Best Exotic Trees to Grow in New Jersey



This blog lists a variety of exotic tree specimens including palm, flowering, and fruit. When we think of exotic trees our thoughts turn to warm climates or tropical islands. Think of the lush green and brilliant flowers seen in Hawaii or some of our southern States.

The truth is that exotic and specimen trees can also thrive in the New Jersey climate. There are many striking plantings you can add to your garden or commercial property today that will flourish and transform your space into an experience.

Here’s a sampling of the best exotic and specimen trees for your New Jersey landscape.


Magnolia

The magnolia tree, recognized as the state tree of Mississippi, is a beautiful flowering tree that can thrive in New Jersey. Among its many varieties, consider Magnolia grandiflora, or southern magnolia, for your garden. With its glossy green leaves and fragrant creamy white flowers, this tree would be a lovely addition to your landscape.


White Fringe Tree

This unique tree, native to the United States, thrives in full sun or partial shade and can reach 20 feet tall. It can be trained to grow with a single trunk or multiple stems. In late spring, the White Fringe tree produces fragrant white blossoms alongside its leaves, which later develop into dark navy blue fruits by late summer. In the fall, it showcases a beautiful display of golden leaves.


Dove Tree or Handkerchief Tree Davidia

The dove tree is often regarded as the holy grail of exotic specimens due to its delicate white flowers, which vary in size by variety. Similar to magnolias, it enhances any landscape, especially as its bark matures to an attractive orange-brown. The Sonoma variety is particularly noteworthy for its early spring blooms, larger flowers, and increased hardiness.


Threadleaf Japanese Maple

This low-lying deciduous tree enhances any landscape with its stunning deep shades of purple, red, green, and orange. In mid-spring, its fern-like leaves produce small red flowers, and long ornamental branches add depth. The Threadleaf Japanese maple thrives in moderate sunlight and can reach 8 feet in height.


Dwarf-Winged Burning Bush

The dwarf-winged burning bush is an eye-catching shrub that grows up to 4 feet tall. Named for its vibrant pink leaves in the fall, it offers great ornamental value despite being green most of the year. Though it's not native to New Jersey or North America, it thrives in various soils and requires minimal maintenance.


Russian 26 Cold Hardy Pomegranate

The Russian 26 Pomegranate, from early 20th century Russia, is known for its cold hardiness and thrives in most of New Jersey. It produces vibrant orange flowers and fruits, enhancing any property. Pruning is required to shape it as a tree instead of a shrub.


Kousa Dogwood

The Kousa dogwood (Cornus kousa) is an Asian tree that can grow up to 30 feet tall. It has long leaves and produces edible, berry-like fruits that turn pink or reddish when ripe. Known for its delicate beauty and white flowers, the Kousa dogwood thrives in well-drained soil and can live 50 to 150 years. Pruning is necessary to manage its growth, as it can develop into a dense shrub.


Palm Tree Varieties

What could be more exotic in northern New Jersey than a palm tree in your landscape? The Windmill Palm and Sabal Minor (Dwarf Palmetto) are two cold-hardy varieties that thrive in summer sun. Both feature fan-like fronds, with the Sabal Minor also producing yellow flowers. These palms can grow in various soil types and can either blend with other plants or stand out on their own. Just remember to protect them from frost during their first few years with insulating ground cover to create your own tropical paradise in New Jersey!


Also read :- https://sponzilli.com/exotic-and-specimen-trees-to-grow-in-nj/