5 Tough Urban Trees That Thrive In Cities – Top Picks For Urban & Suburban Landscapes

Trees have a tough time in urban areas. In the wild, they thrive in natural ecosystems. Whether those ecosystems include hills and streams or extreme desert conditions, the plants there have had centuries to adjust and adapt to the water and nutrients of the ecosystem. Planting and caring for trees in an urban setting is more difficult, but can be successful if managed properly.

In cities, street trees face challenges, including heat reflected from cement, urban pollutants, and compacted soil that can range from wet to extremely dry in periods of drought. That’s why it is critical to select urban trees with care.

Top Urban Trees

We’ve identified some of the best trees for urban areas so that they have the best chance at success. Here are five of our favorite trees for city streets.

1. Willow Oak

Few trees are as beloved as the mighty oak, and the adaptable willow oak tree (Quercus phellos) is one of the very best trees for urban streets. This oak is native to the southern regions of the country, and tolerates both heat and drought. It has leaves like a willow tree - small and narrow - offering dappled shade and a rounded canopy. Fall color? You bet - the leaves turn a brilliant gold in autumn.

2. London Plane Tree

Despite its common name, the London plane tree (Platanus x acerifolia) has roots in America. It is a hybrid between the native American sycamore and the Oriental plane tree native to Europe and Asia. Since the American sycamore thrives along river beds, the London plane tree also adapts well to wet soils. It grows rapidly, accepts even severe pruning, and carries large, attractive leaves.

3. Silver Linden

The silver linden (Tilia tomentosa) is a top street tree, and might be one of the most beautiful options. The leaves of this fast-growing tree are a lovely silver, exposed in every breeze. Linden trees are tall and this species is no different. It grows up to 70 feet (23m) - with a broad canopy some 50 feet (16m) wide. Hardy to USDA zone 4, it also offers pale blossoms that attract native pollinators.

4. Black Tupelo

Tough and versatile, the black tupelo tree (Nyssa sylvatica) is one of the best trees for cities. Native to the eastern part of the country, it has adapted to wet and poorly drained soils. The trees are also ornamental, with an attractive pyramid shape, small black fruits (beloved by wild birds) and an exceptional fall show, as the leaves turn brilliant red.

5. Red Maple

Red maple trees (Acer rubrum) are tolerant, adaptable trees, growing happily in wet or dry conditions and accepting a wide variety of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils. It is suitable for various street environments. The tree usually grows to about 50 feet (16m) tall and 30 feet (10m) wide, a good size for street planting. The ‘Autumn Blaze’ cultivar is a good choice, given its resistance to diseases and pests and ability to withstand pollution and compacted soil. In fall, expect an exceptional display, with the green leaves turning shades of orange, red, and purple.

More Tree Inspiration

• Want a tree but are short on space? Try these 8 best trees for containers to solve your small garden problems!
• Trees are an amazing part of our ecosystem, but some trees can have aggressive roots or are invasive. Learn which trees could devalue your home and should be avoided.
• A native understory tree with a unique tropical-tasting fruit is the pawpaw tree which can be found in the Gardening Know How Shop.
• Trees can help you create a cozy and secluded oasis in your yard. Explore some of our favorite small privacy trees to get started!
• Sign up for the free Gardening Know How Newsletter for more inspiration delivered straight to your inbox!

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