Texas is a state where many different ornamental, decorative, and shade trees successfully grow and thrive even though the climate is not ideal. Of course, some are more suited to our climate and soil, but with little knowledge about the different varieties, you will be ready to choose which one to plant among the best trees for Baytown!
In this article, we will be talking about Baytown trees, their unique characteristics, requirements for healthy development, and other features. Keep reading to find out more!
Related Post: Texas Shade Trees
Best Trees for Baytown – Popular Varieties
1. Shumard Red Oak
Shumard red oak is a large forest tree that often occurs in small groups in forest stands but is also an excellent landscape tree by itself. It has simple, alternate leaves, usually with one or more pairs of deep, rounded sinuses between the lobes. They are dark green on top and light green beneath and can be both glossy and smooth. In addition, dark gray, smooth bark makes this tree even more attractive. The leaves are quite big, making it one of the best shade trees for Houston area.
At maturity, Shumard red oak can grow up to 100 feet or more in the ideal conditions. Well-drained alluvial soils are recommended by the tree services Baytown for the proper root system development. Additionally, full sun exposure and regular irrigation are also needed during the first couple of years.
2. Bur Oak
Bur oak belongs to the white oak group with lobed leaves. It is considered one of the classic Baytown trees due to the number of bur oaks in the area. In addition, bur oak is a really adaptable tree and offers large, beautiful leaves and acorns. Its rough, gray bark is fully revealed during the winter, giving it a unique look that gives a special feeling to a landscape.
When fully mature, Bur oak can reach up to 80 feet in height. Full sun exposure and well-drained soil are recommended for the tree to thrive well. The tree produces large acorns that attract many types of birds, so your landscape will always be alive. Almost every tree service Texas recommends Bur oak as one of the best trees for Baytown!
Related Post: Oak Trees In Texas
3. Cedar Elm
Cedar elm is a large, oval-rounded tree with scaly bark and dropping branches with corky ridges. Its dark-green leaves are quite small and with a rough texture. In addition, they are much smaller than on some other elm varieties, which makes them more attractive and suitable for an ornamental landscape. Fall foliage is usually yellow, but some varieties don’t change the color in the fall. Also, cedar elm is considered to be quite resistant to different tree diseases Texas.
This tree can reach up to 70 feet in height and about 60 feet wide at maturity. Similar to other shade trees, Cedar elm requires full sun exposure, a lot of space, and well-drained soil. Occasional wildlife can be seen around the tree during some months.
4. Crape Myrtle
Crape myrtle is one of the common deciduous Baytown trees. This small tree has a variable and moderately dense habit, usually in a multi-stemmed form. The showy pink flower is the biggest attraction and its color-changing foliage makes this tree even more interesting in fall. It has a very thin gray bark and new growth can be pinched to increase flower numbers during the growing seasons.
At maturity, Carpe myrtle can reach up to 25 feet in height. This small ornamental tree prefers full sun exposure and alkaline or acidic soil to thrive. It is well suited for hot climates and is definitely one of the most beautiful flowering trees in Texas!
Related Posts: Crape Myrtles Texas & Small Trees In Texas
5. Smoke Tree
The smoke tree is a multi-stemmed, small tree that has a smoky pink color during the hot summer months. It has showy leaves that turn from medium blue-gree to yellow-purple in the fall. This small ornamental tree is always a good option if you’re looking to plant a group of trees to your landscape. The smoke tree has a very unique look and is often used by gardeners to add a certain vibrance in a landscape.
Once it is fully mature, this tree will reach about 15 feet in height. At least six hours of direct sunlight is recommended for regular development. In addition, acidic, alkaline, and clay soils are recommended for this tree to thrive. When it comes to wildlife, one of the most common visitors is deer.
Local Tree Experts Overview
With so many different varieties in the area, it can be quite hard to determine what are the best trees for Baytown. However, we came up with this list of ornamental and shade trees that we think would work the best in your landscape. Consult with your local arborist if you have any questions about planting or maintenance of these trees!
