THE pigment of the copper beech was identified in 1932 1 as cyanidin 3-galactoside; two years later, the colouring matter of wild strawberries was stated to be pelargonidin 3-galactoside 2.

A native British tree with colourful leaves throughout every season will add interest to your garden all year round.

Autumn is back, bringing with it a dazzling patchwork of foliage. From fiery-red maple leaves to coppery-bronze beech trees, it won't be long until the UK's forests begin to change colour.