Native Plants

Q. Who is Mr. Smarty Plants?
A: There are those who suspect Wildflower Center volunteers are the culpable and capable culprits. Yet, others think staff members play some, albeit small, role. You can torture us with your plant questions, but we will never reveal the Green Guru's secret identity.
Did you know you can access the Native Plant Information Network with your web-enabled smartphone?
Ask Mr. Smarty Plants
Ask Mr. Smarty Plants is a free service provided by the staff and volunteers at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.

rate this answer

Friday - July 20, 2012
From: Washington, DC
Region: Mid-Atlantic
Topic: Plant Lists, Shrubs, Trees
Title: Small Yard Tree for Washington DC
Answered by: Brigid & Larry Larson
QUESTION:
What do you suggest for a tree or shrub in my front yard? The yard is small; 9 ft x 12 ft. Thank you.ANSWER:
That's a tough one, but mostly because you haven't told us much of the place or the yard, other than its size.
I use the "Recommended Species" lists to make recommendations. The link is to the recommended species for Washington DC. These lists are sortable, so when I select "6-12" and "12-36" feet high, that still gives me a list of 43 possible trees or shrubs for your place.
I'm imagining you would want something in the 10-20 ft range and maybe some colorful aspect in the leaves or fruit to give it a seasonal highlight. My list follows, but you could select your own by sorting the recommended species and applying your own preferences:
Asimina triloba (Pawpaw)
Cercis canadensis (Eastern redbud)
Hydrangea arborescens (Wild hydrangea) would just fit nicely if you want a smaller shrub
Morella cerifera (Wax myrtle)
Sumac family: Rhus glabra (Smooth sumac), Rhus copallinum (Winged sumac), Rhus aromatica (Fragrant sumac)
Rhododendron family: Rhododendron prinophyllum (Early azalea), Rhododendron maximum (Great laurel), Rhododendron catawbiense (Catawba rosebay), Rhododendron calendulaceum (Flame azalea)
Rhus typhina (Staghorn sumac)
Sambucus nigra ssp. canadensis (Common elderberry)
Viburnum rufidulum (Rusty blackhaw viburnum)
From the Image Gallery
More Shrubs Questions
Native Ohio Shubs for Wildlife
July 20, 2015 - Hi, I'm looking to plant shrubs and bushes for in front of our home this week but would like to plant some that are good for wildlife including bees and birds. Do you have any suggestions for norther...
view the full question and answer
Problems with non-native Japanese privet from Glendale AZ
December 26, 2012 - We have Japanese privet shrub and they seem to be suffering from a disease, need help.
view the full question and answer
Epiphytic or halophytic trees and shrubs
December 10, 2008 - Hello
I was searching on this issue, but couldn't find what I really want, and I would be great full for your assistance.
Please could you help me to find the scientific name for the "Trees" or...
view the full question and answer
Care for lantana in Katy TX
December 04, 2010 - Hello. I live in Katy TX and have a number of Lantana shrubs. How and when should they be cut back?
view the full question and answer
Dividing Hesperaloe
December 09, 2015 - How and when can I successfully separate a clump of Hesperaloe Parviflora into smaller bunches?
view the full question and answer
Support the Wildflower Center by Donating Online or Becoming a Member today. |