Being the third largest state of the United States in size, it has diverse climate, this is why this list includes drought tolerant, sun loving, cold hardy, tropical, and temperate trees for the “Golden State.”
While you scroll below to discover the names of 14 shade trees that will reward you with a green canopy and protect from sun and heat, don’t miss visiting this nonprofit website designed by California State University to find out and filter the perfect local tree for your space.
Botanical Name: Fraxinus velutina
USDA Zones: 7-11
Native to Arizona, Texas, and Cali, this one is a widely distributed tree in Southern California. It is a perfect choice if you’re looking for a drought-tolerant tree for semi-arid or arid growing conditions.
It can be anywhere between 30 to 50 feet tall and grows best in USDA Zones 7, 8, and 9. If you’re planting it in a hotter climate (i.e., USDA Zones 10 or 11), you may need to water it more until it establishes itself.
Botanical Name: Acer negundo
USDA Zones: 2-10
If you’re in search of a fast growing Californian tree that can tolerate a wide range of climates, it is none other than Box Elder. This deciduous tree is native here and grows naturally along the streams of water.
Its ability to tolerate difficult conditions like flood, drought, poor soil, or salt spray makes it a must-have specimen, especially if you’re looking for a low-maintenance shade tree that can usually be up to 50 feet tall and doesn’t mind its little invasive nature
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