17 of the best future-proof trees to plant in your garden | House & Garden

30.09.2024 - 17:01 / houseandgarden.co.uk / Hazel Sillver

Fabric designer Richard Smith and his husband Andrew Blackman's garden in East Sussex, where the mature trees were a particular draw

It's not a cheery topic, but climate change is a reality, and it affects which trees we should and shouldn't be planting in our gardens because – unlike the majority of plants – trees can live for many decades; in some instances, centuries. A new report by the Royal Botanic Gardens Kew reveals that 50% of the 11,000 trees in its collection could be vulnerable by 2090. Much-loved species of oak, beech, and holly are at risk in predicted weather extremes, such as drought, and Kew recommends a focus on planting more resilient trees. Here we suggest 17 of the best for small or medium-sized gardens.

The Judas tree in bloom

In spring, the love tree (Cercis siliquastrum) – or Judas tree – is a mass of purple-pink flowers that feed bees. The heart-shaped leaves turn yellow in autumn, when the tree is hung with purple pods. Plant this slow-growing drought-tolerant Mediterranean gem in well-drained soil in sun or part shade. 'Bodnant' is a choice variety.

The pink silk tree

The pink silk tree (Albizia julibrissin f. rosea) from the Transcaucasus and the Himalayas grows into a remarkable umbrella shape. The ferny leaves and powder-puff flowers that open in late summer inject an exotic feel. It is drought tolerant and thrives in well-drained soil in sheltered sun in a city or the milder half of the UK.

Mimosa tree

Filling the air with one of the most delicious scents in the plant world, the mimosa (Acacia dealbata) is a joy in urban gardens and mild regions. This drought-tolerant Australian tree has ferny evergreen leaves and morphs into a cloud of yellow pom-pom flowers in February and March. Needs very