While gardeners often extol the virtues of outstanding bark and winter interest, let’s not kid ourselves—flower power reigns supreme. A tree that is a stately focal point most of the year will be transformed into an awe-inspiring centerpiece by spectacular blooms. Spring-flowering trees often occupy prime garden real estate, but for some easy, unexpected floral elegance, it is truly worthwhile to plant trees that bloom in summer, fall, or even late winter. Many of my favorites even have dazzling displays when they aren’t in bloom. Here are some excellent choices for you to consider.
When it seems like spring will never come, seeing branches laden with buds gives us hope that warmer weather is on its way.
Name: Cercis canadensis ‘Appalachian Red’
Zones: 4–9
Size: 15 to 25 feet tall and wide
Conditions: Full sun to partial shade; moderately moist, well-drained soil
Native range: Eastern and central North America
First bloom: Early spring
Redbud is going to be on almost every list of spring-flowering trees. If I had to choose just one for its color and impact, this would be it. New cultivars with unique growing forms or foliage have flooded the market, but cultivars with distinctly different flower colors are hard to find. In this category, ‘Appalachian Red’ is a real standout with its reddish-pink, pealike blooms. Found over 30 years ago by Max Byrkit near the Appalachian Trail in Maryland, it is a true classic that will set your spring garden apart from the crowd.
Name: Prunus mume
Zones: 6–9
Size: 15 to 20 feet tall and wide
Conditions: Full sun to partial shade; moist, acidic, humus-rich soil
Native range: Central and southern China
First bloom: Late winter
During a gray-sky week in late January, I can often count on
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