Sweetgum trees (botanical name Liquidambar) are a species of large deciduous flowering trees with large lobed leaves, small globular flowers, and seed-containing spiky gumballs. Sweetgum trees are identified by their colorful lobed leaves that can be orange, red, yellow, or purple colors in the fall. The characteristic feature of many sweetgum varieties is their spiky balls measuring up to 2” (5 cm) across.

Linden trees (botanical name Tilia) are sizeable deciduous shade trees with large heart-shaped broadleaves and clusters of yellowish-white flowers. European linden trees are also called lime trees, and North American lindens are called basswood trees. Linden tree identification is by their thick furrowed trunks, horizontal branches, dense leafy foliage, and pyramidal growth habit.

Beech trees (botanical name Fagus) are tall deciduous shade trees with lime green ovate leaves, creating a dense, rounded crown. All varieties of beech trees produce small clusters of yellow-green flowers, followed by beech tree fruit or beechnuts. In the fall, beech tree foliage turns from green to beautiful autumn shades of orange, yellow, and golden brown. Beech trees are grown in large landscapes. The tall trees provide shade or are planted in rows to create privacy hedges or screens.

Small flowering trees are ideal for adding color and fragrance to garden landscapes where there’s limited space. Small and dwarf ornamental trees fill gardens with pink, red, purple, and white colors in spring and summer. Many types of trees for small gardens also provide shade, lush foliage, vibrant, colorful flowers, and attract wildlife. If you pick small fruit trees, you will also have an abundance of fruit throughout the summer.