23 Trees to Plant in TEXAS (Endemic, Unique, & Beneficial)

Texas has been known for its arid environment: the deserts and sandy scenarios, specifically in movies.

But that doesn’t make Texas less of a country for trees!

Trees are unique and crucial elements of our natural world, and guess what? Texas has them too!

They have towering, perennial plants that are essential to the survival of our planet and all other living things.

The woody trunks, branching structures, and lush foliage of trees are known for their many advantages to both people and the planet.

Trees provide humans with various advantages in addition to their positive effects on the environment.

So if you have a green thumb, this article is definitely for you.

And by the way, you may also want to check out the best Flower Shops in Texas.

Trees to Plant in Austin, Texas

1. Magnolia (Adaptable & Suitable)

The Magnolia tree is an excellent option for planting in Austin, Texas, due to its adaptability and suitability for the local climate. 

Adding elegance to any landscape, its large, glossy leaves and fragrant flowers in shades of white, pink, and purple create a captivating visual appeal. 

Withstanding Austin’s hot and dry summers, the Magnolia thrives even in established drought conditions. 

Considering its dense foliage and broad canopies, it provides valuable shade and privacy, particularly in urban settings. 

Also, the tree’s slow growth rate ensures longevity, making it a worthwhile investment. 

Moreover, Magnolia’s fragrant blooms attract bees and butterflies, contributing to the local ecosystem. 

Its presence adds a special touch of elegance and charm to the vibrant atmosphere of Austin, contributing to the city’s overall appeal and creating a more harmonious coexistence between nature and urban life. 

2. American Holly (Exceptional Privacy & Shade)

The American Holly tree is highly favored for planting in Austin, Texas, thanks to its abundance of desirable qualities and remarkable adaptability to the local environment. 

With its evergreen foliage and vivid red berries, the American Holly adds a year-round splendor to any landscape giving shade and temporary shelter.

It thrives exceptionally well in Austin’s climate, withstanding the scorching heat of summers and occasional winter freezes. 

The tree’s luxuriant growth and dense foliage also provide exceptional privacy and shade, making it perfect for residential yards and urban settings. 

Moreover, the American Holly’s berry-laden branches allure various birds, significantly contributing to the local ecosystem. 

Its unwavering durability and impressive longevity ensure a sustained impact.

It is also a valuable investment for homeowners and city planners because of the goods that can be garnered from the tree. 

3. Southern Red Oak (Vibrant Fall Leaves)

The Southern Red Oak is a great tree to plant in Austin, Texas, because it has exceptional qualities that suit the local environment. 

It stands tall and majestic with beautiful leaves that turn vibrant shades of red and orange during the fall, adding charm and visual appeal to any landscape. 

This tree thrives in Austin’s climate, withstanding the intense heat and periods of drought. 

Since its wide canopy provides ample shade, it creates a refreshing and cooling atmosphere for people during the hot Texan summers.

Moreover, the Southern Red Oak is a native species, playing a crucial role in supporting the local ecosystem by offering homes and food for wildlife. 

Also, the solid and durable wood that it produces makes it resistant to harsh weather conditions. 

4. Texas Ash (Aesthetic & Adaptable)

The Texas Ash is an excellent choice for planting in Austin, Texas, due to its outstanding qualities and compatibility with the local environment. 

With its attractive deciduous foliage and moderate to large size, the Texas Ash adds beauty and sophistication to any landscape. 

It thrives in Austin’s climate, withstanding the city’s hot summers and occasional winter freezes. 

The tree’s dense canopy provides ample shade, creating relaxed and comfortable outdoor spaces. 

Moreover, being a native species, the Texas Ash supports the local ecosystem by providing food and habitat for wildlife. 

Its rapid growth rate allows for quick establishment, resulting in a relatively short time to reach maturity. 

Overall, the Texas Ash’s aesthetic appeal, adaptability, and ecological benefits make it a highly recommended tree to plant in Austin, Texas.

5. Bur Oak (Impressive Size & Leaves)

The Bur Oak is highly recommended for planting in Austin, Texas, due to its outstanding qualities and ability to adapt to the local environment. 

With its impressive size and large, leathery leaves, the Bur Oak enhances the beauty and grandeur of any landscape.

Also, the tree’s deep root system enables it to withstand drought, showcasing its resilience- allowing it to thrive in Austin’s climate, enduring hot summers and occasional winter freezes. 

Moreover, Bur Oak’s broad canopy provides ample shade, creating inviting outdoor spaces. 

It also attracts wildlife through its acorns, fostering a thriving local ecosystem. 

Given its long lifespan and sturdy nature, the Bur Oak is a worthwhile investment for homeowners and city planners alike. 

The Bur Oak’s aesthetic appeal, resilience, and ecological benefits make it an excellent choice for planting in Austin, Texas.

Also see our article on Botanical Gardens in Texas.

Trees to Plant in Fort Worth, Texas

1. Lacey Oak (Drought-Tolerant & Resilient)

Lacey Oak, scientifically known as Quercus lacey, is a deciduous tree native to Central Texas. 

It is suitable for planting in Fort Worth due to its ability to withstand the region’s hot, dry summers and occasional cold snaps. 

These trees are highly valued for their drought tolerance, heat tolerance, and resistance to oak wilt, making them a resilient option for the area. 

Also, they showcase beauty with striking blue-green leaves that transform into a golden yellow during the fall season. 

With a potential height of 30 feet and width of 20 feet, it’s essential to select an appropriate planting site that allows ample space for its growth.

Furthermore, Lacey Oak is an excellent addition to any Fort Worth landscape, offering benefits such as disease resistance, aesthetic appeal, and low maintenance requirements. 

2. Bald Cypress (Resilient in Arid Climates)

The Bald Cypress, scientifically known as Taxodium distichum, is a deciduous tree from the Southeastern United States. 

Fort Worth residents often select this tree for planting due to its resilience in arid and hot climates and its adaptability to wet and dry environments. 

To accommodate its growth, choosing a planting location with sufficient space is crucial, considering that Bald Cypresses can reach heights of 50-70 feet and spans of 25 feet.

Several additional advantages are associated with planting Bald Cypress trees in Fort Worth, as they provide shade and reduce the urban heat island effect. 

Moreover, these trees create habitats for diverse wildlife species, including birds, squirrels, and bats. 

Their presence also contributes to improving air quality by filtering out pollutants. 

Additionally, planting Bald Cypress trees can enhance property values.

These visually striking trees require minimal maintenance and can benefit one’s home and the broader community.

3. Shumard Red Oak (Fall Foliage & Low Maintenance)

Shumard Red Oak trees present a captivating and adaptable choice for landscaping projects in Fort Worth. 

They possess the valuable qualities of being resilient to drought and heat, rendering them suitable for the region’s scorching and arid summers. 

These trees exhibit stunning foliage during the fall season, displaying a vivid red hue. Shumard Red Oak trees are relatively low-maintenance, requiring intermittent watering and fertilization.

Further specifications of Shumard Red Oak trees include a height range of 60-80 feet, a width span of 40-50 feet, a fast growth rate, a blooming period in spring, and a hardiness zone of 4-9. 

Given their potential size, selecting an adequately spacious planting location to accommodate their growth is crucial. 

Moreover, these trees offer the advantages of providing shade, diminishing the urban heat island effect, and serving as a habitat for wildlife. 

4. Live Oak (Iconic & Timelessly Beautiful)

Live Oak trees, a captivating and emblematic species native to the southeastern United States, exude a timeless beauty. 

Renowned for their sprawling branches that offer abundant shade during the summer months, these trees are characterized by their distinctive and twisted trunks. 

The Live Oak tree can attain immense size, reaching towering heights exceeding 100 feet and wide widths surpassing 60 feet. 

Remarkably long-lived, some Live Oaks have gracefully endured for over a century.

Fort Worth’s climate harmoniously accommodates Live Oaks as they demonstrate resilience in enduring the region’s sweltering, humid summers and frigid winters. 

Notably, these trees exhibit exceptional drought tolerance, necessitating minimal water requirements. 

Whether gracing residential yards, parks, or lining streets, Live Oaks is an excellent planting choice. 

Their presence offers a trifecta of advantages: the provision of cooling shade, the enhancement of aesthetic allure, and the infusion of a timeless ambiance rooted in history.

5. Chinquapin Oak (Indigenous & Versatile)

The Chinquapin Oak, a tree indigenous to the eastern United States, including Texas, presents an excellent choice for Fort Worth landscapes. 

Notably, Chinquapin Oaks boast lustrous, dark green leaves that transform dramatically, shifting to vibrant red or orange hues during autumn. 

Additionally, they serve as a valuable food source for various wildlife, attracting birds and squirrels.

Also, Fort Worth’s climate aligns harmoniously with Chinquapin Oaks’ preferences. 

Their innate tolerance to drought and ability to withstand heat and humidity make them resilient contenders. 

Moreover, they exhibit adaptability to diverse soil types, enhancing their suitability. 

Both residential and commercial landscapes benefit from including Chinquapin Oaks, offering shade, ornamental charm, and a haven for wildlife.

The Chinquapin Oak is an outstanding choice if you seek a beautiful, low-maintenance tree to enhance your Fort Worth landscape.

Also see our article on Outdoor Activities in Texas.

Trees to Plant in Dallas, Texas

1. Texas Mountain Laurel (Native & Evergreen)

The Texas Mountain Laurel, scientifically known as Sophora secundiflora, is a native evergreen shrub ideally suited for the climate of Dallas. 

With a mature height and width ranging from 10 to 15 feet, it showcases glossy, dark green leaves that retain their allure throughout the year. 

The Texas Mountain Laurel is a valuable nectar source, attracting bees and butterflies and fostering ecological diversity.

It contributes to improved air quality by effectively filtering out harmful pollutants and aids in reducing noise pollution by absorbing sound waves, thereby fostering a serene environment. 

Furthermore, this species aids in water conservation by mitigating soil evaporation. 

Lastly, including the Texas Mountain Laurel can increase property values, further enhancing the appeal of this exceptional plant.

Its year-round beauty, fragrant blooms, and potential property value enhancement make it a compelling choice for gardening enthusiasts in the region.

2. Japanese Maple (Visually Stunning & Adaptable)

Japanese maples are widely favored for landscaping purposes in Dallas, Texas, as these trees possess exceptional beauty, particularly showcased by their stunning fall foliage, making them a visually stunning addition to any landscape. 

Moreover, Japanese maples exhibit adaptability, enabling them to thrive in the region’s environmental conditions. 

This versatility allows homeowners to select from diverse tree sizes and colors, ensuring the perfect fit for their yards. 

More so, popular varieties suitable for Dallas include the Bloodgood Japanese maple, distinguished by its deep red leaves and renowned for its lacy foliage.

Regular watering, particularly during summer, is essential given their moderate drought tolerance. 

By providing the necessary care, Japanese maples can bestow lasting beauty and visual interest upon Dallas yards, enhancing their appeal for many years.

Also see our article on Indoor Activities in Texas.

Trees to Plant in Houston, Texas

1. Nuttall Oak (Striking Autumn Foliage)

Nuttall oaks, a variety of oak trees native to the southeastern United States, exhibit several notable features. 

Renowned for their striking autumn foliage, these trees can display vibrant shades of red or orange. 

For those considering tree planting in Houston, Nuttall Oaks present a good choice. 

Also, they demonstrate a high tolerance for the region’s characteristic heat, humidity, and drought conditions. 

Furthermore, Nuttall oaks possess natural resilience against pests and diseases, enhancing their suitability for the local environment. 

These trees can be cultivated in areas with total sun exposure or partial shade and typically thrive in well-drained soil.

Apart from their aesthetic appeal, they contribute to shading and cooling during summer and can enhance air quality. 

They also provide valuable habitats for various bird species and other wildlife, fostering biodiversity within their surroundings.

2. Drake Elm (Height & Compact Stature)

Drake elms, a variety of Chinese elm trees, possess distinctive qualities that contribute to their appeal. 

Notably, these trees are admired for their elegant appearance and ability to thrive across diverse environments. 

While they can potentially reach heights of up to 45 feet, they typically exhibit a more compact stature in urban settings. 

Houston residents seeking suitable tree options would find Drake Elms to be a beneficial choice. 

These trees demonstrate a commendable tolerance for drought, heat, and humidity prevalent in the region. 

Additionally, they exhibit a relative resistance to common pests and diseases. 

Drake elms are well-suited for urban landscapes, including street trees and courtyard plantings.

Maintenance-wise, Drake elms are considered low-maintenance trees because they do not demand excessive watering or fertilizer, and their resilience extends to being relatively resistant to pests and diseases.

3. Mandarin Orange (Cold-Tolerant & Disease Resistant)

Mandarin orange trees, a variety of citrus trees, are renowned for their delectable, sweet, and easily peelable fruits. 

While being native to Asia, they can be cultivated in various regions worldwide, including Houston, Texas. 

Additionally, these trees exhibit a notable resilience to cold temperatures, rendering them suitable for Houston’s occasional chilly periods.

The adaptability of Mandarin orange trees to the Houston climate makes them an excellent choice for residents. 

They demonstrate a commendable tolerance for drought conditions and the prevailing heat and humidity. 

Moreover, Mandarin orange trees exhibit relative resistance to common pests and diseases like canker disease. 

Their modest size makes them ideal for planting in smaller spaces like backyards and patios.

Lastly, Mandarin orange trees are relatively low-maintenance and resistant to pests and diseases.

Also see our article on Fun Things to do in Texas.

Trees to Plant in Texas City, Texas

1. Canary Island Pine Tree (Fast-Growing & Coastal Fit)

The Canary Island Pine Tree, renowned for its beauty and adaptability, can be found across various regions worldwide. 

While native to the Canary Islands, it has been successfully introduced to numerous locations, including Texas City, Texas. 

This tree exhibits a remarkable growth rate, reaching towering heights up to 100 feet. 

Its slender, conical shape and dark green needles contribute to its distinct appearance. 

With its inherent resistance to salt spray and wind, the Canary Island Pine Tree is particularly well-suited for coastal areas. 

Also, it is a fast-growing tree so it can provide shade and privacy quickly.

Moreover, it showcases a commendable ability to withstand drought conditions, making it an optimal choice for regions with limited rainfall. 

Apart from its popularity in landscaping, this versatile tree also holds value for timber production.

2. Frantoio Olives (Olive Oil Production & Disease Resistance)

The Frantoio Olive Tree originated in Italy and is widely recognized for its exceptional olive oil production. 

This olive variety exhibits impressive resilience to cold temperatures and diseases, making it an ideal choice for cultivation in Texas City, Texas. 

Growing to a size of 20-30 feet in height and width, the Frantoio Olive Tree yields olive fruit during autumn, presenting an opportunity for olive oil production. 

The suitability of the Frantoio Olive Tree for Texas City, Texas, is evident for several reasons. 

Firstly, it demonstrates remarkable cold hardiness, enduring temperatures as low as -10 degrees Fahrenheit. 

Additionally, it exhibits resistance against common olive diseases, including olive knot and verticillium wilt.

Proper watering is crucial, particularly in the initial year after planting, as Frantoio Olive Trees necessitate regular hydration. 

Once firmly established, these trees can tolerate specific periods of drought.

3. Red Haven Peach Tree (Succulent & Self-Fertile)

The Red Haven Peach Tree is a highly sought-after peach variety celebrated for its delectable, succulent fruit. 

One notable advantage of this tree is its self-fertile nature, allowing for abundant fruit production even with a single tree. 

In addition, Red Haven peach trees exhibit exceptional resistance to various diseases, making them a favorable choice for cultivation in Texas City, Texas. 

With a potential height and width of 15-20 feet, these trees thrive when planted in well-drained soil under total sun exposure.

Pruning is recommended annually during the winter or early spring period. 

Also, the tree bears fruit in late spring or early summer, presenting deep red-colored peaches with lusciously sweet and juicy flesh. 

The Red Haven Peach Tree offers a versatile culinary experience, as its fruit can be savored fresh, preserved through canning, or transformed into delightful pies, cobblers, and various other desserts.

4. Santa Rosa Plum Tree (Resilient & Fruitful)

The Santa Rosa Plum trees are an excellent choice for trees to plant in Texas City, Texas.

Its robust nature allows it to thrive in the region’s hot, humid summers and cold winters. 

Furthermore, this tree is self-fertile, eliminating the need for a nearby plum tree to facilitate fruit-bearing. 

The Santa Rosa plum yields are renowned for their delightful sweetness and juiciness, making them suitable for consumption in various forms—whether fresh, cooked, or transformed into preserves. 

It also boasts an appealing aesthetic, adorned with elegant white blossoms in spring and offering dark red fruits in summer.

Should you seek a resilient, fruitful, and visually pleasing addition to your yard in Texas City, the Santa Rosa plum tree is an exceptional choice. 

This tree will bestow upon you numerous years of delectable fruit with adequate care.

Also see our article on Family Activities in Texas.

Trees to Plant in Galveston, Texas

1. Wax Myrtle (Aromatic & Wildlife Habitat)

The Wax Myrtle, scientifically known as Morella cerifera, is an indigenous evergreen shrub or small tree whose height ranges from 15 to 20 feet. 

It exhibits remarkable resilience, thriving in diverse soil types and environmental conditions, including exposure to saline environments, making it an ideal tree for coastal regions such as Galveston. 

Furthermore, the Wax Myrtle showcases impressive drought tolerance and necessitates minimal upkeep.

During the spring and summer, the Wax Myrtle adorns itself with petite white flowers that emit a delightful, sweet aroma. 

Subsequently, these flowers give way to small blue-black berries that, while edible, lack robust flavor. 

In addition to its visual appeal, the Wax Myrtle serves as an attractive habitat for wildlife, offering sustenance and shelter to birds, butterflies, and various other animals.

2. Mexican Sycamore (Rapid-Growing & Long-Lived)

The Mexican Sycamore, scientifically called Platanus mexicana, is a rapid-growing and exceptionally long-lived whose height can rise to 60 feet. 

While its native range spans Mexico and Central America, it has successfully acclimated to various parts of the United States, including Texas. 

Notably, Mexican Sycamores exhibit resistance against bacterial leaf scorch and are well-suited to endure drought conditions, making them an excellent choice for planting in Galveston, where the climate is hot and humid. 

Moreover, their ability to tolerate salt spray further recommends them for coastal areas. 

Adorned with generously sized, lobed leaves, Mexican Sycamores undergo a profound transformation in the fall, turning a striking shade of yellow. 

Beyond their aesthetic appeal, these trees enhance the landscape and provide valuable shade during the sweltering summer months.

Also see our article on Dog Friendly Activities in Texas.

Trees to Plant in San Antonio, Texas

1. American Smoketree (Deciduous & Modest Stature)

The American Smoketree, scientifically known as Cotinus obovatus, is a deciduous tree of modest stature, typically reaching heights of 20 to 30 feet. 

Although native to the southeastern regions of the United States, it has become a popular choice for cultivation in various parts of the country, including San Antonio, Texas. 

One of the remarkable features of the American Smoketree is its stunning display of delicate, ethereal panicles adorned with pinkish-purple flowers, which grace its branches during late summer. 

Its leaves boast a bluish-green hue throughout the summer, only to transform into a brilliant orange come fall. 

Moreover, these trees require minimal care and exhibit a commendable tolerance to drought and common pests and diseases.

Due to its relatively compact size, the American Smoketree can be comfortably accommodated within smaller yards. 

2. Escarpment Live Oak (Indigenous & Substantial Size)

The Escarpment Live Oak, scientifically known as Quercus fusiformis, is an indigenous tree in Texas and Oklahoma. 

It is recognized for its substantial size, serving as a large evergreen that can attain heights of up to 50 feet and extend its branches to a width of 40 feet. 

Also, the tree’s foliage is characterized by dark green, glossy leaves, while its bark exhibits a dark brown hue with distinctive furrows. 

Renowned for its resilience, the Escarpment Live Oak is frequently favored for landscaping endeavors in San Antonio. 

Notably, it has drought tolerance, heat endurance, and resistance against various pests and diseases, making it a less maintenance tree. 

Moreover, besides its functional benefits, the tree’s elegant appearance adds to the allure, providing shade and creating a conducive habitat for wildlife.

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