Trees Native to Georgia That Are Best for Landscaping

Georgia is an ecologically diverse state, one with high mountains in the north, piedmonts in the center, and swamps and coasts in the south. Georgia’s unique ecosystems have helped create more than 100 distinct environments in the state*. In Georgia, plant communities have adapted to the local environment, so they’ve survived for centuries. 

As experts specializing in a wide variety of tree services, we often encourage our clients to plant native trees. These trees have mutually beneficial but complex relationships with the surrounding plants and animals—these relationships have evolved over hundreds of years, so today they play critical roles in maintaining the ecological balance. Replacing native vegetation with foreign plants not only reduces species diversity but also makes the foreign plants vulnerable to disease and natural disasters.

If you are looking for native plants to add to your yard or garden, we list some popular options below:

Georgia is home to more than 20 species of red and white oak. The southern live oak is the state tree of Georgia, and planting these is recommended if you live along the coast.

The Darlington oak and the swamp laurel oak are also ideal in the south. Some oaks like the southern red oak and the scarlet oak can be grown throughout the state, but they do best in dry soil. If the soil in your area is moist, go for the Nuttall oak, the willow oak, or the water oak, all of which are great for landscaping.

Native oaks are resistant to mild infestations, but they also need attention and timely intervention to stay in good shape. Look out for blister-like patches that begin with a light green tinge, lighter than the surrounding tissue, and then turn brown.

If the edges of the leaves are yellowing and turning brown, this could mean the tree is diseased or being attacked by leaf scorch; this is common in red oaks, pin oaks, and white oaks. If you observe fungus around the base of the tree, it could be a sign of a fungal infection.

Georgia is home to more than ten species of pine, each with its own unique characteristics. The loblolly is a common species, one that can grow to between 90 and 110 feet. The shortleaf pine is another species in Georgia; these grow well in the uplands and on the piedmonts. Virginia pines can reach up to between 40 and 70 feet and they’re perfect in the upper piedmonts. Also, birds and squirrels love pine seeds. Plant these trees and use them as hedges or screens.

Shortleaf pines are vulnerable to bark beetles and pine moths. Peel off some bark if you suspect an infestation. The exposed beetle tunnel will help you identify the beetle type and determine further action. 

Look for canker, a fungal infection that affects vulnerable trees. Also, look for patches of dead stems and branches, leaves turning yellow or wilting, and resin oozing from the bark. If the tree develops orange or yellow pustules, it could be developing a fungal infection that looks like rust. These infections can spread, so it’s important to get rid of the infected area as soon as possible. If you aren’t sure about the problem, call a local arborist who knows how to work with local tree species. Most tree trimming companies offer a free inspection.

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