Evergreen trees are a staple of cold climates. Not only are they often very cold-hardy, but they also stay green through even the deepest winters, bringing color and light to the darkest months. Zone 5 may not be the coldest region, but it’s cold enough to deserve some good evergreens. Keep reading to learn more about growing evergreens in zone 5, including some of the best zone 5 evergreen trees to choose from.
Evergreen Trees for Zone 5
While there are many evergreens that grow in zone 5, here are some of the most favored choices for growing evergreens in zone 5 gardens: Arborvitae – Hardy down to zone 3, arborvitae is one of the more commonly planted evergreens in the landscape. Many sizes and varieties are available to suit any area or purpose. They are especially lovely as standalone specimens but make great hedges too. Silver Korean Fir – Hardy in zones 5 through 8, silver Korean fir tree grows to 30 feet (9 m.) in height and has striking, white-bottomed needles that grow in an upward pattern and give the whole tree a beautiful silvery cast. Colorado Blue Spruce – Hardy in zones 2 through 7, Colorado blue spruce reaches heights of 50 to 75 feet (15-23 m.). It has striking silver to blue needles and is adaptable to most soil types. Douglas Fir – Hardy in zones 4 through 6, Douglas fir grows to heights of 40 to 70 feet (12-21 m.). It has blue-green needles and a very orderly, pyramidal shape around a straight trunk. White Spruce – Hardy in zones 2 through 6, this tree tops out at 40 to 60 feet (12-18 m.) tall. Narrow for its height, white spruce has a straight, regular shape and large cones than hang down in a distinctive pattern. White Fir – Hardy in zones 4 through 7, white fir reaches 30 to 50 feet (9-15 m.) in height. It has silver-blue needles and light bark. Austrian Pine – Hardy in zones 4 through 7, this tree grows to 50 to 60 feet (15-18 m.) tall. Austrian pine has a wide, branching shape and is very tolerant of alkaline and salty soils. Canadian Hemlock – Hardy in zones 3 through 8, Canadian hemlock reaches heights of 40 to 70 feet (12-21 m.) tall. Trees can be planted very close together and pruned to make an excellent hedge or natural border.