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South Florida Shade Trees: Identifications and Selections Stephen H. Brown UF/IFAS Lee County Extension Service Fort Myers, Florida [email protected] (239) 533-7513 Contents Native, Flowering and Fruit Trees Introduction List of Shade Trees African Tulip American Elm Avocado Bald Cypress Bishopwood Black Olive Trees Species ‘Shady Lady’ Black Sapote Brazilian Beautyleaf Brush Cherry Camphor Tree Ear Tree Ficus Trees Indian/Cuban Laurel Rubber Tree Rusty Fig Strangler Fig Weeping Fig Golden Rain Tree Golden Shower Green Buttonwood Gumbo Limbo Hong Kong Orchid Indian Rosewood Jacaranda Jamaican Dogwood Longan Loquat Lychee Lysiloma Trees Sabicu Wild Tamarind Mahogany Mango Manila Tamarind Oak Trees Laurel Oak Live Oak Peltophorum Trees Copper Pod Yellow Poinciana Podocarpus Trees Weeping Podocarpus Yew Podocarpus Pongam Rain Tree Red Maple Royal Poinciana Sausage Tree Sea Grape Shavingbrush Tree Slash Pine Snow in Summer Southern Magnolia Southern Red Cedar Sweetgum Sycamore Tamarind Tipu Tree Tropical Almond Weeping Bottlebrush Yellow Tabebuia References A list of Florida native Trees, flowering and fruit Trees found in this publication. Florida Natives Flowering Trees Fruit Trees American Elm African Tulip Avocado Bald Cypress Copper Pod Black Sapote Strangler Fig Golden Rain Tree Brush Cherry Green Buttonwood Golden Shower Longan Gumbo Limbo Hong Kong Orchid Loquat Jamaican Dogwood Jacaranda Lychee Laurel Oak Jamaican Dogwood Mango Live Oak Pongam Tamarind Mahogany Royal Poinciana Tropical Almond Red Maple Sausage Tree Sea Grape Shavingbrush Tree Slash Pine Snow in Summer Southern Magnolia Southern Magnolia Southern Red Cedar Tipu Tree Sweetgum Weeping Bottlebrush Sycamore Yellow Poinciana Wild Tamarind Yellow Tabebuia Introduction A tree is defined as a woody plant that grows to 15 feet or more in height, usually with a single trunk, growing to more than 3 inches in diameter at maturity. A shade tree is defined in this publication as any tree large enough to provide shade or have the ability to reduce the intensity of solar radiation under its canopy or to structures in its immediate vicinity. This monograph includes 57 such trees that are known to perform well in South Florida. Many of these trees are well adapted to growing in Central and North Florida and areas further north. Others are trees of tropical origins many of which will succumb to low temperatures when planted outside South Florida. South Florida defined here includes Collier, Lee, Sarasota to Pinellas counties on the Gulf Coast and Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach to Indian River counties on the Atlantic coast. Some interior counties in South Florida may have areas that are too cold for a few of the trees listed. The inclusions of particular trees in this publication does not imply that others not included are any less adapted to thriving in South Florida. Trees are commonly referred to by their size, specifically their mature height. Tree heights are commonly divided into small, medium, or large and are defined as follows: Small trees. Less than 25 feet tall at maturity. Medium trees. 25 to 40 feet tall at maturity. Large trees. 40 to 100 feet or more at maturity. If well placed, a tree should be relatively low maintenance. Ideally, it should be planted half the width of its mature canopy from one’s house. Yet, it is not uncommon to see branches of mature trees overhanging the roofs of many structures. Planting a tree on the south or west side of your house keeps the hottest sun off the roof. Trees planted on the west side block the increase of solar heat in the afternoon during summer. Trees on the east and south sides of the house will block the solar heat in the summer, but unless they are deciduous these same trees will block solar heat from the structure and increase the need for heating in the winter. Most south Florida houses rarely need heating in the winter and so the latter situation does not usually present itself. Under normal conditions, trees will achieve their genetic potential for size, age, and form characteristic of their species. Under less than optimal condition, trees will grow slower, be smaller at maturity, become easily stressed, have more deadwood, and will be more vulnerable to attacks by insect or disease organisms. In many environments or when grown amongst other trees, the natural form of some trees are never attained or are lost over time. Pruning, strong wind, insect and disease damages are often responsible for loss of natural forms. The loss of a tree’s natural form does not necessarily make it less appealing or less effective in providing the expected shade. A wide variety of shade trees are included in this reference. In most cases, two or more trees of the same species are pictured to show various forms as effected by their growing conditions and maintenance. The IFAS Assessment of Non-Native plants in Florida’s Natural Areas (IFAS Assessment) was developed by the UF/IFAS Invasive Plants Working Group so that Extension faculty could provide consistent recommendations concerning the use of non-native plants. The Assessment and the Working Group were created in response to the growing awareness of the threat posed by non-native invasive species. Contact your local county Extension office if you need assistance in selecting a tree for your particular site and situation. Return to first page African Tulip Scientific Name: Spathodea campanulata Leaf Type: Pinnate Origin: Tropical Africa Leaf Persistence: Semi-deciduous Growth Rate: Fast Form: Oval Typical Dimension: 45’x55’ Salt Tolerance: Medium Common Uses: Flower, shade. parks Major Problems: None Shade Density: Medium UF/IFAS Assessment: Caution Additional Notes: Upright flowering tree. Widely distributed in warm climates. Leaves pinnate to 18 inches long. Messy when flowering. Brittle wood to the extent that most trees will lose their natural forms. Can be devastated by frost. Mid January Mid June Late April Return to first page American Elm Scientific Name: Ulmus americana Leaf Type: Simple, serrated Origin: Florida, North America Leaf Persistence: Deciduous Growth Rate: Fast Natural Form: Vase, oval and spreading Typical Dimension: 70’x80’ Salt Tolerance: Low Common Uses: Shade Major Problems: Dutch elm disease, Shade Density: Heavy phloem necrosis UF/IFAS Assessment: N/A. Florida Native Additional Notes: Fast growing when young. Upright. Thick dark gray bark. It was once the premier shade and street tree in eastern North America before being ravaged by Dutch elm disease and phloem necrosis. These diseases appear not to be as destructive in Florida. Late May Trunk Early May Return to first page Avocado Scientific Name: Persea americana Leaf Type: Simple, entire Origin: Tropical America Leaf Persistence: Briefly deciduous Growth Rate: Fast Natural Form: Pyramidal to irregular. Upright, Typical Dimension:45’x40’ airy to dense canopies. Common Uses: Fruit, shade Major Problems: Laurel wilt, Phytophthora Salt Tolerance: Low root rot, lace bugs, scab Shade Density: Light-Medium UF/IFAS Assessment: Not listed Additional Notes: A medium (30 ft.) to large (60 ft.) tree classified as an evergreen but many varieties in South Florida lose their leaves for a short time before and during flowering. Upright, canopy ranges from symmetrical to irregular. Disease and insect control usually not warranted. Early May Early January Mid May Mid October Return to first page Bald Cypress Scientific Name: Taxodium distichum Leaf Type: Needles Origin: Florida, Southeastern United States Leaf Persistence: Deciduous Growth Rate: Medium Natural Form: Pyramidal, airy to dense. Typical Dimension: 60’x45’ Some older trees are flat topped Common Uses: Native restoration, shade, streets, hedge Salt Tolerance: Medium Shade Density: Light-Medium Major Problems: None UF/IFAS Assessment: N/A. Florida Native Additional Notes: Pyramidal when young, develops into a broad-topped, spreading open specimen when mature. Maintains a desirably straight trunk. Deciduous from October/November to February/ March or April depending on tree and location. Long lived and can grow to 100 feet tall. Develops “knees” in wet areas and none under routine landscape situations. Adapts well to urban sites. Early May Early August Late September Early August Return to first page Bishopwood/Toog Tree Scientific Name: Bischofia javanica Leaf Type: Trifoliate, serrated Origin: Asia, Australia, Pacific Islands Leaf Persistence: Evergreen or semi-deciduous Growth Rate: Fast Natural Form: Round Typical Dimension: 60x85’ Salt Tolerance: Medium Common Uses: Shade, park Major Problems: None Shade Density: Heavy UF/IFAS Assessment: Caution Additional Notes: A very large tree with a massive trunk and aggressive surface roots. Low branching. Separate male and female trees. Extremely messy in late winter when flowering and fruiting. Early June Mid December Return to first page Black Olive Black Olive Trees Scientific Name: Bucida buceras Leaf Type: Simple, entire Origin: Caribbean, Central America Leaf Persistence: Evergreen Growth Rate: Slow to medium Natural Form: Round, spreading Typical Dimension: 45’x 75’; 40’x 55,’ ‘Shady Lady’ Salt Tolerance: High Common Uses: Shade, streets, parks Major Problems: Eriophyid mites, Shade Density: Medium-heavy caterpillars, whiteflies UF/IFAS Assessment: Caution Additional Notes: Young trees have airy canopies becoming dense with age. Spiny to various degrees. Can stain masonry and vehicles. Messy, primarily in spring. Tolerant of urban planting sites. Probably overplanted. Eriophyid mites cause long slender fruit galls but no treatment is necessary. Caterpillars are a rare problem. Leaves of species tree variable in size. ‘Shady Lady’ has smaller leaves and more compact growth. This is not the edible olive. Black Olive (Species) Late April Late April Early May Black Olive (Species) Black Olive Trees Signature circumventing holes caused by yellow belly sapscukers Flowering and Fruiting. Early April Interior canopy: Early December Foliage: Early December ‘Shady Lady’ Black Olive Late May Late April Black Olive Trees ‘Shady Lady’ Black Olive Black Olive Trees Foliage. Late October Interior Canopy. Early February. Return to first page Black Sapote Scientific Name: Diospyros dignya Leaf Type: Simple, entire Origin: Mexico, Central America Leaf Persistence: Evergreen Growth Rate: Medium Natural Form: Round Typical Dimension: 35’x55’ Salt Tolerance: Low Common Uses: Fruit, shade Major Problems: Sri Lanka weevil Shade Density: Heavy UF/IFAS Assessment: Not listed. Additional Notes: Sometimes to 70 feet tall. Thick broad canopy. Dark green foliage. Edible but not very palatable fruit. Sometimes called the chocolate pudding tree. Tree in full bloom. Early May. Early May. Immature Fruit, mid October Return to first page Brazilian Beautyleaf Scientific Name: Calophyllum brasiliense Leaf Type: Simple, entire Origin: Caribbean, Mexico Leaf Persistence: Evergreen Growth Rate: Fast Natural Form: Spreading Typical Dimension: 60’x70’ Salt Tolerance: High Common Uses: Shade, streets, parks Major Problems: Whiteflies Shade Density: Heavy UF/IFAS Assessment: Caution Additional Notes: Dark glossy leaves. Cold sensitive in parts of South Florida. Small white fragrant flowers in late spring and summer. Golfball-sized fruit is poisonous and hard. This could be undesirable in some landscape situations. Excellent for seaside planting. Early November Mid June Mid June Return to first page Brush Cherry Scientific Name: Syzygium paniculatum Leaf Type: Simple, entire Origin: Australia Leaf Persistence: Evergreen Growth Rate: Medium Natural Form: Round Typical Dimension: 35’x45’ Salt Tolerance: Medium Common Uses: Topiary, hedge, shade, fruit Major Problems: Scales, mites Shade Density: Heavy UF/IFAS Assessment: Not listed. Additional Notes: Dark glossy leaves. Dense foliage crown. Young foliage reddish bronze. Fruit is rose purple and showy. Don’t plant where dropping fruit will squash on pavement. Early June Mid June Inflorescences. Early June Return to first page Camphor Tree Scientific Name: Cinnamomum camphora Leaf Type: Simple, entire Origin: China, Japan Leaf Persistence: Evergreen Growth Rate: Fast Natural Form: Round Typical Dimension: 45’x 65’ Salt Tolerance: Low Common Uses: Shade, parks Major Problems: Scales, mites Shade Density: Medium-Heavy UF/IFAS Assessment: Recommended Additional Notes: Short trunk with several large ascending branches forms a dense canopy. Leaves give off a camphor aroma when crushed. Small fruit can by annoyance on walks and driveways but quite attractive to wildlife. Fruit can stain cars. Early June Mid August Return to first page Ear Tree Scientific Name: Enterolobium contortisiliqum Leaf Type: Bipinnate Origin: Tropical America Leaf Persistence: Deciduous Nov.-March Growth Rate: Fast Natural Form: Spreading Typical Dimension: 70’x110’ Salt Tolerance: Low Common Uses: Shade, park Major Problems: None Shade Density: Medium UF/IFAS Assessment: Recommended Additional Notes: Large wind resistant tree with aggressive roots. Do not plant closer than 10 feet from walkways and 20 feet from structures. Early May Foliage and flowers. Mid April Massive trunk Seed capsule. Mid December. Return to first page Indian/Cuban Laurel Ficus Trees Scientific Name: Ficus microcarpa Leaf Type: Simple, entire Origin: India Leaf Persistence: Evergreen Growth Rate: Fast Natural Form: Round Typical Dimension: 65’x110’ Salt Tolerance: Medium Common Uses: Shade, hedge Major Problems: Thrips, insect galls, thin Shade Density: Heavy canopies UF/IFAS Assessment: Caution Additional Notes: Aggressive root system. Requires large area for growing or frequent pruning. If kept large, trees should be allowed to develop prop roots for enhanced storm stability. The dominant ornamental large Ficus tree in southwest Florida. Often confused for F. benjamina. Late October Prop and surface roots Mid April Return to first page Rubber Tree Ficus Trees Scientific Name: Ficus elastica Leaf Type: Simple, entire Origin: Tropical Asia Leaf Persistence: Evergreen Growth Rate: Very fast Natural Form: Round Typical Height: 40’x 80’ Salt Tolerance: Medium Common Uses: Shade, park Major Problems: None Shade Density: Heavy UF/IFAS Assessment: Recommended Additional Notes: Do not plant near buildings or pathways. Surface roots may lift sidewalks, driveway, or other concrete structures. Can grow to 80’ tall. Large leaves are noticeable on lawns. Often seen as an interior container plant. Several cultivars available. Early May Late October Interior canopy. Early October Return to first page Rusty Fig Ficus Trees Scientific Name: Ficus rubiginosa Leaf Type: Simple, entire Origin: Australia Leaf Persistence: Evergreen Growth Rate: Slow Natural Form: Round Typical Height: 45’X 55’ Salt Tolerance: Medium Common Uses: Shade, parks, streets Major Problems: None Shade Density: Heavy UF/IFAS Assessment: Recommended Additional Notes: Dark green leaves with rusty pubescent underneath. Dense foliage. Tolerant of most urban planting sites. It does not develop a profusion of aerial roots common to others in the genus. Grows about 35 feet in 30 years. Mid April Mid April Mid January Return to first page Strangler Fig Ficus Trees Scientific Name: Ficus aurea Leaf Type: Simple, entire Origin: South Florida, Bahamas, Caribbean, Leaf Persistence: Evergreen Southern Mexico, Central America Natural Form: Spreading Growth Rate: Fast Salt Tolerance: Medium Typical Height: 45’x85’ Major Problems: Whiteflies, scales, Common Uses: Shade, park sooty mold Shade Density: Medium UF/IFAS Assessment: N/A. Florida Native Additional Notes: Long lived. Often begins life as an epiphyte nested in the frond boots of cabbage palms. It has an aggressive root system. Aerial roots on lower limbs creates may slim but rigid trunks. They can become a maintenance headache and need to be removed to keep a neat-looking landscape. Excellent wildlife food source. Late November Early May Strangler Fig Mid January Late March Mid April Ficus Trees The trunk of a tree of at least 100 years Fruit. Mid April Return to first page Weeping Fig Ficus Trees Scientific Name: Ficus benjamina Leaf Type: Simple, entire Origin: India, Southeast Asia Leaf Persistence: Evergreen Growth Rate: Fast Natural Form: Round Typical Dimension: 45’x 80’ Salt Tolerance: Medium Common Uses: Shade, hedge Major Problems: Whiteflies, thrips Shade Density: Medium UF/IFAS Assessment: Recommended Additional Notes: Aggressive root system. Requires large area for growth or frequent pruning. Not recommended for planting close to structures or underground water pipes. Large trees should be allowed to develop prop roots. Often confused for F. microcarpa. Late April Late April Trunk Return to first page Golden Rain Tree Scientific Name: Koelreuteria elegans Leaf Type: Even bipinnate, serrated leaflets Origin: Taiwan, Japan Leaf Persistence: Deciduous, Dec.-March Growth Rate: Medium Natural Form: Round Typical Dimension: 35’x 55’ Salt Tolerance: Low Common Uses: Flowers, shade, parks, parking lots Major Problems: None Shade Density: Medium UF/IFAS Assessment: Caution Additional Notes: Densely foliated canopy. Bipinnate leaves to 2 ft. long. Small fragrant yellow flowers held on long panicles. Seventeen intense blooming days. Seed pods look like coppery Chinese lanterns and are held on the tree long into the fall. Jadera bugs frequent the tree in February and March to feed on the seeds. They do not damage the tree. The bark is smooth and light brown when young, becoming ridged and furrowed with age. Can be weedy but this is quite manageable. Early May In bloom. Early October Golden Rain Tree Early October. Flower panicles. Early September Fruit capsules. Late October Return to first page Golden Shower Scientific Name: Cassia fistula Leaf Type: Pinnate Origin: India Leaf Persistence: Briefly deciduous in May Growth Rate: Fast Natural Form: Oval and irregular Typical Dimension: 35’x45’ Salt Tolerance: Medium Common Uses: Flowers, streets , parks Major Problems: None Shade Density: Medium UF/IFAS Assessment: Recommended Additional Notes: Open canopy. Young trees can grow asymmetrical with branches often drooping toward the ground. Briefly deciduous before flowering. Very attractive in June when in bloom. The flowers are followed by two-foot-long green cylindrical seedpods, becoming black, that persist on the tree for some time. Perhaps the second most planted flowering tree in the tropics after royal poinciana. Late October Mid June Mid November Return to first page Green Buttonwood Scientific Name: Conocarpus erectus Leaf Type: Simple, entire Origin: South Florida, Caribbean, Bahamas Leaf Persistence: Evergreen Growth Rate: Medium Natural Form: Round, spreading Typical Height: 35’x 40’ Salt Tolerance: High Common Uses: Native impact, shrub, hedge, streets Major Problems: “Witches broom” Shade Density: Medium UF/IFAS Assessment: N/A. Florida Native Additional Notes: Often multi-trunks with open canopies. High wind and drought tolerances. An excellent choice for coastal planting sites. “Witches broom” is quite rare the cause of which is unknown. Mid October Early May Early May Early January Return to first page Gumbo Limbo Scientific Name: Bursera simaruba Leaf Type: Pinnate Origin: South Florida, Bahamas, Caribbean Leaf Persistence: Briefly deciduous in April Growth Rate: Medium Natural Form: Spreading and open Typical Height: 40’x50’ Salt Tolerance: Medium Common Uses: Shade, streets, parks Major Problems: Whiteflies, scales Shade Density: Medium UF/IFAS Assessment: N/A. Florida Native Additional Notes: Copper to green colored peeling mottled bark. Easily propagated from stem cuttings of any size. Sometimes used as a living fence post outside the United States. Mid June Exfoliating bark. New Foliage. Mid May. Return to first page Hong Kong Orchid Scientific Name: Bauhinia blakeana Leaf Type: Simple, two-lobed Origin: Southeast Asia Leaf Persistence: Semi deciduous Growth Rate: Fast Natural Form: Irregular Typical Height: 30’x45’ Salt Tolerance: Low Common Uses: Flowers, streets, parking lots Major Problems: High nutritional requirement Shade Density: Medium-Heavy when flowering. Stem cankers UF/IFAS Assessment: Recommended Additional Notes: Often with a leaning trunk and crooked leader. A sterile tree that produces no pods. Flowers from November through March. One hundred and seventeen intense blooming days. Messy when flowering. Nearly deciduous in March and April. Mid October Early December Early December Return to first page Indian Rosewood Scientific Name: Dalbergia sissoo Leaf Type: Simple Origin: India Leaf Persistence: Deciduous Growth Rate: Very fast Natural Form: Irregular Typical Height: 50’x75’ Salt Tolerance: Medium Common Uses: Shade, parks Major Problems: None Shade Density: Light-Medium UF/IFAS Assessment: Caution Additional Notes: Very fast growing tree with an open growth habit and upright branches. Tendency to develop an irregularly shaped canopy with age. Deciduous from December to March/April. Early October Bark and new leaves and flowers. Early April. Interior Canopy. Early October. Return to first page Jacaranda Scientific Name: Jacaranda mimosifolia Leaf Type: Bipinnate Origin: Brazil, Argentina Leaf Persistence: Deciduous March-April Growth Rate: Fast Natural Form: Round, spreading Typical Height: 45‘x75’ Salt Tolerance: Low Common Uses: Flowers, shade, streets Major Problems: Mushroom root rot Shade Density: Light UF/IFAS Assessment: Recommended Additional Notes: Mostly low branching. Very fine textured foliage. Attractive flowering tree. Flowers in spring and summer. Thirty-four intense blooming days. Often confused for Delonix regia.. Late May Panicle. Early May Doug Caldwell Late March Jacaranda Late October Early October Return to first page Jamaican Dogwood Scientific Name: Piscidia piscipula Leaf Type: Pinnate Origin: Florida Keys, Bahamas, Caribbean Leaf Persistence: Briefly deciduous Growth Rate: Fast Natural Form: Spreading Typical Height: 40’x45’ Salt Tolerance: Medium Common Uses: Native impact, flowers, shade, parks Major Problems: None Shade Density: Medium UF/IFAS Assessment: N/A. Florida Native Additional Notes: Deciduous in April before flowering in April/June. Somewhat showy pea-like flowers borne in great numbers on leafless stems. An underutilized tree native to South Florida. Mid December Mid December Panicles. Late Return to first page Longan Scientific Name: Euphoria longan Leaf Type: Pinnate Origin: India Leaf Persistence: Evergreen Growth Rate: Medium Natural Form: Round, oblong Typical Height: 35’x.40’ Salt Tolerance: Low Common Uses: Fruit, shade Major Problems: None Shade Density: Heavy UF/IFAS Assessment: Not found Additional Notes: Dense dark green foliage, corky bark. Over production can kill vulnerable trees. Fruit mature in July and August. Late September Mid July Fruit. Early July Return to first page Loquat Scientific Name: Eriobotrya japonica Leaf Type: Simple, serrated Origin: China, Japan Leaf Persistence: Evergreen Growth Rate: Medium Natural Form: Round, upright Typical Height: 25’x40’ Salt Tolerance: Medium Common Uses: Fruit, shade Major Problems: Caribbean fruit fly, Shade Density: Medium Sri Lanka weevil UF/IFAS Assessment: Caution Additional Notes: Dense round canopy with large dark green serrated leaves. Short trunk. Fruits in February, March and April. Many cultivars available. Fruit bearing tree. Mid March Early October Loquat Early November Fruit. Late March Return to first page Lychee Scientific Name: Litchi chinensis Leaf Type: Pinnate Origin: Southeast Asia Leaf Persistence: Evergreen Growth Rate: Medium Natural Form: Round, oval Typical Height: 35’x45’ Salt Tolerance: Low Common Uses: Fruit, shade Major Problems: Mushroom root rot, Shade Density: Heavy Anthracnose, weevils UF/IFAS Assessment: Recommended Additional Notes: Dense, round, symmetrical canopy extending nearly to the ground. Dark green foliage. Alternate year bearer or fruit even less often. Fruit subject to being lost due to cold fronts or strong wind. Fruit matures in late spring and summer. Late October Cattle chewing the cud. Early May. Early May Return to first page Sabicu Scientific Name: Lysiloma sabicu Lysiloma Trees Leaf Type: Bipinnate Origin: Bahamas; Caribbean Leaf Persistence: Evergreen Growth Rate: Medium Natural Form: Spreading and weeping Typical Height: 30’x 45’ Salt Tolerance: High Common Uses: Shade, streets, parks, parking lots Major Problems: Lobate scales Shade Density: Light-Medium UF/IFAS Assessment: Caution Additional Notes: Finely textured foliage. Powderpuff flowers in the spring and summer. Late May Early May Lysiloma Trees Sabicu Leaves. Mid July Fruit. Late September Interior canopy. Late October Return to first page Wild Tamarind Lysiloma Trees Scientific Name: Lysiloma latisiliquum Leaf Type: Bipinnate Origin: South Florida, Bahamas, Caribbean, Leaf Persistence: Briefly partially deciduous Southern Mexico, Central America Natural Form: Round, weeping Growth Rate: Fast Salt Tolerance: High Typical Dimension: 45’x 60’ Major Problems: Scales, thornbugs Common Uses: Native impact, shade, streets, pk. lots UF/IFAS Assessment: N/A. A Florida native Shade Density: Light Additional Notes: Delicate, feather-like foliage “melt’ into the ground when they drop from the tree. Produces small white powderpuff flowers in spring and summer. Cold sensitive in certain areas. Late August Partially and briefly deciduous. Early March Return to first page Mahogany Scientific Name: Swietenia mahagoni Leaf Type: Pinnate Origin: South Florida, Caribbean Leaf Persistence: Briefly deciduous in April/May Growth Rate: Fast Natural Form: Round, oval Typical Height: 45’x70’ Salt Tolerance: High Common Uses: Shade, streets, parks Major Problems: Webworms Shade Density: Medium to dense UF/IFAS Assessment: N/A. Florida Native Additional Notes: Densely leafy canopy. Aggressive roots. Do not plant closer than 8-10 feet from sidewalks. Messy in April and May when old leaves are shed and new leaves are formed. Easily propagated from seeds. New foliage. Early May Maturing foliage. Late May Mahogany Late May Leaves and new inflorescences. Late May. Fruit capsules. Mid Return to first page Mango Scientific Name: Mangifera indica Leaf Type: Simple Origin: Southern Asia Leaf Persistence: Evergreen Growth Rate: Medium Natural Form: Round Typical Dimension: 45’x65’ Salt Tolerance: Medium Common Uses: Fruit, shade Major Problems: Anthracnose, powdery Shade Density: Heavy mildew, scales UF/IFAS Assessment: Caution. Additional Notes: A medium to large sized tree. Symmetrical, rounded canopy, ranging from low and dense to upright and open. Maintain under 20 feet for easier access to fruit. Many cultivars. Perhaps the most sought after fruit in the tropics. Sap is an irritant to many. Early January Early December Mango Fruit. Late May Return to first page Manila Tamarind Scientific Name: Pithecellobium dulce Leaf Type: Pinnate Origin: Mexico, Central America Leaf Persistence: Evergreen Growth Rate: Medium Natural Form: Oval Typical Dimension: 55’x70’ Salt Tolerance: Medium Common Uses: Shade, hedge Major Problems: Lac scales Shade Density: Medium UF/IFAS Assessment: Caution Additional Notes: Often with multiple trunks. Susceptible to wind damage and the lost of natural form in oldest trees. Spiny nodes. Two trees, one on each side of the road. Early April Early April Return to first page Laurel Oak Scientific Name: Quercus laurifolia Oak Trees Leaf Type: Simple Origin: Florida; Southeastern United States Leaf Persistence: Briefly deciduous Growth Rate: Fast Natural Form: Oval, round, spreading with age Typical Dimension: 60’x75’ Salt Tolerance: Low Common Uses: Native impact, shade, parks Major Problems: Ganoderma Shade Density: Heavy UF/IFAS Assessment: N/A. Florida Native Additional Notes: Densely rounded crown when mature. Messy from January-March. New spring foliage brilliantly yellow producing a remarkably ornamental effect. A neglected native surpassed by the plantings of live oaks. Not tolerant of alkaline soils. Late May Early November Laurel Oak Oak Trees Late October Mid April Return to first page Live Oak Scientific Name: Quercus virginiana Oak Trees Leaf Type: Simple Origin: Florida, Southeastern United States Leaf Persistence: Evergreen Growth Rate: Fast Natural Form: Spreading Typical Dimension: 50’x90’ Salt Tolerance: Low Common Uses: Shade, streets, parks, parking lots Major Problems: Stem galls, lacebugs, root rot Shade Density: Medium-Heavy UF/IFAS Assessment: N/A. Florida Native Additional Notes: Very large, low and wide spreading branches. Forms a broad dense crown. Grows to 80’ tall. Messy in January-March when changing from old to new leaves. A few trees produce abundant root suckers. Roots can be aggressive in regards to driveways and sidewalks. Excellent specimen tree. Early October Late October Live Oak Late September Oak Trees Cv. Cathedral. Early May. Cv. High Rise. Late April. Interior canopy. Late October. Return to first page Yellow Poinciana/Copper Pod Peltophorum Trees Scientific Name: Peltophorum pterocarpum Leaf Type: Bipinnate Origin: India to Australia Leaf Persistence: Evergreen Growth Rate: Fast Natural Form: Round Typical Dimension: 45’x70’ Salt Tolerance: Medium Common Uses: Flowers, shade, parks Major Problems: None Shade Density: Medium UF/IFAS Assessment: Recommended Additional Notes: Low branching. Brittle wood. Loses some leaves in winter. Blooms in May, June, and July. Bloom intensity varies from tree to tree. Forty-one intense blooming days. Early July Flowering panicles. Mid June Return to first page Copper Pod/Horsebush Peltophorum Trees Scientific Name: Peltophorum dubium Leaf Type: Bipinnate Origin: Brazil Leaf Persistence: Deciduous Growth Rate: Fast Natural Form: Round spreading Typical Dimension: 45’x70’ Salt Tolerance: Medium Common Uses: Flowers, shade , parks Major Problems: None Shade Density: Light UF/IFAS Assessment: Recommended Additional Notes: Leafless from September to April. Blooms heavily but only in alternate years. Twenty-six intense blooming days. Fragrant flowers. Shortly after blooming some trees produce a multitude of seedpods that persist on the tree but are not distracting to most observers. Deciduous to varying degrees from October to about May. Mid June Early June Early June Weeping/Fern Podocarpus Podocarpus Trees Scientific Name: Afrocarpus gracilior Leaf Type: Simple, linear Origin: Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda Leaf Persistence: Evergreen Growth Rate: Medium Natural Form: Oval Typical Dimension: 50’x60’ Salt Tolerance: Medium Common Uses: Shade, park, hedge, streets, pk. lots Major Problems: None Shade Density: Heavy UF/IFAS Assessment: Recommended Additional Notes: A tough tree which can grow very well in urban conditions. Among the cleanest choices for street, lawn or patio tree. Fine textured leaves, pendulous branches. Lower branches should be removed if grown as a street tree. Trunk will grow about 2 feet in diameter or larger. With age, foliage will become more dense. Seedlings are more upright in growth than trees grown from cuttings or grafts, and their branches will be less pendulous. Mid June Mid March Early May Return to first page Yew Podocarpus Podocarpus Trees Scientific Name: Podocarpus macrophyllus Leaf Type: Simple, linear Origin: Japan Leaf Persistence: Evergreen Growth Rate: Medium Natural Form: Oval Typical Dimension: 35’x40’ Salt Tolerance: Medium Common Uses: Hedge, shade, streets, parking lots Major Problems: Aphids, scales, sooty mold Shade Density: Heavy UF/IFAS Assessment: Recommended Additional Notes: Generally narrow and upright. Leaves broader than Afrocarpus gracilior. Tolerates deep snow. Easily pruned to shape. Often sheared into a tall screen or columnar tree. Very popular as a dense screen or hedge. Var. Marki is a favorite hedge. Should be grown more often in its natural form. Roots are not a problem in restricted-soil areas and usually do not lift sidewalks. Early November Mid February Inflorescences. Late April Early November Return to first page Pongam Scientific Name: Millettia pinnata Leaf Type: Pinnate Origin: Tropical Asia, Australia, Pacific Islands Leaf Persistence: Briefly semi deciduous Growth Rate: Fast Natural Form: Round, flat-topped with age Typical Height: 35’x55’ Salt Tolerance: Medium Common Uses: Shade, flowers, parks Major Problems: Sri Lanka weevils Shade Density: Heavy UF/IFAS Assessment: Caution Additional Notes: Often low and drooping branching. Becomes messy in April and May losing leaves just before flowering. Small pea-like flowers. Seeds profusely and may produce suckers. New foliage. Early May Mature foliage. Mid November Pongam Flowers. Early May Foliage. Early June Fruit. Early January Return to first page Rain Tree Scientific Name: Samanea saman Leaf Type: Bipinnate Origin: Central America, Venezuela, Colombia Leaf Persistence: Briefly semi deciduous Growth Rate: Fast Natural Form: Umbrella Typical Height: 55’x95’ Salt Tolerance: Medium Common Uses: Shade, parks Major Problems: None Shade Density: Heavy UF/IFAS Assessment: Caution Additional Notes: Often low branching. A massive trunk on the oldest trees. The bark is dark gray, rough, and furrowed. Becomes messy in April and May as it loses its leaves just before flowering. Bipinnate leaves fold upwards at nights or during very overcast days. Late April Late April Return to first page Red Maple Scientific Name: Acer rubrum Leaf Type: Simple, lobed Origin: Florida, Eastern North America Leaf Persistence: Deciduous Growth Rate: Fast Natural Form: Oval, round Typical Height: 40’x35’ Salt Tolerance: Low Common Uses: Streets, shade, native impacts Major Problems: None Shade Density: Medium-dense UF/IFAS Assessment: N/A. Florida Native Additional Notes: Taller than broad. Deciduous from October to March. Good fall colors. Excellent for wet sites. Males produce tiny red flowers, females produced winged fruit. Its best to select trees grown from seed sources in your area. A number of cultivars are listed. Due to grafting incompatibility problems which causes trees to break apart, preference should be given to cultivars produced on their own roots. Grows poorly in alkaline soils. Not especially drought tolerant. Late May Early June Early April Return to first page Royal Poinciana Scientific Name: Delonix regia Leaf Type: Bipinnate Origin: Madagascar Tree Persistence: Deciduous Growth Rate: Very fast Natural Form: Umbrella Typical Height: 40’x 80’ Salt Tolerance: Medium Common Uses: Flowers, shade, park Major Problems: None Shade Density: Light-Medium UF/IFAS Assessment: Caution Additional Notes: Open canopy with fine textured leaves. Aggressive shallow surface roots. Plant no closer than 12-15 feet from driveways or other structures. Not storm tolerant. Made deciduous by cold weather or drought. Messy, when flowering. Long, hard, blackened seed pods remain on trees for months. Perhaps the most commonly planted flowering tree in warm climates. Thirty-nine intense blooming days. Late May Early November Royal Poinciana Mid October Interior Canopy. Mid October Return to first page Sausage Tree Scientific Name: Kigelia africana Leaf Type: Pinnate Origin: Tropical Africa to South Africa Leaf Persistence: Briefly semi-deciduous Growth Rate: Medium Natural Form: Round Typical Dimension: 40’x70’ Salt Tolerance: Low Common Uses: Shade, flowers Major Problems: None Shade Density: Medium-Heavy UF/IFAS Assessment: Recommended Additional Notes: Large trunks on the oldest trees. Pinnate leaves to 16 inches long. Messy in February and March when leaves fall to initiate flowering. Unusually shaped flowers. Flowers open at night and mostly fall by early morning. A beautiful litter is created. Large gray sausage shaped hanging fruit. Late October Pendulous inflorescence. Late May Hanging fruit. Early May Return to first page Sea Grape Scientific Name: Coccoloba uvifera Leaf Type: Simple Origin: Florida, Bahamas, Caribbean Leaf Persistence: Semi Deciduous April/May Growth Rate: Medium Natural Form: Spreading Typical Dimension: 25’x50’ Salt Tolerance: High Common Uses: Hedge, shade, parking lots, fruit Major Problems: Aphids, winter leaf spots Shade Density: Medium UF/IFAS Assessment: N/A. A Florida native Additional Notes: Usually with multiple low-branching trunks. Large, leathery round leaves and interesting mottled bark. Messy in April and May when new leaves are formed. Excellent seaside plant. Cold sensitive in some areas of South Florida. Edible fruit. Early May Mid July Mottled trunk. Fruit. Mid September Return to first page Shavingbrush Tree Scientific Name: Pseudobombax ellipticum Leaf Type: Palmate Origin: Mexico, Cuba, Guatemala Leaf Persistence: Deciduous from February-May Growth Rate: Fast Natural Form: Spreading Typical Dimension:30’x55’ Salt Tolerance: Medium Common Uses: Flowers, shade Major Problems: None Shade Density: Medium UF/IFAS Assessment: Recommended Additional Notes: Low branching. Smooth trunk with a few large branches. Damaged by hard frosts. Large leaves. Silky, crimson staminated flowers. Var. Album has white stamens. Very attractive when in flower. Sixteen intense blooming days in March/April. The left half of this tree has new but completely emerged leaves. The right half has emerging leaves. Early June. Late May Mid April Return to first page Slash Pine Scientific Name: Pinus elliottii Leaf Type: Needle Origin: Florida, Southeastern United States Leaf Persistence: Evergreen Growth Rate: Fast Natural Form: Pyramidal to ovoid Typical Dimension: 55’x55’ Salt Tolerance: High Common Uses: Native impact, shade, streets, parks Major Problems: Iron deficiency, borers Shade Density: Light UF/IFAS Assessment: N/A. A Florida native Additional Notes: Open crown with ascending branches. Self-pruning of its lower branches. Somewhat pyramidal when young forming an open ovoid canopy. Dappled shade. Deeply furrowed and scaly bark. High drought tolerance. Sensitive to grade change and soil compaction. Young plants go through “grass stage” in which there is no visible trunk and they form short, dense clumps of needles at or near ground level. Long lived to 200 years. Early October Mid August Interior canopy. Early October Return to first page Snow in Summer Scientific Name: Melaleuca decora Leaf Type: Simple, needle-like Origin: Australia Leaf Persistence: Evergreen Growth Rate: Medium Natural Form: Weeping Typical Dimension:35’x 40’ Salt Tolerance: Medium Common Uses: Shade, flowers, parks Major Problems: None Shade Density: Medium UF/IFAS Assessment: Not listed Additional Notes: A relatively scarce, non-weedy melaleuca species. In bloom. Late May Mid May Inflorescences. Mid May Return to first page Southern Magnolia Scientific Name: Magnolia grandiflora Leaf Type: Simple Origin: Florida, Southeastern United States Leaf Persistence: Evergreen Growth Rate: Medium Natural Form: Somewhat conical, round Typical Height: 50’x75’ Salt Tolerance: High Common Uses: Shade, flowers, fragrance, parks Major Problems: Scales Shade Density: Heavy UF/IFAS Assessment: N/A. Florida Native Additional Notes: Large, glossy dark green leaves. Large, showy, fragrant white flowers in spring and summer. Tolerant of moist growing conditions. Form and growth rate on seedlings vary greatly. Some are dense others are very open. Some cultivars do not fare well in South Florida. Old leaves drop sporadically and can be difficult to rake up. Early June Late September Early May Southern Magnolia Gary Knox Early June From flower bud to cone-like follicetum Return to first page Southern Red Cedar Scientific Name: Juniperus silicicola Leaf Type: Scale-like Origin: Florida, Southeastern United States Leaf Persistence: Evergreen Growth Rate: Fast Natural Form: Pyramidal, columnar or oval, Typical Height: 35’x45’ often flat-topped with age Common Uses: Native impact, screen, wind-break Salt Tolerance: High Shade Density: Medium Major Problems: Mites UF/IFAS Assessment: N/A. Florida Native Additional Notes: Suitable for seaside plantings. Can take continuously wet soil. Although not currently used often as a street tree, its wood is strong, the foliage is clean, and the fruit is small making it a suitable candidate. Bark and trunks on older specimens take on a delightful, ‘old-tree’ look. Many cultivars exist. Late October Late April Return to first page Sweetgum Scientific Name: Liquidambar styraciflua Leaf Type: Simple, lobed Origin: Florida, Eastern United States Leaf Persistence: Deciduous Growth Rate: Fast Natural Form: Narrow pyramidal, conical Typical Dimension: 55’x45’ Salt Tolerance: Low Common Uses: Native impact, shade, parks Major Problems: None Shade Density: Medium-Heavy UF/IFAS Assessment: N/A. A Florida native Additional Notes: Glossy, star-shaped leaves and brown prickly fruit balls produced in fall. Do not place it where the fallen fruit balls will be a nuisance. It prefers moist wet acid soils, but will tolerate most conditions. The trunk is normally straight and does not divide into double or multiple leaders and side branches are small in diameter on young trees, creating a pyramidal form. The bark becomes deeply ridged at about 25-years-old. Early May Late May Early May Return to first page Sycamore Scientific Name: Platanus occidentalis Leaf Type: Simple, lobed Origin: Florida, Eastern United States Leaf Persistence: Deciduous Growth Rate: Fast Natural Form: Pyramidal, spreading, irregular Typical Dimension: 60’x70’ Salt Tolerance: Low Common Uses: Shade, parks Major Problems: Anthracnose Shade Density: Medium UF/IFAS Assessment: N/A. A Florida native Additional Notes: Large tree for moist or dry sites. Prefers moist sites, but adapts to dry and compacted conditions. Pyramidal in youth, it develops a spreading rounded or irregular crown with age, supported by a very few large diameter branches. Massive trunk with exfoliating bark which is its most ornamental trait. Deciduous from October to March/April. New foliage. Early May Early June Late April Return to first page Tamarind Scientific Name: Tamarindus indica Leaf Type: Pinnate Origin: Tropical Africa, Madagascar Leaf Persistence: Evergreen Growth Rate: Medium Natural Form: Round Typical Dimension: 50’x70’ Salt Tolerance: Medium Common Uses: Fruit, shade Major Problems: Fruit weevils Shade Density: Light UF/IFAS Assessment: Recommended Additional Notes: Extremely wind resistant. Sour and edible pulp used to make sweet and sour candy, cold beverage and steak sauces. Late September Early November Fruit. Mid April Return to first page Tipu Tree/Pride-of-Bolivia Scientific Name: Tipuana tipu Leaf Type: Pinnate Origin: Southern Brazil, Argentina, Bolivia Leaf Persistence: Evergreen Growth Rate: Fast Natural Form: Round becoming flat-topped Typical Dimension: 40’x60’ Salt Tolerance: Low Common Uses: Shade, flowers, streets Major Problems: None Shade Density: Medium UF/IFAS Assessment: Not listed Additional Notes: High shade. Can be pruned to umbrella shape to make narrower, denser crown. Blooms May-July. Flower litter can be slight nuisance. Orlando, Florida. Early May Early May Inflorescence. Early May Return to first page Tropical Almond Scientific Name: Terminalia catappa Leaf Type: Simple Origin: Madagascar, East Indies Leaf Persistence: Deciduous Growth Rate: Very fast Natural Form: Pyramidally tiered Typical Dimension: 30’x50’ Salt Tolerance: High Common Uses: Shade, fruit Major Problems: Thrips Shade Density: Light-Medium UF/IFAS Assessment: Caution Additional Notes: Briefly deciduous between January-April. Large leaves. Edible but not relished fruit. Once of the most commonly seen seaside shade tree in the Western Hemisphere. Leaves and Fruit. Mid June Early April Interior canopy. Early June Bark Return to first page Weeping Bottlebrush Scientific Name: Callistemon viminalis Leaf Type: Simple, linear Origin: Australia Leaf Persistence: Evergreen Growth Rate: Medium Natural Form: Weeping Typical Dimension: 20’x50’ Salt Tolerance: Medium Common Uses: Flowers, shade Major Problems: Witch’s broom, nematodes Shade Density: Medium-Heavy UF/IFAS Assessment: Recommended Additional Notes: An erect tree with weeping or sometimes sprawling branches. Showy red flowers in spring near the end of pendent branches. Need ample water. Mid July Early May Foliage curtain. Late October Weeping Bottlebrush Leaves. Mid June. Interior canopy. Late December Inflorescence. Late April Return to first page Yellow Tabebuia Scientific Name: Tabebuia aurea Leaf Type: Palmate Origin: Argentina, Brazil, Bolivia, Paraguay Leaf Persistence: Briefly deciduous Growth Rate: Medium Natural Form: Oval Typical Dimension: 25’x40’ Salt Tolerance: Medium Common Uses: Flowers, shade Major Problems: None Shade Density: Medium UF/IFAS Assessment: Recommended Additional Notes: Often with a leaning and crooked trunk and several crooked leaders. Corky bark.. Canopy often becomes asymmetrical. Spectacular flower tree. Sixteen intense blooming days. Briefly deciduous after flowering in March-April. Mid May Mid March Interior canopy. Late October. Return to first page References Broschat, T., A. Meerow and R. Black. 2013. Enviroscaping to Conserve Energy: Trees for South Florida. UF/IFAS, Gainesville, Florida Broschat, T. and A. Meerow. 2001. Betrock’s Reference Guide to Florida Landscape Plants. Betrock Information System, Inc. Hollywood, Florida Crane, J., C. Balerdi and I. Maguire. 2013. Avocado Growing in the Florida Landscape. UF/IFAS, Gainesville, Florida Crane, J., C. Balerdi, S. Sargent and I. Maguire. 2013. Longan Growing in the Florida Home Landscape. UF/IFAS, Gainesville, Florida Crane, J. C. Balerdi and I. Maguire. 2013. Lychee Growing in the Florida Home Landscape. UF/IFAS, Gainesville, Florida Crane, J. and M. L. Caldeira. 2013. Loquat Growing in the Florida Home Landscape. UF/IFAS, Gainesville, Florida Crane, J., C. Balerdi and I. Maguire. 2013. Mango Growing in the Florida Home Landscape. UF/IFAS, Gainesville, Florida Escobedo, F. F. Seitz and J. Zipperer. 2012. The Effect of Gainesville’s Urban Trees on Energy Use of Residential Building. UF/IFAS, Gainesville, Florida Osorio, R. 2001. A Gardener’s Guide to Florida’s Native Plants. University Press of Florida, Gainesville, Florida Trees-South Florida Water Management District UF/IFAS Assessment of Non-native Plants Useful Links Flowering Trees Fact Sheets Native Plants Fact Sheets Landscape Videos Laurel and Live Oaks Distinctions Mango Tree Pruning Palm Problems Small Trees Fact Sheets All pictures except that of Tipuana tipu and Magnolia fruit were taken in South Florida. You can receive ’Brown’s Plant File’ at no cost, by email, approximately every 6 weeks. Do so by sending an email request to [email protected]. Include your first and last names and city, county, state or country where you live. This fact sheet was reviewed Peggy Cruz, Lee County Extension; Pat Rooney, Kim Cooprider, Lee County Master Gardeners and Jenny Evans, Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation. The Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS) is an Equal Opportunity Institution authorized to provide research, educational information and other services only to individuals and institutions that function with non-discrimination with respect to race, religion, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, martial status, national origin, political opinions or affiliations. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Cooperative Extension Service, University of Florida, IFAS, Florida A. & M. 6/2014