Urban Toughness Unveiled: 5 Resilient Tree Species Succeeding in Cityscapes - Ideal Choices for City and Suburban Gardens
Urban Trees: Your Street's Best Mates* urban life ain't easy for trees* Trees in the Concrete JungleThere's no doubt about it, city life can be a harsh mistress for trees, which thrive in natural ecosystems. But fear not, with some smart tree selection and care, you can grow trees in an urban setting that will not only survive but thrive.
In the city, street trees face a host of challenges, including the scorching heat reflected off cement, urban pollution, and compacted soil that can range from sopping wet to arid as hell in times of drought. That's why choosing the right trees is crucial.
Our Top PicksGet ready to meet your new best friends – these trees will rock your street! From the iconic to the lesser-known, we've handpicked five of our favorite urban trees to help your streets breathe a bit easier.
1. Willow Oak
This bad boy is a classic! The adaptable willow oak tree (Quercus phellos) is the acme of street trees. Native to the southern US, it's a champ when it comes to heat and drought. Its narrow, willow-like leaves offer some dappled shade, and its rounded canopy makes it a perfect shade giver for a sunny street. Bonus: when fall rolls around, you'll be treated to a brilliant gold leaf show.
2. London Plane Tree
Don't let the name fool you – this tree hails from America! It's a hybrid baby, born from a love affair between the American sycamore and the Oriental plane tree. Since the American sycamore thrives along river banks, the London plane tree is similarly adaptable to wet soils. It grows quickly, is super tolerant of severe pruning, and has got some serious curb appeal with its large, attractive leaves.
3. Silver Linden
Prepare to be charmed by this beauty! The silver linden (Tilia tomentosa) could be the most beautiful tree around, with silver leaves that dance in every breeze. This fast-growing tree reaches heights of up to 70 feet (23m) and has a broad canopy of up to 50 feet (16m). It's hardy to USDA zone 4 and also boasts pale blossoms that attract pollinators.
4. Black Tupelo
This is one tough cookie! The black tupelo tree (Nyssa sylvatica) is a hardy tree that's adapted to wet and poorly drained soils. Native to the eastern US, it's also an attractive tree, with a pyramid shape, small black fruits beloved by wildlife, and a spectacular fall show – the leaves turn a brilliant red.
5. Red Maple
Red maples (Acer rubrum) are as happy in the city as they are in the country. They do great in wet or dry conditions and are adaptable to a variety of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils. They usually grow to around 50 feet (16m) tall and 30 feet (10m) wide, making them ideal for urban streets. The 'Autumn Blaze' cultivar is a popular choice, with its disease and pest resistance and ability to withstand pollution and compacted soil. When fall rolls around, you'll marvel at the spectacular display of orange, red, and purple leaves.
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About the AuthorTeo Spengler isn't just a master gardener, she's also a docent at the San Francisco Botanical Garden where she leads tours. Teo has been studying horticulture and writing about trees, plants, and gardening for over two decades. Native to Alaska, she now splits her time between San Francisco and the French Basque Country, and her yard is home to thousands of trees – her true love. Sign up for the platform newsletter and level up your green thumb today!
In an urban setting, members of the willow oak tree (Quercus phellos) family make excellent choices for street trees, offering shade and vibrant fall foliage. For those looking to enhance their home-and-garden through horticulture, consider incorporating various trees from the home-and-garden category, such as the willow oak tree, into your outdoor space, as part of your lifestyle.
