Native trees and shrubs are a vital part of any garden. Not only do they offer year round interest with colorful fruit, flowers and fall foliage, they are also an important source of food and shelter for local wildlife. Here are a few examples of native trees in Connecticut.
Acer rubrum, Red Maple, is a fast-growing shade tree reaching 40-70 feet tall. It tolerates moist sites and makes a great street tree. Red Maples have three seasons of interest with red showy flowers in the early spring, small green leaves in the summer and beautiful bright red leaves in the fall.
Cercis canadensis, Eastern Redbud, is a beautiful spring flowering tree reaching heights of 25-30 feet. Unlike most trees, the Redbud flowers directly on the branches of the tree before the heart-shaped leaves come to life. It is truly a show stopper.
Cornus florida, Flowering Dogwood, is an ornamental tree with year round interest. In the spring it has large white flowers that open before the leaves appear. The leaves are deep green throughout the summer turning to shades of red and purple in the fall. Flowering Dogwood also have shiny red fruit that provides food for many types of wildlife. During the winter, enjoy the light-colored bark on the curved branches.
Nyssa sylvatica, Sour Gum, is one of the best trees for fall foliage. Glossy dark green foliage begins to turn red or orange as early as mid summer lasting to the fall. Sour Gum is a fast grower, growing in most soils, reaching heights of 40-60 feet tall. Sour Gum make a great shade tree and are salt tolerant.
Quercus alba, White Oak, is Connecticut’s state tree. White Oaks are known to live for centuries and can reach 50-80 feet tall. When planted in the open, they develop a broad crown with many horizontal branches and are excellent for wildlife. Not only do they attract birds and squirrels but they also attract foxes, deer and rabbits.
For more information on native trees and shrubs, stop by the Garden Center and ask for one of our knowledgeable sales associates.
-Thank you to Ashley V. of Winterberry who wrote this piece.