The Ornamental Trees Recommended for Michigan

American Smoketree

• The American smoketree (Cotinus obovatus) is cited as among the most spectacular trees for fall by Timothy Boland, Marty Hair and Laura Colt in "Michigan Gardener’s Guide." The tree is a native of Michigan and changes colors distinctly in every season with bronze growth in spring, dark blue-green leaves in summer accompanied with plumes of pink flowers, and yellow, orange, red and purple fall and winter color. The tree grows to a mature height of about 30 feet with a 15- to 20-foot spread which makes it well suited to smaller landscapes. The slow-growing tree grows best in areas of sun to partial shade and thrives in alkaline and compacted soils. Plant American smoketree in spring or fall and avoid areas that tend to remain consistently wet.

Corneliancherry

• Corneliancherry tree (Cornus mas) is cited as a good ornamental tree for Michigan, well adapted to growing in the state as cited in the "Michigan Gardener’s Guide." The corneliancherry tree grows to a mature height of 20 to 25 feet with a 15- to 20-foot spread and blooms with masses of yellow flowers during spring followed by edible fruit popularly used for making jams and jellies. The tree develops a round, dense form and is valued as a specimen tree for use at entrances and in smaller landscapes. Plant the tree ideally in spring in areas of full sun and moist soil. Corneliancherry trees give good effect when planted in small groups.

Flowering Crabapple

• Flowering crabapple (Malus spp.) trees are among the highly popular ornamental trees and are listed as being well adapted to growing in Michigan in the "Michigan Gardener’s Guide." The small-sized tree grows to about 20 feet and blooms with red-purple, white or pink flowers during spring, followed by ornamental fruits that last well into fall. The trees are recommended as ideal for use at entrances, gardens and as patio plants. Plant flowering crabapple during fall or spring in areas of full sun. Do not plant in wind-protected areas as this increases chances of leaf disease. Flowering crabapple adapts to most soil types except poorly drained soils.