Creating a garden that speaks to your sense of beauty involves choosing the right plants. Small trees featuring hues from soft lavender to deep violets can add charming accents that transform your outdoor space into a serene retreat. Here, we explore several splendid small trees that not only enhance your garden’s visual appeal but also provide seasonally vibrant colors and textures.
1. Lavender Twist® Weeping Redbud (Cercis canadensis ‘Lavender Twist’)
The Lavender Twist Weeping Redbud is a stunning small tree that features heart-shaped leaves and beautiful pink blooms in the spring. As it matures, the branches weep gracefully, creating a beautiful focal point. Ideal for smaller gardens, this tree offers:
- Height: 5-10 feet
- Spread: 6-8 feet
- Blooming period: Early spring
2. Purple Leaf Sand Cherry (Prunus x cistena)
This small ornamental tree is noted for its striking dark purple leaves that contrast beautifully with the pinkish-white blossoms in the spring. The Purple Leaf Sand Cherry adds a splash of color throughout the seasons and is very easy to maintain. It boasts:
- Height: 5-7 feet
- Spread: 4-6 feet
- Attracts: Pollinators, including bees and butterflies
3. Dwarf Korean Lilac (Syringa meyeri ‘Palibin’)
Known for its delightful fragrance, the Dwarf Korean Lilac is a compact tree that only grows to about 4-5 feet tall. The small, purple flowers appear in late spring, providing a lovely scent and a beautiful visual interest. Its features include:
- Height: 4-5 feet
- Spread: 4-6 feet
- Blooming period: Late spring to early summer
4. Flowering Dogwood (Cornus florida)
The Flowering Dogwood is a classic choice for many gardens, known for its stunning white to pink flowers that bloom in spring. The mottled gray bark adds texture, while the red berries in autumn attract birds. Key attributes include:
- Height: 15-30 feet
- Spread: 15-30 feet
- Fall color: Vibrant red and purple foliage
5. Black Cherry (Prunus serotina)
This native tree grows well in various soil types and provides a beautiful display of white flowers in spring, followed by edible black cherries. Its dark, glossy leaves add texture and color to your garden throughout the growing season.
- Height: 30-60 feet (can be kept smaller)
- Spread: 25-35 feet
- Wildlife: Attracts birds and other wildlife
By incorporating these small trees into your garden, you can create a landscape filled with captivating colors and vibrant textures. Whether you prefer the softer hues of lavender or the intense richness of violets, there’s a perfect small tree waiting to brighten your garden this season.