Growing flowering trees or shrubs may seem like an impossible dream in USDA plant hardiness zone 3, where winter temperatures can sink as low as -40 degrees F. (-40 C.). However, there are several flowering trees that grow in zone 3, which in the United States includes areas of North and South Dakota, Montana, Minnesota, and Alaska. Read on to learn about a few beautiful and hardy zone 3 flowering trees.
What Trees Bloom in Zone 3?
Here are some popular flowering trees for zone 3 gardens: Prairiflower Flowering Crabapple (Malus ‘Prairifire’) – This small, ornamental tree lights up the landscape with bright red blossoms and maroon leaves that eventually mature to deep green, then puts on a display of bright color in autumn. This flowering crabapple grows in zones 3 through 8. Arrowwood Viburnum (Viburnum dentatum) – Small but mighty, this viburnum is a symmetrical, rounded tree with creamy white blossoms in spring and glossy red, yellow, or purplish foliage in autumn. Arrowwood viburnum is suitable for zones 3 through 8. Scent and Sensibility Lilac (Lilac syringa x) – Suitable for growing in zones 3 through 7, this hardy lilac is greatly loved by hummingbirds. The fragrant blooms, which last from mid spring to early fall, are beautiful on the tree or in a vase. Scent and Sensibility lilac is available in pink or lilac. Canadian Red Chokecherry (Prunus virginiana) - Hardy in growing zones 3 through 8, Canadian Red chokecherry provides year-round color, beginning with showy, white flowers in spring. The leaves turn from green to deep maroon by summer, then bright yellow and red in autumn. Fall also brings loads of deliciously tart berries. Summer Wine Ninebark (Physocarpus opulifolious) – This sun-loving tree displays dark purple, arching foliage that lasts throughout the season, with pale pink flowers that bloom in late summer. You can grow this ninebark shrub in zones 3 through 8. Purpleleaf Sandcherry (Prunus x cistena) – This small ornamental tree produces sweet-smelling pink and white flowers and eye-catching reddish purple leaves, followed by deep purple berries. Purpleleaf sandcherry is suitable for growing in zones 3 through 7.