Slow Growing Landscape Border Trees

Snow Fountain

• A snow fountain is a variety of a weeping cherry ornamental tree. It is a smaller variety, growing to a maximum height of 12 feet with a spread of about 12 feet as well. The snow fountain has deep green leaves, which change to a mixture of red, yellow and orange in fall, with showy, white cascading flowers in spring changing to deep black berries. Birds are attracted to the trees for the berries, and they will build nests in the branches. When in full bloom, the tree will be covered in the white flower, making it look like a fountain of snow.

Geiger Tree

• The Geiger tree is a slow-growing coastal tree, which thrives in U.S. Department of Agriculture hardiness zones 10 and 11. It is believed to be native to southern Florida, but there is debate over this, with some believing it is native to Mexico or South America. It gets bright orange flowers, year round, but blooms more profusely in spring and summer. Geiger trees produce a green, oval and elongated fruit, and has deep green leaves that feel rough when touched.

European Hornbeam

• The European hornbeam (Carpinus betulus) is a slow-growing tree that has a rounded look at maturity, but is pyramidal in shape when it is young. It has light gray bark that covers a ridged trunk and branches. The hornbeam produces hanging clusters of seeds, which appear to be leaves, but the actual leaves are delicate looking like elm leaves. It can be difficult to transplant, so once you have it in place, try not to move it. If you do need to move the tree, it is best to do while it is still young. This tree is fairly easy to grow and usually stays pest free.

Amur Corktree

• The corktree is a spreading tree with corklike bark that can have deep trenches in it. The massive branches and the distinct bark give this tree winter appeal. It produces small white flowers in early summer that are followed by deep green to black berries. The rough, green leaves turn yellow in fall. This tree tolerates most soil types, and can withstand most climate types as well. However, it may not grow well in extremely hot climates. Disease and insects are not usually a problem with this tree, making it a great choice as a low-maintenance lawn tree.