A new Radio 3 series of Somerville Fellow Fiona Stafford’s The Meaning of Trees will air at 10.45pm from Monday to Friday this week.

Horse Chestnut, Cypress, Cherry, Holly and Birch will each be a the subject of a full episiode, as Professor Stafford considers the cultural and literary significance of each species.

You can also read our 2014 feature on Fiona Stafford’s research into the meaning of trees.

To see photos of a few of the Somerville quad trees, see the recent Facebook post.

Further reading?

Professor Owens Elected to Fellowship of the British Academy

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17 July 2026
Professor Owens Elected to Fellowship of the British Academy

Professor Rajesh Thakker receives highest award from American Society for Bone and Mineral Research

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16 July 2026
Professor Rajesh Thakker receives highest award from American Society for Bone and Mineral Research

Returning North: A Photo Essay

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15 July 2026
Returning North: A Photo Essay