Best Local Native Trees: Bringing Natural Beauty to Your Garden
There’s something special about planting native trees in your garden. They’re perfectly adapted to our local climate, attract native wildlife, and require less maintenance—all while adding a touch of natural beauty. At D.R. Snell Nursery, we’re passionate about Maryland’s rich native tree selection. Let us introduce you to a few of our favorites that will not only make your garden beautiful but also support the local ecosystem.
Redbud (Cercis canadensis)
Have you ever seen those cheerful pink blooms in early spring? That’s the Redbud, a native beauty that makes a bold statement every year. It’s perfect for adding color and charm to smaller yards or accenting larger spaces. Redbuds grow well in partial shade and attract butterflies and bees, making them a pollinator’s best friend.
Eastern Red Cedar (Juniperus virginiana)
Looking for a hardy evergreen that stands tall and proud? The Eastern Red Cedar is a durable, low-maintenance tree that thrives in just about any soil. It’s perfect for adding year-round privacy, plus its blue berries attract birds, creating a mini wildlife sanctuary in your backyard. Talk about a win-win!
White Oak (Quercus alba)
As Maryland’s state tree, the White Oak is a symbol of strength and endurance. This majestic native provides shade in the summer, beautiful russet fall foliage, and acorns that support local wildlife. If you’re looking for a long-term investment in both beauty and the environment, the White Oak is your tree.
Sweetbay Magnolia (Magnolia virginiana)
A graceful native tree with fragrant white blooms, the Sweetbay Magnolia is a top pick for adding elegance to any garden. In addition to its stunning flowers, this tree has semi-evergreen leaves and provides habitat for birds and butterflies. It’s also highly adaptable to our local climate, making it a must-have for Maryland gardens.
American Hornbeam (Carpinus caroliniana)
Also known as Musclewood because of its unique, sinewy bark, the American Hornbeam is a great native tree for smaller yards. It has beautiful orange, yellow, and red fall color, along with delicate, catkin-like flowers in the spring. It’s also a favorite of local wildlife, providing food and shelter for birds and small animals.
Bur Oak (Quercus macrocarpa)
If you’re looking for a tree with longevity and a sense of grandeur, the Bur Oak is an excellent choice. Known for its massive size and distinctive acorns, this native oak provides ample shade and supports local wildlife. Its thick bark makes it resistant to fire and drought, making it a resilient and low-maintenance option for Maryland landscapes. Plus, it offers attractive yellow-gold fall foliage.
At D.R. Snell Nursery, we believe that native trees are not only a gift to your landscape but also a way to nurture our local environment. Come visit us and let us guide you in selecting the best native tree for your space.
