Shade does more for an outdoor space than almost any other landscape feature. The right tree can drop the patio temperature by ten degrees, cover an outdoor room, and give a garden the cool calm centre it needs in summer. Here are five trees we recommend for shading outdoor spaces in Australia.
1. Ulmus parvifolia — Chinese Elm
Chinese Elm is the best shade tree for Australian gardens. Vase shape, broad dense canopy, glossy green foliage and a clean yellow autumn show. Tough, fast and adaptable.
Allow 6 to 8m clearance from buildings. Water deeply through the first two summers.
2. Brachychiton populneus — Kurrajong
Kurrajong gives reliable evergreen shade and a touch of native character. Glossy poplar-like foliage on an upright tapered frame, with a deep root system that copes with dry summers.
Allow space for the canopy. Avoid waterlogged soil.
3. Magnolia grandiflora 'Coolwyn Gloss' — Coolwyn Gloss Magnolia
Coolwyn Gloss is the evergreen shade tree that doubles as a flowering feature. Glossy dark green foliage and large fragrant white summer flowers, holding dense foliage right to the ground.
Water deeply through dry summers in the first two years.
4. Acer rubrum 'October Glory' — October Glory Canadian Maple
October Glory is the deciduous shade tree with a strong autumn finish. A tall broad-crowned maple that delivers summer shade and brilliant red autumn colour at scale.
Allow at least 4m from buildings and paths.
5. Olea europaea 'Manzanillo' — Manzanillo Olive
Manzanillo Olive gives dappled Mediterranean shade. Silver-grey foliage on an open spreading frame casts a soft shade that suits outdoor rooms and patios.
Plant in full sun. Avoid waterlogged soil.
Designing for shade
Plant the shade tree on the western or northwestern side of an outdoor room for summer afternoon cooling. Deciduous trees let winter sun through when you want it. Evergreen trees hold shade year round.
FAQs
Which gives the fastest shade?
Chinese Elm grows fast and delivers real canopy within three to five years.
Which is best for evergreen shade?
Kurrajong and Coolwyn Gloss both hold dense year round foliage.
Which suits a smaller patio?
Coolwyn Gloss and Manzanillo Olive both work at a smaller scale.
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