Our Favorite Tree Recommendations for Tricky Areas
Including trees that do well near roads, in heavily shaded areas, and in wet soil.
Are you considering planting a tree or shrub in an area with specific limitations? We scoured our field notes to develop recommendations for a variety of areas including close to a road, in heavily shaded areas, and under utility lines. We also have suggestions for trees that serve specific functions like providing shade and creating privacy rows.
NOTE: The trees and shrubs recommended below are specifically for zones 7b and 8a in North Carolina.
Shade Tolerant and Evergreen Trees and Shrubs
- Camellia
- Carolina Cherry Laurel
- Southern Yew
- Southern Magnolia
- Sweetbay Magnolia
Heat Tolerant Trees
- Gingko
- American Linden
- Tulip Tree or Yellow Poplar
- Eastern Redbud
- Weeping Blue Atlas Cedar
- Sugar Maple
- Live Oak
Trees that Do Well in Wet Areas
- Sycamore
- River Birch
- Pin Oak
- Bald Cypress
- Pond Cypress
- Winged Elm
- Southern Magnolia
- Sweetbay Magnolia
Trees that Do Well Under Utility Lines
- Chinese Pistache
- Serviceberry
- Eastern Redbud
- Fringe Tree
- Crape Myrtle
Trees that Do Well Near Roads or Pavement
- Bald Cypress
- River Birch
- Musclewood
- Sugar Maple
- American Holly
- Red Oak
- American Linden
Trees that Do Well in Devil Strips
(the thin strip of grass between the road and the sidewalk)
- Crape Myrtle
- Japenese Flowering Apricot
- Eastern Redbud
- American Holly
- Saucer Magnolia
- Fringe Tree
Limitations are not the only thing to consider when you are choosing the right tree to plant. Trees have wide variety of features and benefits. They can act as privacy rows, provide shade, and create wildlife habitats. Here are some trees and shrubs that work great when you need them to perform a specific function.
Trees that Provide Shade for Large Areas
- Winged Elm
- Black Gum
- White Oak
- Willow Oak
- American Linden
- Heart Leaf Linden
- Gingko
Trees and Shrubs that Create Privacy Rows
- Arborvitae
- American Holly
- Osmanthus (Tea Olive)
- Carolina Cherry Laurel
- Little Gem Magnolia
Trees and Shrubs that Provide Habitat for Wildlife
- American Linden
- Eastern Red Cedar
- Carolina Silverbell
- American Holly
Carefully assessing the conditions of an area before you plant will give your trees a better chance at a long, healthy life. Also, considering your needs before you pick up a shovel will help you determine the most functional trees and shrubs. These suggestions can get you started, but we’re always happy to make recommendations.
If you have any questions about choosing the right tree or if you are looking for a specific recommendation, send us a message.