Considered among the best shade trees for the backyard, the sugar maple can also serve as an ornamental tree. It’s no wonder this is an American favorite for the yard. 4.

Hardiness: USDA 2-8 (UK H7) Height: 30+ft (10+m) Spread: 10+ft (3+m) Best for: casting dappled shade Birches are invaluable backyard trees. They make elegant specimens, even in winter when their ...

Regarded as one of the best small flowering trees, it’s a joy to have in your garden. It’ll work in USDA hardiness zones 5-9 and prefers a spot that’s partially shady.

Native to the eastern deciduous forest, red maple trees can add instant color, beauty, warmth, and shade to any backyard, 3. Cider Gum . ... We've also found the 7 best small trees for a compact yard; ...

Making its debut in 2026 is the new Surefire Cascade Red begonia, a prolific bloomer in the sun or shade. This begonia ...

Plant one shade-giving trees. Learn how to choose the best variety for your hardiness zone and yard size. Skip to main content. 24/7 Help. For premium support please call: ...

Eastern redbud: These small, graceful trees are beautiful in bloom and can take full sun to part shade. Sweetbay magnolia: Davis recommends this fragrant native tree for a compact space. It ...

The 7 Best Pergolas for Adding Shade and Ambience to Your Backyard or Patio For privacy, shade, and a place to host friends and family on warm days. By Danny Perez , Rachel Klein and Amber Joglar ...

The trees hold their leaves longer than native species and shade out other plants, preventing other trees from growing. “They take over everything,” Meyer said.

And it’s a bit smaller than some of our other selections, and ranks among the best trees for small backyards. It prefers moist, fertile soils and full sun or part shade. 14.