Types of Trees with Their Name and Picture – Identification Guide

All types of trees play an important role in our ecosystem. Trees provide shade, shelter, oxygen, and many even produce fruit. There are over 60,000 species of trees that come in all shapes and sizes, from majestic cedars to smaller fruit trees and shrubs. Identifying the different kinds of trees usually depends on examining their leaves and bark. Some types of trees have wide oval leaves, some have star-shaped ones, and many evergreen trees have needle leaves.

All species of trees are classified into two main types: deciduous trees and evergreen trees. Deciduous trees shed their leaves at a certain time of the year – usually in the autumn while types of evergreen trees keep their leaves throughout the year.

Trees are woody perennial plants that are a member of the kingdom Plantae. All species of trees are grouped by their genus, family, and order. This helps make identifying and studying trees easier.

Apart from providing oxygen for the planet and beauty when they bloom or turn color, trees are very useful. Certain species of hardwood and softwood trees are excellent for timber, making furniture, and paper. When managed properly, trees are a good source of renewable energy and construction material.

In this article, you will learn how to identify 87 different types of trees. Most of these trees are common in North America, Europe, and other countries around the world.

Two Main Categories of Trees

All of the thousands of species of trees fall into two categories – deciduous trees and evergreen trees.

Deciduous trees

Deciduous trees are the kind of trees that lose their leaves at certain times of the year. The term deciduous literally means to “fall off at maturity.”

In North America, Europe, and temperate counties, deciduous trees such as oak, walnut, elm, and birch shed their leaves in fall. This is usually preceded by the leaves turning wonderful colors including shades of orange, brown, and yellow.

In tropical countries, species of deciduous trees lose their leaves during dry seasons.

Evergreen trees

Species of evergreen trees such as spruce, pine, and fir trees keep their leaves throughout the year. There are about 14 family groups of evergreen trees, and these trees provide color in gardens and landscapes all year long. Evergreen trees are the reason why forests look so beautiful in winter landscapes.

Identifying the Types of Tree Leaves

Tree identification is usually possible by examining the leaves.

There are three basic leaf types: broadleaf, needles, and scales.

Broadleaf

Most, but not all, deciduous plants have broadleaves that can be in all shapes and sizes. The leaf shapes can be oval, rounded, long and narrow, triangular, or heart-shaped. Some easily identifiable broadleaves are the iconic maple leaf and the oak leaf with its lobed leaves.

Needle leaves

Many evergreen trees such as conifers, pines, and spruce trees have needle leaves. These can be long, thin and straight and grow in clusters. Or, the needles could be soft needles that grow sparsely on the twig.

Scale leaves

Some types of evergreen trees like juniper and cedar have scale-like leaves. Their leaves look more like scales than needles.

Other ways to identify trees by their leaves include:

• Opposite leaves grow directly across from each other on the leaf stem.
• Alternate leaves grow in a staggered, alternating pattern along the stem.

Types of Trees With Pictures and Identifying Features

Here is a list of many types of common trees that grow in forests, woodlands, fields, and gardens.

Birch Trees

There are about 60 species of hardwood birch trees of the genus Betula and in the family Betulaceae. Birch trees can be easy to identify as their bark is often white or silver-colored and the long drooping branches have small thin leaves. Wood from birch is hard and is good for making furniture and plywood and is also a good source of firewood.

Tree identification: Birch trees have small triangular-shaped leaves with a slightly serrated edge. Another recognizable feature is that the bark of birch trees is papery. Depending on the species of birch, the smooth bark can be dark gray to white.

Maple Trees

Maple trees are beautiful deciduous shade trees with deeply lobed leaves. Maple trees have dark brown furrowed bark, small winged fruits, and narrow reddish-brown twigs.

Maple trees belong to the genus Acer in the family Sapindaceae. Although the maple tree is commonly associated with Canada, most of the species are native to Asia. The most common maple tree species in Europe is the sycamore maple tree (Acer pseudoplatanus), and there are 10 species native to Canada.

Some of the most popular maple trees are the sugar maple (Acer saccharum), ‘Autumn Blaze’ maple (Acer x freemanii ‘Autumn Blaze’), red maple (Acer rubrum), and Japanese maple (Acer palmatum).

The most famous product made from maple trees is the sweet maple syrup made from the tree’s sap. Although you can make syrup from any maple tree, it’s only the sugar maple tree (Acer saccharum) that produces quality sweet syrup.

Maple is a hardwood tree that is also useful for making baseball bats and its timber is valued in the construction industry.

Tree identification: Maples can be woody shrubs growing about 33 ft. (10 m) tall or large majestic trees up to 150 ft. (45 m) tall. The most common identifying feature of maple trees is their lobed leaves growing opposite each other on branches.

Ash Trees

Ash trees (Fraxinus) are medium to large deciduous trees with a rounded crown of dark green leaves. Ash trees have lanceolate pinnate leaves that grow in groups of five, seven, or nine leaflets. Most species of mature ash trees have gray bark with a pattern that looks like a fishnet.

Most varieties of ash trees grow to between 50 and 80 ft. (15 – 24 m) tall. The medium-sized trees have a spreading round canopy up to 50 ft. (15 m) wide. Most varieties of ash trees grow in USDA zones 3 to 9 in full sun.

Ash is a species of tree native to North America and it’s a common tree in parks, deciduous forests, woodlands, and residential neighborhoods.

Ash trees are a species of hardwood tree in the genus Fraxinus and family Oleaceae. This means that ash trees are related to olive trees and woody lilac bushes.

Ash tree wood is prized for its strength and flexibility. The grain in the wood is also attractive and this makes the tree valuable for furniture makers.

Tree identification: Ash trees have large, pinnately compound leaves. Ash tree leaves have narrow and slightly oval shape and they usually have five or seven leaflets. Mature ash trees have bark with ridges that form diamond shapes. Ash tree branches grow oppositely from each other.

Further reading: Ash Tree: Types, Bark and Leaves – Identification Guide.

Oak Trees

Oak trees are hardwood trees that are common in North America and Europe. There are over 90 oak species in the United States. Oaks can be trees or shrubs and are in the genus Quercus and the family Fagaceae.

Oak trees are well-known for producing wood that is extremely hard, durable, and resistant to disease. Oak wood has been prized for centuries and was used to make ships, create interior paneling, and also barrels for storing wines and spirits.

Oak trees are divided into two groups: white oaks (Quercus, subgenus leucobalanus) and red oaks (Quercus, subgenus Erythrobalanus). White oak trees have gray-colored bark and leaves with rounded lobes. Red oak trees have darker-colored bark and leaves with pointed lobes.

Oak trees are known for their acorns (also called oak nuts). Acorns have a smooth leathery shell that sits in a cup called a cupule. The acorns of white oak trees have a sweet or slightly bitter taste, however the acorns from red oak trees have a very bitter taste.

Tree identification: Most species of oak are deciduous trees and a few are evergreen (such as the live oak tree). Oak trees can be identified by their lobed leaves with pointed or rounded tips. Oaks also produce acorns which are oval-shaped nuts sitting in a small cup-like structure called cupule.

Related: Types of Oak Trees and How to Identify them (Pictures)

Sycamore Trees (Platanus)

Sycamore trees are large deciduous trees with a broad, rounded crown of lush green foliage. Sycamore trees have large serrated lobed leaves that look like maple leaves. These huge trees have thin, peeling reddish-brown bark. Sycamore trees can grow to huge proportions with some reaching heights of 130 ft. (40 m).

In the late autumn or winter sycamore trees have round brown seed balls hanging on their branches.

Sycamore is a species of large hardwood tree in the genus Platanus. Sycamore wood is very hard and dense and not easy to work with.

Sycamore trees are fast-growing popular shade trees in city landscapes and parks. However, their roots have a destructive effect on sidewalks and building foundations. They are one of the largest deciduous trees native to North America.

The most common sycamore tree species in North America is the Platanus occidentalis which is also called the American sycamore. Other common names for the American sycamore tree are buttonwood tree, western plane tree, American plane tree, and water beech.

London Plane Tree (Platanus x acerifolia)

Another type of sycamore tree is the London plane tree (Platanus x acerifolia). This is a hybrid deciduous tree of the American sycamore (Platanus occidentalis) and Oriental plane tree (Platanus orientalis) species. London plane tree grows between 66 and 100 ft. (20 – 30 m) with a large, rounded crown up to 75 ft. (22 m) wide. The hybrid tree grows well in urban environments. It is found in major cities across the United States as a popular street tree.

Tree identification: Sycamores trees often have bark that easily flakes off, giving the trunk a reddish-brown, multicolored look. Sycamore trees have large lobed leaves that look similar to maple leaves. The leaves grow alternately on stems and have 3 to 5 lobes with toothed edges.

Cedar Trees (Cedrus)

Cedar trees are large evergreen coniferous trees that have needle-like leaves that are arranged spirally on scented woody branches. Cedar trees are native to the Mediterranean region. True cedar trees are in the plant family Pinaceae and the genus Cedrus.

Cedar trees are a type of hardwood and can grow especially tall with some of the largest species growing up to 164 ft. (50 m) high. Because of their grace and elegance, cedars are popular ornamental trees and are often cultivated as bonsai trees. Cedar trees are also popular for their aromatic wood and fragrant foliage.

There are hardwood trees native to North America that have “cedar” in their common name. But these types of cedars are in the list of false cedar trees. If you check their scientific name, many are species of junipers in the family Juniperus.

Tree identification: Cedar trees have scale leaves that grow in dark green or bluish-green spiral clusters. There could be between 15 and 45 clusters on short shoots that make up the leaves on branches.

Juniper Trees (Juniperus)

Juniper trees are often called cedars but they belong to a different genus and family. Junipers (genus Juniperus in the family Cupressaceae) are evergreen conifers trees and shrubs with needle-like or soft scaly leaves that have a pine scent and dark-blue berry-like aromatic fleshy cones.

Species of juniper trees are tall columnar evergreens that grow between 66 and 103 ft. (20 – 40 m) tall. However, junipers can also grow as low-growing, spreading shrubs growing as little as 1 ft. (0.3 m) or as tall as 5 or 6 ft. (1.5 – 1.8 m). Junipers also grow in many climates and can withstand freezing temperatures.

Some popular types of junipers in North America include the Common juniper (Juniperus communis), California juniper (Juniperus californica), the eastern red cedar (Juniperus virginiana) and Utah juniper (Juniperus osteosperma).

Tree identification: Most species of juniper have needle-like leaves when they are immature that grow into scale leaves as the tree ages, with dark blue berry-like cones.

Further reading: Juniper Trees and Shrubs: Types, Leaves, Berries – Identification Guide.

Willow Trees

Willow trees are easily identified by their long drooping branches covered in oval elongated leaves. The leafy woody plants in the willow family are deciduous and can be low-growing shrubs or medium-sized trees.

There are about 400 species of willow that belong to the genus Salix. Willows can be large weeping trees, dwarf trees, or low-growing creeping shrubby plants.

One of the interesting features of willow tree leaves is their color. Willow leaves can be greenish-yellow, bluish-green or have red blushing.

Wood from willow trees tends to be soft and flexible and the branches are often used for making wicker baskets.

Tree identification: Willow leaves are simple and elongated with serrated edges. Willows are usually last to drop their leaves in fall.

Pine Trees

Pine trees are often used as ornamental trees and are a softwood type of conifer. Evergreen trees in the genus Pinus are probably the most recognizable type of coniferous tree.

Pine trees produce hard cones and their leaves are clusters of needle leaves. Pine trees grow tall and straight with some of the largest species reaching heights of 268 ft. (81 m). Because of their fast growth, pine wood is important in the construction and furniture industries.

Most types of pine trees have reddish-brown or gray bark and there is also a species called the Red pine.

Tree identification: Their tall straight trunks and needle like leaves that grow near the top of the tree make these evergreens easy to identify.

Hickory Trees

Hickory trees are deciduous trees in the genus Carya that are common in North America, China, and India. Hickory trees are well-known for their edible nuts.

There are 18 species of hickory trees, 12 of which are native to North America. The most common types of hickory trees are shagbark hickory (Carya ovata) and shellbark hickory (also called kingnut or Carya laciniosa).

Pecan trees are also a type of hickory tree as they are in the Carya genus and their botanical name is Carya illinoinensis. Pecan tree bark is interesting because the bark splits and peels as the tree grows.

Hickory trees are related to walnut trees because they are in walnut family (Juglandaceae). Hickory is a type of hardwood that is used for making sports equipment such as bats and sticks, as well as being used for smoking cured meats.

Tree identification: Hickory trees can be identified by their large green leaves that have a pointed tip at the end and they grow alternately on the stems. Hickory produces edible nuts that are in a “double” shell.

Redbud Trees

Redbud trees are small flowering trees that are famous for their beautiful pink or white spring flowers. Redbud trees have heart shaped leaves and their seedpods have dark brown color. Redbuds are deciduous trees that have green leaves in the summer that then become yellow, orange or red during autumn. Redbud trees belong to the plant family Fabaceae and the genus Cercis.

One of the most common redbud trees is the Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis). The Eastern redbud tree is named for where it commonly grows, which is in eastern North America.

Some of the names of redbud tree varieties to plant in your yard are: Ruby Falls redbud, Forest Pansy redbud, and Ace of Hearts redbud.

Tree Identification: Redbud trees can be identified by their pink flowers and heart-shaped leaves. Many cultivars in the redbud species Cercis canadensis have different flower colors and tree size. Redbud trees can have light pink, white, or dark pink flowers.

Mahogany Trees

Mahogany is a type of redwood tree that is famed for its hardness and straight grains. Genuine mahogany trees are 3 species in the genus Swietenia and are native to North and South America. Other types of mahogany tree in the family Meliaceae grow in Asia, Africa, and New Zealand.

Mahogany wood is highly rated for its reddish-brown color and durability. Mahogany also is rot-resistant and has tonal properties making it the perfect type of wood for constructing musical instruments.

Tree identification: Rich brown-red colored wood that gets darker with age. Mahogany tree leaves have oval shape and they grow opposite each other on the stem.

Teak Trees

Teak are massive deciduous trees that are species of trees in the genus Tectona. Some species of teak tree can grow up to 131 ft. (40 m) tall and their branches produce thin, papery leaves.

Teak is a type of hardwood that is popular with furniture makers and boat builders is teak. The reason why teak wood is widely used is that it is very weather resistant. Often, outdoor furniture, window frames, flooring, and boat decks are constructed from teak trees.

Tree identification: Teak tree leaves are large and ovate with a smooth surface and edges.

Walnut Trees

Walnut trees are best well-known for their delicious and healthy edible nuts. Walnuts are deciduous trees are in the genus Juglans and the family Juglandaceae. Walnut trees also tend to be large, massive trees that grow to between 33 and 131 ft. (10 – 40 m) tall. They also have a large spread.

The most important species of walnut tree for nut production is the Juglans regia, or black walnut. This species of walnut is an important source of hardwood timber.

Walnut trees generally have rough bark with deep fissures. The ridges in their bark run vertically up and down the trunk. The color of the walnut bark can be light gray to dark brown.

Tree identification: Walnut tree leaves are alternate and are comprised of leaflets that grow opposite each other.

Further reading: Walnut Trees: Types, Bark and Leaves – Identification Guide.

Apple Trees

Apple trees are a genus of large trees in the family Rosaceae that produce beautiful flowers and a crop of apples.

Apple trees grow in most countries in the world and the most common species is the Malus domestica tree. It is reckoned that apple trees are the oldest cultivated tree in history. It is estimated that there are over 7,500 different kinds of apple trees.

Apple trees can grow to 40 ft. (12 m) tall and have a spread of the same size. There are plenty of dwarf apple tree cultivars for gardens that may just grow 3 – 6 ft. (1 – 2 m) high.

Tree identification: Apple tree leaves are alternate and simple and their shape is egg-shaped. Many types of apple trees have ovate leaves that come to a point.

Crabapple Trees

Crabapple trees (botanical name Malus) are like miniature apple trees (Malus domestica). The smallest crabapple trees can be small shrub-like bushes around 4 ft. (1.2 m) tall. Larger crabapples can grow to between 20 and 30 ft. (6 – 9 m).

Crabapple trees are stunning ornamental flowering trees. Crabapple flowers come in spectacular shades of pink, white, purple, orange, and red. Additionally, crabapple trees produce small tart fruits called crabapples.

Crabapple fruits are generally up to 2” (5 cm) in diameter and can be yellow, amber, orange, red or purple. The taste of crabapples ranges from sweet to very sour and bitter, and they are made into jellies, sauces, pickled crabapples, and jams.

Further reading: Crabapple Trees (Malus): Types, Flowers, Fruits.

Ornamental Flowering Pear Trees

Ornamental pear trees (Pyrus calleryanaare) are deciduous flowering trees with shiny green leaves, cup-shaped white flowers, and beautiful fall colors. Most varieties of Pyrus calleryana have a pyramidal, upward growth shape. Ornamental pear trees grow between 32 and 40 ft. (10 – 12 m) tall and around 22 to 30 ft. (7 – 9 m) wide.

Although all flowering pear trees—including Pyrus calleryana—actually produce fruit, the tiny pears on ornamental pear trees are too insignificant to be useful. The pears are exceedingly small, measuring only about half an inch (1 cm). Pyrus calleryana fruit also tastes bitter, and, for most people, the small pears are inedible.

Ornamental pear varieties are heat and drought-tolerant and are resistant to many fruit tree diseases. These facts make ornamental pear trees popular for front and backyards. Ornamental flowering pear trees grow in USDA zones 5 through 9.

Further reading: Types of Ornamental Flowering Pear Trees – Fruitless Pear Trees.

Cherry Trees

Cherry trees (Prunus) are spectacular deciduous flowering trees that bloom in spring. There are hundreds of varieties of cherry trees – Species of cherry trees are categorized by their fruit or blossoms.

There are sweet cherries (Prunus avium), sour cherries (Prunus cerasus), and ornamental cherry blossom trees, such as Japanese cherry blossom tree (Prunus serrulata) and Yoshino cherry (Prunus x yedoensis). Typically, fruit from cherry blossom trees is too small and sour to eat—although they are a favorite of many birds.

If you have a small garden or a compact space, you can choose dwarf cherry blossom trees. Typically growing in USDA zones 5 through 8, you can easily grow a stunning dwarf cherry blossom tree in full sun and well-drained, fertile soil.

There are also weeping cherry trees, such as weeping Higan cherry (Prunus subhirtella ‘Pendula’) and dwarf weeping cherry tree varieties, such as Prunus jacquemontii ‘Hiromi’  that grows between 3 and 6 ft. (1 – 2 m).

Cherry trees have beautiful whitish-pink blossoms in spring between mid-March and mid-April covering bare branches. Cherry trees have glossy green oval leaves with pointed tips and serrated edges.

Cherry trees grow in USDA zones 5 through 9. However, some cold-hardy cherry trees can withstand temperatures in zone 4.

Further reading: Types of Cherry Trees with Their Leaves and Flowers – Identification Guide.

Hawthorn Trees

The botanical name for hawthorn trees is Crataegus and they are in the same family (Rosaceae) as apples. Hawthorns are a type of tree or shrub that is native to Europe, Asia, and North America. Leaves from the hawthorn tree grow spirally on long shoots.

Because of their attractiveness, hawthorns are grown as street trees or ornamental trees and the smaller shrubs also make great hedges.

Other names for hawthorns include ‘thornapples,’ ‘hawberries,’ ‘mayhaw,’ or ‘May-tree.’

Tree identification: Hawthorn leaves come in many different shapes. Some types of hawthorn trees have leaves that are deeply lobed and look like large parsley leaves. Other hawthorn leaves look more ovate due to having shallow lobes.

Elm Trees

Elm trees are a common type of forest tree that are classed as deciduous or semi-deciduous. There are about 35 species of elm in the genus Ulmus. Some common species of elm include American elm (Ulmus americana), European elm (Ulmus glabra), and Slippery elm (Ulmus rubra).

Elm trees are large shade trees that can grow up to 100 ft. (30 m) tall with a wide spread of around 75 ft. (22 m). Some elm species have tall, upright growth, and other types of elm trees have an umbrella-shaped canopy.

Tree identification: Elm is a thick, dense hardwood tree and some species are especially ornamental and beautiful. Elm leaves are classed as broad-leaves that can be between 7 and 16 cm long and their ovate shape tapers to a point. Elm bark is a dark grayish-brown color with deep furrows and a scaly appearance. Elm tree seeds are small and round and are protected in an oval papery casing called a samara.

Read more: Types of Elm Trees with Their Bark and Leaves – Identification Guide.

Spruce Trees

Spruce trees make up many of the types of forests in North America and are a type of coniferous evergreen tree. Spruces are classed as large trees that belong to the Picea genus. One feature of spruce trees is that they are extremely cold hardy. Some of the larger spruce species are very imposing because they can be as high as 200 ft. (60 m).

All of the 35 species of spruce trees have pine needles that radiate equally around the stems and can be prickly. The most common spruce trees in North America are the Red spruce, Black spruce, and White spruce. Spruce trees are also traditionally used as Christmas trees. Spruce trees are also one of the most important trees for the timber industry.

Tree identification: Spruce tree cones are long and cylindrical that hang down off the tree. Also, the leaves of spruce trees are rows of green, bluish-green, or silver-green needles.

Fir Trees

Fir trees are large evergreen conifer trees that are mainly found in forests in North America, Europe, and Asia. They have needle-like leaves that stay green all year long. Some species of fir tree such as the Fraser fir, balsam fir, and noble fir are popular types of Christmas trees.

The easiest way to identify fir trees is by looking at their needles and cones. The needles of fir trees tend to be softer than pine or spruce. Unlike the clusters of pine needles on a branch, fir tree needles attach individually to the branches and not in clusters. Also fir cones tend to grow straight upward from the branches.

The bark of young fir trees is usually smooth and gray. As the tree matures the bark becomes ridged.

Read more: Types of Fir Trees – Identification.

Hemlock Trees

Hemlock trees (botanical name Tsuga) are a species of large evergreen coniferous trees native to North America that belong to the pine family.

Native hemlock trees generally grow between 30 and 230 ft. (10 – 70 m) tall. However there are dwarf cultivars of the popular Eastern hemlock or Canadian hemlock that are beautiful landscaping trees to suit small gardens.

Hemlock trees are identified by their conical shape, flat, aromatic needle-like leaves, oval or cylindrical seed-bearing cones, and reddish-brown bark. Hemlock needles are recognizable by their flat appearance and blunt, rounded tips, with a smooth, shiny dark green upper side and parallel white stripes on the underside.

Hemlocks are cold-hardy evergreens that grow in USDA zones 3 to 7. They perform well in damp soils and can be found growing in wetlands.

Further reading: Hemlock Trees (Tsuga): Canadian, Western, Leaves, Bark – Identification.

Locust Trees

Locust trees are fast-growing flowering trees that grow to between 66 and 98 ft. (20 – 30 m) and belong to a family of flowering plants called Fabaceae. Most types of locust trees grow in the eastern states of North America.

The most common types of locust trees are the black locust and honey locust tree. Locust trees have fragrant sweet spring flowers and colorful fall foliage. Many varieties of locust trees have long sharp thorns and there are a few thornless species.

Locust trees are hardy trees that are known for their hard and durable wood that is used for making furniture, fence posts, flooring, and small boats.

Identifying species of locust trees can be done by features such as their flowers, color of bark, height of the tree, the thorns, as well as by the shape and color of its seed pods.

Read more: Types of Locust Trees with Identification Guide and Pictures.

Cottonwood Trees

Cottonwood trees are huge deciduous forest trees that have large green leaves, thick foliage and deeply fissured grayish-brown bark. One of the common features of all types of cottonwood trees is the fluffy cotton-like strands that appear in early summer .These large trees can grow to between 50 and 80 ft. (15 – 24 m) and some species can grow even higher.

Cottonwood trees are common in North America, Europe, and some parts of Asia. Cottonwood trees are popular because they are fast-growing, their timber is cheap, and they thrive in wetlands and arid environments.

For many people, the fluff from cottonwood trees is a nuisance and can cause allergic reactions. However only the female species of cottonwood trees produce the white fluff for which the tree is known.

Read more: Cottonwood Trees: Facts, Identification, Pictures and More.

Poplar Trees (Populus)

Poplar (Populus) trees are large deciduous trees with rounded to triangular leaves, attractive grayish bark, and small clusters of drooping flowers.

Many poplar trees are identified by their bark’s color— white, gray, or black— and triangular, ovate leaves. The white poplar is the most common poplar tree and has white bark and white and green leaves that seem to ‘twinkle’ in gentle breezes.

Apart from the common white poplar tree (Populus alba), other types of poplars include the black poplar (Populus nigra) and balsam poplar (Populus balsamifera).

Many poplar species are large ornamental trees with wide canopies, making for excellent shade trees. Native poplar trees are easy to grow and have a relatively short lifespan. These fast-growing trees are good choices for planting in wet, moist ground where there is plenty of space.

Poplar trees range in height and grow in USDA zones 3 through 9.

Further reading: Poplar Trees: Types, Bark, Leaves – Identification.

Arborvitae Trees (Thuja Trees)

Arborvitaes (Thuja) are evergreen conifers with soft, lush feathery foliage. Different types of arborvitaes grow as upright columnar trees, small conical trees, or globe-shaped shrubs. Arborvitae trees and shrubs are ideal for natural privacy screens, wide hedges, living fences, or specimen trees.

The American arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis) and Giant arborvitae (Thuja plicata) are native to North America, where they are popular garden landscaping plants. American and giant arborvitaes can grow to a height of 49 ft. (15 m) tall, however small cultivars have develop to suit smaller spaces.

The ‘Emerald Green’ arborvitae is one of the most popular landscaping trees in the Thuja species. Also called ‘Smaragd,’ this upright columnar arborvitae has compact growth and reaches up to 14 ft. (4 m) tall.

Read more: Varieties of Arborvitae Hedges, Trees, and Shrubs.

Cypress Trees (Cupressus)

There are various trees with the common name cypress, however not all of them are true cypress tress.

True cypress trees belong to the coniferous plant genus Cupressus. Cypress trees have soft, feathery evergreen foliage and produce cones that look like large acorns. Cypress trees such as the Monterey cypress (Cupressus macrocarpa) and the Mediterranean Cypress / Italian Cypress (Cupressus sempervirens) are true cypress trees.

False cypress trees are evergreen and deciduous coniferous trees that also have the common name cypress. However, they are not from the cypress genus Cupressus. The bald cypress (Taxodium distichum) and Pond Cypress (Taxodium ascendens) are examples of false cypresses. The Hinoki cypress (Chamaecyparis obtusa) and Lawson Cypress (Chamaecyparis lawsoniana) are other false cypress varieties.

Read more: True and False Types of Cypress Trees.

Eucalyptus Trees

Eucalyptus trees have evergreen aromatic leaves and attractive smooth peeling bark. The unusual eucalyptus flowers have a fuzzy look and can be white, cream, yellow, pink, or bright red colors.

Eucalyptus plants are flowering trees and shrubs with over 700 species. Some species of eucalyptus trees can grow as tall as 330 ft. (100 m). Eucalyptus shrubs—known as mallees—grow up to 33 ft. (10 m) tall.

Some types of Eucalyptus trees are called gum trees, and fruit from eucalyptus plants are called gumnuts. Eucalyptus plants are native to Australia but also grow in tropical and temperate climates throughout the world.

Further reading: Types of Eucalyptus Trees: Leaves, Flowers, Bark.

Dogwood Trees (Cornus)

Dogwoods are beautiful flowering deciduous trees belonging to the genus Cornus with distinctive flowers, berries, bark, and leaves. Dogwood flowers bloom in spring and are typically white, but some species produce yellow, pale red or pink blossoms.

Dogwood trees are small to medium-sized trees, growing between 10 and 25 ft. (3 – 7.6 m) tall. Most species of dogwood are fast-growing ornamental trees that are ideal for garden landscapes. Some types of dogwoods look like shrubs as they are small shrubby multi-stemmed plants.

To grow dogwood trees, plant them in partial shade or full sun. Dogwoods flower every spring and require well-draining soil that is always moist. After the small trees are established, you only need to water them regularly on hot summer days.

Further reading: Flowering Dogwood Trees and Shrubs: Types, Leaves, Bark – Identification.

Crape Myrtle Trees (Lagerstroemia)

The ornamental crape myrtles belong to the Lagerstroemia genus of flowering trees and shrubs that thrive in warm climates. Popular in garden landscapes, crape myrtle trees produce masses of red, pink, purple, and white flowers throughout the summer.

Crape myrtle shrub-like trees have deciduous or evergreen foliage, colorful peeling bark, multiple stems, and bushy growth. Most species of crape myrtle trees thrive in USDA zones 7 through 10.

Dwarf crape myrtle trees are large shrubs that are perfect for compact gardens. Typically, dwarf myrtle trees grow between 6 and 10 ft. (1.8 – 3 m) tall, such as the ‘Acoma’ crape myrtle that is a multi-stemmed shrub-like tree with masses of white flowers and a rounded spreading crown. Other crape myrtle trees grow between 15 and 20 ft. (4.5 – 6 m).

Further reading: Crape Myrtles: Trees, Dwarf Plants and Shrubs.

Mesquite Trees (Prosopis)

Mesquite is the name for several large deciduous shrub-like trees in the genus Prosopis and pea family Fabaceae. Mesquite shrubs and trees can be a few feet tall or grow up to 50 ft. (15 m). From the 40 species of mesquite, around seven are native to Texas, California, and Northern Mexico.

Mesquite trees are short and thorny with feathery leaves, white or yellow flowers, and seed pods containing peas. The most common types of mesquite trees are the honey mesquite tree (Prosopis glandulosa), velvet mesquite tree (Prosopis velutina), and screwbean mesquite tree (Prosopis pubescens).

Mesquite trees thrive in USDA zones 7 through 11 in full sun and well-draining soil. You can find mesquite trees growing in deserts, grasslands, along streams, and on hillsides. Because of their fast growth and extensive root system, mesquite plants are considered invasive in some areas.

Further reading: Mesquite Trees: Types, Leaves, Flowers, Bark – Identification Guide.

Magnolia Trees

Magnolia is a genus of large flowering shrubs or trees in the family Magnoliaceae. Magnolia grows as a multi-stemmed shrub or a single trunk tree. The beautiful landscape tree is characterized by its fragrant pink, purple, yellow, or white flowers, glossy leathery leaves, and cone-like fruits.

Magnolias can be deciduous or evergreen depending on their growing zone. There are some 125 species of magnolia suitable for growing in most zones. There are 8 species of magnolia native to the United States.

The most popular magnolia types are the Southern Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora), Star magnolia (Magnolia stellata), and Saucer magnolia (Magnolia × soulangeana).

Most varieties of magnolia thrive in full sun or partial shade. Magnolia trees and shrubs adapt to various soil types and grow well as long as the soil is well-draining.

Further reading: Types of Magnolia Trees and Shrubs with Their Flowers and Leaves – Identification Guide.

Buckeye Trees (Aesculus)

Buckeye is a variety of ornamental deciduous trees in the genus Aesculus and family Sapindaceae that is related to the horse chestnut tree. There are four main varieties of buckeye trees. Common varieties of buckeyes are the Ohio buckeye, the California buckeye, and the yellow buckeye.

Buckeye trees grow between 12 and 40 ft. (3.5 – 12 m) tall. You can find buckeyes growing in the deciduous forests and grasslands in the Midwest. They are also popular trees in parks and open spaces in states along the East Coast and the Southern states. Ohio buckeyes are found all the way from New York to Kentucky and down to Texas.

Buckeye trees are identified by their large round inedible nut-like seeds that look like the eye of a buck, green palmately compound leaves, and creamy-yellow or red flower clusters.

Further reading: Types of Buckeye Trees with Their Flowers and Leaves – Identification Guide.

Horse Chestnut Trees (Aesculus hippocastanum, Aesculus carnea)

The horse chestnut (Aesculus hippocastanumis) a species of large deciduous flowering tree in the genus Aesculus. With its stout branches and oval to rounded crown, the tree grows 50 to 70 ft. (15 – 21 m) tall and up to 65 ft. (19 m) wide. Horse chestnuts grow in USDA zones 3 through 8.

Horse chestnut tree has spiky green balls containing a large, oval inedible brown seed like the nuts (seeds) from a buckeye tree. A horse chestnut tree is easy to identify in the landscape due to its large, rounded leaves, white-pinkish flowers growing in conical clusters, domed crown, and tall stature. Although too large for most gardens, horse chestnut trees are popular in parks and streets.

There are two primary varieties of horse chestnut trees: Aesculus hippocastanum and the red horse chestnut tree (Aesculus carnea), which is a smaller tree that grows 30 to 40 ft. (9 – 12 m) tall, and its rounded crown spreads up to 35 ft. (10 m) wide.

The red horse chestnut is a hybrid tree of the Aesculus hippocastanum and Aesculus pavia (red buckeye). The red horse chestnut isn’t as tall as the regular horse chestnut, and it has deep red showy flowers rather than white ones.

The red horse chestnut is suitable for growing in USDA zones 5 through 8. Like most species of Aesculus, the leafy flowering tree performs well in full sun or partial shade. The attractive shade tree grows well in most soils that are well-drained.

Further reading: Horse Chestnut Tree: Leaves, Flowers, Bark (Pictures) – Identification.

Vitex Trees (Chaste Trees)

Vitex tree (also named chaste tree) is a large type of multi-stemmed shrub or small tree with attractive spikes of lavender-colored flowers that bloom in summer. Although referred to as the vitex tree or chaste tree, the vitex plant generally grows as a sizeable bushy shrub. But in warmer climates, vitex can grow as a small multi-trunked tree.

Chaste trees (Vitex agnus-castus) have many characteristics that make them desirable garden shrubs/trees. Apart from the clusters of small violet flowers, these plants have aromatic grayish-green, lanceolate leaves. The large deciduous shrubs/trees have a vase-shaped growth that spreads upward and outward.

Vitex trees grow best in USDA zones 7 through 9. In warmer climates, the large shrub can grow up to 15 ft. (4.5 m) tall and, as a tree, up to 20 ft. (6 m) tall. In zones 5 and 6, the shrubby plant experiences winter die-back. However, frost rarely affects the roots, and vitex bushes come back to life the following spring.

Further reading: Vitex Trees (Chaste Trees): Types, Flowers, Leaves, Care.

Larch Trees (Larix)

Larch is a species of deciduous, coniferous tree in the genus Larix and pine family Pinaceae. There are between ten and twelve species of larch trees. The two most popular species of larch are the American Larch (Larix laricina)—also called tamarack—and the Western Larch (Larix occidentalis).

Larch trees are identified by their pyramidal growth, typical of most conifer species. However, unlike most conifers, larch trees turn golden yellow in the fall before dropping their leaves (needles). Larches are one of the few conifer trees to have bare branches with no foliage in winter.

Larch tree leaves are soft, flat needle-shaped leaves characteristic of many pine trees. Like all true conifers, larch is a cone-producing tree with male and female cones growing on the same tree.

Larches are also tolerant of freezing temperatures, and they thrive growing in zones 2 through 5.

Further reading: Larch Trees: Types, Leaves, Cones, Flowers – Identification Guide.

Alder Trees (Alnus)

Alder (Alnus) is a genus of flowering deciduous trees in the family Betulaceae. There are about 35 alder species, comprising of large trees and smaller shrub-like trees.

Alder trees are known for their drooping flower clusters and brown woody cones called strobiles. The alder cones develop from catkins (conical flower clusters) and stay on the tree throughout the winter, giving the bare branches a distinguishable look.

It’s easy to identify alders in landscapes due to their vast, rounded crown, serrated green leaves, and brown conifer-like cones.

Several species of alder trees are native to North America and Europe, with the Red Alder (Alnus rubra) and Black Alder (Alnus glutinosa) being the two most common.

Alders thrive in marshy, damp ground. Most alder species thrive in USDA zones 5 through 8; however, some individual species may be more or less cold-hardy.

Further reading: Alder Trees: Leaves, Bark, Flowers, Cones – Identification.

Sweetgum Trees (Liquidambar)

Sweetgums are ornamental flowering deciduous trees in the genus Liquidambar and the family Altingiaceae. You can find sweetgums growing in eastern North America from Connecticut to Florida and as far west as Texas, Missouri, and Oklahoma.

There are 15 species of sweetgum trees that reach a mature height between 32 and 130 ft. (10 – 40 m). Sweetgum trees get their name from the sweet, sticky, resinous substance the oozes from the cut trunk.

Identifying features of sweetgum trees are large lobed leaves that can be orange, red, yellow, or purple colors in the fall, small globular flowers, and seed-containing spiky gumballs measuring up to 2” (5 cm) across.

The most popular sweetgum tree is the American sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua) which is also called gumball tree and is a beautiful shade or lawn landscaping tree.

Further reading: Sweetgum Trees (Gumball Tree, Liquidambar): Types, Leaves – Identification Guide.

Linden Trees (Tilia)

Linden trees (genus Tilia and the family Malvaceae) are large deciduous shade trees with large heart-shaped broadleaves and clusters of fragrant yellowish-white flowers. In the fall, linden tree leaves turn a spectacular bright yellow color.

There are around 30 species of linden trees and shrubs that typically grow to between 65 and 130 ft. (20 – 40 m) tall and 50 ft. (15 m) wide.

Linden tree identification is by their thick furrowed trunks, rounded crown, dense leafy foliage, and pyramidal growth habit.

European linden trees are also called lime trees, and North American lindens are called basswood trees. They thrives in full sun to partial shade and moist soil with excellent drainage.

Further reading: Linden Trees: Types, Leaves, Flowers, Bark – Identification.

Basswood Trees

The main linden tree species in North America is the American basswood (Tilia americana) which is also named American linden.

American basswood is a large, fast-growing deciduous tree with fragrant yellowish-white flowers, large heart-shaped leaves with serrated edges and pointed tip, and a domed crown. In fall, the leaves of deciduous basswood trees turn pale yellow to yellowish-green.

After blooming, the flowers of basswood tree develop into basswood fruit. The small round nut-like balls measure up to 0.4” (1 cm) in diameter and dangle from long narrow leaf-like bracts.

The American basswood tree is a popular ornamental shade tree due to its dense foliage and spreading canopy. Popular American basswood cultivars include Carolina basswood, Redmond basswood and white basswood.

The American basswood tree is the only native North American species in the genus Tilia and is often found growing in eastern and central North America. Other tree species in the genus Tilia are known as linden trees.

Further reading: American Basswood Trees (American Linden): Types, Leaves, Flowers – Identification.

Aspen Trees (Populus)

Aspen trees are flowering medium-sized deciduous trees belonging to the genus Populus. Aspens are characterized by their straight, slender trunks with gray-white bark, round leaves with toothed margins, and clusters of dangling flower spikes called catkins.

The quaking aspen (Populus tremuloides) and bigtooth aspen (Populus grandidentata) are the most common aspen trees in North America. You can find aspens growing as far north as Alaska and as far south as Mexico.

Aspen trees have a unique spreading root system that produces new clone trees. You will often find smaller aspen trees growing alongside large, mature aspens as the tree suckers sprout up from roots.

Aspen trees typically grow among coniferous trees in North America. Aspen trees are cold-hardy trees that thrive in USDA zones 2 through 8.

Further reading: Aspen Trees: Types, Leaves, Flowers – Identification.

Acacia Trees

Acacia thorny trees and shrubs are an evergreen plant species with unique fern-like leaves and showy clusters of fragrant yellow or white fuzzy flowers. Acacia fruit looks like peapods that can be straight, coiled, or twisted. The pods grow in clusters on acacia trees and can be green, brown, or black.

Many species of Acacia are native to Australia, and some are native to Africa. In North America, acacias grow in warm states such as Texas, Arizona, and California.

Also called wattles, acacia trees grow best in full sun and well-draining, loamy, or sandy soil. The drought-tolerant plant hardly needs any water after it’s established in the landscape. It’s a trouble-free, low-maintenance evergreen tree that don’t require much care.

Acacia trees are fast-growing and relatively short-lived trees that grow between 20 and 30 years.

Species of trees and shrubs in the genus Acacia thrive in USDA growing zones 9 through 11.

Further reading: Acacia Trees: Types, Leaves, Flowers, Thorns – Identification.

Beech Trees (Fagus)

Beech trees (botanical name Fagus) are tall deciduous shade trees with green ovate leaves with finely toothed margins, creating a dense, rounded crown. In the fall, beech tree foliage turns from green to beautiful autumn shades of orange, yellow, and golden brown.

All varieties of beech trees produce small clusters of yellow-green flowers (catkins), followed by beech tree unique looking fruit or beechnuts. The fruit (nuts) from beech trees are triangular in appearance and are contained in spiky husks called cupules.

The most common types of beech trees are the American beech tree (Fagus grandifolia) and the European beech tree (Fagus sylvatica).

Beech trees are easy-care, versatile trees that thrive in various conditions. Native to temperate climates in North America and Europe, beech trees grow in rich, fertile soil with excellent drainage.

Further reading: Beech Trees: Types, Leaves, Bark — Identification Guide.

Catalpa Trees

Catalpa trees are flowering deciduous ornamental shade trees with large, heart-shaped or triangular leaves, white or yellow fragrant flowers, and long, slender dangling seed pods appearing in fall and persisting until winter or even spring. The unusual masses of long seed pods on catalpa trees look green and gradually turn dark brown.

Two species — the northern catalpa (Catalpa speciosa) and southern catalpa (Catalpa bignonioides) — are native to North America. The other common type of catalpa tree is the Chinese catalpa (Catalpa ovata), which is native to China.

Catalpa trees are typically fast-growing trees that grow best in full sun and are adaptable to growing in various soil types.

Further reading: Catalpa Tree: Types, Leaves, Flowers, Seed Pods.

Serviceberry Trees (Amelanchier)

Serviceberry is a group of small deciduous fruit trees or multi-stemmed shrubs with beautiful white flowers that bloom in early spring. Serviceberry trees and shrubs are identified by their long oval leaves with finely serrated edges, clusters of showy white 5-petalled flowers, smooth gray bark, and small round edible purple pome fruits. Serviceberry trees are excellent garden landscaping plants because they have a visual appeal in all four seasons.

There are 20 species of deciduous trees and shrubs in the genus Amelanchier and rose family Rosaceae. Serviceberries are native to North America and grow widely throughout the United States and Canada.

Serviceberry trees thrive in full sun to partial shade in USDA zones 4 to 9. They grow between 10 and 25 ft. (3 – 7.5 m) tall and up to 20 ft. (6 m) wide. Because serviceberry is a multi-stemmed tree that sends up suckers, if you to grow it as a tree, it’s vital to remove suckers to prevent it from developing into a bushy shrub.

Further reading: Serviceberry: Trees, Shrubs, Leaves, Flowers – Identification.

Tulip trees (Liriodendron)

Tulip trees are flowering deciduous trees in the genus Liriodendron and magnolia family Magnoliaceae. The two species of tulip trees are the American tulip tree (Liriodendron tulipifera) and the Chinese tulip poplar (Liriodendron chinense).

Also called the tulip poplar or tuliptree, these impressive trees are easy to identify in landscapes with their straight trunk, oval or pyramidal canopy, yellow-green flowers, and beautiful golden yellow fall colors. The cup-shaped or trumpet-like flowers appear in late spring and complement the bright green, unusually shaped leaves.  Being a type of deciduous tree, the tulip poplars lose their leaves in the fall when the foliage turns golden yellow.

Tulip trees thrive in USDA zones 4 to 9. They grow between 60 and 160 ft. (18 – 50 m) tall and have a pyramidal crown measuring 30 to 50 ft. (9 – 15 m) wide in their native habitat. Tulip trees are relatively fast-growing but grow for between 15 and 20 years before the trees produce flowers.

An issue with growing tulip poplars in garden landscapes is that they can be messy. Apart from their enormous size, the flower petals and autumn leaves can litter the ground. Additionally, the trees secrete a sticky sap that sticks to cars, paths, and driveways.

Further reading: Tulip Trees (Tulip Poplar): Leaves, Flowers, Bark – Identification.

Sumac Trees (Rhus)

Sumac (genus Rhus) is a group of flowering small trees and shrubs. Sumacs are identified by their fern-like pinnate leaves, conical clusters (panicles) of white or green flowers, and fuzzy red berries. In the fall, sumac trees and shrubs turn brilliant autumn shades of red, orange, or purple.

There are around 150 species of sumac, with 14 being native to the US. Sumac trees and shrubs grow in most soil types and are often seen growing in dry and poor soil.

Native North American sumac trees grow in USDA zones 3 through 9. Trees and shrubs in the genus Rhus grow between 3 and 33 ft. (1 – 10 m).

Sumac trees such as the staghorn sumac (Rhus typhina), smooth sumac (Rhus glabra), and fragrant sumac (Rhus aromatica) produce edible red berry-like drupes. Most species of sumac are deciduous trees that lose their leaves in the fall. The native tobacco sumac (Rhus virens) is an evergreen variety with glossy green, leathery leaves.

A characteristic of sumacs is their suckering growth habit. This feature means that sumacs can grow as multi-stemmed shrubs if you don’t remove the suckers.

Further reading: Sumac Trees: Types, Leaves, Berries – Identification Guide.

Hackberry Tree (Celtis)

Hackberry (Celtis) is a group of medium-sized, deciduous trees with long ovately-shaped leaves, clusters of small fuzzy spring flowers, and small purple fruits. Low-maintenance hackberry trees are hardy trees that withstand many conditions, including drought, wet soil, strong winds, and air pollution.

The common hackberry tree (Celtis occidentalis) grows 40 to 60 ft. (12 – 18 m) high and wide. The attractive landscape tree has a pyramidal crown when immature. As the tree grows, the tree develops an open, spreading canopy of arching zigzag branches.

Hackberry bark is its most recognizable feature. The smooth light brown or grayish bark has characteristic wart-like growths, ridges, and a corky texture giving the tree’s bark a distinctive pattern.

The common hackberry is native to many states in the Midwest and Eastern areas of North America. In addition, some species of hackberry, like the sugarberry (Celtis laevigata), are common in Texas and other warm states in the south.

Most hackberry trees thrive in USDA zones 2 to 9. The sugarberry—or southern hackberry—grows best in zones 5 to 10.

Further reading: Hackberry Trees (Celtis): Common Types, Leaves, Bark, Fruit – Identification.

Mulberry Trees (Morus)

Mulberry trees (botanical name Morus) are popular deciduous trees that produce delicious edible white, red, or black berry-like fruits. Commonly called mulberries, the medium-sized, berry-producing trees have attractive heart-shaped leaves, spikes of tiny white flowers (catkins), and thick grayish-brown bark.

The common species of mulberry trees are red mulberry (Morus rubra), white mulberry (Morus alba), and black mulberry (Morus nigra). They thrive in USDA zones 4 through 9, full to partial sun, and well-drained soils. In addition, the mulberry tree is relatively resistant to pests and disease.

The mature size of mulberry tree depends on the species. White mulberry is the tallest at 80 ft. (24 m), and the common red mulberry grows up to 70 ft. (21 m). The black mulberry is the smallest species, with a height of around 30 ft. (9 m).

Additionally, there are many mulberry cultivars, such as the weeping mulberry tree (Morus alba ‘Pendula’), fruitless mulberry tree, and dwarf mulberry tree which is ideal for containers, and grows 2 to 6 ft. (0.6 – 1.8 m) tall.

Further reading: Mulberry Trees: White, Red, Black with Flowers and Leaves.

Mimosa Trees (Albizia Julibrissin)

The mimosa tree (slso called the Persian silk tree) is a fast-growing ornamental tree with silky pink pompom-like fluffy flowers, fern-like leaves, and brown flat, bean-like seed pods. The mimosa tree is a deciduous, medium-sized tree in the genus Albizia and legume family Fabaceae. A full-grown mimosa tree can measure between 10 and 50 ft. (3 – 15 m) and up to 50 ft. (15 m) wide.

Mimosa trees are native to Asia and thrive in warm climates in USDA zones 6 through 10. These trees have a rapid growth rate, growing around 3 ft. (1 m) per year and can be invasive. However, they are short-lived trees. Their average lifespan is only 30 years. Additionally, the trunk and branches are weak and brittle and easily break in strong winds.

Mimosa trees grow well in containers and are excellent patio, deck, or balcony plants. Keeping them in a large container and pruning will limit their height.

The Chocolate mimosa tree (Albizia julibrissin ‘Summer Chocolate’) is not as invasive as other varieties. It is a small deciduous tree with chocolate-burgundy foliage that grows between 15 and 20 ft. (4.5 – 6 m) tall and up to 20 ft. (6 m) wide.

Further reading: Mimosa Trees (Albizia Julibrissin): Facts, Flowers, Leaves.

Yew Trees (Taxus)

Yew (botanical name Taxus) is a genus of slow-growing coniferous evergreen trees and shrubs. Yews are typically long-lived trees that can live for hundreds or even thousands of years. Ornamental yew trees grow between 35 and 65 ft. (10 – 20 m) tall and up to 20 ft. (6 m) wide.

Yews are cold-hardy evergreen trees that thrive in USDA zones 3 to 7. Yews can grow in temperatures as low as -13°F (-25°C); however, the shade-loving trees don’t perform well in prolonged hot temperatures.

Yews are identified by their thin, scaly brown bark, tiny single-seed cones, red fruits, and linear flat leaves. The English yew (Taxus baccata) is the most common species. But Irish yew, Western yew, and Japanese yew are also ornamental conifer trees.

If you want to plant a yew tree as a tall hedging plant, it is best to choose a shaded spot because the evergreen trees grow well in partial sun or deep shade. Ensure that the ground is well-draining and protect yew trees from heat, drought, and full sun for more than six hours a day.

Further reading: Yew Trees: Types, Berries, Leaves – Identification.

Sassafras Trees

Sassafras is a group of deciduous trees with three species of sassafras native to North America and Asia—Sassafras albidum, Sassafras randaiense, and Sassafras tzumu. The common Sassafras albidum matures at 30 to 60 ft. (9 – 18 m) tall and 25 to 40 ft. (7.6 – 12 m) wide.

However, the shrub-like tree also has suckering tendencies and can quickly become a large multi-stemmed shrub. In open woodlands, it’s not unusual to see colonies of sassafras that are all connected to the same parent tree.

Sassafras trees thrive in USDA zones 4 to 9. The trees are commonly found on the east coast of the United States. Sassafras trees grow best in full sun to partial shade. In garden landscapes, sassafras trees thrive in well-drained, acidic soil. In ideal conditions, sassafras trees are fast-growing trees that grow between 12” and 24” (30 – 60 cm) a year.

Recognizable features of sassafras trees are unusually lobed leaves, clusters of golden-yellow flowers, and dark blue berry-like drupes. Sassafras trees are also highly aromatic trees. In fall, when the foliage turns spectacular orange, scarlet, yellow, and purple colors, the leaves give off a strong fragrance. In the spring, the blossoms smell of root beer. Sassafras trees are relatively fast-growing trees that grow between 12” and 24” (30 – 60 cm) a year.

Further reading: Sassafras Tree: Leaves, Flowers, Bark – Identification Guide.

Chokecherry Tree (Prunus virginiana)

Chokecherry (Prunus virginiana) is a small deciduous tree or multi-stemmed shrub that sends up suckers. Typically, a chokecherry trees grows between 3 and 20 ft. (1 – 6 m) tall and up to 20 ft. (6 m) wide. However, it’s not unusual for some chokecherry trees to reach 30 ft. (9 m) tall.

The fruit-bearing trees or shrubs are common throughout the northern states of the US and Canada. Chokecherry trees are known for their tart, bitter, berry-like drupes and are used to make jams and jellies. The tart flesh of Chokecherry fruit is edible, however don’t eat the seeds that contain toxins.

Identifiable features of chokecherry plants are relatively smooth gray bark, glossy green egg-shaped leaves, white spring flowers, and dark red or black summer fruits.

As a cold-hardy shrub or tree, the chokecherry thrives in USDA zones 2 through 10. The attractive flowering plant grows best in full sun or part shade, and when established, chokecherry is tolerant of drought.

Further reading: Chokecherry Tree: Leaves, Chokecherries, Flowers – Identification.

Plumeria Tree (Frangipani)

Plumeria is a group of small flowering trees or shrubs and is famous for highly scented, exotic, showy flowers. Plumeria flowers are shaped like a star and come in shades of white, yellow, pink, red, and multi-colors.

Plumeria trees are also called frangipani. The tropical trees are classed as deciduous or semi-evergreen trees or shrubs. However, there are a few evergreen plumeria tree species like the Plumeria obtusa and Plumeria pudica. The spectacular flowering trees thrive in USDA zones 9 through 12. They commonly grow in Florida, the Caribbean, the Pacific islands, Mexico, and Central America.

Frangipani trees are moderate to fast-growing plants that can grow up to 20 ft. (6 m) tall. However, in most tropical and subtropical garden landscapes, the exotic trees reach between 6 and 8 ft. (1.8 – 2.4 m) tall.

The only care plumeria trees require is plenty of sunlight, well-drained soil, water, and fertilizer.

Further reading: Plumeria Tree: Growing and Care Guide.

Ginkgo Biloba Tree

Ginkgo biloba tree is a slow growing spectacular deciduous ornamental tree with large fan-shaped leaves that turn a stunning buttery-yellow color in the fall. Ginkgo biloba is the only species of tree left in the genus Ginkgo and the family Ginkgoaceae.

Ginkgo trees grow 50 to 75 ft. (15 – 23 m) with a broadly spreading pyramidal crown that grows up to 60 ft. (18 m) wide. However there are many varieties and smaller cultivars.

Also called the maidenhair tree, the ginkgo tree thrives in loamy, well-drained soil, full sun to partial shade, and in growing zones 3 to 9.

Male ginkgo tree is identified by its long drooping flower-like cones that “bloom” in mid-spring. The female ginkgo tree is identified by its orangey globular fruits growing in dangling clusters. Each round fruit contains a single large seed.

The main complaint of the ginkgo tree is the offensive stink from the fruit. Also, the slimy flesh of the female ginkgo fruit is particularly messy. If you have a small, compact garden, it’s best to choose male dwarf cultivars.

Further reading: Ginkgo Tree: Identification and Growing Guide.

Holly Tree (Ilex)

Holly plants belong to the genus Ilex and the family Aquifoliaceae. The various types of hollies include large trees, bushy shrubs, and dwarf cultivars.

Holly trees can grow between and 30 and 80 ft. (10 – 24 m) tall. However, holly bushes typically grow up to 6 ft. (1.8 m) tall and are multi-stemmed plants.

Although most species of hollies are evergreen plants, there are some deciduous hollies that drop their leaves in winter. The most common holly species are the American holly (Ilex opaca) and the English holly (Ilex aquifolium). Both these evergreen holly trees are famous for their shiny, jagged leaves and winter red berries.

Holly leaves are typically ovate or oblong, glossy green with wavy margins that are spiked, serrated, or smooth. Some of the most spectacular varieties of holly trees and bushes are variegated cultivars. The inedible berry-like fruits of holly are usually red but can be other colors, such as yellow and black.

Further reading: Holly Trees and Bushes: Identification Guide.

Chestnut Trees (Castanea)

Chestnut trees are large deciduous trees with large, pointed leaves with coarsely toothed margins, long finger-like flower clusters (catkins), and brown edible nuts.

Chestnuts are easily identifiable due to the spiky burs growing in clusters and containing the fruit—a brown-shelled nut encasing creamy-white flesh. Chestnut trees have a straight, broad trunk with deeply furrowed bark and a large spreading rounded canopy.

Species of chestnut trees belong to the genus Castanea and the beech family Fagaceae. The flowering trees mostly grow in temperate regions of the world in USDA zones 5 to 7. Chestnut trees perform best in full sun and loamy, well-draining soil.

The American chestnut (Castanea dentata) used to be in the timber industry, however due to chestnut blight fungal disease it is almost extinct in the wild now. It can grow up to 75 ft. (22 m) tall and wide.

Further reading: Chestnut Trees – Identification Guide.

Redwood trees

Redwood trees are the largest and tallest trees on the planet. Redwoods are famous for their towering stature, with the tallest trees reaching 360 ft. (110 m) tall.

Two evergreen redwood species are native to California: California redwood/coastal redwood (Sequoia sempervirens) and giant redwood/sequoia (Sequoiadendron giganteum). The deciduous dawn redwood (Metasequoia glyptostroboides) is native to China.

Sequoias are the largest trees in the world in terms of volume, and they have immense trunks. Redwoods are the tallest trees and have slender trunks.

Redwoods require humid conditions with substantial rainfall in spring, fall, and winter. In addition, the foggy conditions common along the northern Pacific coast allows redwoods to thrive.

As a coniferous trees, redwoods produce seed-bearing cones, green needle leaves, and tiny yellowish-brown flowers. The cinnamon-red or reddish-brown bark is one way to identify redwood trees.

Further reading: Redwood Trees: Types, Facts and Identification.

Orchid Tree (Bauhinia)

The orchid tree is a genus of flowering shrubs and trees in the genus Bauhinia and the family Fabaceae. Orchid trees are native to Asia and commonly grow in India, China, Sri Lanka, and Vietnam. Some orchid tree species also grow in the wild in Texas in the Anacacho mountains.

Orchid trees are fast-growing large tropical shrubs or trees that reach a height of 20 to 40 ft. (6 – 12 m) with a spread of 10 to 20 ft. (3 – 6 m). The trees are famous for their brightly colored orchard-like flowers that bloom in winter and persist until early summer.

The flowers of orchid tree are beautiful pink, red, orange, yellow, white, or purple flowers resembling flowers growing on orchid plants. After flowering, the tree develops long, flat brown seed pods, common of many trees in the pea family Fabaceae. In addition, orchid trees have distinctive leathery, double-lobed green leaves that resemble the print of a cow’s hoof.

Some species of orchid trees are evergreen trees. Still, others are deciduous trees that drop their leaves during the dry season or in winter.

Orchid trees thrive in the warm regions of USDA in zones 9 to 11. Although some varieties of orchid trees survive a light frost, they are generally heat-loving trees that thrive in full sun and moist soils. The minimum temperature to grow orchid trees is 22°F (-6°C).

Further reading: Orchid Tree (Bauhinia): Types and Care Guide.

Tabebuia Tree (Trumpet Tree)

Tabebuia tree, also called the trumpet tree, is a spectacular showy flowering tree with pink, light purple, or bright yellow flowers.

Tabebuia trees thrive in hot climates where the deciduous trees add color, strong fragrance, and beauty to garden landscapes. The small to medium-sized trees are easy to grow in full sun as an ornamental tree or shade tree, and they grow well in containers.

Tabebuia trees thrive in warm, humid climates. The leafy deciduous flowering tree performs best in USDA zones 10 and 11.

The most common varieties of tabebuia tree grow around 15 to 30 ft. (4.5 – 9 m) tall and 40 ft. (12 m) wide. However, some species can reach heights of 60 ft. (18 m).

Some botanists give the tree the botanical name Handroanthus. However, Tabebuia is still an accepted and well-known name for this tropical tree. The common name trumpet tree refers to the spectacular blooms that appear throughout the summer.

To identify a tabebuia tree, look for the leathery oval or oblong palmately compound leaves, showy trumpet flowers in dangling clusters, and slightly rough, fissured, tan-colored bark. Tabebuia leaves are dark glossy green, made up of five to seven leaflets. The tree’s characteristic showy pink, pale purple or yellow flowers grow abundantly in large clusters.

Further reading: Tabebuia Tree: Types, Leaves, Flowers (with Pictures) – Identification.

Zelkova Tree

Zelkova is a genus of deciduous trees in the elm family Ulmaceae. There are six species of zelkova trees and various cultivars. The common Zelkova serrata tree is the most common and grows up to 100 ft. (30 m) tall. However, zelkova tree cultivars are typically smaller and grow between 10 and 80 ft. (3 – 24 m).

The popular Zelkova serrata tree is native to Japan, China, Taiwan, and Korea. This is a reason why the leafy ornamental tree has the common name Japanese zelkova. Furthermore, because the zelkova trees are related to elms, the tree also goes by the name Japanese elm.

Part of the popularity of zelkova trees is that they are tolerant of a range of conditions. The shade tree with its bushy green foliage tolerates urban conditions, making it ideal as a street tree or ornamental residential tree. In addition, the graceful zelkova tree is tolerant of drought, wind, and heat.

Identify a zelkova tree by its short central trunk and spreading branches forming a vase-shaped crown. Zelkovas have grayish-white peeling bark revealing light orange inner bark. Large green serrated ovate leaves turn shades of red, orange, and yellow in the fall. Yellowish insignificant flower clusters and nut-like drupes grow on the tree.

Zelkova trees are cold-hardy in USDA zones 5 to 8.

Further reading: Zelkova Trees: Types, Leaves, Bark – Identification.

Kentucky Coffee Tree (Gymnocladus Dioicus)

The Kentucky coffee tree is the only native tree in the genus Gymnocladus in the legume family Fabaceae. The Kentucky coffee tree got its name from the coffee-like beverage you can brew from the roasted seeds.

The attractive deciduous tree with its open, irregular crown grows between 60 and 70 ft. (18 – 21 m) and 40 to 50 ft. (12 – 15 m) wide.

The Kentucky coffee tree is a popular ornamental tree, thanks to its appearance and growth habit. It has pinnate green leaves that turn bright yellow in the fall, greenish-white flowers, and large reddish-brown seed pods. Native to the Midwest, the Kentucky coffee tree is identified by its irregular oval crown with open branches that provide partial shade. Additionally, scaly gray-brown furrowed bark and reddish-brown twigs help identify the tree in winter.

Male trees tend to cause less mess as they don’t produce seed pods, making them suitable for planting in a residential landscape. Additionally, the Kentucky coffee tree is tolerant of drought and urban air pollution.

Kentucky coffee trees are relatively hardy deciduous trees that thrive in USDA zones 3 through 8. The coffeetree performs well in full sun and fertile, well-drained soils. However the tree performs just well in compacted clay soil as in sandy, loamy soil.

Further reading: Kentucky Coffee Tree – Identification and Care.

Hornbeam Tree (Carpinus)

Hornbeam trees are a group of deciduous, flowering hardwood trees in the genus Carpinus. Hornbeams are ornamental landscape trees with a wide canopy, dark green, ovate leaves with serrated margins that turns golden yellow in the fall, and slim clusters of green-yellowish flowers (catkins). Common species of hornbeam trees—the American hornbeam (Carpinus caroliniana) and European Hornbeam (Carpinus betulus)—are popular in home garden landscapes and parks.

The most popular hornbeam cultivar is the ‘Fastigiata’ European Hornbeam (Carpinus betulus ‘Fastigiata’). This columnar landscape tree has a pyramidal shape and dense canopy, making it ideal for growing as a hedge plant, privacy screen, or natural fence. The ‘Fastigiata’ hornbeam grows 30 to 40 ft. (9 – 12 m) tall with a narrow habit of 15 to 20 ft. (4.5 – 6 m) wide.

Hornbeam trees have relatively slow growth and have an average growth rate of 12” (30 cm) per year. Growing for between 50 and 150 years, the American hornbeam tree reaches an average mature height of 20 to 30 ft. (6 – 10 m). The European hornbeam has an average height of 40 to 60 ft. (12 – 20 m).

Hornbeam trees thrive in full sun or partial shade and grow in most types of soils, as long as they are well-drained. The hardy American hornbeam trees grow well in USDA zones 3 through 9. The European hornbeam is winter hardy in zones 4 to 7.

Further reading: Types of Hornbeam Trees – Identification.

Purple Leaf Plum Trees (Prunus cerasifera)

The purple leaf plum tree is a beautiful ornamental flowering tree with dark burgundy or purple leaves, fragrant whitish-pink spring blossoms, and an attractive shape. Also called the cherry plum tree, the purple leaf tree also produces small edible plum-like yellow or red edible fruit. In a garden landscape, the relatively small deciduous tree has many ornamental uses.

The purple leaf plum tree grows between 15 and 25 ft. (4.5 – 8 m) tall and thrives in USDA zones 4 through 9. The easy-to-grow landscape tree grows best in moist but well-drained soil that is moderately fertile. The attractive dark foliage tree performs well in full sun and can tolerate some shade. However, too much shade causes the leaves to turn green.

The cherry plum tree ‘Purple Pony’ is suitable for small, compact gardens. This dwarf plum tree grows 10 to 12 ft. (3 – 3.6 m) tall and wide.

Flowers on purple leaf plum trees are usually the first to appear in spring. The single small pink or white flowers grow in dense clusters, covering the beautiful tree in bright colors. Cherry plum tree leaves are identified by their pointed ovate shape with serrated margins and a deep red or rich purple color. Fruit on purple leaf plum trees is round yellow or red drupes that are juicy plums. The cherry plum fruits are typically ready from mid-July to mid-September.

Further reading: Purple Leaf Plum Trees: Types, Flowers, Leaves, Bark – Identification.

Chinaberry Tree (Melia azedarach)

The chinaberry tree (Melia azedarach) is a fast-growing deciduous tree native to India, Southeast Asia, and Australia. The tree is in the flowering plant genus Melia and the family Meliaceae.

The chinaberry tree is an ornamental tree with small, fragrant purple flowers, long compound leaves, and small yellow berries. A chinaberry tree is recognizable in the landscape by its rounded open crown, brownish-red bark, and bright yellow fall color. In some warm climates, the chinaberry tree is a beautiful shade tree for a garden landscape. However, in other places, this non-native tree is invasive and can take over the landscape.

A mature chinaberry tree grows between 20 and 40 ft. (7 – 12 m) tall and wide. Although not native to the United States, chinaberry trees grow widely in USDA zones 7 through 10.

Chinaberry trees thrive in a wide range of soils. The trees grow in full sun or partial shade and thrive in alkaline or acidic soils. Once established, the non-native tree is relatively drought-tolerant and resistant to disease.

Chinaberry tree also goes by the following names: chinaberry bead tree, pride of India, China ball tree, Persian lilac, Texas umbrella tree, white cedar, or China tree.

Further reading: Chinaberry Tree (Melia azedarach) – Identification and Care.

Palo Verde Trees (Parkinsonia)

Palo verde is a group of large flowering shrubs or small trees with green branches, yellow pea-like flowers, brown seed pods, and small leaves that appear for a short time after rainfall. This deciduous flowering desert tree is native to the hot, arid regions of California, Arizona, and Mexico. The multi-stemmed ornamental tree thrives during drought and is an excellent landscape tree for filtered shade during scorching weather.

Several species of palo verde trees are native to North America. The most common trees in the species are the foothill palo verde which is also called Mexican palo verde (Parkinsonia aculeata), blue palo verde (Parkinsonia florida), and desert museum palo verde (Parkinsonia x ‘Desert Museum’).

Palo verde trees grow between 16 and 40 ft. (5 – 12 m). Most species of palo verde trees have sharp spines or thorns growing on the branches. The exception to this is the desert museum palo verde hybrid, which is a thornless tree. Palo verde trees also have distinctive green bark that create visual appeal.

Palo verde trees are suitable for growing outdoors in USDA zones 8 through 11.

Further reading: Palo Verde Trees – Identification Guide.

Smoke Tree (Cotinus coggygria)

The smoke tree is a stunning large shrub or small multi-stemmed tree with eye-catching purple or green foliage and feathery flower clusters resembling puffs of pink smoke. Also called smoke bush, the colorful deciduous tree creates a spectacular visual interest in a garden landscape from spring until fall.

Smoke trees grow 16 to 23 ft. (5 – 7 m) tall and have a spreading, irregular habit. The smoke tree or smoke bush is a deciduous shrub that can be trained to grow as a tree. Cotinus is a suckering shrub-like tree, so to ensure a tree shape, remove all suckers apart from the primary central stem. You should remove the stems throughout the year as they appear.

Varieties of smoke trees are cold-hardy large shrubs that thrive in USDA zones 4 through 9. Smoke trees tend to perform best in full sun to partial shade, which helps maintain their vibrant foliage.

Flowers on the smoke tree are distinctive airy plume-like panicles consisting of small five-petalled flowers. However, the fine hair-like filaments on the spent flower stems are the identifying feature of the plant, giving the smoke tree its fuzzy appearance.

The ‘Royal Purple’ smoke tree is one of the most popular Cotinus plants. The outstanding characteristics of the purple smoke tree are oval to egg-shaped deep purple leaves, clusters of tiny yellow flowers that develop into wispy plumes, and a compact growth habit. The ‘Royal Purple’ smoke tree grows 10 to 15 ft. (3 – 4.5 m) high.

Further reading: Smoke Tree – Varieties and Care Guide.

Laurel Tree (Laurus nobilis)

Laurus nobilis is a multi stemmed evergreen tree or large shrub with aromatic, dark-green, lance-shaped leaves, clusters of pale-yellow flowers, and small black berries. Laurel leaves, or bay leaves, are commonly used to flavor many soups, stews, and sauces.

Also called sweet bay, the plant thrives in warm climates as a tree, potted shrub, or evergreen hedge. Native to the Mediterranean region, a laurel tree grows 23 – 60 ft. (7 – 18 m) tall. Due to its Mediterranean origins, a laurel tree is suitable for growing in USDA zones 8 through 10.

The best place to plant a laurel tree is in an area with full sun and free-draining soil. Sweet bay laurels thrive when they get at least six hours of sunshine daily. However, the evergreen plant will grow just as well in partial shade.

Bay laurel adapts well to many soil types. But the most important factor when planting a bay laurel tree is that the ground is well-draining.

Further reading: Laurel Tree (Sweet Bay) – Identification and Care Guide.

Sourwood Tree (Oxydendrum arboreum)

Sourwood (Oxydendrum arboreum) is a small deciduous tree in the heath family Ericaceae. Also called the sorrel tree, a unique feature of Oxydendrum arboreum is that it’s the only species in the Oxydendrum genus.

This native tree grows throughout the Eastern United States from Florida, Louisiana, and North Carolina north to Pennsylvania.

The name sourwood comes from the tree’s bitter yet edible foliage. Sourwood trees are relatively small, slow-growing, and reach 20 to 30 ft. (6 – 10 m) tall and wide.

The ornamental flowering sourwood tree is famous for its white bell-shaped flowers, green lanceolate leaves that turn deep red in the fall, and gray and reddish-brown patterned bark. Fruits on sourwood trees are small oval, egg-shaped capsules with a yellowish or greenish color that mature to grayish-brown color.

Sourwood trees are hardy in USDA zones 5 through 9. They grow best in well-drained organically rich acidic soil and full sun.

Further reading: Sourwood Tree – Identification and Care Guide.

Hazel Trees (Corylus)

Hazel is a group of large deciduous multi-stemmed shrubs or trees in the plant genus Corylus and the birch family Betulaceae that produce tasty round hazelnuts. Hazel trees and shrubs are identified by their rounded leaves with toothed margins and dangling cylindrical flower clusters called catkins.

The hardy deciduous hazel trees thrives in USDA zones 4 through 9 and perform best in full sun and moist but well-drained organically rich soil. Usually, hazel trees and shrubs produce nuts after two or three years.

While most species of hazels are multi stemmed shrubs, the Turkish Hazel (Corylus colurna) is a deciduous tree with a recognizable pyramidal crown and central trunk.

Turkish hazels are hardy in USDA zones 4 through 7 and grow throughout the United States, apart from Florida, southern Texas, and California. The hardy tree tolerates cold winters, hot summers, drought, wind, and various soil types. The Turkish hazel is a tall, majestic nut tree that grows 40 to 80 ft. (12 to 24 m) tall and has a distinct attractive conical shape.

Further reading: Hazel Trees and Shrubs – Identification Guide.

Black Tupelo Tree (Nyssa sylvatica)

The black tupelo tree is an attractive, medium-sized ornamental tree in the plant family Nyssaceae, which is native to North America. Also called the black gum or sour gum, the deciduous tree is identified by its oval, dark green glossy leaves, bark resembling alligator skin, clusters of inconspicuous greenish-white flowers, and bluish-black fruits.

The spectacular feature of black tupelo trees is its eye-catching fall foliage, which can turn vibrant orange, bright red, yellow, or purple shades. The most common use for black tupelo trees is an ornamental shade or specimen tree in parks and extensive gardens.

This beautiful tree, with its conical shape, grows between 50 and 80 ft. (15 – 24 m) in ideal conditions. However, the average black tupelo’s height in residential settings is 30 to 50 ft. (10 – 15 m). It is suitable for planting in USDA zones 4 through 9. The growing conditions are full sun, evenly moist, well-drained soils, and shelter from cold winds.

The best location to plant a black tupelo tree is deep, acidic soil that stays evenly moist. Although damp ground is ideal for growing black tupelo, the tree tolerates occasional drought.

Further reading: Black Tupelo Tree: Identification and Care Guide.

Jacaranda Tree (Jacaranda mimosifolia)

The jacaranda tree is a beautiful ornamental flowering tree with spectacular clusters of intense purple-blue trumpet-shaped flowers. Also called blue jacaranda, the tree has green fern-like leaves, and a spreading umbrella-like canopy.

Jacaranda tree is native to South and Central America and a popular flowering tree in Florida and California.

Jacaranda tree is a semi-evergreen tree that grows 25 to 50 ft. (7.5 – 15 m) tall and has a spreading rounded crown of 15 to 30 ft. (4.5 – 9 m). The tree has upright branch growth with an open habit.

Jacaranda trees are semi-tropical southern trees that thrive in USDA zones 10 and 11. You may also have success growing a blue jacaranda tree in warmer areas of growing zone 9b.

The identifying feature of the jacaranda tree is its showy lilac-blue flower clusters that bloom in the late spring or early summer. Jacaranda tree has gray-brown, finely scaly bark, brown circular seed pods, and an easily recognizable umbrella canopy covered in pinnately compound, fern-like leaves.

The best location to plant a jacaranda tree is in a place where it can get full sun. It is also vital to plant the tree at least 15 ft. (4.5 m) away from any buildings.

Katsura Tree (Cercidiphyllum japonicum)

The katsura tree is a beautiful deciduous tree in the genus Cercidiphyllum and native to Japan and China. Katsura trees have a medium growth rate and mature at a height of 40 to 60 ft. (12 – 18 m) tall and a trunk up to 6.5 ft. (2 m) in diameter.

The weeping katsura tree (Cercidiphyllum japonicum ‘Pendulum’) is a small to medium-sized tree with droopy branches that grows up to 20 ft. (6 m) tall and 15 ft. (4.5 m) wide.

Katsura trees have multiple stems but can be grown as a single-stemmed trees and are identified by their attractive pyramidal rounded crown.

Katsura trees are also identified by their heart-shaped finely serrated dark green leaves, that turn an impressive golden-yellow color in autumn and emit a sugary, caramel aroma. The deciduous, multi-trunk tree also has recognizable grayish-brown bark that peels in thin strips and pinkish-red flower buds.

The katsura tree thrives in USDA zones 4 through 8 and performs best in full sun to partial sun in moist, well-drained soil. Some protection from the afternoon sun is preferred in hot, sunny climates.

Royal Poinciana (Delonix regia)

Royal poinciana is a stunning flowering tree in the genus Delonix and pea family Fabaceae. The flame tree grows 30 to 40 ft. (9 – 12 m) tall and 40 to 70 ft. (12 – 21 m) wide. Due to its vast spread, the flame tree is an excellent blooming shade tree for hot, humid climates.

Also called the flame of the forest, peacock flower tree, flamboyant tree, or flame tree, the royal poinciana is known for its masses of showy red-orange flowers in late spring and early summer, fern-like leaves and mahogany seed pods.

Royal poinciana trees thrive in USDA zones 10 through 12 and are common throughout Florida, southern Texas, Central America, and the humid regions of Mexico.

Although classified as a tropical evergreen tree, royal poinciana has deciduous foliage in areas with a mildly cool winter or dry season.

The royal poinciana tree has a fast growth rate and increases in height about 5 ft. (1.5 m) per year. After planting, it can take a young royal poinciana tree 5 to 12 years to start flowering.

Ironwood Tree (Ostrya virginiana)

The ironwood tree (Ostrya virginiana) is a small to medium sized deciduous tree identified by its light green, pointed, lance-shaped leaves with doubly-serrated margins, dangling catkins and hop-like fruits, and light to dark brown shaggy, narrow strips of bark.

Ironwood tree is also called the American hop hornbeam and belongs to the genus Ostrya in the birch family Betulaceae. The ironwood tree grows 20 to 40 ft. (6 – 12 m) tall and up to 30 ft. (9 m) wide.

Ironwood trees grow slowly, and it will take 15 years to grow 10 to 15 ft. (3 – 4.5 m) tall. Young ironwoods have a typical pyramidal shape that gradually becomes more oval and rounded as it matures.

Ironwood trees thrive in USDA zones 3 to 9. The cold-hardy tree performs well in all growing conditions — from deep shade to full sun. As long as the soil is well-drained and not prone to flooding, ironwoods grow well in most soils.

Rowan Tree (Sorbus)

The rowan tree is a small to medium ornamental flowering tree with an attractive crown consisting of pinnately compound leaves. Rowan trees are known for their showy clusters of white spring flowers followed by colorful orange or red berries appearing in the fall. Cold-hardy deciduous rowan trees are found throughout North America and Europe.

The two main species of rowan tree are the American rowan tree (Sorbus americana) and the European rowan tree (Sorbus aucuparia).

The American rowan tree grows 15 to 35 ft. (4.5 – 10 m) tall and wide. Also called the American mountain ash, this rowan species thrives in USDA zones 2 through 6. The American rowan performs best in full sun but will also tolerate some shade during the middle of the day.

The European rowan tree is a small to medium deciduous multi-stemmed tree that grows 20 to 40 ft. (6 – 12 m) tall and 8 to 25 ft. (2.4 – 7.6 m) wide.

Also called the European mountain ash, the European rowan tree performs best in USDA zones 3 through 7. However, the small decorative tree may struggle in the coldest zones unless planted in full sun.

Boxelder Tree (Acer negundo)

The boxelder (also written box elder) is a fast-growing, short-lived deciduous tree native to North America. The tree is a species of maple tree in the genus Acer and soapberry family Sapindaceae. Due to their fast growth and suckering nature, boxwoods are sometimes considered invasive or weedy.

Boxelder trees grow between 35 and 80 ft. (10 – 25 m) tall. A characteristic of boxelder trees is their multiple trunks that can form dense thickets like huge shrubs. Therefore, regular pruning is necessary to remove suckers.

Boxelders thrive in USDA zones 2 to 10, meaning they are incredibly cold-hardy. However, they are also tolerant of drought and withstand the hot sun. The medium-sized boxelder thrives in full sun or part shade and performs well in most soils.

The identifying features of a boxelder tree are its thick, multi-stemmed growth, irregular canopy, and dense foliage. In addition, this medium-sized tree has bright green, lance-shaped ovate leaves, papery winged samaras that flutter from the tree like helicopters, and small yellow-green flowers that bloom in the spring.

Floss Silk Tree (Ceiba speciosa)

The floss silk tree is an unusual tropical thorny tree with spiky conical prickles on its erect trunk. The floss silk tree’s horizontal branches are also covered in prickles and grow to form an attractive rounded canopy. The tree’s dark green leaves contrast with the beautiful pink hibiscus-like flowers.

The floss silk tree grows up to 82 ft. (25 m) high and it has a bottle-shaped trunk that bulges near the base. The floss tree has pink flowers, with creamy-white and yellow centers and they have five slender petals in a star shape.

The floss silk tree is easily identified by its grayish conical prickles covering the cylindrical green trunk.

Sandbox Tree (Hura crepitans)

The sandbox tree is a spiky tree with smooth brown bark covered in extremely sharp, pyramid-shaped pointed prickles. The sandbox tree produces small red petal-less flowers, large ovate leaves up to 2 ft. (0.6 m) wide, and small roundish pumpkin-like fruits that explode when ripe.

The sandbox tree can be identified by its sharp, prickly protrusions on its trunk and its roundish pumpkin-like fruit.

The sandbox tree grows 200 ft. (60 m) tall and thrives in wet soils in USDA zones 10 and 11.

Devil’s Walking Stick Tree (Aralia spinosa)

The devil’s walking stick is a small thorny deciduous tree with slender stems covered in sharp brown to tan spines. The spiny tree has large leaves measuring up to 45” (120 cm) long and a rounded, umbrella-shaped crown. The tree blooms in late summer with small, creamy-white flowers that develop into purplish-black berries.

With its spiny stems, the devil’s walking stick grows up to 26 ft. (8 m) tall.

The devil’s walking stick tree can be identified by its huge tropical leaves and stems with stout, sharp spines.

Kapok (Ceiba pentandra)

Kapok is a species of large tree with sharp thorns growing extensively on its bark. Kapok trees have thorny buttress roots, large palmate leaves, and clusters of tiny yellowish-white flowers. The unique characteristic of the tree is its cotton-like downy substance surrounding the seed pods.

Kapok trees are giant tropical trees that thrive in USDA zones 10 to 12. The thorny trees can grow 75 to 125 ft. (22 – 38 m) tall and up to 75 ft. (22 m) wide.

The thorny kapok tree is identified by its straight trunk covered in stout, sharp thorns, palmate compound leaves, and creamy-white flower clusters consisting of bell-shaped flowers.

Chittamwood Tree (Sideroxylon lanuginosum)

The Chittamwood tree is a small, shrub-like tree with thorny branches. The deciduous Chittamwood tree can be identified by its spiny, stiff, woolly branches, oblong green leaves with fuzzy undersides, and clusters of purplish-black fruits. The multi-stemmed Chittamwood tree grows up to 40 ft. (12 m) tall and has a straight trunk and rounded, narrow crown.

Other common names of Chittamwood tree include woolly buckthorn, gum bumelia, and gum bully.

Osage Orange (Maclura pomifera)

The osage orange tree is a mid-sized, multi-stemmed tree with sharp thorns on its interlacing branches. This thorny deciduous tree has a rounded crown of shiny, dark green leaves and small greenish spring flowers. Due to the nasty thorns on the small shrub-like tree, the tree can be used as a security hedge or living fence.

The identifying feature of osage orange tree is its large orange-like round yellowish-green fruits. The unusual round, inedible fruits are about the size of a baseball.

Osage orange trees grow 25 to 60 ft. (7.5 – 18 m) tall. The osage orange tree thrives in USDA zones 4 to 9.

Podocarpus Trees (Podocarpus macrophyllus and Podocarpus gracilior)

Podocarpus trees are types of conifers in the family Podocarpaceae with dense evergreen foliage.

Podocarpus macrophyllus is a slow-growing small to medium-sized evergreen tree which has upright, pyramidal growth and grows to between 20 and 40 ft. (6 – 12 m) high.

Podocarpus macrophyllus trees thrive in rich, slightly acidic soil that has excellent drainage. They don’t need much watering and are relatively drought-resistant. Podocarpus macrophyllus trees thrive in zones 7 – 9.

The species Podocarpus macrophyllus also goes by the names fern pine, yew plum pine, and Buddhist pine. Although the Podocarpus plant is commonly called the Japanese yew, it’s not a true member of the Taxaceae family, which the yew belongs to.

Another type of podocarpus tree is Podocarpus gracilior which is a medium-sized evergreen conifer with a pyramidal shape. Also called weeping podocarpus trees or African fern trees, the tree has soft, dense evergreen foliage. The slow-growing shade tree grows up to 40 ft. (12 m) high. Podocarpus weeping trees thrive in zones 9 – 11.

Manzanita Tree (Arctostaphylos)

Manzanita trees are a group of small trees with shrubby growth belonging to the flowering plant genus Arctostaphylos.

The trees are native to the western coast of the United States and grow in USDA zones 8 through 10. There are around 60 species of manzanita trees, all of which have evergreen foliage apart from one.

Manzanita trees are attractive flowering plants with eye-catching red bark. The small ornamental trees bloom with bell-shaped pale pink or white flowers. The manzanita flowers are followed by small edible berries. However, the most attractive feature of the evergreen small trees is the distinctive reddish-brown or mahogany bark covering twisted, gnarled branches.

The largest species of manzanita trees, like the big berry manzanita (Arctostaphylos glauca), grow as tall as 20 ft. (6 m).

Manzanitas are valuable trees for dry landscapes because they are suitable for growing in various soil types and tolerate full sun and drought.

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• Different Kinds of Plants and Their Classification