By James Hartley|Published on August 29, 2022|Updated on January 23, 2025
Picking the right tree for your yard is a big decision that takes a little bit of homework. Every species brings something unique to the table, whether it’s shade, fruit, or just some serious curb appeal. Here’s a look at some of the most popular trees to plant in your garden.
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++English Walnut (Juglans regia)
The English Walnut is a backyard favorite for so many reasons. It’s low-maintenance, looks stunning, and drops a delicious harvest every fall. Kids love gathering the nuts, and you’ll probably get some free entertainment watching local squirrels scramble for them, too! Beyond being packed with vitamins, these trees have a secret weapon: the scent of a walnut tree actually helps repel mosquitoes.
++Birch (Betula)
The Birch tree is a cultural icon in Scandinavia and Eastern Europe—in Finland, they even use fresh birch branches in saunas to open pores and enjoy that crisp, woody aroma. Here at home, they are beloved for their striking white bark. One of the best things about birches is that they grow relatively fast, so you won’t have to wait decades for a sapling to turn into a majestic focal point.
++Oak (Quercus)
If there’s one tree that stands as a symbol of strength and history, it’s the Oak. Whether it’s a White Oak or a Red Oak, these trees feature beautiful foliage and classic acorns (perfect for fall crafts!). Gardeners love them for their rugged, “old-soul” look; even a young oak can look like a sturdy giant. Just keep in mind that planting an oak is a long-term commitment—they need plenty of space and can live for centuries.
++Horse Chestnut (Aesculus)
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If you’re looking to create a cool, shady retreat, the Horse Chestnut is a fantastic pick if you have the room. Their massive leaves provide a thick canopy that turns a gorgeous orange-brown in the fall. While the shiny brown chestnuts aren’t for human consumption, local wildlife loves them. Fun fact: Horse chestnuts contain saponins, which can actually be used to make a natural, eco-friendly laundry soap!
++Apple Tree (Malus domestica)
Who doesn’t love an edible landscape? The apple tree remains the gold standard for home orchards. They are surprisingly easy to care for and incredibly rewarding come harvest time. Whether you’re making fresh juice or storing them for winter snacks, home-grown apples are hard to beat. If you’re short on space, look for dwarf varieties or “espallier” trees that grow flat against a fence or wall for easy picking.
++Linden / Basswood (Tilia)
The Linden is a classic choice, mostly famous for the heavenly fragrance it releases when in bloom. The scent is so intoxicating that it’s been celebrated in poetry for centuries and is often mimicked in high-end perfumes and soaps. Planting a Linden is like installing a natural, all-over air freshener for your backyard.
++Magnolia (Magnolia)
Magnolias are often the crown jewel of the garden. Named after the 17th-century French botanist Pierre Magnol, these trees are showstoppers thanks to their massive, stunning blooms. They come in all shapes and sizes, from small shrubs to towering giants, and some varieties even stay green all year round.
++Dappled Willow (Salix integra ‘Hakuro Nishiki’)
Short on space but want something that pops? The Dappled Willow (often called the Harlequin Willow) is technically a shrub from East Asia, but it’s frequently trained into a beautiful small tree. It features striking variegated leaves and a graceful shape. It’s become a huge hit in recent years for anyone looking to add a touch of elegance to a smaller garden plot.
