Trees
Lismore was well wooded in the past but most of the trees were felled for fuel. Nowadays, with the exception of Birgidle on Frackersaig farm, remnants of the native woodland cover survive only on the cliffs above the shoreline. However, in recent years, some small planting schemes of native trees have helped to improve things. Mature trees of any stature are restricted to areas where they were planted near houses and steadings -- Kilcheran is a good example.
The list below shows all species considered to be native to the island plus others which are of interest. Native species are marked *
All sorts of exotic trees have been planted around the island (Eucalypts, Palms, Chile pines etc.), but are not included in the list.
We are always looking to improve our collection of pictures of trees. If you have taken a picture of one on Lismore, why not email it to us. Please let us know where and when you took it and (if you know it) what it is.
| Scientific name | Gaelic | Photo | Comments | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alder * | Alnus glutinosa | Not naturally common. Grows well, so often planted. | ||
| Ash * | Fraxinus excelsior | Common | ||
| Aspen * | Populus tremula |
 |
Rare. Restricted to cliffs at Salen and elsewhere. | |
| Birch * | Betula pubescens |
 |
Common | |
| Bird Cherry * | Prunus padus | Rare. Some planted. | ||
| Wild Cherry/ Gean * | Prunus avium | Not naturally common. Some planted. | ||
| Rowan * | Sorbus aucuparia |
 |
Common | |
| Hazel * | Corylus avellana | Very common | ||
| Hawthorn * | Crataegus monogyna |
 |
Common | |
| Blackthorn * | Prunus spinosa | Common | ||
| Oak * | Quercus robur/petraea | Very few specimens - mostly planted. | ||
| Goat Willow * | Salix caprea |
 |
Common | |
| Eared Willow * | Salix aurita | Common | ||
| Wych Elm * | Ulmus glabra | Rare. Below cliffs at Frackersaig | ||
| Rock Whitebeam * | Sorbus rupicola |
 |
Rare. Restricted to cliffs and Bernera. | |
| Yew * | Taxus baccata | Rare. Ancient specimen on Bernera | ||
| Beech | Fagus sylvatica | A few planted | ||
| Horse Chestnut | Aesculus hippocastanum | A few planted | ||
| Sycamore | Acer pseudoplatanus | Commonly planted. | ||
| Scots Pine | Pinus sylvestris |
 |
Not considered native to Lismore (debatable). Some planted. | |
| Larch | Larix decidua | Frequently planted |