Top 10 Trees Native to Missouri (And Why They're Great for Your Yard)

Missouri’s rich landscape is home to a wide variety of trees that are not only beautiful, but also perfectly suited for local soil, weather, and wildlife. Planting trees native to Missouri is one of the smartest ways to create a low-maintenance, sustainable yard that thrives year after year.

Whether you’re planning a spring planting or thinking ahead to fall, here are 10 trees of Missouri that deserve a spot in your landscape — plus expert tips on choosing the right one for your property.

1. Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis)

With its early spring pink blooms and heart-shaped leaves, the Eastern Redbud is a Missouri favorite. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and offers pollinator-friendly flowers.

Great for: Front yards, small spaces, and ornamental interest
Planting tip: Prefers well-drained soil; avoid soggy areas

2. Flowering Dogwood (Cornus florida)

The state tree of Missouri, this small beauty shines in spring with white or pink blossoms and provides fall color with red leaves and berries.

Great for: Shady or woodland-edge landscapes
Planting tip: Likes partial shade and acidic, well-drained soil

3. White Oak (Quercus alba)

A majestic native tree, the White Oak offers strong branches, brilliant fall color, and excellent support for wildlife — including birds and squirrels.

Great for: Large yards, shade trees, long-term value
Planting tip: Needs space and full sun; avoid compacted soils

4. Sugar Maple (Acer saccharum)

Famous for vibrant fall foliage, Sugar Maples bring beauty and shade. As one of the hardiest trees native to Missouri, they adapt well to most conditions.

Great for: Lawn accents and autumn color
Planting tip: Give it room — it can grow over 60 feet tall

5. Black Gum (Nyssa sylvatica)

This underused native is prized for its glossy green leaves and fiery red fall color. It’s tough, adaptable, and resistant to most pests.

Great for: Naturalized landscapes and seasonal color
Planting tip: Does well in both wet and dry soils

6. American Hornbeam (Carpinus caroliniana)

Also known as “musclewood” for its sinewy bark, this small native tree is ideal for understory planting and tolerates shade well.

Great for: Woodland edges or smaller yards
Planting tip: Keep it mulched to conserve moisture

7. Serviceberry (Amelanchier arborea)

This native multi-season star produces white spring flowers, edible summer berries, and orange-red fall foliage.

Great for: Wildlife gardens and multi-season interest
Planting tip: Prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade

8. Shagbark Hickory (Carya ovata)

Known for its distinctive bark and edible nuts, this tall, long-lived tree provides excellent habitat for wildlife.

Great for: Rural or large properties
Planting tip: Needs full sun and lots of vertical space

9. Post Oak (Quercus stellata)

A tough, drought-resistant oak native to Missouri’s prairies and uplands. It’s extremely durable and low-maintenance.

Great for: Dry or sandy soils, low-water landscapes
Planting tip: Avoid overwatering — this tree thrives in dry conditions

10. Bald Cypress (Taxodium distichum)

Despite looking like a southern swamp tree, Bald Cypress does exceptionally well in Missouri, even in urban areas. It has soft needles, a tall form, and dramatic winter silhouettes.

Great for: Rain gardens or wetter soils
Planting tip: Can handle standing water — ideal for low spots

Why Choose Native Trees for Your Yard?

• Better Adaptation: Native trees are already equipped to handle Missouri’s weather swings, from summer heat to icy winters.
• Low Maintenance: Less watering, fewer pests, and stronger natural resistance to disease.
• Supports Local Wildlife: Birds, bees, and butterflies all benefit from native trees and their food sources.
• Environmental Benefits: Deep roots improve soil health and reduce stormwater runoff.

Get Expert Help Choosing the Right Tree

Not sure which tree of Missouri fits your yard best? That’s where we come in.

At Grade A Tree Care, our certified arborists are here to help you select and plant the perfect native tree for your space. Better yet — Annual Tree Care Program members get priority planting consultations, year-round support, and expert advice on growing a healthy, beautiful landscape.

Join the Annual Tree Care Program — Only $75/year for peace of mind, priority service, and expert tree guidance.

Want help planting a tree this season?
Contact us today for a consultation and let’s bring some Missouri-native beauty to your yard.