- Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum)
- Why it’s great: Stunning fall color, graceful structure.
- Best for: Small yards, partial shade spots.
- Dogwood (Cornus florida or Cornus kousa)
- Why it’s great: Beautiful spring blooms, attractive bark and berries.
- Best for: Pollinators and seasonal interest.
- Redbud (Cercis canadensis)
- Why it’s great: Early spring flowers, heart-shaped leaves.
- Best for: Compact yards and wildlife-friendly gardens.
- River Birch (Betula nigra)
- Why it’s great: Peeling bark, fast-growing, tolerates wet soils.
- Best for: Rain gardens and naturalizing.
- Magnolia (Magnolia spp.)
- Why it’s great: Fragrant, dramatic flowers; evergreen or deciduous types.
- Best for: Southern gardens or focal points.
🌿 Best Shrubs
- Hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla or paniculata)
- Why it’s great: Big blooms, shade tolerant, long flowering season.
- Best for: Cottage gardens and borders.
- Boxwood (Buxus spp.)
- Why it’s great: Evergreen, great for hedges or topiary.
- Best for: Formal gardens or year-round greenery.
- Lilac (Syringa vulgaris)
- Why it’s great: Strong fragrance, spring blooms, low maintenance.
- Best for: Classic charm and cutting gardens.
- Butterfly Bush (Buddleia davidii)
- Why it’s great: Attracts pollinators, long blooming period.
- Best for: Wildlife gardens and full-sun spots.
- Ninebark (Physocarpus opulifolius)
- Why it’s great: Colorful foliage, exfoliating bark, drought-tolerant.
- Best for: Naturalistic plantings and low-maintenance spaces.