Temperature, rainfall, and soil dictate what tree species are able to successfully grow in a particular area. There are potential problems with all tree species, but the ones we will talk about in this article have proven over time to be the most successful North Texas trees. Two to four-inch caliper trees are usually recommended in most residential lots. It takes about 3 years for a tree to start thriving and become established.
Keep reading to find out what are the best trees for North Texas and why you should plant these in your yard!
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North Texas Trees – Common Types and Their Characteristics
1. American Elm
American elm is loved for its graceful, stately shape, branches that spread like fountains, and lovely green leaves that turn gold in fall. This tree prefers full sun and alkaline or clay, moist soil. It grows moderately fast, so it is considered to be one of the best trees to plant in Dallas area.
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The downside of this tree is that it is susceptible to a devastating pathogen called “Dutch elm disease”. Still, there are some hybrid species that are more resistant and available for planting. American elm is one of the most popular North Texas trees.
2. Bald Cypress
Bald cypress is a conifer, but unlike many other conifers, it is a deciduous tree. It is often found in groupings in parks or larger spaces like around lakes or along streets. A new set of needles grows each spring, so this tree always looks very healthy. One of its outstanding characteristics is the russet-red fall color of its lacy needles.
This tree can grow up to 70 feet in height when fully mature. It prefers acidic, wet soil, and full to partial sun exposure.
3. Bur Oak
Bur oak is a tree that adapts very well to urban settings since it is tolerant of a variety of soil and moisture conditions. It is a tree that has a very long lifespan, thus can make a great addition in your back yard. Bur oak produces acorns that attract squirrels, mice, rabbits, and other wildlife.
This tree can reach up to 80 feet in height at maturity but has a very slow growth rate. Full sun is the ideal condition for this tree, which means you have to plant it in a spot with at least six hours of direct sunlight.
4. Cedar Elm
Cedar elm is very hard in adverse conditions, but it is also a lovely tree that provides nice shade. It tolerates wet soil and drought and has been commonly used as a street tree across North Texas. With proper care, cedar elm can be considered as one of the best trees for North Texas gardens.
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It can reach up to 70 feet in height at maturity and has a medium growth rate. Tree services Texas recommend at least six hours of direct sunlight for the tree to grow properly.
5. Live Oak
Live oak is a magnificent, broadleaf evergreen that adds a lot to your landscape. It grows really fast when it’s young, but is able to survive for centuries. It can grow almost in any type of soil and is usually used as a street tree.
Live oaks are one of the most popular trees in Fort Worth due to their adaptability and look. This tree can reach up to 80 feet in height at maturity and has a medium growth rate.
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6. Pecan
Pecan trees have oval or rounded wide-spreading crowns and massive trunks. It bears within 10 years of planting and the tree produces a lot of sweet nuts that are very common in American cuisine, especially since pecans are used in the traditional American pie.
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This is one of the best trees for North Texas due to numerous reasons. Medium growth rate and full sun are optimal, and pecan trees prefer acidic, wet soils. Pecans attract deer, squirrels, foxes, and several bird species due to their nuts. Its handsome grain is very appreciated in the woodworking world.
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7. Shumard Oak
Shumard oak is another stately tree with great urban adaptability and beautiful fall color. It grows relatively fast and is drought tolerant. This tree prefers well-drained soil and produces small acorns that attract squirrels.
The tree has a medium growth rate and can reach up to 60 feet in height at maturity. Full sun is optimal for proper growth.
8. Deodar Cedar
Deodar cedar is considered to be the most graceful cedar. Its attractive colors, elegant, pendulous branches, and pleasing shape are the reasons why this tree is so popular in North Texas. It is born to be a landscape specimen.
This evergreen tree can grow up to 70 feet in height when fully mature. It grows at a medium rate and prefers full sun for optimal growth. Acidic, moist soil is preferred, but the tree tolerates drought, too. It has been successfully used as a street tree and it makes a soft windscreen. This cedar produces an aromatic oil that deters insects naturally, so it usually has no problems with tree diseases in Fort Worth.
What trees grow best in North Texas?
Shumard oaks, bur oaks, some types of elm, and cypress trees grow best in North Texas. These trees usually grow at a medium rate once they’re established, but they are fast growers when they are young. They usually reach about 70-80 feet in height when fully mature and can withstand all types of diseases and pests.
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Local Tree Experts Overview
When it comes to North Texas trees, elm, cypress, and oak trees are usually the most popular and the most successfully grown. Still, you have to choose a suitable location for these trees when you’re planting. Make sure to consult with your local arborist about this to get the advice and guidance on how to do it. Trees in North Texas are usually adaptable to different types of soil and prefer full sun, which is perfect since the climate and temperature fits them.
