The Lone Star State is known for more than its fantastic BBQ and southern hospitality. The landscape changes in each area of Texas, but a few things remain the same, including the beautiful trees. Some trees prefer one area over another, but, all in all, the most common Texas tree species can be found in several areas of Texas.
Live Oak
When speaking of Texas trees, we have to start with the live oak. They are as majestic as the state of Texas itself and wildly popular.
With their massive stature and wide canopy, it’s no wonder that Texans love this shade-giving beauty. Live oaks are long-lived, strong, and provide shelter to wildlife.
Unfortunately, these beautiful trees are susceptible to oak wilt disease. Many Central Texas municipalities restrict oak tree pruning and removal from Feb – Jun to limit the spread of Oak Wilt.
Learn more about the best time to prune your Texas oak trees.
Pecan Tree
The pecan tree is the proud state tree of Texas and belongs to the hickory family. It can grow quite large, providing shade on hot Texas summer days. But the best part? It gives us buttery, sweet pecans for pecan pie and hundreds of other recipes.
Crape Myrtle
The crape myrtle is a shorter tree often seen lining streets and driveways. It boasts gorgeous dark green foliage and beautiful flowers when it says hello in the spring.
Hot pink is the most popular choice in the crape myrtle’s selection of colors, but it also blooms in white, lilac, purple, light pink, and shades of red.
Desert Willow
The desert willow grows quickly, making it a popular choice for Texans in need of quickly maturing landscaping. They can grow up to 30 feet and, as you probably guessed by the name, prefer a dry heat, which Texas can offer in plenty of areas.
They bloom trumpet-shaped flowers in pastel shades. Desert willows are also resistant to pesky deer who insist on dining on the tree’s foliage. They can feast all they want, and the desert willow will quickly regrow where it’s been depleted.
Magnolia Tree
The magnolia tree is a symbol of Southern charm at its finest. The magnolia tree is a hearty southern tree with giant white or pink blooms, deep green waxy leaves, and a fragrance that somehow allows us to forget all other cares in the world.
They tend to be a shorter tree and truly are iconic in Texas landscaping.
Red Oak
In climates where the seasons differ greatly, the red oak turns into a flaming foliage show in shades of reds in autumn. It is a tough tree that survives pollutants well, making it popular along streets with car traffic.
The red oak regularly bears acorns, which can make it a little messy at times but nevertheless pretty to look at.
Cedar Elm
A cedar elm is a near-perfect tree, as it is hearty enough to withstand just about every climate, provides shade, and is lovely to look at with its glossy green leaves.
It grows up to 70 feet tall with a wide canopy where visitors can enjoy a picnic under its shade.
Texas Tree Care
In conclusion, Texas boasts some of the country’s most beautiful trees. When in doubt of what tree best suits your landscaping, contact Good Morning Tree Service, the Austin area’s local tree service company. We can answer all of your questions about the most common Texas tree species.
