Top 5 Native Trees for Houston Yards

Thinking about planting a tree in your yard? Great choice! Trees not only add beauty and shade, but they also boost property value and support the local environment. But here in Houston, with our humid climate and heavy clay soil, not every tree is built to thrive.

At Sap Arborcare, we always recommend choosing native trees—they’re naturally adapted to our conditions, require less water, and are more resistant to local pests and diseases.

Here are 5 native trees that grow strong and beautiful in the Houston area:

1. Live Oak (Quercus virginiana)

A Texas favorite! Live oaks are majestic, long-living trees with wide canopies that provide excellent shade year-round. Their strong limbs make them storm-resistant, and they’re great for both residential and commercial landscapes.

Majestic live oak thriving in Houston soil. A perfect native tree for shade and long-lasting beauty.

Why we love it:

• Drought-tolerant once established

• Low maintenance

• Supports native wildlife

2. Bald Cypress (Taxodium distichum)

This tree stands out with its unique feathery leaves and towering presence. It’s perfect for low-lying or flood-prone areas because it handles wet soil like a champ.

Elegant bald cypress in a sunny Houston landscape. Ideal for wet soils and adding unique texture to your yard.

Why we love it:

• Thrives in Houston’s humidity

• Adds texture and interest to any yard

• Fall foliage turns a beautiful rust-orange

3. Southern Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora)

This classic Southern tree features large, glossy green leaves and show-stopping white blooms. It’s both elegant and evergreen—keeping your landscape vibrant all year.

Southern magnolia in full bloom. A stunning native tree known for its fragrant white flowers and year-round beauty.

Why we love it:

• Fragrant flowers in spring and summer

• Attracts pollinators

• Great for focal points or shade

4. Cedar Elm (Ulmus crassifolia)

A hardy, adaptable tree that grows well in urban spaces, Cedar Elms are a solid choice for Houston homeowners. They resist drought and heat and handle our clay soil with ease.

Cedar elm standing strong in the Houston sun. A hardy native tree that’s perfect for urban yards and tough soil.

Why we love it:

• Fast-growing

• Yellow fall color

• Tolerates compacted or tough soil

5. Texas Redbud (Cercis canadensis var. texensis)

Looking for something smaller but still eye-catching? The Texas Redbud blooms early in spring with gorgeous pink-purple flowers, perfect for adding color to your landscape.

Texas Redbud in full spring bloom. A vibrant native tree that adds bold color and charm to any Houston yard.

Why we love it:

• Compact size fits smaller yards

• Beautiful spring blooms

• Supports pollinators like bees

Need Help Choosing or Planting?

Whether you’re refreshing your yard or starting from scratch, the right tree makes all the difference. Our team at Sap Arborcare can help you select, plant, and maintain native trees that will thrive in your space for decades to come.

Let’s grow something great together. Call us at 281-865-5438 or book a free quote at saparborcare.com