Trees With Big Leaves: The Best Ones to Plant in Your Garden

If you’re looking for a beautiful addition to your garden, consider planting a tree with big leaves. There are many different varieties to choose from, and they all have their own unique features.

In this guide, we will discuss the best trees with big leaves to plant in your garden. We’ll also provide information on how to care for them, so that they can thrive for years to come.

Benefits of Trees With Big Leaves

Trees with big leaves are not only visually stunning, they also have many benefits. Here are a few reasons why you should consider planting one in your garden:

  • They provide shade - If you live in a hot climate, planting a tree with big leaves can provide much-needed relief from the sun. During the summer months, the leaves will block out the harsh rays, making it more comfortable to spend time outside.
  • They can help save energy - During the hotter months, it can help keep your home cool by providing natural shade. This can lead to lower energy bills, as you won't have to rely on air conditioning as much.
  • They can improve air quality - Trees with big leaves can help filter out pollutants, and improve the quality of the air around your home. This is especially beneficial if you live in an urban area where pollution levels are high.

10 Best Trees With Big Leaves to Plant in Your Garden

Now that you know the benefits of planting a tree with big leaves, it’s time to choose the right one for your garden. Here are our top picks:

1. Croton tree(Codiaeum variegatum)

The croton tree is a popular choice for gardens in warm climates. Its large, glossy leaves are available in a range of colors, including green, yellow, red, and orange. The croton tree can also grow up to 20 feet tall.

Plant the croton tree in well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade. It is a relatively low-maintenance tree, and is tolerant of salt and drought.

2. Bird of paradise (Strelitzia Nicolai)

This is a stunning tree that is native to South Africa. It has large, dark green leaves and produces beautiful white flowers. The bird of paradise is a fast-growing tree and can reach up to 20 feet tall. It does best in full sun and well-drained soil. If you live in an area with warm weather, the bird of paradise is a great tree to plant in your garden.

3. Fiddle leaf fig tree (Ficus lyrata)

The fiddle leaf fig tree is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a big leafed tree to add to your garden. It can grow up to 30 feet tall and has large, glossy leaves that are shaped like a violin.

This tree does best in full sun and well-drained soil. Amazingly, these trees are drought tolerant once they’re established. Fiddle leaf fig trees are also beautiful plants that make a dramatic statement in any garden.

4. Caryota (Fishtail Palm)

This palm is found in the tropical rainforests of Southeast Asia, and gets its name from its fishtail-shaped leaves. It can grow up to 100 feet tall and has large, dark green leaves that can reach up to 14 feet long and usually 12 feet wide. Caryota is a fast-growing tree, and can be an invasive species in some areas.

5. Parlor palm (Chamaedorea elegans)

This is a species of palm that originates from Mexico and Guatemala. It has long, slender leaves that can grow up to six feet in length. The parlor palm is a popular houseplant because it is easy to care for, and does not need much sunlight.

Parlor palms are ideal for planting in gardens because they are low-maintenance, and can tolerate shady areas.

6. Rubber tree (Ficus elastica)

Rubber trees are one of the most popular houseplants, but they can also grow quite large outdoors. These trees have large, glossy leaves and interesting branching patterns. They prefer full sun or partial shade, and well-drained soil.

Rubber trees are not drought tolerant, so be sure to water them regularly during dry periods. Ficus elastica is a species of the fig tree in the family Moraceae. It is native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia, and is also cultivated in other regions.

The rubber tree grows up to 30 m (100 ft) tall, with a stout trunk and large spreading branches. The leaves are large, leathery, glossy, and elliptical or oblong, with a pointed tip. The flowers are small and yellowish-white, borne in clusters on the leaf axils. The fruit is a greenish-yellow drupe.

7. Natal mahogany (Trichilia emetica)

This South African native can grow up to 40 feet tall, and can spread just as wide, making it an ideal shade tree. Natal mahogany has glossy, deep green leaves that can measure up to a foot long and six inches wide.

The tree produces small yellowish-white fragrant flowers in the spring, followed by dark brown fruits that are beloved by birds. The big leaves of the natal mahogany tree help it quickly create dense shade.

8. Umbrella tree (Schefflera)

The umbrella tree, also known as the octopus tree, gets its name from its large leaves that grow in a rosette pattern. This tropical species is native to Taiwan and thrives in warm, humid climates.

It’s a fast-growing plant that can reach up to 20 feet tall, and 15 feet wide. Umbrella trees are popular houseplants, but they can also be grown outdoors in USDA hardiness zones nine and above.

9. Triangle ficus (Ficus triangularis)

This unique tree hails from southeast Asia and can grow up to 30 feet tall. It has triangular-shaped leaves that are two to four inches wide. The triangle ficus does well in bright light, but can also tolerate lower light levels.

It prefers humid conditions, and does not like to be too dry. When caring for it, one should allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering. The triangle ficus is a slow grower, so it is important to be patient with it. Propagate by taking stem cuttings in spring or summer.

These fast-growing shade trees have big leaves that will quickly fill in your garden, and provide much-needed relief from the hot summer sun.

10. Dracaena (Dragon Tree)

The Dracaena is a slow-growing tree that can reach up to 20 feet tall. It has long, dark green leaves that can grow up to 24 inches long, and 3 inches wide.

As the tree matures, its leaves can become more yellow or brown. This tree is native to Africa, and prefers full sun or partial shade. It is also drought tolerant and does not need much water to survive.

These are just some of the many stunning trees with big leaves that you can plant in your garden. With so many to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect one for your needs.

Tips on How to Take Care of Trees With Big Leaves

By following the proper care instructions, you can ensure that your big-leafed trees will thrive and stay healthy for many years. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Tip 1:
Water regularly

Trees with big leaves need to be watered regularly, especially during the hot summer months. Make sure to check the soil before watering to see if it is dry. If the soil is dry, water your tree until the ground is moist.

Tip 2:
Fertilize monthly

Fertilizing your trees with big leaves on a monthly basis will help them grow strong and healthy. Use a fertilizer that is high in nitrogen and phosphorus.

Tip 3:
Prune regularly

Pruning your trees with big leaves will help promote new growth, and keep them looking their best. Use sharp pruning shears to remove any dead or dying leaves, branches, or flowers.

Tip 4:
Protect from pests

Trees with big leaves are susceptible to pests, so it is important to protect them from infestation. Inspect your trees regularly for signs of pests, such as holes in the leaves or branches. If you see any signs of pests, treat your tree immediately with an insecticide.

Tip 5:
Keep an eye on the leaves

The leaves of trees with big leaves are susceptible to damage from wind, rain, and hail. Inspect your trees regularly for any signs of damage, such as ripped or torn leaves. If you see any damaged leaves, remove them from the tree immediately.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your trees will stay healthy and thrive. Few trees can match the beauty and majesty of these large-leafed specimens, so be sure to add one to your garden today.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, the leaves of a Japanese pagoda tree are actually quite small. However, the tree itself can grow to be quite large, reaching up to 30 feet tall.

The fall foliage of a big leaf maple tree is quite stunning, ranging in color from yellow to orange to red. From the fall color, the leaves eventually turn brown and fall off the tree.

Trees with big leaves generally prefer moist soil, but they can also tolerate damp soil. However, if the soil is too wet, it can cause the roots of the tree to rot.

So, there you have it. These are some of the best trees to plant in your garden if you’re looking for big, beautiful leaves. We hope this has been helpful, and that you’ll find the perfect tree for your space. Big leaves not only look great, they also provide shade and help keep your home cool in the summer.