PLANT USE KEY
- C = Christmas Tree
- E = Erosion Control
- F = Human Food
- H = Habitat/Food for Wildlife
- N = Native
- T = Timber/Wood
Evergreens
Conservation Practices: C, H, N, T
Soil: Well drained
Growth Rate: Slow
Sun: Full
Description: Balsam Fir is one of the more important conifers in the northern United States and Canada. Within its range it may also be referred to as balsam, Canadian balsam, eastern fir, and bracted balsam fir. It is a small to medium-sized tree used primarily for pulp and light frame construction, and it is one of the most popular Christmas trees. Wildlife relies extensively on this tree for food and shelter.
Uses: Aside from a nice Christmas tree, it may be used as an ornamental tree and is good for screens and hedges.
Conservation Practices: C, H, N, T
Soil: Well drained
Growth Rate: Moderate
Sun: Full
Description: Is typically the most sought-after evergreen. Forms a medium to large (30-60’) pyramid shaped tree. Evergreen needles are long, stiff and very sharp. Good natural screen and produces light brown 2 -4” cones. Often grown in parks and gardens.
Uses: Aside from a nice Christmas tree, this tree can be used as a screen.
American Arborvitae
Conservation practices: H, N
Soil: Wet – Moist
Growth Rate: Slow
Sun: Full
Description: A small/medium sized tree grows in an arrow-like/pyramid-like shape with a broad base and a small, rounded top.
Uses: Typically used as a windbreak or hedges.
Conservation practices: C, H, N, T
Soil: Well drained
Growth rate: Fast
Sun: Full
Description: Forms a large tree (50- 80’) with a very straight trunk. Soft 2-4” long needles, ranging in color from blue green. Produces thick scaled cones. The tree forms a good natural screen but is sensitive to salt.
Uses: Aside from making a good Christmas Tree, it may be used as an ornamental and is good for screens and hedges.
Conservation Practices: C, H, N, T
Soil: Well drained
Growth Rate: Slow
Sun: Full
Description: A narrow, pyramidal tree with glossy, dark green needles. The undersides of the needles have two white rows. Not suited for hot, dry sites as it prefers moist, well-drained sites.
Uses: Aside from a nice Christmas tree, it may be used as an ornamental tree and is good for screens and hedges.
Conservation practices: C, H, T
Soil: Well drained moist, acidic
Growth Rate: Moderate
Sun: Full
Description: A medium to large tree with conical form, with horizontal to upward sweeping branches that have drooping branches. Evergreen, shiny deep green needles with a sharp pointed tip. Produces large cones.
Uses: May be used as an ornamental, makes a good screen and can be used for timber. This tree is very adaptable and is typically deer resistant.
Conservation practices: C, H, N
Soil: Wide tolerance
Growth Rate: Moderate
Sun: Full to Partial
Description: Forms a medium sized conical shaped tree. Has small, stiff green to gray-green needles that when crushed a pungent odor is apparent. Needle tips are pointed, but not sharp.
Uses: May be used as a Christmas tree, windbreak or hedges. This tree is typically deer resistant.