by Cynthia Hight November 24, 2025
Trees can add beauty and joy to a landscape for years. Sometimes, we choose a favorite. Sometimes, we have a favorite for each season. For instance, redbud trees are one of the first trees to flower in spring. Its purple blooms flowering on the edge of a forest beg you to slow your steps and consider the wonders of nature. Dainty and delightful, saucer magnolias look like they are dressed up to go to a tea party. Crabapples sprinkle their petals in front of your steps as though they are laying a carpet for royalty. But my favorite spring-blooming tree has to be the dogwood. I look for these trees each Easter and marvel how the petals form such a perfect bloom.
Many trees in summer are appreciated for the shade they bring. Sycamores impress with the size of their leaves. Fig trees fill your stomach with sweet fruit. The small tree buttonbush looks like it came from a Dr. Seuss-inspired planet. Some trees work overtime to flower during the hot summer months. Crape myrtles are appreciated for their beautiful bark and colorful blooms. Chaste trees are sought out by pollinators as much as by gardeners. The grand Southern Magnolia is a tree I have long admired for its giant flowers and lemony scent. I do not have one in my garden, though I vow every year to find the perfect spot for one.
Fall brings subdued colors and many have a favorite tree with red, yellow, or purple leaves. I love the golden hues of the bald cypress.
Evergreens bring life to the winter garden. My favorite winter tree is not evergreen, however. It is the deciduous possumhaw holly. It is not shy about dressing up, like a young girl draped in all her mother’s jewelry. The possumhaw’s red berries glow in the low rays of the winter sun like embers, bringing warmth to the gardener’s heart, sustenance to birds, and vibrant beauty to the dreary winter landscape.
No matter which tree is your favorite, take a break from the holiday festivities to walk around your landscape. You just might find the perfect spot to add it or another tree to your garden.
Henderson County Master Gardener Association provides multiple resources at its website: https://txmg.org/hendersonmg/ or direct questions by calling the county extension office at 903-675-6130.
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