Oklahoma Tree Species Guide: Best Trees for Your Yard
Choosing the right tree for your Oklahoma landscape is about more than aesthetics. The region’s intense summers, occasional ice storms, and clay-heavy soils make it important to select trees that are resilient, low-maintenance, and well-adapted to the local climate.
Our certified arborists in Edmond, OK have compiled this guide to help homeowners choose the best-performing tree species for long-term beauty and stability.
1. Shumard Oak (Quercus shumardii)
Best for: Shade and durability
The Shumard Oak is a staple in Oklahoma landscapes. It’s drought-tolerant, fast-growing, and highly wind-resistant—an ideal combination for Edmond and the surrounding area. This tree offers broad shade coverage, deep red fall color, and excellent structural integrity when pruned properly by a certified arborist.
2. Lacebark Elm (Ulmus parvifolia)
Best for: Adaptability and low maintenance
Known for its attractive, mottled bark and resistance to disease, the Lacebark Elm adapts well to various soil types and growing conditions. It tolerates both drought and urban stress, making it an excellent choice for residential and commercial properties alike.
3. Bald Cypress (Taxodium distichum)
Best for: Wet or low-lying areas
The Bald Cypress thrives in areas that hold water but can also adapt to drier sites once established. Its fine, feathery foliage provides a refined look, and its strong vertical growth habit makes it suitable for both large yards and open spaces. Despite being a conifer, it drops its needles in winter, adding seasonal interest.
4. Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis)
Best for: Ornamental beauty and Oklahoma pride
As Oklahoma’s state tree, the Eastern Redbud adds early-spring color to any yard with its vibrant pink to purple blossoms. It performs best in well-drained soil with morning sun and afternoon shade. Its compact size makes it ideal for front yards, patios, or accent plantings.
5. Chinese Pistache (Pistacia chinensis)
Best for: Fall color and heat tolerance
The Chinese Pistache is one of the most heat-resistant ornamental shade trees for Oklahoma landscapes. It produces brilliant orange-red foliage in the fall, requires minimal maintenance, and resists most pests and diseases. It’s a strong, reliable option for homeowners seeking long-lasting shade and color.
6. Chinkapin Oak (Quercus muehlenbergii)
Best for: Native strength and longevity
The Chinkapin Oak is native to Oklahoma and thrives in the region’s alkaline soils. It’s an outstanding shade tree with excellent resistance to common oak pests and diseases. This species grows steadily and provides a broad canopy for generations when properly cared for through professional pruning and soil management.
7. Caddo Maple (Acer saccharum var. Caddo)
Best for: Brilliant fall color and regional adaptation
Originating from a native population in southwest Oklahoma, the Caddo Maple is more tolerant of heat and drought than most other maples. It produces vibrant fall foliage ranging from gold to deep red and performs well in both residential and park settings.
Plant Health Care for Long-Term Success
Even the hardiest Oklahoma tree species require proper care to reach their full potential. At Mercer Tree Service, our Plant Health Care (PHC) programs are designed to strengthen trees from the ground up. We offer soil nutrient injections, deep-root fertilization, and growth regulator treatments to promote strong root systems and balanced canopy growth.
Routine inspections by a certified arborist can identify stress, disease, or nutrient deficiencies before they become serious problems.
Professional Tips for Planting Trees in Oklahoma
-
Plant in fall or early spring to allow root systems to establish before summer heat.
-
Ensure the root flare is visible above ground after planting.
-
Apply 2–3 inches of mulch, keeping it away from the trunk.
-
Water deeply once or twice per week rather than frequent shallow watering.
-
Schedule annual pruning and soil assessments to maintain structural and root health.
Work with a Certified Arborist in Edmond, OK
At Mercer Tree Service, our team of certified arborists specializes in helping Oklahoma homeowners select, plant, and maintain the right trees for their property. From pruning and bracing to tree health care and preservation, we provide expert solutions tailored to the unique conditions of Edmond and surrounding areas.
For guidance on tree selection or to schedule a consultation, contact Mercer Tree Service today.
