Spring is the time gardens come alive. The right flowering trees set the tone for the whole season, attract pollinators and add seasonal structure to the garden.
Here are five that perform reliably in Australian conditions.
1. Magnolia x soulangeana (Saucer Magnolia)
The first major spring flower in most gardens. Large pink and white saucer-shaped blooms appear on bare wood before the leaves push through. 4-6m tall, 3-5m wide. Wants morning sun, afternoon shade, and shelter from hot wind. Five to six weeks of show.
2. Pyrus nivalis (Snow Pear)
Pure white spring blossom, silver foliage through summer, burgundy autumn colour. 6-8m tall, 4-5m wide. Hardy, frost tolerant, drought tolerant once established. Excellent street tree or feature.
3. Lagerstroemia indica 'Natchez' (White Crepe Myrtle)
Months of white panicle flowers from late summer into autumn, cinnamon bark in winter, fiery autumn foliage. 6-8m tall, 4-5m wide. Drought tolerant once established. The most popular crepe myrtle for a reason.
4. Lagerstroemia indica 'Lipan' (Soft Pink Crepe Myrtle)
The pink cousin to Natchez. Soft pink panicles, glossy summer leaves and brilliant autumn colour on a more compact frame. 4-6m tall, 3-4m wide. Suits courtyards and smaller gardens.
5. Cercis canadensis 'Forest Pansy'
Pink pea-flower clusters on bare wood in early spring, then deep purple-burgundy heart-shaped foliage that holds colour all season. 4-6m tall, 3-5m wide. Frost tolerant, full sun to part shade.
FAQs
How do I get reliable blooms each spring?
Plant in a position that suits the species (sun, shelter, soil), mulch annually, water deeply through dry spells and avoid hard winter pruning.
Which suit small gardens?
Lipan Crepe Myrtle and Forest Pansy are the most compact. Magnolia x soulangeana also suits smaller gardens.
How do I protect young trees from frost?
Mulch deeply around the root zone and cover the canopy with frost cloth on still, clear nights.
Pick one or two, plant well, and your garden will be the best on the street.
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