Use the filters below to help find the best tree for your planting site. Click on each of the filters to learn more about them.

Your results will appear on the right-hand side of the page. To learn more about each tree, click on the image.
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Planting Site

Where are you planting your tree(s)?

Landscape Ontario Recommended

Hardiness Zone

Your hardiness zone is determined by the coldest temperature your area experiences. Choosing a tree that's suited to your zone means it's more likely to make it through the winter and thrive.

Do you know your hardiness zone?

Soil Quantity

Soil quantity is the amount of soil around your tree that is available forits roots to grow into. Assuming a 1 meter soil depth, how much space is available around your tree?

Sunlight

Different tree types have varying sunlight requirements during the growing season.

Thinking about how much sunlight your planting site receives. Is it:

Height

Clear

How tall do you envision your tree once its fully grown?

Remember, how close your tree is planted to other objects will affect its height. Here's a guide:

Taller trees (over 8 meters) should be planted at least 8 meters away from powerlines.

Medium-height trees (between 6 to 8 meters) should be planted 3 meters away.

Smaller trees (under 3 meters) can be planted safely under powerlines.

Clear

Canopy

The tree canopy is like a leafy umbrella formed by the branches and leaves at the top of a tree. It's the upper layer of branches and foliage that creates shade and shelters everything beneath it. Think of it as the "roof" of the tree.

How wide do you want the canopy of your has fully grown?

Drainage

One way to tell how much drainage a site has is to see whether water pools after a heavy rain.

Does water tend to pool at your site after a heavy rain?

Still not sure?

If it hasn’t rained recently in your area, you can determine the drainage of your site yourself:

1. Dig a hole 30cm wide and 30cm deep.

2. Fill the hole completely with water and let it drain completely.

3. Fill the hole again and measure the water depth every 2 hours. A medium-draining soil will drop at least 5cm every 2 hours, any slower and you have a poor draining soil, any faster and you have a high draining soil.

Salt Tolerance

Will this tree be planted close (less than 5 meters) to a road/sidewalk that is salted in the winter?

Growth Rate

Clear

Trees grow at different speeds, some trees grow quickly, while others grow more slowly.

How fast do you want your tree to grow?

Native Species

A native species is a type of plant that naturally occurs in a specific region and has adapted to the local climate, soil and other factors. Depending on the availability of native species, it may be more feasible to choose non-native species that serve a similar function to native ones, for example by providing a habitat for local wildlife or preventing erosion.

I am looking for a species:

Deciduous or Evergreen

There are two main types of trees: Evergreen and Deciduous. Evergreen trees have leaves year round. Pine trees are an example of evergreen trees. Deciduous trees lose their leaves in the fall. Maple trees are an example of deciduous trees.

Do you want your tree to have leaves year-round?

Watering

Will the tree be watered regularly after planting (at least once per week for the first year)?

Soil Quality

Soil quality testing is useful for understanding the growing conditions at your site and selecting a tree that’s likely to do well there.

Have you had your soil quality tested?

Texture Class:

Soil Respiration:

pH:

Organic Matter:

Select Your score

Scoring ranges from 4-12.

Scarlet Oak
Quercus coccinea
Quercus coccinea, or scarlet oak, is a durable, low-maintenance tree that thrives in well-drained soils, particularly those that are dry, acidic, and sandy. Scarlet oak is native to eastern and central North America, ranging from southwestern Maine west to Michigan, south to Missouri and Mississippi, and east to South Carolina and the eastern Atlantic coast. It grows best in full sun and is less prone to chlorosis compared to its relative, pin oak (Q. palustris). Pruning in the dormant season helps prevent attracting beetles that could carry oak wilt. It makes an excellent shade tree, especially in drier locations, and can also be used as a street tree, provided it has enough space to reach its mature size. Quercus coccinea drops acorns and a significant number of leaves, with the heaviest shedding in the fall. It is considered moderately messy due to the acorn litter and extensive leaf drop that require regular cleanup.
Open Spaces. Includes commercial, industrial, and educational campuses, as well as municipal parks. | Residential area: Select this option if you're planting on your own property (like your backyard), or if you're an organization planting trees in a residential area. | Wide Median or Boulevard. Typically, a divider between two roads, with a small width of 1 to 3 m, or a boulevard between a roadway and a sidewalk
4 score, 5 score, 6 score, 7 score, 8 score
>30 m
Zone 5 (a/b) | Zone 6 (a/b)
Full sun: At least 6 hours of direct sunlight every day during the growing season.
Yes, but the water is absorbed in under 12 hours (high drainage)
No
Deciduous
About the height of a 4 storey house (greater than 16-20 meters)
About the length of 3 average cars (10-15 meters)
Slow (less than 30cm per year)
north_america_native
No
Northern Pin Oak, Hill's Oak
Quercus ellipsoidalis
Quercus ellipsoidalis, northern pin oak, also known as Hill's oak, grows best in dry to medium, well-drained soils with average acidity and full sun. While it prefers consistent moisture, it can tolerate dry soils and is adaptable to a range of conditions, including alkaline soils, which typically cause chlorosis in other oaks. It is native to the north-central United States and south-central Canada, primarily in the Great Lakes region and the Upper Mississippi Valley.� This tree produces acorns as a food source for wildlife, including deer, bears, and birds. Pruning in the dormant season helps prevent attracting beetles that carry oak wilt. Despite occasional galls and insect damage, this oak is a durable, low-maintenance tree for a variety of landscapes. Quercus ellipsoidalis drops acorns and a moderate number of leaves, with the heaviest shedding in the fall. It is considered moderately messy due to the acorn litter and seasonal leaf drop that require regular cleanup.
Naturalization area: Primarily intended to provide wildlife habitat, ecological restoration, and ecosystem services. | Open Spaces. Includes commercial, industrial, and educational campuses, as well as municipal parks. | Highway. Includes sites that are open spaces along major highways, and expressways. Typically high salt content, and very long maintenance of the trees. | Residential area: Select this option if you're planting on your own property (like your backyard), or if you're an organization planting trees in a residential area. | Wide Median or Boulevard. Typically, a divider between two roads, with a small width of 1 to 3 m, or a boulevard between a roadway and a sidewalk
4 score, 5 score, 6 score, 7 score, 8 score, 9 score
>30 m
Zone 4 (a/b) | Zone 5 (a/b) | Zone 6 (a/b)
Full sun: At least 6 hours of direct sunlight every day during the growing season.
Yes, but the water is absorbed in under 12 hours (high drainage)
No
Deciduous
About the height of a 4 storey house (greater than 16-20 meters)
About the length of 4 average cars (16-20 meters)
Moderately (30cm- 60cm per year)
ontario_native | north_america_native
Yes
Swamp White Oak
Quercus bicolor
Quercus biocolour, or swamp white oak is a durable, long-lived tree that thrives in moderate to wet, acidic soils and full sun. Its Native range extends across eastern and central North America, from southwestern Maine to southern Quebec and Ontario, and south to Iowa, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, Virginia, and New Jersey. It has surprisingly good drought resistance and is one of the easiest oaks to transplant. This tree is ideal for wet ground and low spots, making it a good choice for areas prone to moisture (but not flooding). This species may experience chlorosis in alkaline soils but is tolerant of salt and heat stress. Pruning in the dormant season helps prevent attracting beetles that could carry oak wilt. Quercus bicolor drops large acorns and a considerable number of leaves, with the heaviest shedding in the fall. It is considered moderately messy due to the acorn litter and abundant leaf drop that requires regular cleanup
Naturalization area: Primarily intended to provide wildlife habitat, ecological restoration, and ecosystem services. | Open Spaces. Includes commercial, industrial, and educational campuses, as well as municipal parks. | Highway. Includes sites that are open spaces along major highways, and expressways. Typically high salt content, and very long maintenance of the trees. | Residential area: Select this option if you're planting on your own property (like your backyard), or if you're an organization planting trees in a residential area. | Wide Median or Boulevard. Typically, a divider between two roads, with a small width of 1 to 3 m, or a boulevard between a roadway and a sidewalk. | Lowland Naturalization: Primary lowland or poorly drained, organic soils
4 score, 5 score, 6 score, 7 score, 8 score, 9 score, 10 score, 11 score
>30 m
Zone 4 (a/b) | Zone 5 (a/b) | Zone 6 (a/b)
Full sun: At least 6 hours of direct sunlight every day during the growing season.
Yes, and there is still standing water, ponding and puddling after 24 hours (poor drainage) | Yes, but the water is absorbed after 12-24 hours (medium draining) | Yes, but the water is absorbed in under 12 hours (high drainage)
Yes
Deciduous
About the height of a 4 storey house (greater than 16-20 meters)
About the length of 4 average cars (16-20 meters)
Slow (less than 30cm per year)
ontario_native | north_america_native
Yes
Callery Pear - NOT RECOMMENDED TO PLANT
Pyrus calleryana
Pyrus calleryana, or callery pear, is not recommended to plant, due to invasive tendencies. It is native to China, Japan, Korea, Taiwan, and Vietnam. Callery pear is short-lived and can be quite thorny. It prefers full sun, and well-draining, loamy soil, with a pH between 6 and 8.5. Pruning should be done as needed in winter to improve the tree's strength and structure as this species can be prone to branch breakage in storms. An alternative option is the Amelanchier or Cercis canadensis.
Residential area: Select this option if you're planting on your own property (like your backyard), or if you're an organization planting trees in a residential area. | Wide Median or Boulevard. Typically, a divider between two roads, with a small width of 1 to 3 m, or a boulevard between a roadway and a sidewalk | Restricted Urban Site/ hardscaped landscape Site
4 score, 5 score, 6 score, 7 score, 8 score, 9 score, 10 score, 11 score
11 - 20 m
Zone 5 (a/b) | Zone 6 (a/b)
Full sun: At least 6 hours of direct sunlight every day during the growing season.
Yes, but the water is absorbed after 12-24 hours (medium draining) | Yes, but the water is absorbed in under 12 hours (high drainage)
No
Deciduous
About the height of a 3 storey house (9-15 meters)
About the length of 3 average cars (10-15 meters)
Fast (60cm or more per year)
No
Common Hoptree, Wafer-ash, Stinking-ash
Ptelea trifoliata
Ptelea trifoliata, or common hoptree, is native to North America, where it is found in Canada, Mexico, and the United States. This species is a versatile small tree that thrives in average, well-drained soils ranging from dry to medium moisture. It can tolerate both part to full shade and full sun, making it adaptable to various growing conditions. It is particularly effective as a large informal hedge or screen, or as a specimen plant in naturalized or woodland landscapes. Unlike true ash trees, it is not affected by the emerald ash borer. Its tendency to sucker makes it a good choice for naturalizing, though it prefers moist, well-drained soil for optimal growth.
Naturalization area: Primarily intended to provide wildlife habitat, ecological restoration, and ecosystem services. | Open Spaces. Includes commercial, industrial, and educational campuses, as well as municipal parks. | Highway. Includes sites that are open spaces along major highways, and expressways. Typically high salt content, and very long maintenance of the trees. | Residential area: Select this option if you're planting on your own property (like your backyard), or if you're an organization planting trees in a residential area. | Wide Median or Boulevard. Typically, a divider between two roads, with a small width of 1 to 3 m, or a boulevard between a roadway and a sidewalk | Restricted Urban Site/ hardscaped landscape. | Upland Naturalization: Primarily upland or well drained to shallow sites
4 score, 5 score, 6 score, 7 score, 8 score, 9 score
0 - 10 m
Zone 4 (a/b) | Zone 5 (a/b) | Zone 6 (a/b)
Full sun: At least 6 hours of direct sunlight every day during the growing season. | Partial sun: Less than 6 hours of direct sunlight or filtered light for most of the day. | Full shade: Less than 6 hours of filtered light or very little to no direct sunlight.
Yes, but the water is absorbed in under 12 hours (high drainage)
No
Deciduous
About the height of a 1 storey house (4 - 5 meters)
About the length of an average car (4 - 5 meters)
Slow (less than 30cm per year)
ontario_native | north_america_native
Yes
Saw-tooth Oak - Not Recommended
Quercus acutissima
Quercus acutissima, or saw-tooth oak, is considered a noxious weed or invasive in some regions of North America (not Ontario). The native range of sawtooth oak encompasses eastern Asia, including China, Korea, Japan, and the Himalayas. While it is generally considered low maintenance with good pest resistance, if planted in alkaline soils the leaves will become chlorotic. Quercus acutissima drops large, spiky acorns and a significant number of leaves, with the heaviest shedding in the fall. It is considered moderately messy due to the acorn litter and frequent leaf drop that require regular cleanup. A good alternative to plant includes the Quercus alba, Quercus bicolor and Quercus macrocarpa.
Open Spaces. Includes commercial, industrial, and educational campuses, as well as municipal parks. | Highway. Includes sites that are open spaces along major highways, and expressways. Typically high salt content, and very long maintenance of the trees. | Residential area: Select this option if you're planting on your own property (like your backyard), or if you're an organization planting trees in a residential area. | Wide Median or Boulevard. Typically, a divider between two roads, with a small width of 1 to 3 m, or a boulevard between a roadway and a sidewalk
4 score, 5 score, 6 score, 7 score, 8 score, 9 score
>30 m
Zone 6 (a/b)
Full sun: At least 6 hours of direct sunlight every day during the growing season.
Yes, but the water is absorbed after 12-24 hours (medium draining) | Yes, but the water is absorbed in under 12 hours (high drainage)
Yes
Deciduous
About the height of a 3 storey house (9-15 meters)
About the length of 3 average cars (10-15 meters)
Fast (60cm or more per year)
No
Prairie Gem Ussurian Pear
Pyrus ussuriensis
Pyrus ussuriensis, or prairie gem ussurian pear, native to northeast Asia and is highly resistant to fire blight. It prefers full sun to partial shade, and well-drained soils. Young trees should be pruned to create an open branching structure for even light distribution of fruit. This high-maintenance plant requires regular care and is best pruned in late winter after the risk of extreme cold has passed. Pyrus ussuriensis drops small fruits and a moderate number of leaves, with heavier shedding during the fall. It is considered somewhat messy due to the persistent debris that requires regular seasonal cleanup.
Open Spaces. Includes commercial, industrial, and educational campuses, as well as municipal parks. | Highway. Includes sites that are open spaces along major highways, and expressways. Typically high salt content, and very long maintenance of the trees. | Residential area: Select this option if you're planting on your own property (like your backyard), or if you're an organization planting trees in a residential area. | Wide Median or Boulevard. Typically, a divider between two roads, with a small width of 1 to 3 m, or a boulevard between a roadway and a sidewalk | Restricted Urban Site/ hardscaped landscape Site
4 score, 5 score, 6 score, 7 score, 8 score, 9 score, 10 score
11 - 20 m
Zone 3 (a/b) | Zone 4 (a/b) | Zone 5 (a/b) | Zone 6 (a/b)
Full sun: At least 6 hours of direct sunlight every day during the growing season.
Yes, but the water is absorbed after 12-24 hours (medium draining) | Yes, but the water is absorbed in under 12 hours (high drainage)
No
Deciduous
About the height of a 2 storey house (6 - 8 meters)
About the length of 2 average cars (6 - 9 meters)
Moderately (30cm- 60cm per year)
No
Pin Cherry
Prunus pensylvanica
Prunus pensylvanica, or pin cherry, serves as a valuable "nurse" tree in woodlands, providing cover and shade for larger hardwood seedlings. The native range extends across much of North America, encompassing eastern Canada from Newfoundland and southern Labrador to British Columbia, and the southern Northwest Territories, as well as the Great Lakes region, New England, and parts of the Appalachian Mountains. It thrives in fertile, moist, well-drained soil but can also grow in sandy or light clay soil. Fast-growing and one of the first to emerge after a fire, it�s beneficial for erosion control in disturbed areas. However, its bark, flowers, leaves, and stems are highly poisonous to humans and livestock due to hydrocyanic acid. It is short-lived, often surviving until it reaches about 10cm in diameter in urban areas.
Naturalization area: Primarily intended to provide wildlife habitat, ecological restoration, and ecosystem services. | Open Spaces. Includes commercial, industrial, and educational campuses, as well as municipal parks. | Highway. Includes sites that are open spaces along major highways, and expressways. Typically high salt content, and very long maintenance of the trees. | Residential area: Select this option if you're planting on your own property (like your backyard), or if you're an organization planting trees in a residential area. | Upland Naturalization: Primarily upland or well drained to shallow sites
4 score, 5 score, 6 score, 7 score, 8 score, 9 score
0 - 10 m
Zone 2 (a/b) | Zone 3 (a/b) | Zone 4 (a/b) | Zone 5 (a/b) | Zone 6 (a/b)
Full sun: At least 6 hours of direct sunlight every day during the growing season.
Yes, but the water is absorbed in under 12 hours (high drainage)
No
Deciduous
About the height of a 3 storey house (9-15 meters)
About the length of 2 average cars (6 - 9 meters)
Fast (60cm or more per year)
ontario_native | north_america_native
No
Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii
Pseudotsuga menziesii, or douglas fir, is native tree species to North America from the coastal regions from west-central British Columbia southward to Central California and thrives in areas with abundant air and soil moisture. It prefers well-aerated, deep soils, with a pH range from 5 to 6. While it is one of the largest tree species, it can be prone to significant damage from fungal diseases. Due to its size and specific growing conditions, douglas fir is generally not suitable for most urban landscapes.
Open Spaces. Includes commercial, industrial, and educational campuses, as well as municipal parks. | Residential area: Select this option if you're planting on your own property (like your backyard), or if you're an organization planting trees in a residential area.
4 score, 5 score, 6 score
0 - 10 m
Zone 4 (a/b) | Zone 5 (a/b) | Zone 6 (a/b)
Full sun: At least 6 hours of direct sunlight every day during the growing season.
Yes, but the water is absorbed in under 12 hours (high drainage)
No
Evergreen
About the height of a 4 storey house (greater than 16-20 meters)
About the length of an average car (4 - 5 meters)
Moderately (30cm- 60cm per year)
north_america_native
No
Chokecherry
Prunus virginiana
Prunus virginiana, or chokecherry, is native to Ontario and most of Canada and the US. It thrives in semi-dry, fertile soil and is highly resilient, with easy transplanting. Its weak wood, however, makes it prone to branch breakage during ice storms. In the fall, Prunus virginiana drops leaves and produces small, dark fruit that can create some mess.
Naturalization area: Primarily intended to provide wildlife habitat, ecological restoration, and ecosystem services. | Open Spaces. Includes commercial, industrial, and educational campuses, as well as municipal parks. | Highway. Includes sites that are open spaces along major highways, and expressways. Typically high salt content, and very long maintenance of the trees. | Residential area: Select this option if you're planting on your own property (like your backyard), or if you're an organization planting trees in a residential area. | Wide Median or Boulevard. Typically, a divider between two roads, with a small width of 1 to 3 m, or a boulevard between a roadway and a sidewalk. | Upland Naturalization: Primarily upland or well drained to shallow sites
4 score, 5 score, 6 score, 7 score, 8 score
0 - 10 m
Zone 2 (a/b) | Zone 3 (a/b) | Zone 4 (a/b) | Zone 5 (a/b) | Zone 6 (a/b)
Full sun: At least 6 hours of direct sunlight every day during the growing season.
Yes, but the water is absorbed in under 12 hours (high drainage)
Yes
Deciduous
About the height of a 3 storey house (9-15 meters)
About the length of 2 average cars (6 - 9 meters)
Moderately (30cm- 60cm per year)
ontario_native | north_america_native
No
Higan Cherry
Prunus subhirtella
Prunus subhirtella, or higan cherry, is a non-native tree species originating from Japan. It is a hardy tree with better tolerance for both summer heat and winter cold than many other flowering cherries. It thrives in moist, well-drained soil but is also adaptable to alkaline and dry sites. Higan cherry drops leaves in fall and produces small fruit that can create litter, making it somewhat messy.
Open Spaces. Includes commercial, industrial, and educational campuses, as well as municipal parks. | Residential area: Select this option if you're planting on your own property (like your backyard), or if you're an organization planting trees in a residential area.
4 score, 5 score, 6 score, 7 score, 8 score
11 - 20 m
Zone 5 (a/b) | Zone 6 (a/b)
Full sun: At least 6 hours of direct sunlight every day during the growing season. | Partial sun: Less than 6 hours of direct sunlight or filtered light for most of the day.
Yes, but the water is absorbed in under 12 hours (high drainage)
No
Deciduous
About the height of a 3 storey house (9-15 meters)
About the length of 2 average cars (6 - 9 meters)
Fast (60cm or more per year)
No
Japanese Flowering Cherry
Prunus serrulata
Prunus serrulata, or Japanese flowering cherry, is a non-native tree species originating from Japan, Korea, and China. It is well-suited for urban areas due to its tolerance of air pollution. Though it has a relatively short lifespan and can be high maintenance, it thrives with good air circulation and well-drained soils. The trunk is prone to splitting, and its thin bark is easily damaged. While it drops leaves in fall and produces small fruit that can create litter, it still makes a striking addition to any landscape.
Open Spaces. Includes commercial, industrial, and educational campuses, as well as municipal parks. | Residential area: Select this option if you're planting on your own property (like your backyard), or if you're an organization planting trees in a residential area.
4 score, 5 score, 6 score, 7 score
0 - 10 m
Zone 5 (a/b) | Zone 6 (a/b)
Full sun: At least 6 hours of direct sunlight every day during the growing season.
Yes, but the water is absorbed after 12-24 hours (medium draining) | Yes, but the water is absorbed in under 12 hours (high drainage)
No
Deciduous
About the height of a 2 storey house (6 - 8 meters)
About the length of 2 average cars (6 - 9 meters)
Moderately (30cm- 60cm per year)
No
Black Cherry
Prunus serotina
Prunus serotina, or black cherry, thrives in full sun to part shade and well-drained, fertile loams with moist conditions. The native range encompasses eastern North America, extending from southeastern Canada through the eastern United States, west to eastern Texas, with disjunct populations in central Texas, the southwestern United States, Mexico, and Guatemala. It prefers slightly moist soils, and will not tolerate extreme periods of wet or dry soil. Known for its profuse spring blooms, attractive summer foliage, and vibrant fall colour, it's an excellent choice for large landscapes like parks. While it�s slightly salt tolerant, making it adaptable to various sites and is considered one of the more trouble-free cherry varieties. Black cherry produces small, dark, bitter fruit that�s popular with birds but can create litter, along with leaf drop in the fall.
Naturalization area: Primarily intended to provide wildlife habitat, ecological restoration, and ecosystem services. | Open Spaces. Includes commercial, industrial, and educational campuses, as well as municipal parks. | Highway. Includes sites that are open spaces along major highways, and expressways. Typically high salt content, and very long maintenance of the trees. | Residential area: Select this option if you're planting on your own property (like your backyard), or if you're an organization planting trees in a residential area. | Upland Naturalization: Primarily upland or well drained to shallow sites
4 score, 5 score, 6 score, 7 score, 8 score, 9 score
11 - 20 m
Zone 3 (a/b) | Zone 4 (a/b) | Zone 5 (a/b) | Zone 6 (a/b)
Full sun: At least 6 hours of direct sunlight every day during the growing season. | Partial sun: Less than 6 hours of direct sunlight or filtered light for most of the day.
Yes, but the water is absorbed in under 12 hours (high drainage)
No
Deciduous
About the height of a 4 storey house (greater than 16-20 meters)
About the length of 3 average cars (10-15 meters)
Fast (60cm or more per year)
ontario_native | north_america_native
Yes
Sargent Cherry
Prunus sargentii
Prunus sargentii, or sargent cherry, is a non-native tree originating from Japan. It is a hardy, adaptable tree known for its stunning pink flowers, making it a great choice for residential areas, parks, and urban settings. It adapts to various soil pH levels and tolerates wind but is sensitive to air pollution. Sargent cherry drops leaves in the fall and produces small, inedible fruit that can create some mess.
Open Spaces. Includes commercial, industrial, and educational campuses, as well as municipal parks. | Residential area: Select this option if you're planting on your own property (like your backyard), or if you're an organization planting trees in a residential area. | Wide Median or Boulevard. Typically, a divider between two roads, with a small width of 1 to 3 m, or a boulevard between a roadway and a sidewalk | Restricted Urban Site/ hardscaped landscape Site
4 score, 5 score, 6 score, 7 score, 8 score
21 - 30 m
Zone 5 (a/b) | Zone 6 (a/b)
Full sun: At least 6 hours of direct sunlight every day during the growing season. | Partial sun: Less than 6 hours of direct sunlight or filtered light for most of the day.
Yes, but the water is absorbed in under 12 hours (high drainage)
Yes
Deciduous
About the height of a 3 storey house (9-15 meters)
About the length of 3 average cars (10-15 meters)
Fast (60cm or more per year)
No
Amur Cherry, Amur Chokecherry
Prunus maackii
Prunus maackii, or amur chokecherry, is a non-native from Manchuria and Korea. This species is a cherry tree with a longer lifespan and fewer issues compared to many other Prunus species. It thrives in rich, moist, well-drained soil and tolerates poorer soils and some salt pollution but prefers cool climates and should be mulched to regulate soil temperature. While it can be prone to black knot disease, borers, aphids, scale, canker, and Japanese beetles, it offers versatility in planting environments.
Open Spaces. Includes commercial, industrial, and educational campuses, as well as municipal parks. | Residential area: Select this option if you're planting on your own property (like your backyard), or if you're an organization planting trees in a residential area. | Wide Median or Boulevard. Typically, a divider between two roads, with a small width of 1 to 3 m, or a boulevard between a roadway and a sidewalk
4 score, 5 score, 6 score, 7 score, 8 score
21 - 30 m
Zone 3 (a/b) | Zone 4 (a/b) | Zone 5 (a/b) | Zone 6 (a/b)
Full sun: At least 6 hours of direct sunlight every day during the growing season.
Yes, but the water is absorbed in under 12 hours (high drainage)
No
Deciduous
About the height of a 3 storey house (9-15 meters)
About the length of 3 average cars (10-15 meters)
Fast (60cm or more per year)
No
Accolade Flowering Cherry
Prunus 'Accolade'
Prunus 'Accolade', or accolade flowering cherry, is a fast-growing, non-native tree that thrives in full sun. It tolerates a range of soil types, from acid to neutral, and can withstand salt spray. While it prefers moist, well-drained soil, it can tolerate occasional dry periods. Known for being relatively low maintenance, it�s more resistant to common pests and diseases compared to other cherry varieties, though it can still be affected by lesser peachtree borers, black knot, root rot, and fireblight. Accolade makes a great choice for parks, medians, and residential areas, but be aware of moderate leaf drop in fall and occasional fruit litter.
Open Spaces. Includes commercial, industrial, and educational campuses, as well as municipal parks. | Residential area: Select this option if you're planting on your own property (like your backyard), or if you're an organization planting trees in a residential area. | Wide Median or Boulevard. Typically, a divider between two roads, with a small width of 1 to 3 m, or a boulevard between a roadway and a sidewalk
4 score, 5 score, 6 score, 7 score
11 - 20 m
Zone 5 (a/b) | Zone 6 (a/b)
Full sun: At least 6 hours of direct sunlight every day during the growing season.
Yes, but the water is absorbed in under 12 hours (high drainage)
No
Deciduous
About the height of a 2 storey house (6 - 8 meters)
About the length of 2 average cars (6 - 9 meters)
Fast (60cm or more per year)
No
Canada Plum, Canadian Plum
Prunus nigra
Prunus nigra, or Canada plum or Canadian plum, is a native tree ranging throughout northeastern North America. This fast growing, short live species thrives in rich, moist, well-drained soil but can tolerate a wide variety of soil conditions. The fruit produced from this tree is excellent for wildlife, especially bird species. Canadian Plum is a compact, upright-bratched narrow tree with an overall height between 20 and 30 ft.
Naturalization area: Primarily intended to provide wildlife habitat, ecological restoration, and ecosystem services. | Open Spaces. Includes commercial, industrial, and educational campuses, as well as municipal parks. | Highway. Includes sites that are open spaces along major highways, and expressways. Typically high salt content, and very long maintenance of the trees. | Residential area: Select this option if you're planting on your own property (like your backyard), or if you're an organization planting trees in a residential area. | Upland Naturalization: Primarily upland or well drained to shallow sites
4 score, 5 score, 6 score, 7 score, 8 score, 9 score, 10 score
11 - 20 m
Zone 2 (a/b) | Zone 3 (a/b) | Zone 4 (a/b) | Zone 5 (a/b) | Zone 6 (a/b)
Full sun: At least 6 hours of direct sunlight every day during the growing season.
No
Deciduous
About the height of a 2 storey house (6 - 8 meters)
About the length of 2 average cars (6 - 9 meters)
Moderately (30cm- 60cm per year)
ontario_native | north_america_native
No
American Plum
Prunus americana
Prunus americana, or American plum, is a native tree known for its fragrant spring flowers and ability to attract wildlife. Native to North America from Saskatchewan and Idaho south to New Mexico and east to Qu�bec, Maine and Florida. It�s excellent for erosion control, providing nesting cover and supporting butterflies. Drought-tolerant and well-suited for naturalizing, it�s perfect for enhancing natural landscapes, parks. While many plums (especially older trees) can develop thorns and they produce small, edible fruits of lesser quality, it�s great for bird attraction. Expect some fruit litter, but overall, it's a valuable, low-maintenance addition to any landscape.
Naturalization area: Primarily intended to provide wildlife habitat, ecological restoration, and ecosystem services. | Open Spaces. Includes commercial, industrial, and educational campuses, as well as municipal parks. | Highway. Includes sites that are open spaces along major highways, and expressways. Typically high salt content, and very long maintenance of the trees. | Residential area: Select this option if you're planting on your own property (like your backyard), or if you're an organization planting trees in a residential area. | Wide Median or Boulevard. Typically, a divider between two roads, with a small width of 1 to 3 m, or a boulevard between a roadway and a sidewalk. | Upland Naturalization: Primarily upland or well drained to shallow sites
4 score, 5 score, 6 score, 7 score, 8 score, 9 score, 10 score
0 - 10 m
Zone 3 (a/b) | Zone 4 (a/b) | Zone 5 (a/b) | Zone 6 (a/b)
Full sun: At least 6 hours of direct sunlight every day during the growing season. | Partial sun: Less than 6 hours of direct sunlight or filtered light for most of the day.
Yes, but the water is absorbed in under 12 hours (high drainage)
No
Deciduous
About the height of a 2 storey house (6 - 8 meters)
About the length of 2 average cars (6 - 9 meters)
Moderately (30cm- 60cm per year)
ontario_native | north_america_native
No
Lombardy Poplar
Populus nigra
Populus nigra, or lombardy poplar, is a non-native, fast-growing tree that is highly susceptible to Cytospora canker, a deadly fungal disease, making it unsuitable for most landscapes. This species is native to Europe, northwestern Africa, and western Asia. While it is tolerant of alkaline, flooding, clay, and dry soils and can serve as a windbreak, its short lifespan and vulnerability to disease make it a poor planting choice. It drops large leaves in the fall and produces cottony seed fluff, creating some mess and requiring frequent cleanup.
Open Spaces. Includes commercial, industrial, and educational campuses, as well as municipal parks. | Residential area: Select this option if you're planting on your own property (like your backyard), or if you're an organization planting trees in a residential area.
4 score, 5 score, 6 score, 7 score, 8 score, 9 score, 10 score
0 - 10 m
Zone 3 (a/b) | Zone 4 (a/b) | Zone 5 (a/b) | Zone 6 (a/b)
Full sun: At least 6 hours of direct sunlight every day during the growing season.
Yes, and there is still standing water, ponding and puddling after 24 hours (poor drainage) | Yes, but the water is absorbed after 12-24 hours (medium draining) | Yes, but the water is absorbed in under 12 hours (high drainage)
No
Evergreen
Taller than a 4 storey house (21 meters +)
About the length of an average car (4 - 5 meters)
Fast (60cm or more per year)
No
Carolina Poplar, Canada Poplar
Populus x canadensis
Populus canadensis, or Carolina poplar or Canada poplar, a hybrid between the native Populus deltoides and European Populus nigra, is a fast-growing tree ideal for sunny, moist sites, particularly near water. It tolerates a broad soil pH range and occasional flooding, making it perfect for quickly establishing a shaded canopy in naturalized areas. Trees often reach very large size in 50 years and then die over a short time period. Its brittle wood is vulnerable to storm breakage, and its roots can damage sidewalks and clog cracked sewer lines.
Open Spaces. Includes commercial, industrial, and educational campuses, as well as municipal parks. | Residential area: Select this option if you're planting on your own property (like your backyard), or if you're an organization planting trees in a residential area.
4 score, 5 score, 6 score, 7 score, 8 score, 9 score
11 - 20 m
Zone 4 (a/b) | Zone 5 (a/b) | Zone 6 (a/b)
Full sun: At least 6 hours of direct sunlight every day during the growing season.
Yes, but the water is absorbed after 12-24 hours (medium draining) | Yes, but the water is absorbed in under 12 hours (high drainage)
No
Deciduous
About the height of a 3 storey house (9-15 meters)
About the length of 2 average cars (6 - 9 meters)
Fast (60cm or more per year)
No
Trembling Aspen, Quaking Aspen
Populus tremuloides
Populus tremuloides, or trembling aspen, is native to Ontario and a great addition to naturalizing areas due to its support for wildlife, including birds, mammals, and butterflies. It thrives in moist, well-drained soils, tolerates a range of conditions, and is known for its unique "trembling" leaves. However, it�s not recommended for residential areas due to its extensive root system, which can sprout new trees, and its weak wood, which can pose safety risks.� Aspen is also messy, shedding numerous leaves in fall and producing cottony seed fluff that requires frequent cleaning.
Naturalization area: Primarily intended to provide wildlife habitat, ecological restoration, and ecosystem services. | Open Spaces. Includes commercial, industrial, and educational campuses, as well as municipal parks. | Highway. Includes sites that are open spaces along major highways, and expressways. Typically high salt content, and very long maintenance of the trees. | Residential area: Select this option if you're planting on your own property (like your backyard), or if you're an organization planting trees in a residential area. | Wide Median or Boulevard. Typically, a divider between two roads, with a small width of 1 to 3 m, or a boulevard between a roadway and a sidewalk. | Upland Naturalization: Primarily upland or well drained to shallow sites
4 score, 5 score, 6 score, 7 score, 8 score, 9 score
11 - 20 m
Zone 2 (a/b) | Zone 3 (a/b) | Zone 4 (a/b) | Zone 5 (a/b) | Zone 6 (a/b)
Full sun: At least 6 hours of direct sunlight every day during the growing season.
Yes, but the water is absorbed after 12-24 hours (medium draining) | Yes, but the water is absorbed in under 12 hours (high drainage)
Yes
Deciduous
About the height of a 3 storey house (9-15 meters)
About the length of 2 average cars (6 - 9 meters)
Fast (60cm or more per year)
ontario_native | north_america_native
No
Largetooth Aspen
Populus grandidentata
Populus grandidentata, or largetooth aspen, is native to northeastern and north-central North America, ranging from southeastern Canada and the Great Lakes region south to Virginia, North Carolina, and extreme northeastern Missouri. It is an excellent choice for naturalized areas, offering rapid growth and valuable wildlife support, with its leaves, bark, and twigs providing food for birds and mammals. It thrives in full sun and can handle a variety of soil types but is intolerant of shade and flooding. While it is prone to diseases and pests, it remains a resilient species for areas where aggressive growth can be managed. Like other aspens, it reproduces by suckers. Largetooth aspen sheds large leaves and produces cottony seeds in the fall, which can create considerable litter.
Naturalization area: Primarily intended to provide wildlife habitat, ecological restoration, and ecosystem services. | Open Spaces. Includes commercial, industrial, and educational campuses, as well as municipal parks. | Residential area: Select this option if you're planting on your own property (like your backyard), or if you're an organization planting trees in a residential area. | Upland Naturalization: Primarily upland or well drained to shallow sites
4 score, 5 score, 6 score, 7 score, 8 score
21 - 30 m
Zone 3 (a/b) | Zone 4 (a/b) | Zone 5 (a/b) | Zone 6 (a/b)
Full sun: At least 6 hours of direct sunlight every day during the growing season.
Yes, but the water is absorbed after 12-24 hours (medium draining) | Yes, but the water is absorbed in under 12 hours (high drainage)
No
Evergreen
About the height of a 4 storey house (greater than 16-20 meters)
About the length of 3 average cars (10-15 meters)
Fast (60cm or more per year)
ontario_native | north_america_native
No
Red Pine
Pinus resinosa
Pinus resinosa, or red pine, is native to Ontario and thrives in full sun with a preference for large spaces. Its native range is from Newfoundland west to Manitoba, and south to Pennsylvania, with several smaller, disjunct populations occurring in the Appalachian Mountains in Virginia and West Virginia, as well as a few small pockets in extreme northern New Jersey and northern Illinois. It prefers well-drained porous gravelly subsoil, overlaid with a light sandy loam. This drought-tolerant tree is resistant to deer and has a deep root system that helps it withstand strong winds. While it is ideal for woodlands, naturalized areas, and rural landscapes, it is not recommended in more urban areas. Red pine sheds long needles in the fall, with occasional cones creating some cleanup. Its natural resilience and aesthetic appeal make it a solid choice for the right setting.
Naturalization area: Primarily intended to provide wildlife habitat, ecological restoration, and ecosystem services. | Open Spaces. Includes commercial, industrial, and educational campuses, as well as municipal parks. | Highway. Includes sites that are open spaces along major highways, and expressways. Typically high salt content, and very long maintenance of the trees. | Residential area: Select this option if you're planting on your own property (like your backyard), or if you're an organization planting trees in a residential area. | Upland Naturalization: Primarily upland or well drained to shallow sites
4 score, 5 score, 6 score, 7 score, 8 score, 9 score
11 - 20 m
Zone 2 (a/b) | Zone 3 (a/b) | Zone 4 (a/b) | Zone 5 (a/b) | Zone 6 (a/b)
Full sun: At least 6 hours of direct sunlight every day during the growing season.
Yes, but the water is absorbed in under 12 hours (high drainage)
No
Evergreen
About the height of a 4 storey house (greater than 16-20 meters)
About the length of 2 average cars (6 - 9 meters)
Fast (60cm or more per year)
ontario_native | north_america_native
No
Eastern Cottonwood, Eastern Poplar
Populus deltoides
Populus deltoides, or eastern cottonwood, is native to North America, thriving in the eastern, central, and southwestern United States, as well as the southern Canadian prairies and the southernmost part of eastern Canada. It is a fast-growing tree ideal for naturalized areas, parks, and rural lowlands. It thrives in full sun and moist, well-drained soils, tolerating drought once established. Cottonwood is best suited for rural or riparian areas where their rapid growth can be managed. Its messiness, with large leaf drops and cottony seeds, can be mitigated by planting cotton-less cultivars.
Naturalization area: Primarily intended to provide wildlife habitat, ecological restoration, and ecosystem services. | Open Spaces. Includes commercial, industrial, and educational campuses, as well as municipal parks. | Highway. Includes sites that are open spaces along major highways, and expressways. Typically high salt content, and very long maintenance of the trees. | Residential area: Select this option if you're planting on your own property (like your backyard), or if you're an organization planting trees in a residential area. | Upland Naturalization: Primarily upland or well drained to shallow sites
4 score, 5 score, 6 score, 7 score, 8 score, 9 score, 10 score
>30 m
Zone 3 (a/b) | Zone 4 (a/b) | Zone 5 (a/b) | Zone 6 (a/b)
Full sun: At least 6 hours of direct sunlight every day during the growing season.
Yes, and there is still standing water, ponding and puddling after 24 hours (poor drainage) | Yes, but the water is absorbed after 12-24 hours (medium draining) | Yes, but the water is absorbed in under 12 hours (high drainage)
Yes
Evergreen
Taller than a 4 storey house (21 meters +)
About the length of 4 average cars (16-20 meters)
Fast (60cm or more per year)
ontario_native | north_america_native
Yes
Balsam Poplar, Eastern Balsam Poplar
Populus balsamifera
Populus balsamifera, or balsam poplar, native to Ontario, is a fast-growing tree perfect for rural areas, windbreaks, and naturalized landscapes on the edges of swampy ground. Thriving in full sun and moist, well-drained soil, it provides quick shelter for shade-tolerant species like hemlock and white pine. While balsam poplar can be messy with large leaf drops and cottony seed fluff, its rapid growth and hardiness make it an excellent choice for wind protection and habitat. Balsam poplar is native to a broad area of North America, extending from Newfoundland and Labrador across Canada, into Alaska, and south into the northern and eastern United States.
Naturalization area: Primarily intended to provide wildlife habitat, ecological restoration, and ecosystem services. | Open Spaces. Includes commercial, industrial, and educational campuses, as well as municipal parks. | Highway. Includes sites that are open spaces along major highways, and expressways. Typically high salt content, and very long maintenance of the trees. | Residential area: Select this option if you're planting on your own property (like your backyard), or if you're an organization planting trees in a residential area. | Upland Naturalization: Primarily upland or well drained to shallow sites
4 score, 5 score, 6 score, 7 score, 8 score, 9 score
>30 m
Zone 2 (a/b) | Zone 3 (a/b) | Zone 4 (a/b) | Zone 5 (a/b) | Zone 6 (a/b)
Full sun: At least 6 hours of direct sunlight every day during the growing season.
Yes, but the water is absorbed after 12-24 hours (medium draining) | Yes, but the water is absorbed in under 12 hours (high drainage)
No
Evergreen
Taller than a 4 storey house (21 meters +)
About the length of 4 average cars (16-20 meters)
Fast (60cm or more per year)
ontario_native | north_america_native
No
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