Flowering Trees and Evergreen Trees: An In-Depth Look

Clade of flowering plants (in APG I-III).

Ornamental trees are a beautiful addition to any landscape, providing not only aesthetic appeal but also a variety of environmental benefits. In this article, we will delve into two specific types of ornamental trees: flowering trees and evergreen trees. We will explore their unique characteristics, identification features, and examples of common genuses within each category.

Flowering Trees

Flowering trees are a type of ornamental tree that produces beautiful and often fragrant flowers. These trees are a popular choice for homeowners and landscapers due to their stunning visual appeal and the variety of colors they bring to any setting.

Characteristics and Identification Features

Flowering trees can be identified by their blossoms, which come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. The flowers often have a distinct structure, including petals, sepals, stamens, and pistils. The leaves of flowering trees also vary widely in shape, size, and color, providing another identification feature.

Common Flowering Tree Genuses

• Magnolia: Known for their large, fragrant flowers that come in white, pink, purple, or yellow. They have large, glossy leaves and a thick, gray bark.
• Cherry: Cherry trees, particularly the Japanese varieties, are famous for their beautiful pink blossoms. They have a smooth bark and serrated leaf edges.
• Dogwood: These trees produce flowers in a variety of colors, including white, pink, and red. They have simple, opposite leaves and a rough, blocky bark.

Evergreen Trees

Evergreen trees are a type of ornamental tree that remains green throughout the year. Unlike deciduous trees, which shed their leaves annually, evergreens retain their foliage year-round.

Characteristics and Identification Features

Evergreen trees can be identified by their persistent leaves, which can be needle-like or scale-like. The bark of evergreen trees varies widely, from the rough, furrowed bark of some pines to the smooth bark of certain spruces.

Common Evergreen Tree Genuses

• Pine: Pine trees have needle-like leaves bundled in clusters and produce distinctive pine cones. The bark is often rough and scaly.
• Spruce: Spruce trees also have needle-like leaves, but they are attached individually to the branches. They have a smooth, thin bark and produce small, hanging cones.
• Fir: Fir trees have flat, needle-like leaves attached individually to the branches. They have a smooth bark and upright cones.

Understanding the characteristics and identification features of these ornamental trees can greatly enhance your ability to identify them in a landscape. Whether you're a homeowner looking to add some visual appeal to your yard or a nature enthusiast seeking to expand your knowledge, recognizing these tree genuses is a valuable skill.