Ornamental trees are chosen mainly for their aesthetic appeal, interesting foliage, flowers, or form rather than for their fruit or timber. Here’s a list of some of the most popular ornamental trees, along with brief descriptions of each:
1. Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum)
- Description: Known for its stunning leaf shapes and colors, ranging from deep reds to vibrant greens. These trees are often used in gardens for their graceful form and seasonal interest.
2. Flowering Dogwood (Cornus florida)
- Description: This tree features beautiful spring blooms, typically white or pink, and has attractive fall foliage. It’s also known for its distinctive bark.
3. Cherry Blossom (Prunus serrulata)
- Description: Famous for its breathtaking spring flowers, the cherry blossom tree is celebrated in various cultures, particularly in Japan. It produces clusters of white or pink flowers.
4. Crape Myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica)
- Description: Known for its long-lasting summer blooms and beautiful bark, crape myrtle comes in various colors including pink, red, and purple. It also has attractive fall foliage.
5. Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora and others)
- Description: Renowned for its large, fragrant flowers and glossy leaves, magnolias are an iconic ornamental tree with striking beauty, especially in spring.
6. Red Maple (Acer rubrum)
- Description: Noted for its brilliant red and orange foliage in the fall, the red maple is versatile and adaptable, suitable for various landscapes.
7. Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis)
- Description: This tree features stunning pink or purple flowers that bloom in early spring before the leaves emerge. Its heart-shaped leaves provide good summer foliage.
8. Bald Cypress (Taxodium distichum)
- Description: Known for its unique, knobby “knees” that protrude from the ground, this tree can grow in wet areas and has beautiful fall colors.
9. Amur Maple (Acer ginnala)
- Description: A small to medium-sized tree that provides stunning fall color and is often used as a hedge or small street tree.
10. Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima)
- Description: Known for its rapid growth and adaptability, this tree has a somewhat controversial presence but can be visually striking with its large leaves and aggressive spread.
11. Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba)
- Description: Famous for its unique fan-shaped leaves, ginkgo trees provide beautiful golden-yellow fall color and are also known for their resilience to urban pollution.
12. Weeping Willow (Salix babylonica)
- Description: Recognized for its long, drooping branches and lush foliage, the weeping willow adds a romantic touch to gardens and landscapes near water.
13. Southern Catalpa (Catalpa bignonioides)
- Description: Known for its large, heart-shaped leaves and beautiful white flowers, this tree often attracts butterflies and offers a unique aesthetic.
14. Lacebark Elm (Ulmus parvifolia)
- Description: With its unique, mottled bark and small, dense foliage, the lacebark elm is both durable and decorative, often used as a shade tree.
15. Honeylocust (Gleditsia triacanthos)
- Description: Valued for its feathery leaves and open canopy, the honeylocust is tolerance to urban conditions, making it a popular choice for streetscapes.
Considerations:
When selecting ornamental trees for landscaping, it’s essential to consider factors such as climate, soil type, maintenance requirements, and space. Many species may have specific environmental needs or drawbacks, such as susceptibility to pests or diseases, so it’s advisable to research these before planting.
