Of all the types of trees in Michigan, the ones that dominate our landscape the most are Deciduous trees. These are trees that lose their leaves after the growing season is complete. They provide us with beauty from early spring to late fall.
But what you may not know is that within the family of Deciduous trees you’ll come across in Michigan, there are many different types. Knowing which ones thrive in our state may help you to decide what to plant in your yard. It can be a tough choice because of what each brings to the table.
With so many different choices in front of you, let’s take a look at five of the most common Deciduous trees you’ll find in Michigan.
5 Types of Deciduous Trees In Michigan
- Ash
- Maple
- Oak
- Willow
- Eastern Cottonwood
Ash Trees
This is a very large tree. Ash trees grow to 80 feet tall and spread their canopy out another 70 feet. And before they lose their rounded-shaped leaves in the fall, they’ll turn rich shades of red, purple, yellow, and green.
Maple Trees
A large deciduous tree, Maples can be spotted all throughout the Wolverine State. Sugar maples are well-known for producing maple syrup, but a lesser-known fact is what this tree’s wood is used to make. Its wood is widely used in the making of bowling pins, pool cues, and butcher blocks.
Oak Trees
The white oak (Quercus alba) is a common oak tree in Michigan. You’ll find it in both Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas (though less commonly in the Upper Peninsula). If you don’t recognize them by their long acorns, perhaps their distinctive-looking leaves will catch your eye. Their fall foliage can be a reddish-brown color that is especially noticeable on young trees.
Willow Trees
When Willow Trees shed their leaves, you’ll know it. Not only are they a bright yellow, but they’re long and skinny, too. Their long, branches “weep” into an arch that creates a round canopy.
Eastern Cottonwood Trees
Eastern Cottonwoods are another big tree whose leaves will turn yellowish-brown before they fall off. Their leaves are triangular and can grow to be about 3 to 5 inches long. This makes their colors really stand out in the fall.
Look For Deciduous Trees For Your Yard
When it comes to climate and growing conditions, native Michigan trees and shrubs will always have an edge. So, any one of the five deciduous trees we mentioned should thrive in your yard and look great doing it.
But if you need some help getting your deciduous shrubs and trees ready for the long, cold winter ahead, don’t hesitate to contact Safari Tree.
