs, native species offer beauty, resilience and purpose.

Explore our Native Trees & Hedging collection and plant a small piece of Ireland’s future.

Ready to get planting? Read our step-by-step guide on how to plant bare root trees for the best start and long-term success.

Want to learn a bit more about Irish woodlands- check out a couple of our favourite books, The Magic of an Irish Rainforest or Wild Woods