Top 10 Trees for New Jersey Landscapes: A Guide for Professionals
Northern Red Oak (Quercus rubra)
The Northern Red Oak is not only a resilient and majestic tree but also holds the honor of being New Jersey's state tree. Known for its strong wood and brilliant fall color, it’s a staple in both residential and commercial landscapes across the state.
- Benefits: State tree of New Jersey, strong wood, vibrant fall foliage.
- Best Uses: Parks, large estates, public spaces, residential landscapes.
Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis)
The Eastern Redbud is a small, ornamental tree prized for its early spring blooms of pinkish-purple flowers. It adds a burst of color to any landscape, making it a favorite among landscape architects.
- Benefits: Early flowering, attractive heart-shaped leaves, supports wildlife.
- Best Uses: Ornamental borders, small gardens, accent planting.
Red Maple (Acer rubrum)
The Red Maple is one of the most popular choices for New Jersey landscapes, known for its vibrant fall colors ranging from bright red to orange. It’s a versatile tree that can grow in various soil types and climates.
- Benefits: Fast-growing, excellent fall color, adaptable.
- Best Uses: Street trees, shade trees, ornamental planting.
Serviceberry (Amelanchier canadensis)
Serviceberry is a multi-stemmed tree that offers year-round interest with spring flowers, summer berries, and vibrant fall foliage. It’s perfect for adding diversity to a landscape project.
- Benefits: Multi-season interest, edible berries, attracts birds.
- Best Uses: Ornamental gardens, wildlife gardens, borders.
American Holly (Ilex opaca)
The American Holly is an evergreen tree that retains its dark green foliage year-round, with bright red berries adding a festive touch in winter. It’s an excellent choice for creating privacy screens.
- Benefits: Year-round foliage, winter interest, privacy screen.
- Best Uses: Hedges, privacy screens, specimen planting.
River Birch (Betula nigra)
The River Birch is known for its distinctive peeling bark, which provides visual interest even in the winter months. It’s well-suited to wet areas and can thrive in a variety of soils.
- Benefits: Tolerant of wet soils, attractive bark, fast-growing.
- Best Uses: Wetlands, riparian buffers, ornamental planting.
Flowering Dogwood (Cornus florida)
The Flowering Dogwood is a classic choice for New Jersey landscapes, offering beautiful white or pink flowers in spring. It’s a medium-sized tree that works well in both residential and commercial settings.
- Benefits: Stunning spring flowers, attractive fall foliage, supports wildlife.
- Best Uses: Ornamental borders, small to medium landscapes, accent planting.
Japanese Zelkova (Zelkova serrata)
Japanese Zelkova is a durable tree that’s resistant to Dutch elm disease, making it a popular substitute for American Elm. It features an attractive vase shape and beautiful fall color.
- Benefits: Disease-resistant, strong wood, attractive shape.
- Best Uses: Street trees, shade trees, commercial landscapes.
Sugar Maple (Acer saccharum)
The Sugar Maple is famous for its role in maple syrup production, but it’s also an excellent choice for landscapes due to its brilliant fall foliage and dense canopy.
- Benefits: Brilliant fall color, dense shade, long-lived.
- Best Uses: Shade trees, parks, large estates.
Pin Oak (Quercus palustris)
The Pin Oak is a fast-growing oak with a distinctive pyramidal shape, making it a favorite for large landscapes. Its bright green leaves turn a deep red in fall, adding seasonal interest.
- Benefits: Fast-growing, attractive shape, good fall color.
- Best Uses: Street trees, large residential properties, parks.
Conclusion
Choosing the right trees for your New Jersey landscape projects is crucial for creating beautiful, sustainable, and functional spaces. These top 10 trees offer a range of options for various environments and design goals. At Plant Detectives, we provide a wide selection of high-quality trees perfect for any landscape project. Contact us today to discuss your needs or visit our wholesale nursery in Chester, NJ.