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Larch Tree
Larix decidua, Zones 2 to 4. Size: 50 feet or more
Don’t fret when the needles of this conifer turn a dazzling yellow-gold in fall. The colorful needles will be replaced with fresh new needles each spring. Grow alone or in groups and enjoy the seasonal changes this native tree provides. Here are some helpful tips for landscaping around a tree.
Why we love it: The European and Japanese larches allow gardeners with different growing conditions to still enjoy the beauty of this tree.
10/12
Japanese Pagoda Tree
Styphnolobium japonicum (formerly Sophora japonica), Zones 4 to 7. Size: Up to 50 feet
Also known as scholar-tree, this tree’s bright green foliage and summer bloom make it a nice addition to any landscape. Grow in a mulch bed or mixed border, so the flower petals and ornamental pods will drop out of sight.
Why we love it: The large, creamy, fragrant white flowers brighten the landscape in mid-to-late summer.
11/12
Korean Mountain Ash Tree
Sorbus alnifolia, Zones 4 to 7. Size: 40 to 50 feet
Beautiful white flowers in spring give way to small pinkish-red to scarlet fruit in the fall. The fruit persists and adds to the fall display as the leaves turn from green to yellow-orange in the fall. Grow in moist, well-drained soil for faster growth and longevity. Beware of the trees that are the worst for your home’s plumbing.
Why we love it: Birds love the berries as with other mountain ash trees, but this type is more pest-resistant.