Top 10 Tree Species to Plant in Memphis for a Beautiful Landscape

Creating a beautiful landscape in Memphis involves choosing the right trees that thrive in the local climate. Memphis, with its hot, humid summers and mild winters, is home to many tree species that can add beauty and value to your property. Whether you're looking for shade, color, or unique features, here are the top 10 tree species to plant in Memphis for a stunning landscape, recommended by Hodges Tree and Landscape.

If you are looking for commercial or residential landscaping in Memphis, give us a call. 

1. Southern Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora)

Why It's Great:

The Southern Magnolia is a classic choice for Memphis landscapes. Known for its large, fragrant white flowers and glossy green leaves, this evergreen tree provides year-round beauty and shade.

Planting Tips:

• Prefers full sun to partial shade
• Requires well-drained, slightly acidic soil
• Water regularly until established

2. Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis)

Why It's Great:

The Eastern Redbud is a small, ornamental tree that offers vibrant pink to purple flowers in early spring, followed by heart-shaped leaves that turn yellow in the fall.

Planting Tips:

• Thrives in full sun to partial shade
• Adaptable to various soil types but prefers well-drained soil
• Water regularly during dry periods

3. Dogwood (Cornus florida)

Why It's Great:

Dogwoods are beloved for their stunning spring blooms, which range from white to pink, and their attractive red fall foliage and berries.

Planting Tips:

• Prefers partial shade
• Needs well-drained, acidic soil
• Mulch to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature

4. Bald Cypress (Taxodium distichum)

Why It's Great:

Bald Cypress trees are known for their unique, feathery foliage that turns a beautiful russet color in the fall. They are also highly tolerant of wet conditions.

Planting Tips:

• Thrives in full sun
• Prefers moist, well-drained soil but can tolerate wet conditions
• Water regularly in dry periods

5. Tulip Poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera)

Why It's Great:

The Tulip Poplar, Tennessee's state tree, is a fast-growing tree with striking yellow-green flowers in the spring and bright yellow leaves in the fall.

Planting Tips:

• Requires full sun
• Prefers moist, well-drained soil
• Ensure adequate space for growth, as it can reach up to 90 feet tall

6. American Holly (Ilex opaca)

Why It's Great:

American Holly is an evergreen tree that adds year-round interest with its glossy green leaves and bright red berries, which are a favorite among birds.

Planting Tips:

• Grows well in full sun to partial shade
• Prefers slightly acidic, well-drained soil
• Mulch to maintain soil moisture and temperature

7. Sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua)

Why It's Great:

Sweetgum trees are known for their star-shaped leaves that turn vibrant shades of yellow, orange, and red in the fall. Their unique seed pods add visual interest.

Planting Tips:

• Thrives in full sun
• Prefers moist, well-drained soil
• Water regularly during dry spells

8. Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum)

Why It's Great:

Japanese Maples are small, ornamental trees that provide stunning foliage in a variety of colors, from deep red to bright green, depending on the variety.

Planting Tips:

• Prefers partial shade, especially in hot climates
• Needs well-drained, slightly acidic soil
• Water consistently, especially in dry periods

9. River Birch (Betula nigra)

Why It's Great:

River Birch trees have attractive, peeling bark and lush green leaves that turn a warm yellow in the fall. They are highly adaptable and tolerant of wet conditions.

Planting Tips:

• Thrives in full sun to partial shade
• Prefers moist, well-drained soil
• Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist

10. Live Oak (Quercus virginiana)

Why It's Great:

Live Oaks are majestic trees with sprawling branches and evergreen leaves, providing ample shade and a timeless Southern charm to any landscape.

Planting Tips:

• Requires full sun
• Prefers well-drained, sandy soil
• Water deeply during dry periods to encourage deep root growth

Conclusion

Planting the right trees can transform your Memphis landscape into a beautiful, thriving environment. Each of these tree species offers unique benefits and can thrive in the local climate when given the proper care. Whether you’re looking to add shade, color, or year-round interest, these top 10 trees are excellent choices for creating a stunning Memphis landscape.

For more personalized advice on tree planting and care, contact the experts at Hodges Tree and Landscape. Our team of professionals is dedicated to helping you achieve the landscape of your dreams. Visit our website or give us a call to learn more about our services and how we can assist you with all your tree and landscape needs. Happy planting!