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.

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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.
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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

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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.

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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

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

Calculate

Select Your score

Scoring ranges from 4-12.

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European White Poplar, White Poplar, Silver Poplar - DO NOT PLANT
Populus alba
Populus alba, or white poplar, is not recommended to plant, due to aggressive tendencies. The native range of Populus alba encompasses central and southern Europe, the Mediterranean islands, temperate Asia, and northern Africa. It prefers acidic, moist, well-drained soils with full sun. The white poplar is a fast-growing tree that is known for aggressive suckering, which can form colonies. Instead, consider Ontario native alternatives like Populus tremuloides or Populus deltoides.
4 score, 5 score, 6 score, 7 score, 8 score, 9 score, 10 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 after 12-24 hours (medium draining) | Yes, but the water is absorbed in under 12 hours (high drainage)
Yes
Evergreen
About the height of a 4 storey house (greater than 16-20 meters)
About the length of 4 average cars (16-20 meters)
Fast (60cm or more per year)
No
London Planetree
Platanus x acerifolia
Platanus acerifolia, or London planetree, a hybrid between the native sycamore and non-native Asian planetree, thrives in full sun and well-drained, humusy soils. It is tolerant of various soil types, light shade, urban pollutants, salt and drought. It is more urban tolerant than American sycamore. Although it was once known for its resistance to sycamore anthracnose, some cultivars, such as 'Columbia' and 'liberty,' show greater resilience to anthracnose. Despite its messy nature, dropping large leaves and seed balls in fall, the London planetree is a hardy, versatile choice for urban landscapes and provides valuable shade.
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 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. | Partial sun: Less than 6 hours of direct sunlight or filtered light for most of the day.
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 +)
Greater than the length of 4 average cars (greater than 21 meters)
Fast (60cm or more per year)
Yes
American Sycamore, American Plane Tree, Eastern Sycamore, Buttonwood, Buttonball-tree
Platanus occidentalis
Platanus occidentalis, or American sycamore, is a fast-growing, large tree that thrives in full sun and well-drained, moist soils. The native range of Platanus occidentalis extends from southwestern Maine west to southern Ontario, southern Wisconsin, Iowa, and eastern Nebraska, south to south-central Texas, and east to northwestern Florida and southeastern Georgia. It adapts well to various soil pH levels and offers moderate salt tolerance. Known for its distinctive exfoliating bark and tolerance of light shade and urban pollutants, this tree is ideal for spacious areas. Mix-ups can occur along the nursery value chain between sycamore and the London plane; it may be worth confirming species identity with the nursery prior to shipment.
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. | Lowland Naturalization: Primary lowland or poorly drained, organic soils
4 score, 5 score, 6 score, 7 score, 8 score, 9 score, 10 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. | Partial sun: Less than 6 hours of direct sunlight or filtered light for most of the day.
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 +)
Greater than the length of 4 average cars (greater than 21 meters)
Fast (60cm or more per year)
ontario_native | north_america_native
Yes
Pitch Pine
Pinus rigida
Pinus rigida, or pitch pine, excels in poor soil, cold temperatures, and dry, rocky terrain where other trees struggle. It is native to eastern North America, specifically from central Maine south to Georgia and as far west as Kentucky, with some populations in Canada. It prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. It�s fire-resistant and a resilient choice for landscapes, with increasing appeal for those looking to diversify tree species and reduce pest and disease risk. While pitch pine is susceptible to common pine diseases, its sturdy nature and ability to thrive in tough conditions make it an excellent addition to the landscape. Its rigid wood is susceptible to damage from heavy snow and strong winds. Pitch pine sheds long, stiff needles year-round, with a heavier drop in the fall, creating some cleanup due to needle and cone 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.
4 score, 5 score, 6 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
Evergreen
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)
ontario_native | north_america_native
No
Eastern White Pine
Pinus strobus
Pinus strobus, or eastern white pine, native to eastern US and Canada and is Ontario�s provincial tree. It is a fast-growing evergreen that thrives in acidic, fertile, well-drained soils and full sun, particularly in cool, humid climates. It's a great choice for landscapes and can even be sheared for hedges. It grows rapidly and adapts well but struggles with high pH soils and compacted, saline conditions, warmer conditions. Eastern white pine drops long, soft needles year-round, with heavier shedding 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
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
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
Yes
Ponderosa Pine
Pinus ponderosa
Pinus ponderosa or Ponderosa pine, is native to western North America, ranging from southern Canada (British Columbia) to Mexico, and from the Plains States (Nebraska and Oklahoma) to the Pacific Coast. It prefers a soil composed of a mixture of gravel, sand, and loam, with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0, with good drainage. While it can be susceptible to issues like root rot, blister rust, needle blight, and pests such as the sequoia pitch moth, these challenges can be managed with proactive care. Regular pruning in the late fall to winter months helps maintain its health and reduce the risk of pest problems. While it can create some mess with fallen needles, its natural beauty and resilience make it a rewarding addition to your landscape as a specimen tree.
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.
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 in under 12 hours (high drainage)
No
Evergreen
Taller than a 4 storey house (21 meters +)
About the length of 2 average cars (6 - 9 meters)
Fast (60cm or more per year)
north_america_native
No
Austrian Pine -� NOT RECOMMENDED TO PLANT�
Pinus nigra
Pinus nigra, or Austrian pine, is a non-native species that is not recommended for planting due to its high susceptibility to pests and diseases. Native to central and southeastern Europe, it adapts well to various soil types, including sandy, loamy, and poor rocky soils making it a popular highway tree species in the past. While it tolerates urban conditions and some drought once established, it is difficult to transplant and should be used sparingly, especially in areas prone to tip blight. Consider planting Pinus strobus, or Pinus ponderosa instead.
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.
4 score, 5 score, 6 score, 7 score, 8 score, 9 score, 10 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)
Yes
Evergreen
About the height of a 3 storey house (9-15 meters)
About the length of 3 average cars (10-15 meters)
Moderately (30cm- 60cm per year)
No
Limber Pine
Pinus flexilis
Pinus flexilis, or limber pine, is a native Canadian tree known for its adaptability to rocky slopes and windy sites. Native to western North America, specifically the Rocky Mountains and Intermountain Ranges, it extends from southeastern British Columbia and southwestern Alberta in Canada south to northern Arizona and New Mexico, and southwestern California in the United States. It thrives in moist, well-drained soils and tolerates both acidic and alkaline conditions. This low-maintenance tree is less prone to storm damage due to its flexible branches and can be more easily transplanted using balled and burlapped or container stock. Limber pine's resilience and unique beauty make it a great choice for a variety of landscapes.
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.
4 score, 5 score, 6 score, 7 score, 8 score, 9 score, 10 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. | 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
Evergreen
About the height of a 3 storey house (9-15 meters)
About the length of 2 average cars (6 - 9 meters)
Slow (less than 30cm per year)
north_america_native
No
Mugo Pine
Pinus mugo
Pinus mugo, or mugo pine, is a non-native European evergreen that thrives in cool climates with moist, well-drained soil and full to partial sun. It requires annual pruning in late winter to maintain its compact size. While it faces potential pests like sawflies and scale, along with diseases such as tip blight, rusts, and rots, mugo pine is resistant to deer damage and supports moths and pollinators. It can be somewhat messy due to year-round needle drop, especially in late fall, but the needles decompose quickly.
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.
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)
Yes
Evergreen
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)
No
Serbian Spruce
Picea omorika
Picea omorika, or Serbian spruce, is a non-native species known for its versatility, making it an excellent choice for urban environments. It thrives in full sun, slightly acidic, well-drained soil, and sheltered areas but can also tolerate alkaline soil and dry sites. Deer-resistant and adaptable, it grows slowly and typically faces few issues, though it can be susceptible to aphids, borers, spider mites, and budworms. While it may not perform well in hot, humid conditions, it is more adaptable than many other spruces.
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
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.
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)
Slow (less than 30cm per year)
No
Jack Pine
Pinus banksiana
Pinus banksiana, or Jack pine, is a native Ontario tree that thrives in cooler climates and well-drained sandy loam. The native range of Pinus banksiana spans across much of Canada and the northeastern and north-central United States, extending from the Northwest Territories to Nova Scotia, and south to the Great Lakes and northern New England. Best suited for dry, well-drained areas and sandy soils, Jack pine is intolerant of wet, alkaline soil, clay soils and heat. It rarely grows to full size in Southern Ontario due to the warmer climate. It may shed needles and cones, but its ecological value and resilience make it an excellent planting choice for the right environment.
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)
Yes
Evergreen
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
Yes
Red Spruce
Picea rubens
Picea rubens, or red spruce, native to eastern US and Canada, is an excellent choice for parks and naturalized landscapes. It prefers moderately well-drained soil, and thrives in full sun to part shade, which provides valuable food and nesting sites for wildlife. While it is slow growing, its twigs, leaves, and seeds are vital for birds and other animals. Red spruce is sensitive to air pollution and may face pests like spider mites, aphids, and budworm. Despite this, its beauty and ecological benefits make it a great addition to the right environment.
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.
4 score, 5 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
Evergreen
About the height of a 4 storey house (greater than 16-20 meters)
About the length of 2 average cars (6 - 9 meters)
Slow (less than 30cm per year)
ontario_native | north_america_native
No
Colorado Spruce, Blue Spruce, Silver Spruce
Picea pungens
Picea pungens, or Colorado spruce, is a native to North American evergreen known for its striking silvery-blue foliage and symmetrical shape. Native to Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, New Mexico, Utah and Wyoming. Thriving in full sun and acidic, well-drained soils, it�s a hardy tree that tolerates some alkaline soils and is drought-tolerant once mature. However, young trees need consistent moisture, especially during establishment. While blue spruce excels in cooler climates, it may struggle in hot, humid conditions, becoming susceptible to pests like spider mites, spruce budworm, and diseases such as cankers and needle cast. Proper spacing and good airflow help reduce these issues.
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, 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)
Yes
Evergreen
About the height of a 3 storey house (9-15 meters)
About the length of an average car (4 - 5 meters)
Slow (less than 30cm per year)
north_america_native
Yes
Carolina Silverbell
Halesia tetraptera
Halesia tetraptera, or Carolina silverbell is non-native to Ontario with a natural range within the eastern United States. It is known for its stunning bell-shaped flowers in spring. It thrives in well-drained, acidic, and organically rich soils with full sun to part shade, and can suffer from chlorosis in high pH soils. While it may shed small leaves and seed capsules in the fall, creating occasional messiness, its adaptability and striking structure make it an excellent choice for shrub borders or as a standout specimen.
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
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 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)
Moderately (30cm- 60cm per year)
north_america_native
Yes
Black Spruce
Picea mariana
Picea mariana, or black spruce, is native to North America, primarily found in Canada and extending into the northern parts of the United States, including Alaska, the Great Lakes region, and the upper Northeast and excels in wet landscapes. Its shallow root system and slow growth make it ideal for partial shade to full sun, though it can be vulnerable to wind throw. It prefers wet organic soils, but can tolerate a range of soil types including clays, loams, sand, and coarse till. Black spruce is valuable for wildlife, providing a nesting site for birds and food for small mammals like red squirrels. Its cones open with fire, aiding in seed dispersal. This tree is an excellent addition to naturalized areas in northern areas with cold winters and wet ground.
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. | Lowland Naturalization: Primary lowland or poorly drained, organic soils
4 score, 5 score, 6 score, 7 score, 8 score, 9 score, 10 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. | Partial sun: Less than 6 hours of direct sunlight or filtered light for most of the day.
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
About the height of a 3 storey house (9-15 meters)
About the length of 2 average cars (6 - 9 meters)
Slow (less than 30cm per year)
ontario_native | north_america_native
No
Amur Cork Tree - NOT RECOMMENDED TO PLANT
Phellodendron amurense
Phellodendron amurense, or amur cork tree, is not recommended due to invasive tendencies. It prefers well-draining loam soil, and can tolerate a range of pH levels, however it prefers slightly acidic to neutral conditions. Native to northern China, Manchuria, Korea, and Japan, it often replaces native hardwoods and is classified as invasive in New York. The tree emits an unpleasant turpentine-like odor when its foliage is bruised or fruit crushed. Though it typically faces few pests or diseases, the tree is somewhat messy, with falling leaves, sticky fruit, and peeling bark adding to debris. An alternative to consider planting instead is Cercis canadensis or Celtis occidentalis.
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
>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 3 storey house (9-15 meters)
About the length of 3 average cars (10-15 meters)
Moderately (30cm- 60cm per year)
No
White Spruce
Picea glauca
Picea glauca, or white spruce, native to Ontario, is a long-lived, attractive tree perfect for landscapes, windbreaks, or privacy screens. It thrives in moist, well-drained soil and full sun but can tolerate light shade. Best suited for cold winter climates with cool summers, it is drought-tolerant, deer-resistant, and low-maintenance. It can thrive in clay soil with moderate drainage. Due to climate change white spruce are better suited to climates further north.
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
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. | 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
Evergreen
About the height of a 3 storey house (9-15 meters)
About the length of an average car (4 - 5 meters)
Slow (less than 30cm per year)
ontario_native | north_america_native
Yes
Norway Spruce
Picea abies
Picea abies, or Norway spruce, is a fast-growing, non-native tree from Europe, perfect for large lawns, parks, open areas. Its impressive size, drought tolerance, and deer resistance make it an excellent low-maintenance choice. Though it thrives in full sun, and loamy soils, and benefits from a 3-4 inch layer of mulch to support its shallow root system. Norway spruce attracts wildlife, including birds and small mammals, and can be a beautiful addition to your landscape. While it may occasionally shed needles, cones, or small twigs, its year-round beauty and fast growth make it a great choice for creating a natural, forest-like atmosphere.
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, 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. | Partial sun: Less than 6 hours of direct sunlight or filtered light for most of the day.
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 2 average cars (6 - 9 meters)
Fast (60cm or more per year)
No
Persian Parrotia
Parrotia persica
Parrotia persica, or Persian parrotia, is a non-native tree from Iran prized for its striking foliage and bark. It thrives in moist, well-drained soil but is also tolerant of dry conditions and salt. While it has minimal pest and disease issues, Japanese beetles can occasionally be a concern. As a slow grower, it's best pruned after flowering in the spring. Ideal for urban roadside plantings, it does not attract wildlife but offers year-round visual interest. Though somewhat messy with fallen leaves, persistent fruits, and exfoliating bark, it adds character to landscapes.
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
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)
Moderately (30cm- 60cm per year)
No
Sourwood
Oxydendrum arboreum
Oxydendrum arboreum, or sourwood, is a native ornamental shade tree near Ontario, known for its year-round visual appeal. It thrives in acidic, moist, well-drained soils and is drought-tolerant with long blooming periods. While it generally faces few disease or pest issues, it can be sensitive to pollution, soil compaction, and root disturbance, making it best suited for less urbanized areas. Sourwood is slow-growing and not tolerant of transplantation, so it�s best moved when young and through containers in spring. Though somewhat messy with fallen leaves, fruit clusters, and some flower debris, it adds charm to 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, 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. | 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)
Slow (less than 30cm per year)
north_america_native
No
Ironwood, Hop Hornbeam, American Hophornbeam
Ostrya virginiana
Ostrya virginiana, or ironwood, also known as eastern hophornbeam, is a native tree to Ontario with a natural range from Nova Scotia west to southern Manitoba and eastern Wyoming, southeast to northern Florida and southwest to eastern Texas. Thriving in full sun to partial shade, it prefers slightly acidic, moist, fertile, well-drained soils but can tolerate dry, gravelly soils once established. It is slow to establish and difficult to transplant, so careful site selection is key. Though it may drop papery seed clusters, leaves, and peel bark, it�s a resilient and adaptable tree perfect for shaded, undisturbed areas. It is not salt-tolerant, so avoid planting in areas with high salinity.
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
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. | 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)
Slow (less than 30cm per year)
ontario_native | north_america_native
Yes
Black Gum, Black Tupelo, Sour Gum, Pepperidge
Nyssa sylvatica
Nyssa sylvatica, or black gum, is a versatile tree that thrives in a variety of conditions, from medium to wet soils, and can grow in both full sun and part shade. Native to southern Ontario and southwestern Maine south to central Florida, and extending west to eastern Texas and into upland areas of central MexicoIt prefers moist, acidic soil but is adaptable to poorly drained areas and even standing water. It tolerates drought and is ideal for urban plantings, lawns, or areas prone to flooding. A slow grower, it�s perfect for ornamental shade and woodland gardens. Though moderately messy with fallen leaves, fruit litter, and exfoliating bark, it adds resilience to landscapes, including tolerance to black walnut toxicity.
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. | 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
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. | Partial sun: Less than 6 hours of direct sunlight or filtered light for most of the day.
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 2 average cars (6 - 9 meters)
Slow (less than 30cm per year)
ontario_native | north_america_native
Yes
White Mulberry - NOT RECOMMENDED TO PLANT
Morus alba
Morus alba, or white mulberry, is not recommended to plant as it has invasive tendencies. It aggressively spreads through wildlife, outcompeting native species and hybridizing with the endangered red mulberry. It prefers warm, moist, well-drained loamy soils, in a sunny location, and can withstand drought once well established. Even when selecting male or fruitless cultivars to avoid seed spread, the species has extremely fast growth rates and will require continual pruning. The tree is messy, dropping fruit that stains surfaces and leaves in the fall. The Auditor General of Ontario has specifically flagged this tree species as a concern in the nursery trades ("Value-for-Money Audit � Management of Invasive Species," 2022) and as such should not be recommended for planting. As an alternative native to North America, consider Morus rubra or Nyssa sylvatica.
4 score, 5 score, 6 score, 7 score, 8 score, 9 score, 10 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. | Partial sun: Less than 6 hours of direct sunlight or filtered light for most of the day.
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
Red Mulberry
Morus rubra
Morus rubra, or red mulberry, is Canada's only native mulberry species and is a valuable addition to landscapes, particularly in Ontario, where it is considered threatened. It grows best in moist, rich, loamy soils. It is fast growing and drought-tolerant, attracting a variety of pollinators and supports local biodiversity. However, it requires ample space, and while the fruit is edible, it can be messy, with the potential to stain surfaces.Despite its occasional messiness due to falling fruit and leaves, this tree is a great choice for those looking to support native ecosystems.
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. | 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 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 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 3 average cars (10-15 meters)
Fast (60cm or more per year)
ontario_native | north_america_native
No
Dawn Redwood
Metasequoia glyptostroboides
Metasequoia glyptostroboides, or dawn redwood, is a large, non-native deciduous tree from China. Known for its striking foliage and impressive height, making it perfect for spacious landscapes or as a statement tree. It thrives in full sun and well-drained, moist, humus-rich, slightly acidic soil. While it tolerates occasional wet soils, well-drained soil with frequent moisture addition supports its growth. This low-maintenance tree requires minimal pruning and is generally free of serious pests or diseases. Despite its evergreen appearance, dawn redwood sheds its needle-like leaves each fall and produces small cones, which can create some litter. It is best suited to large lawns and open spaces due to its extremely large size at maturity.
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, 9 score, 10 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. | Partial sun: Less than 6 hours of direct sunlight or filtered light for most of the day.
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
Deciduous
Taller than a 4 storey house (21 meters +)
About the length of 2 average cars (6 - 9 meters)
Fast (60cm or more per year)
Yes
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