Fothergilla major - witch alder
This species has unusual fluffy flowers at the shoot tips, creamy white in colour and looking rather like a bottle brush in shape. Flowering begins in late May-early June and lasts for about 2-4 weeks, depending on the weather.
The small dense shrub flowers best and develops better foliage in sun, though it is also thrives in semi-shade. The broad oval leaves are shiny green, leathery and thick, rather like those of common alder (Alnus glutinosa). Autumn colour is yellow, occasionally with red tints.