Native species are those that are indigenous to (or have grown naturally in) southern Ontario as a result of natural evolution, rather than those that have been introduced by humans from other regions. Though there are many wonderful non-native species, we love native species because they’re well adapted to our climatic condition, provide wildlife habitat and typically require less care, once established. Plus, planting native is a great way to preserve the diversity of our urban forest!
Here are a few favourites from our Planting Team:
Jess: Ohio Buckeye
Jess is the coordinator wiz we’re lucky to call our Residential Planting Programs Operations Supervisor. A steward of the natural world and an ISA certified arborist, Jess finds joy in helping homeowners find the right tree for their unique space, like this standout:
“There is a special place in my heart for overlooked trees like the Ohio buckeye (Aesculus glabra). It’s big brother, the non-native horsechestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum), gets all the fame and glory, but let’s consider some of the rockstar features of this underappreciated, native giant. In the spring, we’re greeted with stately, eye-catching yellow flowers accompanied by large compound, palmate leaves. In other words, leaves that are divided into leaflets and arranged in a hand-like fashion – a real knockout leaf design in my books. In the fall, the meaning behind its common name “buckeye” becomes apparent when the tree offers up smooth, dark brown nuts that resemble a deer’s eyes. At the end of the day, who doesn’t like a tree that can look back at you?”
Doreen: Basswood
As the Residential Planting Programs Assistant, Doreen brings her passion for teaching people about the benefits of the urban forest to help communities grow - one tree at a time! Doreen’s care for greening urban spaces and wildlife shines in her top pick:
“One of my favourite native trees is the basswood (Tilia americana) because it brings me back to fond memories of walking through forests and smelling their fragrant flowers. Their large, heart-shaped leaves provide wonderful shade in the summer and turn a brilliant yellow in the fall. Plus, did you know that their aromatic flowers produce a sweet nectar that provides food for bees and other pollinators? It’s no surprise that the basswood is also known as the “bee tree.” Now, I’m always on the hunt for basswood honey and can’t wait to try it with herbal tea!”
Jon: Pagoda Dogwood
Meet Jon, our Residential Planting Programs Field Coordinator. Our main boots-on-the-ground for tree planting, consultations and follow-ups, Jon’s favourite part of the season is seeing the excitement on a client’s face that their newly planted trees bring. His top pick is sure to stun:
"Admittedly, the Pagoda dogwood (Cornus alternifolia) was not on my radar for many years, but has since climbed the ranks to become one of my favourite trees! While quite small growing, what this tree lacks in height, it more than makes up for in beauty. In the fall, the leaves turn a brilliant red-purple and in the spring months, it sports a stark contrast of white flower clusters with hanging blue-black drupes (berries). Add in its unique alternating leaf arrangement and near horizontal branching, it's hard not to stop when walking by."
Brenna: Swamp White Oak
Brenna has always felt a deep connection to nature and a drive to sustain and grow the urban forest for future generations. As our Residential Planting Programs Manager and an ISA certified arborist, Brenna plays a key role mentoring staff in their roles as stewards of the urban forest. Her pick stands out in any season:
"I love the swamp white oak (Quercus bicolor) because it is so unique! While it has stunning features and can live up to 300 years old, it is quite uncommon in Ontario. The most noteworthy characteristic is its teardrop shaped, bicoloured leaves – the upper surface is a shiny, dark green colour whereas the underside is a fuzzy, pale greenish-white (which is how it gets its Latin name Quercus bicolor). The bark often peels off in large, papery curls and the acorns, which are the fruit of the tree, are the sweetest of all oaks, providing an important food source for local wildlife!"
Looking to plant these species or more – learn how our dedicated team can help you plant in your yard!
Meandra is the Marketing and Communications Coordinator at LEAF.
LEAF offers a subsidized Backyard Tree Planting Program for private property. The program is supported by the City of Toronto, the Regional Municipality of York, the City of Markham, the Town of Newmarket, the Regional Municipality of Durham, the Town of Ajax, the City of Oshawa, the City of Pickering, the Township of Scugog, the Town of Whitby, Ontario Power Generation and Ontario Trillium Foundation.