Trees Native to Washington State For Your Yard
If you are looking to add some trees to your yard, it is important to choose wisely. Not all trees will thrive in Washington State’s climate. In this guide, we will provide a guide to the best trees native to Washington State for your yard.
Why Should You Choose Trees Native to Washington State?
Trees that are native to the area are adapted to the climate and soils. This means they require less water and fertilizer and are more resistant to pests and diseases.
Planting trees native to Washington State in your yard will not only add to the beauty of your home or business, but also provide numerous benefits.
Trees provide visual appeal and help determine what type of climate a certain region has. They also help with soil conservation, environmental stability, providing wildlife with a safe haven, and lowering utility consumption. Most species are capable of serving multiple purposes.
What to Consider Before Choosing a Species
When choosing a tree for your yard, it is important to consider the space you have available. Trees come in all shapes and sizes, from towering oaks to weeping willows. Choose a tree that will fit in the space you have without overcrowding your yard.
It is also important to consider the purpose of the tree. Do you want a shade tree? A fruit-bearing tree? A flowering tree? Once you know what you want your tree to do, narrow down your choices.
Finally, make sure you choose a healthy tree. Avoid trees with damaged bark, broken branches, or insect infestations.
The Best Trees to Plant in Washington State
Now that you know what to consider before choosing a tree, let’s take a look at the best trees to plant in Washington State.
Western Hemlock
Another coniferous tree that grows well in Washington State, this one has short, flat needles that are soft to the touch. It’s also a fast-growing tree that can reach 100 feet tall or more, though it can remain healthy with a lot of sun or partial shade. These trees are hardy in zones and do best in moist, shady areas.
Ponderosa Pine
Ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa) is a species of pine tree that is native to western North America. The tree grows in the Cascade Range, Sierra Nevada, and Coast Range mountains of Washington state. It is also found in the Rocky Mountains of Idaho and Montana.
The tree can grow up to 80 feet tall and has a trunk diameter of up to three feet. The bark is reddish-brown and scaly. The leaves are needle-like, green, and two to five inches long. The cones are brown, six to 12 inches long, and have scales with prickles on them.
The ponderosa pine tree is a valuable timber tree. It is used for lumber, pulp, and paper products. The tree is also used in landscaping and as a Christmas tree.
White Fir
The white fir is an evergreen tree that grows up to 80 feet tall. It is native to Washington and thrives in the state’s climate. White firs are resistant to pests and diseases and provide excellent shade.
Douglas Fir
This coniferous tree is one of the most common types found in the Pacific Northwest. It grows quickly, but it can reach up to 200 feet tall (or more) when fully mature so make sure you have enough space before planting one of these trees. They are hardy in zones 4 through 7.
The Douglas fir is native to Washington and Oregon and does well in both moist soils and dry climates. The Douglas fir provides good shade and habitat for wildlife.
Pacific Silver Fir
The Pacific silver fir is another evergreen tree that grows up to 150 feet tall. It is native to Washington and Oregon and does well in moist soils. The Pacific silver fir is a good choice for people who live near the coast, as it is resistant to salt spray.
Western Red Cedar
Also known as giant arborvitae, this evergreen tree is valued for its rich green needles and its ability to grow fast. It’s also popular because it grows well in the shade and is tolerant of both salt and drought. These trees are hardy in zones 5 through 8.
The Western red cedar is a large evergreen tree that can reach heights of over 200 feet. It is native to the coastal region of Washington and Oregon. The Western red cedar has fragrant needles and provides excellent shade.
The bark of this tree is reddish-brown, scaly and smooth. It has thick foliage that grows in flat sprays. This tree blooms from March through April and produces small cones that are light brown in color.
Bigleaf Maple
Bigleaf maple (Acer macrophyllum) has brightly colored green leaves that turn yellow to orange-red in the fall before dropping off the tree. It grows to between 30 and 50 feet tall and is hardy in zones. Bigleaf maple does best in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist, well-drained soils.
The bigleaf maple is a deciduous tree that grows up to 50 feet tall. It is native to Washington State and thrives in moist, well-drained soils. It is a good choice for people who live in the suburbs, as it does not require a lot of space.
Pacific Dogwood (Cornus Nuttallii)
This tree is found throughout western North America, including Washington state. It grows well in full sun or partial shade and flourishes in moist soil with good drainage.
The Pacific dogwood blooms with white flowers that produce red berries during the summer months. The leaves, which turn deep red in the fall, provide a striking contrast against its white bark, making it one of the most attractive trees for your yard.
Pacific dogwoods can be planted in spring or fall and have a moderate growth rate. They should be watered regularly for the first year; after that, they can tolerate drought conditions but prefer moist soil. This tree attracts many species of birds who eat its berries during the winter months.
Oregon Ash
The Oregon ash is a deciduous tree that reaches heights of 60-70 feet. It is native to western North America and does well in moist soils. The Oregon ash has fragrant leaves and provides excellent shade.
Red Alder
The Red alder is a deciduous tree that reaches heights of 30-50 feet. It is native to Washington and Oregon and does well in moist soils. The red alder provides food and shelter for wildlife, and its bark can be used for making baskets or canoe paddles.
Western Sycamore
The western sycamore is a deciduous tree that reaches heights of 60-100 feet. It is native to western North America and does well in moist soils. The western sycamore provides food and shelter for wildlife, and its bark can be used for making furniture or musical instruments.
Western Redbud
The Western Redbud is a small deciduous ornamental tree with vibrant purple-pink flowers that bloom in early spring. It’s a perfect tree for small yards as it only grows to be about 15-20 feet tall and wide. The Western Redbud is native to the Pacific Northwest and can be found in forests throughout Washington state.
Serviceberry
The serviceberry is a deciduous shrub or small tree that blooms with white flowers in spring and has edible berries in summer. Serviceberries are a great choice for homeowners who want to attract birds to their yard, as the berries are a favorite food of many bird species. The serviceberry is native to the eastern United States, but can also be found in Washington state.
Sitka spruce
Spruce trees can be found in both temperate and boreal forests throughout Washington state. They grow best at high elevations and in moist, cool climates. The Sitka spruce is the largest species of spruce tree and can reach heights of 200 feet. It is an important source of wood for paper production and lumber.
The Sitka spruce has dark green needles and cones that range in color from black to silver-blue.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the fastest-growing tree in Washington State?
The fastest-growing tree in Washington State is the Douglas Fir. It can grow up to six feet per year.
What is the tallest tree in Washington State?
The tallest tree in Washington State is the Western Red Cedar. It can grow up to 240 feet tall.
Which trees are good for landscaping?
Some good trees for landscaping in Washington State are the Western Red Cedar, Douglas Fir, and Bigleaf Maple.
Which tree is the state tree of Washington?
The state tree of Washington is the Western Hemlock. It was adopted as the state tree in 1947.
What are some other popular trees in Washington State?
Other popular trees in Washington State include the Ponderosa Pine, Sugar Maple, and American Elm.
Conclusion
Trees are one of the most important plants for any yard. They can provide shade, improve air quality and even increase your property value. If you’re looking for a tree to plant in your Washington yard, consider these native species of trees that grow well in this region. With a little research, you can find the perfect tree for your needs and ensure that your yard is beautiful and healthy for years to come.