Hullo, all!
I'm writing what might develop into a novel if all goes well, in which a certain tree should play an important role, but I'm quite helpless in botany and related areas, and after a few hours of friutless searching decided I need advice. The requirements for this particular tree is that it's a sidewalk tree growing in a cold, wet urban environment, probably London, and the wider its trunk, the better. I'm also planning to have a message carved into the trunk at some point, perhaps with stone or broken glass, if such is at all possible. Any suitable tree species you might suggest would be very greatly appreciated.
Thanks!