LANDSCAPING

Research Work: Midterm

AR. JOSEPH EDWARD DELA CRUZ

(Instructor)

JOHN LOUISE D. LUMBA AR-3A

(Student/Yr)
I. CLASSIFICATION OF TREES IN LANDSCAPING (Paraphrased)
Understanding the diverse behaviors of trees in different environments begins with
classifying them in landscaping. Trees can be grouped based on their growth patterns, the
elevation at which they thrive, the texture of their stems and leaves, and their climate
needs. Such classifications are invaluable for gardeners and landscape architects when
selecting the perfect trees for specific designs and locations.

A. According to Climatic Requirements

Trees are often sorted by their ability to thrive under particular climatic conditions. Key
factors influencing this include temperature, humidity, rainfall, and seasonal variations.
Based on their adaptability to different temperature zones, trees are divided into several
categories:
1. Tropical Trees
These trees are best suited for consistently warm and humid conditions, typically
found between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn. They are adapted
to high rainfall and avoid freezing temperatures, thriving in environments with
minimal seasonal change.
o Examples: Coconut palm (Cocos nucifera), Mango tree (Mangifera indica),
Banana tree (Musa spp.).
o Usage: Commonly planted in coastal regions, chosen for their ability to
endure hot, humid climates.
2. Subtropical Trees
Flourishing in areas with warm summers and mild winters, subtropical trees
experience some seasonal temperature shifts but do not face severe freezing. They
tend to be more drought-tolerant and need less water than tropical trees.
o Examples: Crape myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica), Olive tree (Olea europaea),
Mediterranean cypress (Cupressus sempervirens).
o Usage: Ideal for areas with mild winters and hot, dry summers.
3. Temperate Trees
Adapted to regions that experience four distinct seasons, these trees must withstand
cold winters and hot, dry summers.
o Examples: Maple trees (Acer spp.), Oak trees (Quercus spp.), Birch trees
(Betula spp.).
o Usage: Typically found in cooler climates with regular seasonal changes.
 4. Arid Climate Trees
These trees are designed to survive in environments with low rainfall and high
temperatures. They often develop features such as deep roots, thick bark, or tissues
that store water.
o Examples: Date palms (Phoenix dactylifera), Joshua trees (Yucca brevifolia),
Mesquite trees (Prosopis spp.).
o Usage: Frequently used in desert landscaping and regions facing significant
water scarcity.

B. By Elevation and Zones

Elevation greatly influences tree growth by affecting temperature, precipitation, and sunlight
exposure. Based on the elevation at which they thrive, trees can be classified as follows:
1. Lowland Trees
Growing at or near sea level, these trees benefit from warm climates and extended
growing seasons in nutrient-rich, moist soils.
o Examples: American sycamore (Platanus occidentalis), Red maple (Acer
rubrum), Bald cypress (Taxodium distichum).
o Usage: Often used in wetland or riverbank landscapes.
2. Upland Trees
Found in elevated regions such as hills and plateaus, these trees cope with cooler
temperatures and drier conditions.
o Examples: Ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa), Black oak (Quercus velutina),
Hickory trees (Carya spp.).
o Usage: Common in hilly or mountainous areas where temperature and soil
conditions vary.
3. Montane Trees
Inhabiting high-altitude mountainous areas, montane trees endure colder climates,
strong winds, and shorter growing seasons.
o Examples: Engelmann spruce (Picea engelmannii), Douglas fir
(Pseudotsuga menziesii), Subalpine fir (Abies lasiocarpa).
o Usage: Essential for high-altitude landscaping where rugged and cold
conditions prevail.
C. By Stem and Leaf Texture
The appearance and texture of a tree’s bark and leaves significantly contribute to its
aesthetic and ecological value. Trees in landscaping are also classified by these physical
traits:
1. Smooth-Barked Trees
These trees boast a sleek, often exfoliating bark that gives a refined look as they
periodically shed their outer layers.
o Examples: Paperbark maple (Acer griseum), Silver birch (Betula pendula),
Red maple (Acer rubrum).
o Usage: Valued as focal points in ornamental gardens.
2. Rough-Barked Trees
With bark that is scaly, furrowed, or textured, these trees add contrast and a natural,
rustic element to the landscape.
o Examples: Black cherry (Prunus serotina), Shagbark hickory (Carya ovata),
various pine species (Pinus spp.).
o Usage: Ideal for creating a more rugged or natural appearance.
3. Glossy-Leaved Trees
Featuring shiny, reflective leaves, these trees enhance visual appeal and tend to
maintain their luster even in less favorable weather.
o Examples: Southern magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora), Camellia (Camellia
spp.), Laurel (Laurus nobilis).
o Usage: Often incorporated in urban landscapes for year-round attractiveness.
4. Matte-Leaved Trees
These trees exhibit non-reflective, soft foliage that offers a subtle and understated
look.
o Examples: Boxwood (Buxus spp.), American hornbeam (Carpinus
caroliniana), Oak trees (Quercus spp.).
o Usage: Frequently used in formal gardens, hedges, and topiary
arrangements.
D. By Growth Habit
The growth habit, or natural form, of a tree influences its size, shape, and functional use in
a landscape. Trees are categorized based on how they develop and fill space:
1. Deciduous Trees
These trees shed their leaves in the fall and regenerate them in the spring, offering
seasonal interest and vibrant autumn colors.
o Examples: Maple (Acer spp.), Oak (Quercus spp.), Birch (Betula spp.).
o Usage: Planted for seasonal beauty and providing shade in the summer.
2. Evergreen Trees
Retaining their foliage throughout the year, evergreen trees ensure a constant
presence of green even during winter months.
o Examples: Pine (Pinus spp.), Spruce (Picea spp.), Holly (Ilex spp.).
o Usage: Popular for creating privacy screens, windbreaks, and consistent
visual interest.
3. Flowering Trees
Cultivated for their showy blossoms, these trees deliver dramatic bursts of color
during their blooming period.
o Examples: Cherry blossom (Prunus spp.), Dogwood (Cornus florida), Lilac
(Syringa vulgaris).
o Usage: Common in ornamental settings and public spaces to attract
pollinators.
4. Fruit-Bearing Trees
In addition to their decorative appeal, these trees provide edible fruits, making them
a dual-purpose choice for landscapes.
o Examples: Apple (Malus domestica), Pear (Pyrus spp.), Peach (Prunus
persica).
o Usage: Often featured in residential gardens and community orchards.
5. Shade Trees
Selected for their extensive canopies, shade trees provide significant cooling and
are crucial in reducing energy costs by shading outdoor areas.
o Examples: Red oak (Quercus rubra), American elm (Ulmus americana),
Silver maple (Acer saccharinum).
 o Usage: Integral to creating comfortable outdoor spaces and mitigating heat.

II. TREES COMMONLY USED IN RESIDENTIAL LANDSCAPING

In residential settings, trees not only enhance the beauty of outdoor spaces but also offer
privacy, shade, and environmental benefits. Choosing the right trees involves considering
factors such as size, shape, growth pattern, and specific environmental needs. Below are
some popular choices:
1. Flowering Dogwood (Cornus florida)
Admired for its stunning spring blossoms and distinctive bark, this tree adds year-
round interest.
2. Crape Myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica)
Known for its long-lasting, vibrant summer flowers and smooth bark, the crape
myrtle offers seasonal color and texture.
3. Maple (Acer spp.)
Celebrated for its brilliant fall colors and generous summer shade, maples (including
varieties like the Japanese maple) are staples in many gardens.
4. Live Oak (Quercus virginiana)
With its expansive, spreading canopy and robust drought tolerance, the live oak is
often a dramatic focal point in large landscapes.
5. Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum)
A favorite in smaller gardens, the Japanese maple is valued for its delicately cut
leaves and striking autumn hues.
6. Weeping Willow (Salix babylonica)
Renowned for its graceful, cascading branches, the weeping willow is typically
planted near water features to provide both privacy and a tranquil atmosphere.

This paraphrased version retains the detailed structure and key information of the original
classification, reworded for clarity and variety while preserving its comprehensive scope.
References:

Dirr, M. A. (2019). Manual of woody landscape plants: Their identification, ornamental

characteristics, culture, propagation, maintenance, and use (6th ed.). Stipes Publishing.

Kramer, P. J., & Kozlowski, T. T. (2018). Physiology of woody plants (3rd ed.). Academic
Press.

Mitchell, R. J., & Mitchell, M. J. (2020). Landscape trees and their management.
CRC Press.

Schroeder, P. (2021). Tree care for landscaping professionals. Pearson Education.