Bur Oak (Quercus macrocarpa) is a massive tree from the white oak family. Its acorns are the largest known oak fruits in Colorado and the rest of North America.

While there’s still some debate about whether the bur oak is truly native to Colorado, it has undeniably become a favorite along Denver’s streets. Its strong structure and striking appearance make it a top choice for planting in the city.

Appearance

Mature bur oaks have sturdy trunks and wide canopies. When fully grown, their massive crowns look like a giant green umbrella. This oak’s leaves are big and bold. They grow to be about 6-12 inches long and 3-5 inches wide. The leaves are deeply lobed with rounded edges. They are dark green in the summer and golden brown in the fall.

Young bur oaks have a smooth bark. However, when they get older, it becomes rough and deeply rigid.

Mature bur oaks can reach 60-70 feet in height. However, some giants can grow over 100 feet tall. Their canopies often spread just as wide as they are tall, which means a bur oak can easily cover a 70-foot wide area with shade. Because of their size, bur oaks need a lot of space to grow.

Why Bur Oak Grows Well in Denver

Bur oak has found a comfortable home in Denver because, once established, it is extremely tolerant of drought. Denver’s semi-arid climate doesn’t faze it. The tree’s deep root system allows it to tap into water far below the surface, helping it survive dry summers. Bur oak is also resistant to many pests and diseases.

There is still some debate among botanists about whether the bur oak is native to Colorado. Naturally, its range covers the Midwest and parts of the eastern Great Plains. While it may not have originally grown in large numbers in Colorado, it has been widely planted here for over a century.

Bur oaks can survive in different types of soil. They can grow in clay, loam, sandy soils, and even soils with low fertility. However, these trees perform well in deep and moist soils with a slightly alkaline to neutral pH.

Elevation and Temperatures

Bur oak does better at lower to mid-elevations, so it doesn’t fare well in the high Rocky Mountains. Usually, this tree grows well up to about 5,300 feet in elevation. This covers Denver and some nearby areas. When it comes to higher elevations, the shorter growing seasons become too harsh for bur oak to thrive.

This oak tree is cold-hardy. It can survive winter temperatures as low as -20°F. Coupled with impressive heat tolerance, this ability makes the bur tree perfect for Denver’s weather extremes.

Bur oak loves full sun. It needs at least six hours of direct sunlight every day to grow strong and healthy. That’s why these trees do best in wide-open spaces where the sunlight hits them from all sides.

Interesting Facts

Here are some interesting facts about this beautiful giant:

• Fire-resistant bark: Thanks to its thick, corky bark, bur oak can survive grass fires that would kill many other trees.
• Very long-lived: A healthy bur oak can live for 200 to 400 years. Some exceptional trees have lived even longer.
• Wildlife magnet: Its acorns are a major food source for squirrels, deer, wild turkeys, and other animals.
• Pioneer species: Bur oaks are often among the first trees to grow back after prairies or woodlands are disturbed.

If you’d like to learn more about bur oaks or other trees in Denver, please get in touch with our experienced arborists today.

Red Maple (scientific name Acer rubrum) is a large and beautiful maple that offers ample shade. This tree is well-known and valued in Denver for its adaptability. The name comes from the tree’s key ability to grow a red element all year round. It has red buds in the winter, red flowers in the spring, and breathtaking red foliage in the fall.

The tree grows quickly, tolerates an impressive variety of soils, and transplants to other locations easily. Its beauty and ability to survive well in different weather conditions make Red Maple a big favorite in Denver.

Appearance

The Red Maple is a large tree with an oval canopy that provides sizable shade. Mature maples can grow between 40 and 60 feet tall with a spread of 30 to 50 feet.

During spring, before sprouting leaves, the tree grows small red flowers. Each tree can produce all male flowers, all female flowers, or sometimes both. The female flower produces the fruit later in the year.

In the summer, the tree grows deep green leaves with a silver undertone but the stalk and twigs are reddish. The foliage is always lush. The leaves are usually 2 to 4 inches long with 3-5 lobes.

The Red Maple’s bark starts smooth and light gray in younger trees and then matures into a rougher texture with vertical ridges. The tree’s distinctive samaras (winged seeds) are also red.

Why Red Maple Grows Well in Denver

Red Maple thrives in Denver because it adapts well to different soil types, including acidic and slightly alkaline soils. The tree achieves the best soil color in acidic to natural soil pH.

It also adapts well to fluctuating weather conditions. Although Red Maple isn’t native to Colorado, it has established itself successfully in the area. Its introduction to Denver was largely due to its remarkable resilience.

Another reason why Red Maple grows well in Colorado is its ability to tolerate moderate drought conditions (but only when already established). While the tree prefers moist, well-draining soils, it can also adapt to less ideal situations, which include compacted urban soils.

Elevation and Light

Red Maple thrives at elevations below 7,000 feet, making it well-suited for the Denver metro area and surrounding regions. However, as you head west into the Rocky Mountains—where elevations rise and temperatures drop—the tree has a harder time surviving. Cooler temperatures, shorter growing seasons, and drier conditions at higher altitudes limit its ability to take root and flourish.

When it comes to sunlight, Red Maple prefers full sun to partial shade. Ideally, it should receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. While the tree can tolerate some shade, too much shade can hinder canopy growth and affect foliage color. It performs well in urban environments where it can receive adequate sunlight despite the infrastructure.

Interesting Facts

Some of the interesting facts about Red Maple are:

• Red Maple is one of the most widely distributed trees in North America, growing from Canada down to Florida.
• Red Maple’s nickname is “swamp maple” because it naturally thrives in wet environments.
• Thanks to its durability and fine grain, Red Maple wood is commonly used for furniture, flooring, and even musical instruments.
• The tree provides food and habitat for a variety of wildlife, including birds, squirrels, and deer

While the tree offers many benefits, it can also present some challenges. Its aggressive root system has the potential to damage sidewalks and driveways. Additionally, Red Maple can be toxic to horses, so careful placement is essential when planting near equestrian areas.

For more information about Red Maple and other trees, please contact our certified arborists today. 

Ponderosa Pine (scientific name Pinus ponderosa)  is a large pine tree that thrives in the Rocky Mountains. It has dark green needles and orange-brown bark. The tree adapts well to the changing weather conditions, including harsh winds and low temperatures.

These evergreen trees may lose some needles during drought years but usually appear luscious and beautiful all year round. Ponderosa Pine is a native Colorado tree that grows throughout North America.

Appearance

The Ponderosa Pine is a towering tree with a straight trunk and a wide canopy. Mature trees usually grow between 60 and 100 feet tall, but some can be as high as 200 feet. The canopy can be between 25 and 30 feet wide.

The tree has long needles, which are between 5 and 10 inches long. These needles usually grow in bundles of three. They are dark green and slightly twisted.

The bark of younger trees starts out dark brown to black, but as the tree matures, it transitions to a distinctive orange-brown color. This bark helps the Ponderosa Pine resist fire. That’s why it is a highly useful species in wildfire-prone areas.

The tree produces oval-shaped cones that range from 3 to 6 inches in length. These cones have stiff spines which are easy to recognize. When mature, they turn a reddish-brown color and release seeds.

Why Ponderosa Pine Grows Well in Denver

Ponderosa Pine thrives in Denver because it easily adapts to different soil types and tolerates a range of environmental conditions. This Colorado-native species has evolved to withstand the state’s semi-arid climate, harsh winters, and seasonal droughts.

This tree prefers well-draining soils, including sandy or rocky soil. However, it can also grow in loamy conditions. While young trees need occasional deep watering to help them establish strong roots, mature Ponderosa Pines can survive on natural precipitation alone.

Ponderosa Pine is less susceptible to bark beetles and fungal infections than other conifers. However, it can fall victim to Mountain Pine Beetle, Dwarf Mistletoe, and Striped Pine Scale.

Elevation and Light

Ponderosa Pine adapts perfectly to different elevations. It thrives at altitudes between 6,000 and 9,000 feet. In Colorado, it is common across the Front Range and into the lower foothills of the Rocky Mountains. At elevations above 9,000 feet, colder temperatures and shorter growing seasons can make it difficult for the tree to establish itself. However, some Ponderosa Pines manage to grow at 10,000 feet or even higher.

This pine tree is a full-sun species. It requires at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. That’s why the tree performs best in open landscapes. While Ponderosa Pine can tolerate some partial shade in its early years, too much shade can slow its growth and make it susceptible to disease.

Interesting Facts

Some of the most interesting facts about Ponderosa Pine are:

• When the sun warms the mature Ponderosa Pine tree, its bark gives off a distinctive vanilla or butterscotch scent. It comes from the chemicals called terpenes.
• This tree plays a vital role in the local ecosystem because it provides food and shelter for the wildlife.
• Ponderosa Pine wood is great for making kitchen furniture. It’s one of the top choices for interior construction.
• Native Americans used Ponderosa Pine to treat skin problems and to create an early form of chewing gum.
• Ponderosa Pine is one of the most common plants in the Rocky Mountain National Park.
• Ponderosa Pines have an impressive lifespan. In the right conditions, some of them can live for over 600 years.

To learn more about Ponderosa Pines and other Denver trees, please contact our team of professional arborists.

What Does an Autumn Brilliance Serviceberry Look Like?

The Autumn Brilliance Serviceberry is a showstopper year-round, and it unveils a new surprise every season. In the spring, beautiful pink buds bloom to reveal delicate white flowers that cover the bare branches of the tree. Butterflies and other pollinators are especially attracted to these blooms. 

As summer arrives, juicy purple berries form, which is a food source for a number of native birds. They’re also delicious in pies, jams, and raw, straight from the tree. The only challenge is harvesting the berries before the birds snatch them from the tree’s branches.

The foliage is a lovely shade of blue-green, but when autumn arrives, it becomes brilliant orange and red. This contrasts beautifully with the tree’s smooth, gray bark, and it stands out among other trees in the Denver area.

Where Does it Grow?

The Autumn Brilliance Serviceberry grows in nearly every state in the country, and it’s incredibly adaptable to a wide range of climates and soil conditions. It grows best in zones three through nine, which includes most of the landscape in Colorado. They’re hardy, beautiful, and adaptable, which makes them an ideal choice for home landscaping in the Denver area.

How Big Does it Get?

Expect your Autumn Brilliance Serviceberry to reach a mature height of around 20 to 25 feet, with a spread of 15 to 20 feet. If you plant a young tree, it can fairly easily be pruned to grow as an ornamental shrub, as well. They grow at a moderate rate, so your tree will quickly provide shade, attract wildlife, and provide sweet fruit for harvesting, right in your own yard.

What Does it Need to Grow?

These trees are hardy, and they’re very adaptable to a number of climates and conditions. 

What Type of Soil Does it Need?

Autumn Brilliance Serviceberry trees require well-drained soil in order to thrive and grow. It’s best to add compost when planting your tree, so it’s got the nutrients it needs to grow and produce fruit. It’s also important to ensure that your tree gets a moderate amount of water throughout the year.

How Much Light Does it Need?

Plant your tree in a place that receives full sun or partial shade. In order to produce bright, colorful leaves, lovely flowers, and juicy purple fruit, it’s important to ensure that your plant gets at least four hours of direct sunlight each day.

Are Autumn Brilliance Serviceberry Trees Native to Colorado?

Yes, the Serviceberry trees are native to North America, and thanks to their hardiness, they thrive in nearly every state in the US. You can find them throughout Colorado and on the east coast. In fact, George Washington planted these beautiful trees at his estate, Mount Vernon.

Interesting Facts

• Autumn Brilliance Serviceberry trees are also called “Shadbush” and “Juneberry” trees.
• The berries produced by these trees are referred to as “Sugarplums” and “Wild Plums.”
• Native Americans and early settlers enjoyed eating the berries, and they believed they had medicinal properties.
• The Autumn Brilliance is a natural hybrid of several different varieties of Serviceberry trees.

If you’d like to receive more information about the Autumn Brilliance Serviceberry, or if you’d like help incorporating one into your home landscape, contact us at American Arbor Care today.

What Does an Eastern Redbud Look Like?

Each spring, Eastern redbud trees burst with beautiful pinkish-purple flowers, followed by the growth of lovely reddish leaves. As spring turns into summer, the heart-shaped leaves slowly turn green, transforming into a bright yellow by autumn. The Eastern redbud is a small tree that has low branches, and they’re often found growing beneath much larger trees in forests. They’re delicate-looking, with thin branches, especially when the flowers bloom in the spring.

Each summer, seed pods, called legumes, grow on the branches of an Eastern redbud. These edible legumes grow to around two inches in length.

Where Does it Grow?

Native to New Jersey all the way to northern Florida, and as far west as Missouri and northern Mexico, the Eastern redbud grows well in all kinds of soil. They’re especially abundant in the mesic woodlands throughout Kentucky. Eastern redbuds prefer moist, well-drained soil, so they thrive in the front range. They’ve also learned to adapt to Denver’s alkaline and clay soil conditions.  

These delicate-looking trees grow best in zones four through nine, allowing them to withstand the climate in most areas of Colorado. They do prefer protection from extreme weather, but can withstand temperatures as low as -30°F at elevations below 6,000 feet. 

How Big Does it Get?

Eastern redbuds are small, delicate, and beautiful. They grow to about 20 feet tall, with a spread just as wide, and their branches give them a lovely, rounded shape. Their growth rate is slower than most trees, increasing about seven to ten feet every five to six years.

What Does it Need to Grow?

Eastern redbud trees are fairly easy to grow. They adapt well and can handle a variety of conditions.

What Type of Soil Does it Need?

Eastern redbuds prefer soil that is well-drained and moderately moist, with a pH that is acid or basic. If your soil does not have access to plenty of water, your tree may benefit from regular irrigation.

How Much Light Do They Need?

Plant Eastern redbuds in areas that see full sun or partial shade. These small trees thrive in plenty of sunlight, but they also grow well in areas that receive filtered sun as well.

Are They Native to Colorado?

Although they grow well in Colorado, Eastern redbuds are not native to our state. In fact, they’re native to areas east of the Mississippi River, while the Western redbud is native to California.

Interesting Facts

• George Washington transplanted redbuds to his gardens at Mount Vernon in 1641.
• Redbud flowers and the legumes that grow in summer are edible, and many birds, bees, and insects feed on them throughout the year. 
• Native Americans boiled and roasted the legume seeds for food, and they ate the flowers raw.
• Today, in some parts of Appalachia, people use the green twigs from Eastern redbuds to spice gave meat. They call it Spicewood.
• Many years ago, people used extracts from the inside of the bark and roots of Eastern redbuds as medicine.

If you’d like to learn more about Eastern redbud trees, contact us today. Our tree experts at American Arbor Care would be happy to provide information about trees that grow best here in Denver.