Transforming your backyard into a lush oasis starts with choosing the right trees. Most of our 10 acres are hardwoods, predominantly oak and American beech mixed in with some white pine trees. Additionally I’ve identified several red and silver maples and some paper birch as well as black poplar.
However, our front yard features an old sugar maple, a Japanese maple tree and several lilac trees. And we, too, are in the process of planting many more trees to add further privacy and a tranquil atmosphere to our frontyard.
Whether you’re looking to create a shady retreat, enhance privacy, or add stunning seasonal colors, the right tree can make all the difference. This roundup features 20 of the best backyard trees, complete with descriptions of their unique benefits and links to make them yours.
1. Japanese Maple
Description: Known for its striking red foliage and delicate branches, the Japanese Maple adds a touch of elegance to any backyard. It thrives in partial shade and offers year-round visual interest, with vivid leaves in the fall and intricate branching in winter.
Purchase Link: Buy Japanese Maple Here
image source: https://www.thespruce.com/
2. Dogwood Tree
Description: Dogwoods are cherished for their spring blooms in shades of white or pink. They also provide colorful berries in the fall, attracting birds to your yard. Their manageable size makes them perfect for smaller backyards.
Purchase Link: Buy Dogwood Tree Here
image source: https://www.clarku.edu/
3. Eastern Redbud
Description: This tree bursts into vibrant pink-purple flowers in early spring, adding a splash of color to your landscape. It’s low maintenance and ideal for temperate climates.
Purchase Link: Buy Eastern Redbud Here
image source: https://www.kansasforests.org/
4. Magnolia Tree
Description: Magnolia trees are famed for their large, fragrant blooms. Perfect for creating a focal point in your yard, they also offer glossy green leaves that provide year-round beauty.
Purchase Link: Buy Magnolia Tree Here
image source: https://www.plantmegreen.com/
5. Weeping Willow
Description: A classic choice for adding a romantic touch to your backyard, the Weeping Willow features flowing branches that create a serene, natural canopy. It thrives near water features or moist soils.
Purchase Link: Buy Weeping Willow Here
image source: https://www.wholesalenurseryco.com
6. Arborvitae (Thuja)
Description: If privacy is your goal, Arborvitae is your tree. Its dense, evergreen foliage forms a natural screen while being low maintenance and fast-growing.
Purchase Link: Buy Arborvitae Here
image source: https://www.thesill.com/
7. Red Oak
Description: For those seeking shade, the Red Oak is a standout. This fast-growing tree has a wide canopy and vibrant red leaves in the fall, making it a versatile addition to any yard.
Purchase Link: Buy Red Oak Here
image source: https://weaverfamilyfarmsnursery.com/
8. Crepe Myrtle
Description: Add a burst of summer color with the Crepe Myrtle. Its bright flowers range from pink to purple, and its smooth, peeling bark adds texture to winter landscapes.
Purchase Link: Buy Crepe Myrtle Here
image source:https://trees.stanford.edu/
9. Birch Tree
Description: Recognizable by its white bark, the Birch Tree adds texture and elegance to any backyard. It thrives in cooler climates and grows quickly to provide shade.
Purchase Link: Buy Birch Tree Here
image source:https://www.wirapids.org/
10. Sugar Maple
Description: Perfect for those who love fall colors, the Sugar Maple offers brilliant oranges and reds in autumn. It also provides excellent shade during summer months.
Purchase Link: Buy Sugar Maple Here
image source: https://sylvangardenslandscape.com
11. Southern Live Oak
Description: Known for its sprawling branches and evergreen foliage, the Southern Live Oak creates a majestic, timeless look in large backyards.
Purchase Link: Buy Southern Live Oak Here
image source: https://southcarolinalowcountry.com
12. Tulip Tree
Description: This fast-growing tree offers unique tulip-shaped flowers in spring and provides ample shade with its large, bright green leaves.
Purchase Link: Buy Tulip Tree Here
image source: https://www.foodforestnursery.com
13. Ginkgo Biloba
Description: A living fossil, the Ginkgo Biloba has fan-shaped leaves that turn bright yellow in the fall. It’s also highly resistant to pests and pollution.
Purchase Link: Buy Ginkgo Biloba Here
image source: https://www.kew.org/
14. Apple Tree
Description: Why not enjoy the fruits of your labor? Apple Trees provide beautiful spring blooms and delicious apples in the fall, perfect for families and pollinator-friendly gardens.
Purchase Link: Buy Apple Tree Here
image source: https://www.ascentyardcare.com
15. Cherry Blossom Tree
Description: Loved for its delicate pink blooms, the Cherry Blossom Tree is an iconic symbol of springtime. Its compact size suits many yard layouts.
Purchase Link: Buy Cherry Blossom Tree Here
image source: https://gardengoodsdirect.com
16. Black Gum Tree
Description: The Black Gum Tree offers vibrant red and orange leaves in autumn and attracts wildlife with its berries. It’s an excellent choice for natural landscaping.
Purchase Link: Buy Black Gum Tree Here
image source: https://pithandvigor.com/
17. Blue Spruce
Description: This evergreen tree adds a splash of blue-green color year-round and works well as a windbreak or privacy screen. Its symmetrical shape makes it a favorite for landscapes.
Purchase Link: Buy Blue Spruce Here
image source: https://help.gardeningexpress.co.uk
18. Lemon Tree
Description: Ideal for warmer climates, such as the desert southwest, Lemon Trees provide fragrant blossoms and zesty fruits. They can even thrive in pots for smaller spaces.
Purchase Link: Buy Lemon Tree Here
image source: https://plantsexpress.com/
19. Plum Tree
Description: An edible and hardy choice, the plum trees features dark foliage and flowers in spring, adding contrast and beauty to your yard. The ripe fruit are tasty and can be used for all kinds of jams, pastries and pies.
Purchase Link: Buy Plum Here
image source: https://www.onegreenplanet.org/
20. Sycamore Tree
Description: The Sycamore Tree is a fast-growing, hardy tree with large leaves that provide excellent shade. Its mottled bark adds visual interest throughout the year.
Purchase Link: Buy Sycamore Tree Here
image source: https://www.plantingtree.com/
Your backyard deserves trees that enhance its beauty, provide comfort, and align with your needs. From shade providers to vibrant bloomers, these 20 trees offer something for every landscape style. Explore the purchase links above to bring your backyard vision to life!
More on how we planted our new trees, and what kind of trees, in our frontyard will be discussed in future blog posts.