Trees

Planting a tree is the biggest single decision most gardeners make, and the one that pays back longest: shade in summer, privacy from neighbours, habitat for birds and real added property value. This collection covers the full spread, from small flowering trees for courtyards to large shade and screening varieties for bigger blocks.

Get the decision right by working backwards from mature size and purpose. For shade over a patio, look for a spreading canopy of 6 to 10 metres and consider deciduous varieties that let winter sun through. For privacy, dense evergreen growers between 4 and 8 metres usually beat larger forest trees that lose their lower branches with age. Small blocks and courtyards are best served by trees finishing under 5 metres, planted no closer than 3 metres to the house. Climate does the rest of the sorting: subtropical Queensland and northern New South Wales favour different species than Melbourne, Adelaide or the hills, so check each listing's climate notes against your region before ordering.

• Deciduous trees give summer shade plus winter sun, ideal on the north side of a home
• Evergreens hold their screen all year, ideal along boundaries and second storey sightlines
• Plant from a 45L bag or larger for instant effect, or from 200mm to 300mm pots for the best value
• Stake new trees loosely for the first year only, so trunks flex and strengthen
• Water deeply once or twice a week through the first two summers, not a daily sprinkle

If you love the idea of a flowering feature, the jacaranda care guide covers one of Australia's most iconic choices, and the ornamental pear care guide covers the most versatile all rounder. Trees destined to line an entrance have their own dedicated page at driveway trees, and if the range feels overwhelming the plant finder will shortlist trees for your climate, soil and purpose in under a minute.