Small Trees, Big Impact: Maximize Your Garden’s Potential

Here are 42 of the best small trees, each chosen for their suitability to compact spaces and their ability to add beauty and interest to the landscape:

Japanese Snowbell, Styrax japonicus, Small Tree,

Small gardens offer a unique opportunity to create intimate and detailed landscapes where every plant choice significantly impacts the overall aesthetic. Choosing the right small trees can transform these compact spaces into lush, layered retreats, offering shade, color, and structure throughout the year.

What is a Small Tree?

A small tree is typically defined as a tree that reaches a maximum height of about 15 to 30 feet (4.5 to 9 meters) at maturity. These trees often have a compact growth habit, making them suitable for small gardens, landscapes with limited space, or under power lines.

Small trees can provide a variety of landscaping benefits, including shade and aesthetic appeal through flowers, foliage, bark, and even fruits, without the extensive root systems or towering heights that larger ones have. They are ideal for adding structure and interest to urban gardens, patios, and other confined areas where space is at a premium.

The best small trees bring multiple seasons of interest without overwhelming the space. They are selected not just for their manageable size but also for their distinctive characteristics — be it spring blossoms, interesting bark, vibrant fall foliage, or striking winter silhouettes. They serve as focal points, frame views, and provide privacy, all while supporting local biodiversity.

Best Small Trees

Chionanthus virginicus (Fringe Tree)

The Fringe Tree (Chionanthus virginicus) is a captivating deciduous shrub or small tree. It boasts abundant clouds of fragrant, creamy-white flowers in late spring, followed by dark blue fruit in summer. With golden-yellow fall foliage, it offers year-round beauty and provides food for birds. A true delight for any garden.

Hardiness	3 - 9
Plant type	Shrubs, Trees
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Height	12' - 20' (3.7m - 6.1m)
Spread	12' - 20' (3.7m - 6.1m)

Carpinus caroliniana (American Hornbeam)

Carpinus caroliniana, or American Hornbeam, showcases year-round beauty. This slow-growing, deciduous tree has an upright-spreading habit and a rounded crown. Leaves, emerging reddish-purple, become dark green, then shift to yellow to orange-red in fall. Spring catkins lead to winged nutlets, enhancing its appeal. The fluted blue-gray winter bark adds landscape value. Ideal for naturalizing or as a specimen in shaded areas, it’s native to eastern North America and perfect for woodlands, streamsides, or urban settings.

Hardiness	3 - 9
Plant type	Trees
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade
Height	20' - 30' (6.1m - 9.1m)
Spread	20' - 30' (6.1m - 9.1m)

Brugmansia x candida ‘Grand Marnier’ (Angel’s Trumpet)

Award-winning Brugmansia × candida ‘Grand Marnier’ is a vigorous, tropical shrub or small tree, showcasing huge, pendulous, soft peach-pink trumpet-shaped flowers, up to 12 inches long, from midsummer to fall. The blooms, set against glossy, mid-green leaves, emit a strong evening fragrance and change shape with the day’s cycle. Dating back to the 1920s, this cultivar makes a dramatic, fragrant focal point in any garden.

Hardiness	9 - 11
Plant type	Shrubs, Trees
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Height	8' - 10' (240cm - 3m)
Spread	6' - 8' (180cm - 240cm)

Parrotia persica (Persian Ironwood)

Parrotia persica, commonly known as Persian Ironwood, is a deciduous tree native to Northern Iran and the Caucasus. Celebrated for its vibrant autumn foliage and intricate, peeling bark, this tree offers year-round interest. It’s hardy, adaptable, and resists deer, making it an excellent choice for diverse landscapes. Blooms appear in late winter, adding a subtle splash of color.

Hardiness	4 - 7
Plant type	Shrubs, Trees
Exposure	Full Sun
Height	15' - 30' (4.6m - 9.1m)
Spread	15' - 30' (4.6m - 9.1m)

Arbutus unedo (Strawberry Tree)

Arbutus unedo (Strawberry Tree) is a charming, evergreen shrub or small tree with four-season interest. It bears drooping clusters of fragrant, white flowers in fall, followed by round fruits that ripen from yellow to red over a year. The tree’s gray-brown bark peels to reveal a beautiful cinnamon-colored inner layer.

Hardiness	7 - 10
Plant type	Shrubs, Trees
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Height	6' - 15' (180cm - 4.6m)
Spread	6' - 15' (180cm - 4.6m)

Olea europaea (Common Olive)

Olea europaea, the Olive Tree, is a versatile and attractive plant ideal for both indoor and outdoor use. Known for its slender, silvery-green leaves and distinctive gnarled trunk, it adds a Mediterranean charm to any space. Indoors, it thrives in bright sunlight with minimal watering, while outdoors, it prefers sunny, well-drained locations and is drought-tolerant once established. Besides its ornamental appeal, the Olive Tree can produce olives under the right conditions. Its suitability for container growing makes it a great choice for patios and as an indoor plant, contributing tranquility and natural beauty to its surroundings.

Hardiness	8 - 10
Plant type	Shrubs, Trees
Exposure	Full Sun
Height	20' - 30' (6.1m - 9.1m)
Spread	20' - 30' (6.1m - 9.1m)

Acer griseum (Paperbark Maple)

Renowned for its stunning exfoliating bark and vibrant autumn foliage, Acer griseum (Paperbark Maple) is a prized deciduous tree. Its chestnut-brown bark peels into thin curls, exposing a cinnamon-red inner layer. Even young branches contribute to this appealing effect. The three-lobed leaves are dark green with a frosty blue-green underside in spring and summer, turning brilliant red and orange in fall before winter dormancy.

Hardiness	4 - 8
Plant type	Trees
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Height	20' - 30' (6.1m - 9.1m)
Spread	15' - 25' (4.6m - 7.6m)

Halesia carolina (Carolina Silverbell)

Halesia carolina, or Carolina Silverbell, is a decorative deciduous shrub or small tree. It displays white, bell-shaped flowers in mid-spring, later producing unique 4-winged fruits. Squirrels and bees are attracted to its seeds and nectar, respectively. The leaves turn yellow in autumn. Growing moderately, it can live up to a century, thriving as either a large shrub or a small tree, enhancing various garden settings.

Hardiness	4 - 8
Plant type	Shrubs, Trees
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Height	30' - 40' (9.1m - 12.2m)
Spread	20' - 35' (6.1m - 10.7m)

Laburnum x watereri ‘Vossii’ (Golden Chain Tree)

Laburnum x watereri ‘Vossii’, the Golden Chain Tree, is a stunning large shrub or small tree that dazzles in late spring with its cascades of fragrant, pea-like yellow flowers, resembling golden chains, up to 24 inches long. Followed by bean-like pods, its glossy, deep green leaves enhance its beauty. This hybrid, a cross between L. alpinum and L. anagyroides, stands out for its lengthy racemes and denser flower clusters, with fewer poisonous seeds, which are often removed to promote next year’s bloom.

Hardiness	6 - 8
Plant type	Shrubs, Trees
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Height	15' - 30' (4.6m - 9.1m)
Spread	15' - 30' (4.6m - 9.1m)

Franklinia alatamaha (Franklin Tree)

Franklinia alatamaha (Franklin Tree) is a small deciduous tree with spreading branches, glossy green leaves, and vibrant fall colors. Its large white flowers, resembling camellias, are fragrant and attractively adorned with yellow stamens. Discovered in the 18th century and now extinct in the wild, this prized tree requires precise moisture levels, well-drained acidic soil, and careful care for successful cultivation. Native to Georgia (USA).

Hardiness	5 - 9
Plant type	Trees
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Height	10' - 20' (3m - 6.1m)
Spread	6' - 15' (180cm - 4.6m)

Syringa reticulata (Japanese Tree Lilac)

Syringa reticulata, or Japanese Tree Lilac, is a versatile large shrub or small tree with an oval or rounded crown. It displays clusters of creamy-white, fragrant flowers in early summer, followed by tan winter capsules. The tree has pointed, dark green leaves and distinctive reddish-brown, peeling bark. Resilient to mildew and scale, it’s well-suited for cooler climates and makes a stunning landscape tree or specimen plant.

Hardiness	3 - 7
Plant type	Shrubs, Trees
Exposure	Full Sun
Height	20' - 30' (6.1m - 9.1m)
Spread	15' - 20' (4.6m - 6.1m)

Eriobotrya japonica (Japanese Loquat)

Eriobotrya japonica, or Japanese Loquat, is a versatile evergreen, serving as a large shrub or small tree. Its attractive, leathery leaves are glossy green above and softly hairy below. Late fall to winter brings fragrant white flowers in large panicles, succeeded by juicy, apricot-yellow fruits ripening in late spring to early summer. Ideal for warm-climate gardens, Loquat is great in patio containers or espaliered, offering architectural beauty and delicious fruits for fresh eating or culinary use.

Hardiness	8 - 11
Plant type	Shrubs, Trees
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Height	10' - 25' (3m - 7.6m)
Spread	10' - 25' (3m - 7.6m)

Magnolia virginiana (Sweet Bay Magnolia)

Magnolia virginiana, or Sweet Bay Magnolia, is a highly prized tree known for its attractive foliage, smooth bark, and fragrant flowers. It can be grown as a slender tree or multi-stemmed shrub. The lanceolate green leaves have silvery undersides, while the lemon-scented, cup-shaped flowers bloom from mid-spring to summer. It produces cone-like fruits with vibrant red seeds. Native to the southeastern United States.

Hardiness	5 - 10
Plant type	Shrubs, Trees
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Height	10' - 35' (3m - 10.7m)
Spread	10' - 35' (3m - 10.7m)

Styrax japonicus (Japanese Snowbell)

Styrax japonicus, the Japanese Snowbell, is a stunning deciduous tree noted for its gracefully spreading branches and rounded crown. Fragrant, bell-shaped white flowers with golden-yellow stamens gracefully hang in racemes from late spring to early summer, clearly visible beneath the upward-turning leaves. Glossy green foliage transitions to golden yellow and orange in autumn, while the smooth gray bark peels back on mature trees to reveal orange inner layers, enhancing winter interest. An excellent choice for patios, offering beauty across seasons.

Hardiness	6 - 8
Plant type	Trees
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Height	20' - 30' (6.1m - 9.1m)
Spread	20' - 30' (6.1m - 9.1m)

Picea glauca var. albertiana ‘Conica’ (White Spruce)

Incredibly popular, Picea glauca var. albertiana ‘Conica’ (White Spruce) is a dense, cone-shaped, dwarf evergreen conifer with perfectly uniform branching. Emerging light green, its fine needles turn to blue-green as they mature. A slow grower, 4 in. per year (10 cm), this Dwarf White Spruce makes a glorious accent in a mixed border and is perfect in any garden settings. Great for topiaries too.

Hardiness	2 - 6
Plant type	Conifers, Shrubs, Trees
Exposure	Full Sun
Height	3' - 13' (90cm - 4m)
Spread	2' - 10' (60cm - 3m)

Eucalyptus pauciflora subsp. niphophila (Alpine Snow Gum)

Remarkably resilient, the Alpine Snow Gum is a compact evergreen tree or large shrub with an open structure, featuring an extraordinary smooth bark that peels away in ribbons, revealing layers of cream, gray, and green. Its young branches exhibit vibrant red bark, making for an impressive display. Adult leaves transition from blue-gray and ovate to a glossy blue-green and elliptical. During the summer, this slow-growing Eucalyptus variety bursts into fluffy, small, white flower clusters. Ideal for high-altitude and coastal locations, as well as most gardens, its eye-catching bark becomes a focal point.

Hardiness	7 - 10
Plant type	Shrubs, Trees
Exposure	Full Sun
Height	12' - 25' (3.7m - 7.6m)
Spread	8' - 12' (240cm - 3.7m)

Juniperus scopulorum ‘Blue Arrow’ (Rocky Mountain Juniper)

Juniperus scopulorum ‘Blue Arrow’ is a slender, upright juniper prized for its dense, columnar shape and striking blue-green foliage. It is perfect for creating vertical accents in landscapes. Hardy and low-maintenance, it’s ideal for narrow spaces, privacy screens, and as a specimen plant, offering year-round visual interest.

Hardiness	4 - 9
Plant type	Conifers, Shrubs, Trees
Exposure	Full Sun
Height	10' - 15' (3m - 4.6m)
Spread	1' - 2' (30cm - 60cm)

Prunus americana (American Plum)

Prunus americana, the American Plum, is a captivating small tree or large shrub, boasting a graceful crown and ovate leaves that turn from dark green to striking red or yellow in fall. Mid-spring unveils fragrant white flowers, leading to edible red plums by early summer, enjoyed by wildlife and perfect for culinary use. Though its twigs may form thorns, its ornamental appeal and fast growth make it ideal as a specimen or for hedgerows.

Hardiness	3 - 8
Plant type	Shrubs, Trees
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Height	15' - 25' (4.6m - 7.6m)
Spread	15' - 25' (4.6m - 7.6m)

Malus ‘Camelot’ (Crabapple)

Malus ‘Camelot’ is a delightful dwarf Crabapple tree with year-round appeal. Fragrant white blossoms tinged with fuchsia-pink emerge from red buds in mid-spring. Abundant burgundy fruits mature in fall, attracting birds and suitable for making jellies. The dark green leaves turn golden in autumn. Compact and disease-resistant, ‘Camelot’ is perfect for small gardens.

Hardiness	4 - 8
Plant type	Trees
Exposure	Full Sun
Height	9' - 10' (270cm - 3m)
Spread	7' - 8' (210cm - 240cm)

Juniperus scopulorum ‘Wichita Blue’ (Rocky Mountain Juniper)

Prized for its blue or blue-gray foliage, Juniperus scopulorum (Rocky Mountain Juniper) is a slow-growing, compact, conical evergreen conifer that retains its silver-blue color all year. This male Juniper does not produce berries. ‘Wichita Blue’ is a graceful ornamental that is useful for screens and hedges. Drought, salt spray, erosion, and air pollution tolerant, it does not perform well in wet soils, high humidity, or high night temperatures. It is also intolerant to ice.

Hardiness	3 - 7
Plant type	Conifers, Shrubs, Trees
Exposure	Full Sun
Height	10' - 15' (3m - 4.6m)
Spread	4' - 6' (120cm - 180cm)

Stewartia ovata (Mountain Camellia)

Stewartia ovata, the Mountain Camellia, is a versatile plant, either a large shrub or small tree, known for its upright branches and dense, dark green foliage. Mid-summer brings large, camellia-like white flowers with purple stamens and orange anthers, followed by small, woody capsules containing shiny brown seeds. In autumn, the leaves turn vibrant orange and scarlet, while winter unveils its distinctive cinnamon-colored, peeling bark. Although slow-growing and requiring careful cultivation, Mountain Camellia is an outstanding choice for a focal or specimen plant in the garden.

Hardiness	5 - 9
Plant type	Shrubs, Trees
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Height	10' - 15' (3m - 4.6m)
Spread	10' - 15' (3m - 4.6m)

Ginkgo biloba ‘Mariken’ (Maidenhair Tree)

Ginkgo biloba ‘Mariken’, a dwarf Maidenhair Tree, boasts a unique semi-pendulous form with dense, fan-shaped leaves that turn a vivid golden yellow in autumn. Growing slowly at 2 inches annually, it remains visually striking throughout the year, even in winter with its distinctive silhouette. This male cultivar, free from fruit, is ideal for small spaces, container gardening, or bonsai cultivation, offering an exotic touch and exceptional pollution tolerance.

Hardiness	3 - 9
Plant type	Conifers, Shrubs, Trees
Exposure	Full Sun
Height	2' - 3' (60cm - 90cm)
Spread	7' - 8' (210cm - 240cm)

Picea pungens ‘Bialobok’ (Colorado Spruce)

Picea pungens ‘Bialobok’ (Colorado Spruce) is a small, evergreen conifer of elegant conical habit with brilliant creamy-white new growth in spring. As the season progresses, the foliage changes to an attractive silvery-blue. A slow grower, 4-6 in. per year 10-15 cm, this striking Colorado Spruce stands out in the landscape. Perfect as a focal point in a sunny border where its golden spring foliage will make a pleasing contrast with the other plants.

Hardiness	2 - 8
Plant type	Conifers, Shrubs, Trees
Exposure	Full Sun
Height	4' - 5' (120cm - 150cm)
Spread	2' - 3' (60cm - 90cm)

Pinus mugo ‘Gnom’ (Mugo Pine)

Pinus mugo ‘Gnom’ is a slow-growing dwarf, evergreen Mugo Pine that adds charm and exoticism to the garden. It forms a tight, globular mound with a dense foliage of deep jade-green needles. It is a very appealing addition to small gardens.

Hardiness	3 - 7
Plant type	Conifers, Shrubs
Exposure	Full Sun
Height	1' - 8' (30cm - 240cm)
Spread	2' - 8' (60cm - 240cm)

Clerodendrum trichotomum (Harlequin Glorybower)

Clerodendrum trichotomum, or Harlequin Glorybower, stands out as a deciduous shrub or small tree with ornamental appeal, celebrated for its fragrant white flowers and vivid fruit. From midsummer, it bears clusters of blooms with pink calyces, attracting various pollinators. These flowers give way to metallic blue fruits with red calyces, against dark green, peanut butter-scented leaves. An excellent choice for adding late-season color to the garden.

Hardiness	7 - 10
Plant type	Shrubs, Trees
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Height	10' - 20' (3m - 6.1m)
Spread	10' - 20' (3m - 6.1m)

Maackia amurensis (Amur Maackia)

Maackia amurensis, known as Amur Maackia, is a robust, slow-growing deciduous tree with a broad, rounded canopy of dark olive green leaves. While its foliage typically drops in fall without a color change, its early summer bloom of fragrant, white, pea-like flowers attracts numerous pollinators. These blooms give way to flat seed pods, complementing its visually striking, peeling coppery-bronze bark. Amur Maackia is an undemanding addition to any landscape, suitable as a street or shade tree and perfect for lawns and patio containers.

Hardiness	3 - 7
Plant type	Trees
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Height	20' - 30' (6.1m - 9.1m)
Spread	20' - 30' (6.1m - 9.1m)

Oxydendrum arboreum (Sourwood)

Oxydendrum arboreum, or Sourwood, is prized for its year-round charm. This slow-growing deciduous tree has a slender trunk and pyramid-shaped crown. Glossy, finely-toothed leaves turn from green to vibrant crimson and purple in autumn. Early summer brings fragrant, white flowers, attracting bees, followed by silver-gray seed capsules persisting through winter. The tree’s ridged gray bark adds winter interest, and its flowers are renowned for producing exquisite honey.

Hardiness	5 - 9
Plant type	Trees
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Height	20' - 30' (6.1m - 9.1m)
Spread	20' - 30' (6.1m - 9.1m)

Pinus sylvestris ‘Glauca’ (Scots Pine)

The Pinus sylvestris ‘Glauca’, a variant of Scots Pine, showcases a slow-growing, pyramidal shape with an umbrella-like crown, featuring glaucous blue-green needles that turn silvery blue in winter. Its bark contrasts in color, with dark gray-brown at the base and bright copper-orange above. Hardy and pollution-tolerant, it’s ideal for specimens, screens, and windbreaks.

Hardiness	3 - 7
Plant type	Conifers, Trees
Exposure	Full Sun
Height	8' - 30' (240cm - 9.1m)
Spread	8' - 20' (240cm - 6.1m)

Sorbus americana (American Mountain Ash)

Sorbus americana, or American Mountain Ash, is a compact shrub or tree celebrated for its open crown and elegant foliage that transitions from dark green to vibrant autumn hues. Late spring blossoms give way to striking orange-red berries, nourishing migrating birds into winter. Its form, flowering, and colorful display make it a year-round standout, with smooth gray bark that adds winter interest as it ages.

Hardiness	3 - 6
Plant type	Shrubs, Trees
Exposure	Full Sun
Height	10' - 30' (3m - 9.1m)
Spread	10' - 30' (3m - 9.1m)

x Chitalpa tashkentensis (Chitalpa)

x Chitalpa tashkentensis, the Chitalpa tree, is a fast-growing, deciduous tree featuring a low, rounded canopy of narrow, medium green leaves. From midsummer to early fall, it showcases spectacular panicles of pink to white trumpet-shaped flowers. Its pale grayish-white bark provides winter interest. A cross between Catalpa bignonioides and Chilopsis linearis, this sterile tree is appreciated for its beauty without the mess of seed pods.

Hardiness	6 - 11
Plant type	Trees
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Height	20' - 35' (6.1m - 10.7m)
Spread	20' - 35' (6.1m - 10.7m)

Pinus nigra ‘Green Tower’ (Austrian Pine)

A bold exclamation mark in the landscape, Pinus nigra ‘Green Tower’ (Austrian Pine) is a sturdy evergreen conifer of columnar habit, adorned with the lush foliage of rich, dark green needles. Borne in bundles of two, they persist for 4-7 years on the tree. Slow-growing, 4-6 in. per year (10-15 cm), this lovely narrow Austrian Pine is perfect for tight spaces and small gardens. Makes an excellent specimen, screen, or windbreak.

Hardiness	5 - 8
Plant type	Conifers, Trees
Exposure	Full Sun
Height	6' - 8' (180cm - 240cm)
Spread	1' - 2' (30cm - 60cm)

Acer palmatum (Japanese Maple)

Native to Japan, Korea, and China, Acer palmatum encompasses a diverse range of deciduous shrubs and small trees. Known as Japanese Maples, they exhibit graceful habits, intricately lobed leaves, and stunning foliage that transitions to vibrant hues of gold, red, purple, and bronze in autumn.

Hardiness	5 - 9
Plant type	Shrubs, Trees
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Height	4' - 25' (120cm - 7.6m)
Spread	4' - 25' (120cm - 7.6m)

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Amelanchier (Serviceberry)

Serviceberry, a versatile shrub or tree, offers year-round beauty. In spring, it blooms with delicate white flowers, followed by edible berries. Its vibrant fall foliage adds to its charm, and it maintains an attractive winter silhouette. Serviceberry is a valued addition to landscapes, providing beauty throughout the seasons.

Hardiness	2 - 9
Plant type	Shrubs, Trees
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Height	3' - 30' (90cm - 9.1m)
Spread	3' - 30' (90cm - 9.1m)

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Betula (Birch)

Birch trees, scientifically known as Betula, are renowned for their graceful appearance and distinctive bark. These deciduous trees encompass numerous species, including the iconic silver birch (Betula pendula) and river birch (Betula nigra). Birch trees add natural beauty to landscapes and offer shade, making them popular choices in gardens and parks.

Hardiness	2 - 9
Plant type	Shrubs, Trees
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Height	1' - 80' (30cm - 24.4m)
Spread	1' - 50' (30cm - 15.2m)

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Cercis (Redbud Tree)

The redbud, either a large shrub or a small deciduous tree, brightens spring landscapes with its dazzling pink blossoms. Beloved for its delightful heart-shaped leaves and distinctive, irregular branching, it thrives in various soil types, endearing itself to gardeners. Its early spring flowers also serve as an essential nectar source for pollinators.

Hardiness	4 - 9
Plant type	Shrubs, Trees
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Height	5' - 30' (150cm - 9.1m)
Spread	3' - 35' (90cm - 10.7m)

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Crataegus (Hawthorn)

Hawthorn, a versatile tree or shrub, offers ornamental beauty and ecological benefits. Its white or pink flowers, red berries, and dense foliage add charm to landscapes. It’s also used in herbal medicine and supports wildlife, making it a valuable addition to gardens and natural environments.

Hardiness	3 - 9
Plant type	Shrubs, Trees
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Height	10' - 50' (3m - 15.2m)
Spread	10' - 40' (3m - 12.2m)

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Cornus (Dogwood)

Dogwoods is a diverse group of plants prized for their stunning springtime blooms, often featuring petals or bracts in white, pink, or red. Native to various regions, including North America and Asia, these versatile plants range from tall trees to low-growing shrubs or ground covers. Their flowers, attractive foliage, and sometimes colorful stems make them a popular choice for landscaping, and some species produce berries that attract wildlife.

Hardiness	2 - 10
Plant type	Perennials, Shrubs, Trees
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Height	1' - 40' (30cm - 12.2m)
Spread	1' - 40' (30cm - 12.2m)

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Ficus carica (Common Fig)

Ficus carica, commonly known as the common fig, is cultivated mainly for its delicious fruits, savored fresh, dried, or in preserves. Its broad, aesthetically pleasing leaves add ornamental value and create cooling shade in gardens, creating a pleasant outdoor environment. This tree is a practical and visually appealing choice for various landscaping needs.

Hardiness	6 - 10
Plant type	Fruits, Shrubs, Trees
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Height	10' - 30' (3m - 9.1m)
Spread	10' - 30' (3m - 9.1m)

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Hamamelis (Witch Hazel)

Resilient and easy to care for, Hamamelis (Witch Hazel) is a stunning deciduous shrub or small tree that remains largely unaffected by pests. Its captivating beauty shines through when its fragrant and vibrant flowers take center stage, making it a standout choice for any garden.

Hardiness	3 - 9
Plant type	Shrubs, Trees
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Height	10' - 20' (3m - 6.1m)
Spread	10' - 20' (3m - 6.1m)

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Lagerstroemia (Crepe Myrtle)

The Crepe Myrtle, renowned for its vibrant, ruffled summer blooms and striking, peeling bark, is a popular ornamental shrub or tree. Thriving in warm climates, it offers spectacular foliage color changes in autumn, making it a year-round focal point in gardens and landscapes with its elegant, multi-stemmed form.

Hardiness	6 - 10
Plant type	Shrubs, Trees
Exposure	Full Sun
Height	2' - 30' (60cm - 9.1m)
Spread	2' - 30' (60cm - 9.1m)

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Star Magnolia (Magnolia stellata)

Originating from Japan, Magnolia stellata, commonly known as Star Magnolia, is a small deciduous tree that showcases exquisite star-shaped flowers in late winter or early spring. Despite their modest size, around 4 inches across, the flowers are abundant with up to 40 slender tepals, creating a captivating and showy display.

Hardiness	4 - 9
Plant type	Shrubs, Trees
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Height	10' - 20' (3m - 6.1m)
Spread	8' - 20' (240cm - 6.1m)

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Saucer Magnolia (Magnolia x soulangeana)

Saucer Magnolia (Magnolia × soulangeana) is a stunning deciduous tree that graces the landscape with its large, showy flowers. The flowers, resembling saucers, come in shades of pink, white, and purple and bloom in early spring before the foliage emerges. Its attractive, spreading form adds beauty and elegance to any garden.

Hardiness	5 - 9
Plant type	Shrubs, Trees
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Height	15' - 25' (4.6m - 7.6m)
Spread	15' - 25' (4.6m - 7.6m)

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Choosing and Buying a Small Tree

When choosing and buying a small tree, it’s essential to make informed decisions to ensure the tree fits well within the space and contributes positively to the landscape. Here are key points to consider:

Determine the Purpose

Shade: Consider the mature canopy size if you’re seeking shade.
Privacy: Dense foliage or evergreen trees can offer year-round privacy.
Aesthetics: Look for trees with distinctive features like flowers, bark, or fall color.

Understand Your Space

Size Limitations: Opt for dwarf or slow-growing varieties that won’t outgrow the space.
Root Space: Ensure there’s enough room for the root system, especially near structures.

Consider the Tree’s Characteristics

Mature Height and Spread: Choose a tree that fits your garden’s scale at maturity.
Growth Rate: Slow-growing trees may be preferable for maintaining size and shape.
Deciduous or Evergreen: Decide if you want year-round foliage or seasonal changes.

Site Conditions

Light Requirements: Match the tree to the amount of sunlight your garden receives.
Soil Type: Some trees prefer specific soil conditions, such as pH level and drainage.
Climate and Hardiness Zone: Not all trees thrive in every climate. Check the USDA Hardiness Zone for your area and select a suitable tree.

Maintenance and Care

Pruning Requirements: Some trees may require more maintenance to keep their shape.
Pest and Disease Resistance: Consider varieties known for their resilience.

Buying the Tree

Select Healthy Trees: Look for vibrant foliage, a strong structure, and no signs of pests or diseases.
Source: Purchase from a reputable nursery or garden center.
Planting Time: Fall or early spring is often the best time to plant.

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City Garden, Urban Garden, Front Yard, Oak Tree, Maple Tree,

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best tree for small space?

Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum) offers stunning fall colors and has numerous cultivars to fit any small space with varying colors and leaf shapes.

What is the best small tree to plant near the house?

With compact varieties available, crabapples provide beautiful spring blossoms and attractive fruits without extensive root systems that could damage foundations.

What small flowering trees are under 10 feet?

Magnolia ‘Ann’: Blooms in mid-late spring with chalice-shaped flowers, remains small, and fits beautifully in tiny gardens.
Dwarf Korean Lilac (Syringa meyeri ‘Palibin’): A compact lilac with fragrant purple flowers in spring, ideal for small spaces.

What is the best tree for small front yard?

Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis): With its compact size, heart-shaped leaves, and stunning pink to purple flowers in early spring, it’s an excellent choice for adding curb appeal without overwhelming a small yard.

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Compare All

Magnolia Acer (Maple) Malus (Crab Apple) Crataegus (Hawthorn) Hamamelis (Witch Hazel) Amelanchier (Serviceberry) Lagerstroemia (Crepe Myrtle) Betula (Birch) Cornus (Dogwood) Cercis (Redbud)

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Acer (Maple) Malus (Crab Apple) Hamamelis (Witch Hazel) Betula (Birch) Cornus (Dogwood) Cercis (Redbud)

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Magnolia Acer (Maple) Malus (Crab Apple) Crataegus (Hawthorn) Hamamelis (Witch Hazel) Amelanchier (Serviceberry) Lagerstroemia (Crepe Myrtle) Betula (Birch) Cornus (Dogwood) Cercis (Redbud)

StoneMonkeyswk, Shutterstock

While every effort has been made to describe these plants accurately, please keep in mind that height, bloom time, and color may differ in various climates. The description of these plants has been written based on numerous outside resources.

Small Trees, Big Impact: Maximize Your Garden’s Potential

What is a Small Tree?

Best Small Trees

Choosing and Buying a Small Tree

Determine the Purpose

Understand Your Space

Consider the Tree’s Characteristics

Site Conditions

Maintenance and Care

Buying the Tree

Explore a World of Trees with Our Plant Finder Tool!

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Choosing and Buying a Small Tree

Determine the Purpose

Understand Your Space

Consider the Tree’s Characteristics

Site Conditions

Maintenance and Care

Buying the Tree

Frequently Asked Questions

Compare All

Explore Great Plant Combination Ideas

Guides with

Related Items

A Glowing Winter Garden with Dogwood, Sedum and Grasses

A Charming Plant Combination for Shady Gardens: Hydrangea, Japanese Maple and Boxwood

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