Nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to love about California. The state is home to miles of pristine coastline, jaw-dropping mountain ranges, and sprawling deserts. There are also a wealth of activities to enjoy, from hiking and biking to skiing and surfing. But one of the best things about California is its diverse array of trees. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best trees for backyard gardens in both Southern and Northern California.
7 Best Trees for Your Southern California Backyard
Whether you’re looking to add some shade to your backyard or simply want to spruce up your landscaping, there are plenty of great tree options available to Californians.
Southern California is well-known for its sunny weather and beautiful scenery. From the beaches to the mountains, there is no shortage of things to see and do.
And what better way to enjoy the region than from the comfort of your own backyard? If you’re looking to add some greenery to your space, here are seven of the best trees for your Southern California backyard.
1) Jacaranda Tree
The South California landscape is incomplete without the Jacaranda Tree. This symbol of South California is widely known for its brief but beautiful display of purple blooms. Every Spring, these trees burst into color, creating a sea of violet flowers that can be seen from miles away.
For a few weeks, the Jacaranda tree reigns supreme, drawing the attention of everyone who sees it. But as quickly as the flowers appear, they fall away, leaving behind a green canopy that provides welcome shade on hot summer days. The Jacaranda Tree may be ephemeral, but its beauty is unforgettable.
2) Camphor Tree
The South California landscape is dotted with the distinctive silhouettes of camphor trees. Their thick, leathery leaves and smooth, gray bark make these evergreen trees easily recognizable. Camphor trees are native to East Asia, but they have been planted in many other parts of the world, including South California.
The tree gets its name from the strong, aromatic scent of its bark and leaves. This fragrance is used in various products, including air fresheners and insect repellents.
Camphor trees are also popular ornamental plants thanks to their attractive appearance and ability to thrive in harsh conditions. Whether you’re looking to add a touch of flavor to your home or simply want a tough and beautiful tree for your yard, a camphor tree may be a perfect choice.
3) Magnolia Tree
South California is famous for its many Magnolia trees. These beautiful trees are highly sought after by landscapers and homeowners alike. Their large, showy flowers are produced in early spring, and their glossy green leaves provide year-round interest.
In addition, Magnolia trees are relatively drought-tolerant and can thrive in a variety of soil types. However, they do require regular pruning to maintain their shape and size. With proper care, Magnolia trees can provide years of enjoyment for South California residents.
4) California Fan Palm
The South California landscape wouldn’t be the same without the towering California fan palm. These majestic palms can grow up to 80 feet tall and have long, sweeping leaves that can span up to 20 feet across.
Although they’re commonly seen in desert areas, California fan palms can also be found in other parts of the state, including coastal regions.
California fan palms are an excellent choice for those looking to add some height and drama to their backyard. However, they do require a lot of water and care. If you’re up for the challenge, a California fan palm can make a stunning addition to your yard.
5) Evergreen Pear
The evergreen pear tree is a popular choice for South California gardens. These stately trees can grow up to 40 feet tall and are covered in glossy green leaves that provide year-round interest. In spring, the trees produce white flowers that give way to small, edible fruit.
Evergreen pear trees are relatively easy to care for and are tolerant of a wide range of conditions. However, they do require regular pruning to maintain their shape and size.
6) Silk Tree
The silk tree is a fast-growing tree that is native to East Asia. It has been planted in South California for its beautiful flowers and attractive foliage. The tree gets its name from the silky, white flowers that it produces in spring.
The flowers are followed by small, black fruits that are popular with birds. Silk trees are also known for their ability to tolerate a wide range of conditions, including drought and pollution. Backyard gardeners in South California often choose silk trees for their beauty and versatility.
7) Mimosa Tree
Known for its beautiful pink flowers, the mimosa tree is a popular choice for South California gardens. These fast-growing trees can reach up to 30 feet tall and are covered in delicate, fern-like leaves. In spring, the trees produce an abundance of pink flowers that attract bees and other pollinators.
7 Best Trees for Your Northern California Backyard
Northern California is a region of great beauty, with a diverse landscape that includes tall mountains, rolling hills, and dense forests. The area is also home to a wide variety of trees, each of which has its own unique features. Here are seven of the best trees for your Northern California backyard:
1) Redwood
A classic California tree, the redwood is known for its stately stature and deep green color. These towering giants can grow up to 300 feet tall, making them one of the tallest tree species in the world. Redwoods are also very long-lived, with some specimens living for over 2000 years.
Although they’re mostly found in forests, redwoods can also make an impressive addition to your backyard. However, they do require a lot of space and care. If you have the room and are up for the challenge, a redwood can add a touch of majesty to your yard.
2) California Sycamore
The California sycamore is a large tree that is native to the state. It can grow up to 100 feet tall and has a wide, spreading canopy that provides ample shade. The tree’s trunk is often gnarled and twisted, giving it an interesting appearance.
California sycamores are a popular choice for backyard gardens, as they provide a generous amount of shade. However, they can be messy, as they drop a lot of leaves and seed pods. The tree also has a shallow root system that can damage sidewalks and patios.
If you’re looking for a shady spot in your yard, the California sycamore is a good option. Just be prepared to deal with the mess.
3) American Red Maple Tree
These fast-growing trees can reach up to 50 feet tall and are known for their vibrant fall foliage. The leaves turn a beautiful shade of red in autumn, making the tree a standout in the landscape.
4) California Buckeye
The California buckeye is a small tree that is native to the state. It can grow up to 30 feet tall and has a spreading canopy of branches. The tree’s most notable feature is its large, glossy leaves that turn golden in fall.
In spring, the California buckeye produces clusters of small, white flowers. These are followed by seed pods that contain poisonous nuts.
Despite its toxicity, the California buckeye is a popular choice for backyard gardens. The tree is tolerant of a wide range of conditions and is relatively easy to care for. Just be sure to keep children and pets away from the nuts.
5) Fremont Cottonwood
Known for its fast growth rate, the Fremont cottonwood can reach up to 50 feet tall in just a few years. This tree is often used for shade and privacy due to its dense foliage. The Fremont cottonwood is also one of the few trees that can thrive in wet soils.
In spring, the Fremont cottonwood produces fluffy seeds that are dispersed by the wind. The tree also produces a large amount of pollen, which can be a problem for people with allergies.
If you’re looking for a fast-growing tree that provides privacy, the Fremont cottonwood is a good option. Just be aware of the allergy potential.
6) California Black Walnut
The California Black Walnut is a North California native that is known for its distinctive dark wood. The tree typically grows to a height of 50-70 feet and has a diameter of 2-3 feet. The leaves are alternate, simple, and pinnately compound with 10-16 leaflets.
The flowers are small, greenish-yellow, and borne in clusters of 3-5. The fruit is a drupe that is dark brown or black in color. The nuts of the California Black Walnut are edible and have a sweet flavor. The tree is used for lumber, furniture, cabinetry, and veneer. It is also an important source of food for wildlife.
7) Crepe Myrtle
If you’re looking for a tree with showy flowers, the crepe myrtle is a good option. This small tree typically grows to a height of 20-30 feet and produces clusters of pink, purple, or white flowers in summer. The flowers are followed by small, black fruits.
It is an excellent option for those who want to add color to their garden. The tree is also drought-tolerant and relatively easy to care for. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew, so be sure to provide adequate air circulation.
Best trees for backyard California: Final Thoughts
There are a variety of trees that can thrive in California gardens. When choosing a tree for your garden, consider your climate and the amount of space you have.
Also, be sure to choose a tree that is suitable for the level of care you are able to provide.
Related Article: Is Butterfly Bush Native to California?