Tree Selection Guide. For Street Tree Planting. City of Moscow Parks and Recreation Community Forestry Program

Transcription

1 Tree Selection Guide For Street Tree Planting City of Moscow Parks and Recreation Community Forestry Program

2 INTRODUCTION The Community Forestry Program was established to enhance the quality of life in Moscow by promoting the planting, protection, and care of Moscow s trees. Street trees are a major focus of the program since they contribute to energy conservation, beauty, air quality, soil stabilization, and t he enhancement of property values which benefit all Moscow residents. This guide provides recommendations on the selection of trees to be planted along the street rights-of-way. The list is not all-inclusive, yet offers many choices in terms of species and their cultivars. The trees were selected based on their adaptability to our climate, attractiveness, range of sizes, and suitability to growing along streets. The importance of planting the right tree in the right location is key to the tree s survival and to sound community forestry practices. We encourage you to use this guide in your future street tree planting efforts. Please keep this as a resource and share it with friends and neighbors. If we act collectively, we can make our community a pleasant and inviting place to live and work. Thank you for being an important part of keeping our city beautiful. Moscow Tree Commission SPECIAL THANKS The City of Moscow extends its appreciation to the City of Lewiston and the City of Las Vegas for permission to adapt published material for use in this booklet. Funding for this second edition was made possible by a grant from the Latah County Community Forestry Program.

3 SELECTING A TREE AND OBTAINING A PERMIT Carefully consider the planting site: Are overhead wires present? Do not plant tall -growing trees under such wires. Will the tree s growth interfere with street lights and signs, or will it obstruct pedestrian and traffic visibility? Move the tree s planting site if these interferences are foreseen. What is the width of ground between the street and the sidewalk? For narrow widths (4-6 feet) plant small to medium size trees the roots and trunk flare of large trees grown in narrow widths may uplift sidewalks. How close is the tree to structures and other trees near the planting site? Remember to give your tree adequate room to grow. Select a tree: Does the tree match the site? Select a small tree where space, both above and below ground, is limited. Select a large tree where ample space is available. Know how large a tree will become when mature. Do you have a preference for the type of tree you plant? Choose a tree you will enjoy for its unique characteristics such as fall color, flower display, wildlife friendliness, etc. Obtain a free street tree planting permit: Permits for planting in the street rights - of- way are required. Your free permit may be obtained at the Moscow Parks and Recreation Office or City Hall. Simply complete the short form and return it to either office. The city forester will return your permit as approved, or will contact you with recommendations for improving the tree planting. Once approved, you may secure the tree and plant it. Please call the Parks and Recreation 0ffice at if you have questions concerning the permit or street tree planting. Always check for underground utilities before digging a hole to plant a tree. For free assistance, phone:

4 TREE PLANTING INSTRUCTIONS Step 1 Dig a hole at least twice as wide as the spread of roots or diameter of root ball, but no deeper than the root ball is tall. Roots grow wide and shallow. By breaking up the soil outside the root ball, the roots will have an easier time penetrating and growing into the adjacent soil. It is better to plant the tree above the base of the trunk flare than to plant it at or below the original growing level. Step 2 Container Grown Trees Bare Root Trees Balled and Burlapped Remove the pot. If the roots are bound in a tight circle, uncoil them. Some roots may have to be cut to loosen the mass. Place the tree in the hole so that the top of the root ball is slightly higher than the surrounding ground. Adjust the position of the tree so that it is straight. Keep the bare roots moist at times. Cut away any broken or unhealthy looking roots. Construct a 6 to 8 soil cone at the bottom of the hole. Spread the roots evenly over the cone. The soil line on the trunk should be slightly higher than the surrounding ground. Add soil over the roots until the tree is straight and can stand on its own. (B&B) Trees Place the tree in the hole so that the top of the root ball is slightly higher than the surrounding ground. Adjust the position of the tree so that it is straight - stabilize it by adding soil around the bottom of the ball. Be gentle. Remove the twine from the trunk. Loosen the burlap and cut away the top one - third of the burlap and wire basket. 2

5 TREE PLANTING INSTRUCTIONS Step 3 Backfill the planting hole with the soil that was originally dug out. In most cases, it is unnecessary to amend the backfill. When the hole is half filled, lightly tamp the soil around the roots or root ball to stabilize the tree. Add water to settle the soil and remove air pockets. Continue to backfill until the hole is filled. Water again until all the soil is saturated. If water percolates slowly through the backfill or if the planting site is located on a slope, a raised ring of soil can be made around the planting hole to create a water-catching basin. 4 Step Place 2 to 4 inches of mulch (wood chips or bark, pine needles, etc.) over the planting site. Improved root growth will occur if the root system of the newly planted tree is given a suitable environment. Mulch will conserve soil moisture, moderate the soil temperature, reduce competitive weeds, and keep the mower deck away from the tender, young tree trunk. Do not place mulch directly against the trunk as this may cause trunk rot. 5 Step In most situations, if the soil ball is adequately sized, staking the tree for support is unnecessary and even harmful to its early development. However, staking is recommended if the tree will encounter strong winds, the soil ball is undersized or the tree is planted bare root. Use two 6-8 foot stakes, spaced on opposite sides of the trunk, and drive them into the ground just beyond the root ball or root ends. To prevent injury to the bark, wrap heavy burlap or nylon webbing around the trunk to secure the tree to the stake. Place the webbing at the lowest level at which the trunk can be held upright. Allow some slack in the webbing so that the tree may sway in the wind. Remember to remove the staking after the first or second growing season. 3

6 POST PLANTING CARE INSTRUCTIONS Saving Water Watering the newly planted tree regularly for the first three years is crucial to its survival. In addition to rain showers and lawn watering, periodic, deep watering of the tree will help ensure its establishment. The soil around the tree should be kept moist, but not wet. Use a garden hose set at a trickle for best results. Water often enough and deep enough to maintain moist soil at least six inches below ground level. Remember to water more often during periods of drought and hot weather. Describes the trees s tolerability to drought and hot weather. Very Tolerant Tolerant Moderately Tolerant Intolerant How to water? This question refers to the area to be watered. Apply water to all areas above growing roots and just beyond to encourage growth. Tree roots have the potential to grow far beyond the drip line, however, roots only grow where the soil is moist. The myth, roots grow toward water is simply not true. Roots do not grow through dry soil. How much to water? This question refers to the quantity of water applied to the root area. Apply enough water to penetrate the soil to a depth of 18 inches to 24 inches. This is where a majority of absorbing roots grow. In clay or compacted soils, roots will be shallower than roots growing in sandy soils. After watering, check how deep the water has penetrated the soil. A metal rod or root feeder shaft will easily penetrate moist soil, while dry soil is difficult to penetrate. How often to water? This question refers to frequency of watering. A general recommendation is to water once weekly during the growing season and adjust as needed to allow for soil type and seasonal condition. Pruning Pruning at the time of planting should be limited to removing dead, broken, or crossing branches. Remove a branch just outside the branch collar (swollen area between trunk and branch or main stem). Never leave stubs or make flush cuts. It is unnecessary and sometimes harmful to apply wound dressing or tree paint to the cut area after pruning. During its early growth, a young tree will also need training so that it may develop strongly attached branches. Please contact the city forester for more information about training young trees. Fertilizing It is recommended not to fertilize your tree during the first year after planting. If the tree is showing signs of nutrient deficiency contact the city forester for fertilizing advice. Insects and Disease Most problems with newly planted trees can be linked to improper watering, inferior tree stock, or a difficult planting site -- insects and disease cause the least problems. Keeping the tree in good health is the best protection against pests. If it is suspected that the planted street tree is suffering from insects or disease, please contact the city forester. 4

7 TREES RECOMMENDED FOR PLANTING ALONG MOSCOW S STREETS SMALL TREES (up to 25 ft. tall) Trident Maple Acer buergeranum Height: Foliage: Glossy green pale underside Fall Color: Orange to red A handsome small tree for confined spaces. Tolerates drought and prefers full sun. Prune low spreading growth to encourage adequate sight clearance. Hedge Maple Acer campestre Height: 25 Spread: 25 One of the best smaller maples for dry, alkaline soils. Prune low spreading growth to encourage adequate sight clearance. Native to Europe, western Asia and Africa. Mostly free of major pests. Vine Maple Acer circinatum Height: 20 Shape: Multi-stemmed and wide-spreading Foliage: Medium green Fall Color: Orange to bright red New spring foliage is tinged red before turning green. Can be grown in shade or full sun, with better fall color when located in sunny locations. Needs supplemental watering during periods of drought. This northwest native has an airy and delicate appearance. Prune low spreading growth to encourage adequate sight clearance. David s Maple Acer davidii Height: 25 Shape: Upright and oval Foliage: Glossy green and deeply veined Fall Color: Bright yellow to reddish orange and purple The striped bark and excellent fall color make this species very distinctive. It has clusters of green to yellow flowers in spring. 5

8 SMALL TREES (up to 25 ft. tall) Amur Maple Acer ginnala Height: 20 Hardiness: -40 F Shape: Multi-stemmed, rounded with spreading branches Foliage: Medium green, Fall Color: Scarlet red One of the hardiest maples available. Select single stem/tree form for street planting. Flame is a cultivated form that provides the most consistent growth and fall color. Paperbark Maple Acer griseum Height: 25 Fall Color: Red The bark of this maple is most striking with its beautiful cinnamon or red-brown color that peels into paper -thin sheets. Has a slow rate of growth. Globe Norway Maple Acer platanoides Globosum Height: 15 Spread: 18 Shape:Perfectly rounded and compact Foliage: Medium green Usually grafted or budded at 6-7 height. Globe is a symmetrical and very formal looking tree. Rocky Mountain Glow Maple Acer grandidentatum Height: 25 Spread: 15 Shape: Oval Fall Color: Bright red Native to the Rocky Mountains, this maple is a relative of the Sugar Maple. It is slow growing and has intense fall color. 6

9 SMALL TREES (up to 25 ft. tall) American Hornbeam Carpinus caroliniana Height: Shape: Flat/round-topped and wide-spreading, orange and scarlet A native to the eastern U.S., it is slow growing, tolerates wet soils, and grows best in partial shade. The tree develops a smooth gray bark similar to beech. Select single-stemmed trees for street tree planting. Eastern Redbud Cercis canadensis Height: 25 Spread: 30 Shape: Flat/round-topped and spreading Foliage: Medium green The profuse clusters of pink flowers that bloom in April or May make this a spring favorite. Heart-shaped leaves open with a reddish/purple color then turn medium green. Plant in a protected site since it will not tolerate cold winds or drought. Low branches/foliage may cause sight obstructions along the street and will need to be pruned. Korean Dogwood Cornus coreana Height: 25 Spread: 25 Foliage: Lustrous dark green Fall Color: Plum purple This rugged tree tolerates heat and cold. Flowers are small white clusters followed by small black berries. May be hard to find in nurseries. Kousa Dogwood Cornus kousa Height: Spread: Foliage: Lustrous green Fall Color: Reddish-purple to scarlet 7 Handsome small tree with strong horizontal branching. Hardier and more drought tolerant than the flowering dogwood. Prefers a sunny location. The actual flowers are small in the center of four large, showy white bracts. Prune low spreading growth to encourage adequate sight clearance.

10 SMALL TREES (up to 25 ft. tall) Paul s Scarlet Hawthorn Crataegus laevigata Paul s Scarlet Height: 25 Shape: Dense, upright spreading, oval Foliage: Small, green or no change The brilliant double rose to red scarlet flowers in spring make this tree one of the showiest, most spectaular ornamentals. Sets sparse fruit. Related to the English Hawthorn. Periodic thinning of dense branching will improve its overall appearance. Lavalle Hawthorn Crataegus x lavallei Height: 25 Shape: Oval Foliage: Lustrous dark green Fall Color: Bronze/red White spring flowers and red-orange fruit in the fall gives this tree landscape interest throughout the season. Its form provides a strong impact during winter, with smooth dark bark and an oval, vase-shaped growth habit. Toba Hawthorn Crataegus x mordenensis Toba Height: 20 or no change A selection that produces double white fragrant flowers that age to pink. Fruit is red and averages 3/8 long. Washington Hawthorn Crataegus phaenopyrum Height: 25 Shape: Oval Foliage: Lustrous dark green Fall Color: Orange to scarlet and reddish purple 8 Adaptable to many environmental conditions, this tree should be used with caution because of its 2-3 long thorns. The flowers are white clusters appearing in late spring followed by bright, glossy red fruit that persists well into winter. A good tree for attracting wildlife.

11 SMALL TREES (up to 25 ft. tall) Green Hawthorn Crataegus viridis Height: 25 Spread: 30 and spreading Foliage: Lustrous medium green Fall Color: Purple to scarlet Red fruit develops and persists into winter after the springtime display of white flowers. The persistent fruit and distinct silvery bark make this one of the handsomest of all hawthorns. It is usually available under the cultivated form called Winter King. Similar to the Washington Hawthorn, it should be used with caution because of long thorns. Golden Desert Ash Fraxinus excelsior Aureafolia Height: 20 Foliage: Green Fall Color: Gold A small round-headed tree with yellow stems and beautiful golden fall foliage that begins to turn in July. Crabapple (red flowering) Malus spp. Height: Spread: to -40 F to spreading to columnar Foliage: Green to purple /brown The selection of this popular and quite adaptable tree is usually based on disease resistance and flower color, which ranges from light pink to rosy-pink to deeper shades of red. Some fruits are persistent, and their size falls within 1/4-5/8 with colors from red to orange. A few recommended forms include Royal Raindrops, Red Baron, Indian Summer, Centurion, and Radiant. 9

12 SMALL TREES (up to 25 ft. tall) Crabapple (white flowering) Malus spp. Height: Spread: to -40 F to spreading to columnar Foliage: Green /brown Similar to the characteristics of the red flowering crabapples, except that the flower color is pure white and fruit color may also be golden. Both types of crabapples prefer full sun and their edible fruits attract birds. Some cultivated forms that rank high in disease resistance include Snowdrift, Red Jewel, Doubloons, Spring Snow, and Golden Raindrops. Sourwood Oxydendrum arboreum Flowering Plum Prunus cerasifera Height: 25 Spread: 15 Shape: Pyramidal to rounded Fall Color: Orange to scarlet to purple Height: 20 Hardiness: -10 F to -30 F Shape: Upright spreading to oval/rounded to upright Foliage: Dark purple Fall Color: Dark purple/ brown A slow growing tree with a pleasant soft appearance. Drooping branches, creamy white bellshaped flowers, and brilliant fall color make this an excellent all season ornamental street tree. Prefers a somewhat low ph soil and good drainage. Do not plant in soils high in clay. Eye-catching dark purple summer foliage and light pink spring flowers distinguish this small tree from others. Cultivated forms that are best at withstanding our cold winters include Newport, Krauter Vesuvius, and Mt. St. Helens. Sargent Cherry Prunus sargentii Height: 25 Spread: 25 Foliage: Lustrous dark green Fall Color: Bronze orange to orange-red 10 The fall color and a rich, polished reddish to chestnut brown bark are this tree s most attractive features. Native to Japan, it is hardier than other Japanese cherries. Flowers are single pink and bloom in spring.

13 SMALL TREES (up to 25 ft. tall) Flowering Cherry Prunus subhirtella var. Autumnalis Rosea Height: 25 Shape: Upright and spreading Foliage: Medium green to bronze Unusual blooming occurs on this tree when semi-double light pink flowers sporadically open during a warm fall. A full display of flowers will follow in the spring. Delicate branching adds to its winter interest. Japanese Tree Lilac Syringa reticulata Height: Spread: to oval Fall Color: Brown This is the tree form of the lilacs. Flowers are showy 8 clusters of white that appear in the beginning of summer. Plant in full sun for best results. 11

14 MEDIUM TREES ( 26 ft. to 50 ft. tall) Greencolumn Maple Acer nigrum Greencolumn Height: 50 Shape: Upright oval and narrow Foliage: Light green to apricot orange A form of Black Maple, found in a native stand in central Iowa. More heat and drought tolerant than the similar looking Sugar Maples. Will grow in narrow spaces and displays excellent fall color. Norway Maple Acer platanoides Height: Spread: Hardiness:-20 F to -40 F to oval to upright/narrow to dark purple to reddish brown/bronze A popular and well-known tree that is known for heavy shading and toughness. Size, shape, and leaf color vary with the form selected. Because of surface rooting, plant in a wide (6 feet or greater) tree lawn to avoid sidewalk uplifting. Select from these proven cultivated forms: Emerald Queen, Crimson King, Columnare, Deborah, and Parkway. Sycamore Maple Acer psuedoplatanus Height: 50 Spread: 40 Shape: Oval to rounded Fall Color: Insignificant Adaptable to many environmental conditions. Has an interesting mottled bark pattern displaying an array of grays, reds, browns, and oranges; flaking into small, rectangular scales. Native to Europe and western Asia. Cultivated for centuries. Red Maple Acer rubrum Heights: Spreads: to -40 F Shapes: Oval to upright narrow Foliage: Green Fall Colors: Orange-red to red to scarlet red Red maples generally have clean foliage, strong wood, and dazzling fall color. Young bark is smooth and light gray in color. Red Sunset, Autumn Blaze, and Columnare are several recommended cultivated forms. 12

15 MEDIUM TREES ( 26 ft. to 50 ft. tall) Sugar Maple Acer saccharum Red Horsechestnut Aesculus x carnea Heights: Spreads: Shapes: Oval Foliage: Medium to dark green Fall Colors: Reddish-orange to red Height: 40 Spread: 30 Fall Color: Dull yellow Cultivated forms that have shown tolerance for cold and some drought include Green Mountain, Legacy, and Bonfire. These forms can provide brilliant fall colors when climatic conditions are favorable. Growth is slow, possibly medium when young. This tree has large leaves, each divided into 5 leaflets, with globose 1 diameter capsules for fruit. Flowers composed of 8 rose-red plumes are outstanding in spring. This is one of the most popular trees in England. River Birch Betula nigra Heritage Paper Birch Betula papyrifera Height: 45 Spread: 30 Shape: Broadly pyramidal Foliage: Medium green Height: 50 Spread: 35 Hardiness: -40 F Shape: Oval Growth rate is medium to fast with a reputation as one of the most trouble -free birches in moist years. Has good resistance to the bronze birch borer. The tree is popular for its attractive bark, which peels off into papery plates and exposes the brown to cinnamon to reddish- brown colors of the inner bark. Heritage the most commonly planted cultivated form of River Birch. Admirable features of this tree include its white bark and bright yellow fall color. It is one of the few white-barked birches that shows good resistance to the bronze birch borer. Splendid in winter when framed against evergreens. 13

16 MEDIUM TREES ( 26 ft. to 50 ft. tall) Columnar European Hornbeam Carpinus betulus Fastigiata Height: 35 Spread: 25 Shape: Oval and dense This is the most common cultivated form planted. It is narrow when young but later widens to a dense oval shape, a very symmetrical and formal appearance. Heat and drought tolerant. Common Hackberry Celtis occidentalis Katsuratree Cercidiphyllum japonicum Height: 50 Spread: 40 Hardiness: -40 F Shape: Vase Foliage: Dull light to medium green Height: 40 Spread: 40 Shape: Pyramidal when young, round with age Foliage: Bluish green to apricot-orange Performs admirably under adverse conditions such as dry, clayey soils and windy conditions. Rough corky bark adds interest throughout the seasons. This deep-rooted tree rarely lifts sidewalks, ideal for street tree planting. Prairie Pride is a recommended cultivated form. Requires ample moisture in its early years of establishment. A delicate, fine textured tree, its heart- shaped leaves add to its outstanding appearance. Fall color can be beautiful. Native to China and Japan. Yellowwood Cladrastis kentukea Height: 40 Spread: 45 Foliage: Bright green to golden yellow 14 Attractive features of this tree include a round spreading habit, fragrant white flowers, and bright green foliage. Tolerant of high ph soils and has very few pests. The common name is derived from its freshly cut yellow heartwood.

17 MEDIUM TREES ( 26 ft. to 50 ft. tall) Turkish Filbert Corylus colurna Height: Shape: Pyramidal to purple A tough tree that tolerates adverse environmental conditions once established. Prefers full sun. Drooping brown catkins, edible nuts and flaking brown/orange bark are interesting features of this seldom-used tree that is wellsuited to our climate. Narrowleaf Ash Fraxinus angustifolia Height: Spread: Foliage: Lustrous dark green Fall Color: Burgundy The fall color can be somewhat variable. Few seeds are produced. It is native to Europe and Asia, popular cultivated forms include Flame, and Raywood. Thornless Honeylocust Gleditsia triacanthos var. inermis Height: Spread: Hardiness:-30 F Shape: Vase-shaped to rounded, spreading to upright Foliage: Medium green One of our most adaptable trees - can grow in a wide range of environmental conditions. An excellent street tree. The finely textured, delicate leaves made up of small oval leaflets provide filtered shade and offer very little if any fall cleanup. Fruitless, thornless, and well branched forms include Shademaster, Moraine, and Skyline. 15

18 MEDIUM TREES ( 26 ft. to 50 ft. tall) Goldenraintree Koelreuteria paniculata Height: 30 Spread: 30 Foliage: Medium green, lacy leaflets Has many splendid features including branching/spreading habit, long, yellow plumes of flowers blooming in July, lacy leaflets on compound leaves, and attractive papery capsules for fruit. The tree can grow in all types of soils. Native to China, Japan, and Korea. Black Tupelo Nyssa sylvatica Height: 35 Shape: Irregular, spreading Foliage: Lustrous dark green Fall Color: Coppery red Outstanding shape and summer and fall foliage. Plant in a location sheltered from winds. This is an excellent specimen tree. Fruit is a 3/8-1/2 oblong, bluish black drupe (cherry-like), eaten by many species of birds and mammals. American Hophornbeam Ostrya virginiana Height: 35 Spread: 25 A graceful tree with horizontal or drooping branches. The fruit, a nutlet, resembles the fruit of hops, hence, the name Hophornbeam. Amur Chokecherry Prunus maackii Height: Hardiness: -40 F and dense Foliage: Medium green to purple Fall Color: Brown to purple A good street tree for exposed areas due to its extreme tolerance to cold. Small white spring flowers and an attractive yellow/ cinnamon brown peeling bark adorn the tree. 16

19 MEDIUM TREES ( 26 ft. to 50 ft. tall) Callery Pear Pyrus calleryana Height: Shape: Pyramidal Foliage: Lustrous dark to medium green Fall Color: Dark red to orange/purple red With small (1/2 or less across) fruit, this pear is termed an ornamental and is suitable for street planting. Its most valued feature is the springtime display of white flowers, the tree is completely covered when in full bloom. Cultivated forms that display good resistance to fireblight disease include Aristocrat, Chanticleer, and Trinity. Ussurian Pear Pyrus ussuriensis Height: 45 Spread: 45 Hardiness: -40 F, dense Foliage: Lustrous dark green Fall Color: Red to reddish purple This is the hardiest of all ornamental pears. Flowers may be faintly pink in bud, finally turning white in April-May. Good resistance to fireblight disease. A worthy street tree for exposed northern and western sites. Pink Idaho Locust Robinia x ambigua Idahoensis Height: Spread: Shape: Oval, irregular Foliage: Dark blue-green -green A very tough tree that can survive under the harshest of conditions. Medium in growth rate. Flowers are rose-pink, fragrant, and borne on long plumes. Quite a stunning display at peak bloom. European Mountainash Sorbus aucuparia Height: 35 Hardiness: -40 F Shape: Oval to columnar Foliage: Full dark green Fall Color: Red to rust 17 Known for its orange to brilliant red fruit, the tree is a favorite for birds. The species often displays a graceful, open crown when mature, while several strong cultivated forms, such as Cardinal Royal and Blackhawk, have a more upright, columnar habit.

20 MEDIUM TREES ( 26 ft. to 50 ft. tall) Redmond Linden Tilia americana Redmond Height: Spread: Hardiness:-40 F Shape: Pyramidal ish green This cultivated form is closely related to the American Linden or Basswood. Its leaves are the largest of all the linden forms which gives it a coarse textured appearance. Provides deep shade under its crown. Littleleaf Linden Tilia cordata Height: Spread: Shape: Pyramidal Foliage: Lustrous dark green More heat and drought tolerant than other lindens. Prefers full sun. An excellent street tree with moderate growth. Very popular and widely used in various street and city settings. Two cultivated forms ranked high in quality are Greenspire and Glenleven. Silver Linden Tilia tomentosa Chinese Elm(Lace Bark Elm) Ulmus parvifolia Height: Spread: Shape: Pyramidal Foliage: Lustrous dark green with silver-gray under-surface Height: Spread: Foliage: Lustrous dark green ish to dull reddish purple 18 Both leaf surfaces, dark green above and silver-gray below, are exposed when the wind blows which creates a pleasing effect. As with all lindens, the small flowers and nutlets that follow are attached to interesting leaflike wings called bracts. Sterling is a cultivated form that has proven quite worthy. The bark is outstanding and often displays a beautiful mottled combination of gray, green, orange and brown. Highly resistant to Dutch Elm Disease. This tree should not be confused with the common and inferior Siberian Elm (Ulmus pumila) which has smooth, gray bark prevalent on younger branches.

21 LARGE TREES (over 50 ft. tall) European Beech Fagus sylvatica Height: Spread: Shape: Broadly oval Foliage: Lustrous dark green to purple Fall Color: Red to golden brown to deep purple According to many, there is no finer specimen tree. The bark is smooth and gray, even when mature, it is very elegant. Prune low spreading growth to encourage adequate sight clearance. The purple-leafed form, Riversii, adds rich color to the streetscape. Asplenifolia is another favorite cultivated form. White Ash Fraxinus americana Height: Spread: to oval Foliage: Green Fall Color: Orange-red to bronze-red to purple The various white ash forms display beautiful fall colors. The trees color early and by mid- October the leaves have fallen from the tree. Seedless cultivated forms include Autumn Purple, Skyline, and Rosehill. European Ash Fraxinus excelsior Height: Spread: Shape: Oval Foliage: Lustrous dark green Fall Color: Green to yellow A popular tree in Europe but has not had overwhelming acceptance in America, even though the tree is extremely hardy and vigorous. The seedless Hessei is the recommended cultivated form. Green Ash Fraxinus pennsylvanica Height: Spread: to -40 F Shape: Oval to pyramidal Fall Color: Red to bronze to yellow 19 A reliable, tough tree with a fast growth rate. Prune during its early years to remove weak branching and double leaders. Patmore, Bergeson, Cimmaron, and Urbanite are hardy, seedless forms.

22 LARGE TREES (over 50 ft. tall) Blue Ash Fraxinus quadrangulata Height: Spread: Shape: Broadly oval Has a shaggy outer bark, and its inner bark contains a substance which turns the color blue on exposure to air, thus its common name. It is fairly drought tolerant. Twigs are stout and usually 4 angled, a rather unique feature. Ginkgo Ginkgo biloba Height: Spread: Hardiness: -40 F Shape: Broadly pyramidal Foliage: Bright green, fan-shaped Fall Color: Bright yellow A durable tree for difficult environmental situations. A slow grower. Leaves are interestingly fan-shaped and present a very soft appearance. Plant only male trees since the fruit of this tree has an extremely unpleasant odor. The Ginkgo is the oldest species of tree on earth. Tuliptree Liriodendron tulipifera Height: Spread: Shape: Oval Foliage: Bright green, tulip-shaped Fall Color: Golden yellow Both the leaf and large yellowgreen-orange flowers have shapes that resemble a tulip. A tree for wide tree lawns (8 feet or greater). Not drought tolerant. A fast grower. Becomes a large, stately tree. Attractive golden yellow fall color. Native to the eastern U.S. London Planetree Platanus x acerifolia Height: Spread: Foliage: Medium green, large to brown 20 Has interesting exfoliating bark that reveals patches of beautiful brown, olive, and cream colors. Leaves are large and maple-like. A fast grower which can tolerate most types of soils. A relative to the American sycamore, the Bloodgood cultivated form is recommended due to its greater resistance to disease.

23 LARGE TREES (over 50 ft. tall) White Oak Quercus alba Height: Spread: Shape: Uprightrounded Fall Color: Brown to reddish purple A slow grower that can live for hundreds of years. Winter appearance is strong and bold due to its stout branching pattern. Native to the eastern U.S., its availability in the Pacific northwest is low. However, it is one of the most handsome of the oaks and is worthwhile growing. Swamp White Oak Quercus bicolor Scarlet Oak Quercus coccinia Height: Spread: Foliage: Lustrous green brown to reddish Height: Spread: Shape: Broadly oval Foliage: Lustrous dark green Fall Color: Red to scarlet Attractive features include leaves with wavy margins and flaky grayish brown bark. Like most oaks, popular with wildlife, especially small mammals which prize the acorns. Drought tolerant when mature, but can also grow in wet soils. A tough oak for our area. Very similar to the more common and well known pin oak. Its most appealing characteristic is its deep and brilliant red fall color, generally regarded as the finest of all the oaks. Shingle Oak Quercus imbricaria Height: Spread: Shape: Broadly oval Foliage: Lustrous dark green to rusty red Has beautiful summer foliage. The leaves often persist through the winter and assist with screening or wind protection. Can tolerate high ph soils. 21

24 LARGE TREES (over 50 ft. tall) Bur Oak Quercus macrocarpa Height: Spread: Hardiness: -40 F, broad Foliage: Lustrous dark green /brown A large impressive tree with a stout branching pattern. Plant in wide tree lawns. The fruit are large, 3/4 to 1 1/2 long acorns with a deep cup and attractive fringed margin, needless to say, a favorite tree for wildlife. Tolerant of city conditions and dry alkaline soils. Young twigs and stems develop distinctive corky ridges. English Oak Quercus robur Height: Spread: Shape: Round, spreading Fall Color: Green to brown Adaptable to various climates and soils, including those soils with a high ph (alkaline). The tree is widely used in Europe. Red Oak Quercus rubra Height: Spread: Foliage: Lustrous dark green Fall Color: Bright red A good street tree that performs well in the city environment. Has a medium to fast growth rate. One of the most popular oaks to plant in the area. Provides food and shelter for many types of wildlife. Shumard Oak Quercus shumardii Height: Spread: Shape: Broadly oval Foliage: Lustrous dark green Fall Color: Red Similar to pin and scarlet oak, its main advantage over these trees is its adaptability for growing in difficult soil conditions, conditions where other oaks perform poorly. 22

25 LARGE TREES (over 50 ft. tall) Japanese Pagodatree Sophora japonica Height: Spread: Shape: Broadly rounded Foliage: Medium bright green /green Beautiful late-summer flowers composed of 10 long creamy clusters. Grows well in tough environments. Plant in full sun to help attain its medium to fast growth rate. Native to China and Korea where it is planted around Buddhist temples. Liberty Elm Ulmus americana Liberty Height: Spread: Shape: Vase Foliage: Lustrous dark green A cultivated form of the stately American elm that shows resistance to Dutch elm disease. The tree displays many of the same characteristics as the American elm, including the elegant vase shape and arching branch pattern. Japanese Zelkova Zelkova serrata Height: Spread: Shape: Vase Fall Color: Orange to bronze to red Similar in appearance to the American elm, but lacking some characteristics. Still a handsome tree because of its vase shape, clean-looking foliage, and exfoliating bark. Has a medium growth rate. Recommended cultivated forms include Green Vase and Village Green. 23

26 UNDESIRABLE CHARACTERISTICS FOR STREET TREES Trees to be planted along Moscow s streets should be appropriately hardy, deep rooting, safe, and have inherently strong branching. Certain trees should not be planted within the public rights- of -way because of the following undesirable characteristics: Inherently weak branching and high susceptibility to wind, ice, and snow breakage (e.g. poplars/cottonwoods, willows, silver maple, box elder maple). Susceptibility to Dutch Elm Disease (e.g. American and European elms species). Litter and thorn problems (e.g. Russian-olive, thorny honey-locust). View obstruction and vehicular/pedestrian safety (e.g. evergreens) Profuse suckering from outlying roots (e.g. quaking aspen, white poplar) 24

27 THINK BIG! When planning what tree to plant, please consider using large-maturing species when space allows. There is an unfortunate trend toward planting only small trees in Moscow and other cities, leading to what some call the dwarfing of the urban forest. This is a good thing to do near overhead lines because it reduces the need for line clearance and the disfigurement of street trees, increases safety, and prevents power outages. However, where we have large spaces, we need large trees to perpetuate benefits for the future, especially the cooling effects of summer shade and providing homes and cover for wildlife. Moscow s goal is to maintain large trees to maximize benefits to our citizens. Not only do large growing trees provide more benefits such as energy savings, rain runoff retention, and air pollution control than small growing trees, their assessed values at maturity are much higher than small growing trees. Below are values for two of Moscow s street trees: Small ornamental tree $ 2,500 Large shade tree $ 15,000 WHERE TO PLANT LARGE-MATURING TREES Here is a guide to appropriate spaces for large trees, when at least 50 feet from overhead power lines. On the lawn side of curb-attached sidewalks Centered in planting strips 6-8 in width Yards Parking Lots

28 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Additional information on tree planting and tree care, specific to the City of Moscow or general in nature, can be found from the following sources: Moscow Parks and Recreation Office and Moscow Tree Commission, Moscow, ID Phone: 208/ Free copies of Moscow Tree Bulletins, Pruning Shade Trees brochure, City of Moscow Arboricultural Specifications and Standards Guide, City of Moscow Community Forestry Ordinance, and other informative tree care brochures are available. Idaho Department of Lands Community Forestry Program Phone: 800/ Free copies of Tree City USA Bulletins on a wide range of topics are available. University of Idaho Extension Office, Latah County Courthouse, 5 th & Van Buren, Moscow, ID Phone: 208/ Numerous extension publications are available. A catalog listing of all of the publications is free. Moscow has received The National Arbor Day Foundation s Tree City USA Award and Tree City USA Growth Award for excellence in community forest management.