Small Ornamental Flowering Trees
With their brilliant colors and inviting smells, small flowering trees are the perfect accent to a patio, garden or entryway. Many trees available today are drought- and disease-resistant, with blooms that start early in the spring and last for weeks or months. When purchasing a tree, be sure to examine your planting site and ascertain that there is sufficient area for the roots to grow, access to full or partial sunlight, and sufficient drainage to avoid oversaturation and mildew. The trees listed below are suitable for most typical planting zones in North America. Does this Spark an idea?
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Double Knockout rose tree
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Double Knockout rose trees have been bred to be disease-resistant and low-maintenance. The blooms will open in early spring and remain active all summer long. Unlike other rose trees or bushes, you don't need to deadhead, or clip, dead blooms to encourage new growth. Sunsetmagazine.com notes that the Double Knockout is adaptable to most soil conditions. This tree is a full- or partial-sun plant that will top out at around 4 feet. The Knockout Rose can be grown in planters, if desired.
Pink Velour crapemyrtle
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Pink Velour crapemyrtles boast pink blossoms that burst with color and last for several weeks, if not months. According to Lacebark.com, a horticultural research firm, this pleasant-smelling tree is mildew- and drought-resistant. It grows to around 8 feet in height with a canopy spread of about 8 feet. The blooms can be trimmed and used in floral arrangements.
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Okame flowering cherry tree
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The Okame flowering cherry trees are among the most famous cherry varieties in the country, due to their placement on the National Mall in Washington. When March arrives, the Okames are often featured on the evening news as a sign of spring's return. They have been known to blossom as early as January. The flowers are a soft pink and bloom in clusters. In autumn, the leaves don't disappoint, turning orange, yellow and scarlet.
Mimosa trees
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Like the cocktail that shares its name, the mimosa is a delight to the senses. A rapid-growing tree, the mimosa can reach heights of 20 feet, so some clipping will be required to keep this beauty small and ornamental. Although it appears tropical, this tree can thrive in most soil conditions, is fairly drought-tolerant and works in shade and sun. The blooms are a strong pink, breaking out in clusters. This tree is often referred to as a "silk" tree. Fragrant and striking, it is a hummingbirds' favorite.
Kousa dogwood tree
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This low-maintenance dogwood offers white blossoms in spring, which give way to red berries that will last for several months. In fall, expect deep red to purple foliage. Compact and attractive, the tree has a shallow root system that makes it particularly drought-tolerant, and it won't damage structures or foundations. In the cold or the heat, this dogwood is no dog.
Oklahoma redbud trees
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The Oklahoma redbud is one of the first trees to flower at the earliest signs of spring. Once the blooms pop, you can expect a wall of color, as clusters of small purple and red flowers will draw early attention to its canopy. TreeUSA.com suggests this strong tree for areas with intense weather, as the roots tend to go deep, making it resistant to wind and ice damage. Fairly compact, the Oklahoma redbud is a good choice for a tight space.
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