Maryland is a heavily forested state with an impressive number of native tree species. These Maryland native trees support local wildlife such as opossums, shrews, and squirrels. Maryland’s forested areas also provide picturesque areas such as Assateague State Park where visitors can camp and hike.
If you need tree services in Bryans Road, MD and the surrounding areas, or would love to know more about Maryland native trees to plant on your property, keep reading to learn more.
White Oak (Quercus alba)
White oak is the most common oak tree in Maryland and was named the state tree in 1941. Scientifically known as Quercus alba, this deciduous tree can reach an impressive height of 80 to 90 feet and live for up to 600 years. The lobed leaves are yellow-green when young and turn darker with age.
White oak trees yield strong and heavy wood, making them ideal for furniture, flooring, and caskets. They are also highly sought-after for firewood and making whiskey barrels.
White Fringe Tree (Chionanthus virginicus)
Another Maryland native tree is the white fringe tree or Chionanthus virginicus. This deciduous tree grows in lowland areas, reaching heights of 33 to 36 feet and growing at a rate of 12 inches per year.
The white fringe tree has scaly brown-red bark with light green to light brown or orange shoots. The leaves measure 3 to 8 inches. One of the best features of this tree is its rich-scented, pure white flowers that emit a lilac-like scent in the morning and evening.
These trees are ornamental and are used in many garden landscapes. The white fringe tree has a beautiful yellow fall color that contrasts well with evergreens and viburnums. Native Americans used its dried roots and bark to treat skin inflammations.
American Holly (Ilex opaca)
Also known as Ilex opaca, the American holly is one of the most well-known Maryland native trees, distinguishable by characteristic red berries present throughout winter. These evergreens grow up to 66 feet tall, providing food to birds and small mammals during the cold season.
This ornamental tree has alternate leaves measuring 2 to 3 inches long that are wide, stiff, green, and dull in color. The flowers are white-green, flourishing in late spring.
American Holly yields pale wood perfect for cabinetwork and blocks. When dyed, it serves as an ideal substitute for hardwood ebony. Its leaves also make a caffeine-free tea beverage.
Sweetbay Magnolia (Magnolia virginiana)
Sweetbay magnolia is another native species that provides food and shelter for songbirds, squirrels, and myriad small mammals. It’s also valued as an ornamental tree for its fast growth, attractive foliage, and beautifully scented flowers.
This tree is both deciduous and evergreen and grows up to 100 feet tall. It is evergreen in milder areas and semi-evergreen or deciduous in colder northern climates.
The leaves measure 1 to 2 inches wide and 2 to 5 inches long. The sweetbay magnolia has a smooth, gray bark that’s mildly scented. When it flowers, it produces creamy white vanilla-scented flowers.
Contact Professional Maryland Tree Services Today
Maryland has an impressively diverse ecosystem, which enables many native tree species to grow and thrive.
If you’re wondering which tree species are suitable for your property in Maryland, the professional arborists at Hernandez Complete Tree Service can offer you the advice you need. We are experts at tree planting, maintenance, and removal, caring for Maryland native trees with the utmost professionalism.
Contact the best tree service professionals in Waldorf, MD and the surrounding areas for your free quote. Call 240-213-9161 today to ask more about our licensed tree services.
