14 Native Trees to Plant in Ohio This Fall

Fall is an excellent time to plant native trees throughout Ohio. Cooler temperatures reduce stress on newly planted trees, while warm soil encourages root development before winter arrives. Autumn rain can also help keep the soil moist, giving trees a strong start before spring growth begins.

Native trees are well adapted to Ohio’s climate and growing conditions. Once established, they generally require less maintenance than nonnative species. They also provide valuable food, shelter and nesting sites for birds, pollinators and other wildlife.

Here are 14 beautiful native trees to consider planting in Ohio this fall.

1. Sugar Maple

Sugar maple is one of Ohio’s most recognizable native trees. Its leaves produce brilliant shades of yellow, orange and red during fall.

This slow- to medium-growing tree develops a broad, rounded crown and can eventually reach 60 to 75 feet tall. Sugar maples grow best in moist, well-drained soil and full sun or partial shade. Avoid planting them in areas with compacted soil, heavy road salt or standing water.

2. Red Maple

Red maple is valued for its rapid growth and colorful autumn foliage. Depending on the individual tree and growing conditions, its leaves may turn yellow, orange or bright red.

Mature red maples usually reach 40 to 60 feet tall. They are adaptable to several soil types, including soils that remain seasonally moist. Plant a red maple in full sun or partial shade where its roots will have plenty of room to spread.

3. Black Maple

Black maple is closely related to the sugar maple and is native to parts of Ohio. It has a dense crown, dark green summer leaves and attractive yellow or orange fall color.

This tree can grow approximately 60 to 75 feet tall. It performs best in fertile, moist and well-drained soil. Black maple makes an impressive shade tree for a large yard, farm or naturalized landscape.

4. Ohio Buckeye

As Ohio’s state tree, the Ohio buckeye is a natural choice for an Ohio landscape. It produces distinctive leaves, clusters of spring flowers and smooth brown seeds inside leathery husks.

Ohio buckeyes commonly grow 20 to 40 feet tall and prefer moist, well-drained soil. They can grow in full sun or partial shade. The leaves and seeds contain compounds that can be toxic when eaten, so consider their placement around pets, livestock and young children.

5. American Sycamore

American sycamore is a massive native shade tree known for its peeling bark. As the outer bark flakes away, it reveals patches of white, tan and green underneath.

A mature sycamore may grow 75 to 100 feet tall, so it needs a large planting area. It naturally grows along rivers and streams and tolerates moist soil particularly well. Plant it far from buildings, sidewalks, septic systems and overhead utility lines.

6. Tulip Tree

Also called tulip poplar or yellow poplar, the tulip tree is one of the tallest native trees in eastern North America. Its unusual leaves have squared-off tips, while its spring flowers resemble yellow and orange tulips.

Tulip trees grow quickly and may eventually exceed 80 feet in height. They prefer deep, fertile and well-drained soil with dependable moisture. Plant one in an open location where it can develop its tall trunk and broad crown.

7. White Oak

White oak is a magnificent long-lived tree that supports an enormous variety of wildlife. Its acorns provide food for deer, squirrels, turkeys, blue jays and many other animals.

This oak develops a wide, rounded crown and may grow 60 to 80 feet tall. It performs best in full sun and deep, well-drained soil. Because white oak can live for centuries, carefully select a location with enough space for its mature size.

8. Northern Red Oak

Northern red oak is a relatively fast-growing oak with a strong trunk and broad canopy. Its pointed leaves usually turn red, reddish-brown or russet during fall.

A mature tree may reach 60 to 75 feet tall. Northern red oak prefers full sun and acidic, well-drained soil. It is an excellent choice for large yards where dependable summer shade is desired.

9. Bur Oak

Bur oak is a rugged native tree recognized by its large acorns and deeply fringed acorn caps. It develops a thick trunk and a wide, spreading crown as it matures.

This tree can tolerate drought, heat and several soil types once established. It commonly grows 60 to 80 feet tall and needs considerable room. Its strength and adaptability make it a good option for open rural properties and spacious landscapes.

10. Shagbark Hickory

Shagbark hickory receives its name from the long strips of bark that peel away from its mature trunk. The tree produces edible nuts that are also enjoyed by squirrels, chipmunks and other wildlife.

This hickory grows slowly but can eventually reach 60 to 80 feet tall. It prefers full sun and deep, well-drained soil. Its long taproot can make older trees difficult to transplant, so it is best to plant a young tree in its permanent location.

11. Black Walnut

Black walnut is a valuable native tree that produces flavorful nuts and richly colored wood. It has an open crown with long leaves composed of numerous smaller leaflets.

Mature black walnut trees can grow 50 to 75 feet tall. They prefer deep, fertile and well-drained soil with full sun. Their roots, leaves and nut hulls release juglone, a natural compound that can interfere with the growth of certain nearby plants. Give this tree its own generous planting area.

12. American Basswood

American basswood, also called American linden, is a large shade tree with heart-shaped leaves. Its fragrant early-summer flowers attract bees and other beneficial pollinators.

Basswoods typically grow 60 to 80 feet tall and develop a dense, rounded crown. They grow best in moist, fertile and well-drained soil but can adapt to several landscape conditions. The tree works well in large yards, woodland borders and wildlife plantings.

13. Eastern Redbud

Eastern redbud is a smaller native tree that produces clusters of pink or purple flowers before its leaves emerge in spring. Its heart-shaped leaves create an attractive canopy throughout summer.

Redbuds generally grow 20 to 30 feet tall, making them suitable for smaller yards. They prefer well-drained soil and full sun or partial shade. Planting one near a patio, garden or woodland edge makes its spring flowers easy to enjoy.

14. Black Gum

Black gum, also called black tupelo, is especially prized for its spectacular fall color. Its glossy green leaves can turn yellow, orange, scarlet and purple on the same tree.

Black gum usually grows 30 to 60 feet tall and performs well in full sun or partial shade. It prefers moist, acidic soil but can tolerate drier conditions after becoming established. Its small fruits provide food for songbirds and other wildlife.

How to Plant a Native Tree in Fall

Plant your tree after summer heat has passed but before the ground freezes. Early to mid-fall generally gives the roots time to begin settling into the surrounding soil.

Dig a planting hole two to three times wider than the root ball, but no deeper than the root ball itself. The root flare—the area where the trunk begins to widen into the upper roots—should remain at or slightly above ground level.

Remove containers, wire, rope and as much burlap as possible before filling the hole. Backfill with the original soil, gently firming it to remove large air pockets. Avoid adding excessive fertilizer or rich soil amendments directly to the planting hole.

Water deeply immediately after planting. Continue checking the soil every few days until the ground freezes, especially during dry weather. The soil should remain evenly moist but not waterlogged.

Apply two to three inches of mulch over the root zone to conserve moisture and protect the soil. Keep mulch several inches away from the trunk. Piling mulch against the bark can trap moisture and contribute to rot, insects and disease.

Choosing the Right Tree for Your Property

Before selecting a tree, consider the amount of sunlight, soil drainage and available growing space. Check the tree’s expected mature height and width rather than choosing based only on its current size.

Large trees such as sycamore, tulip tree and bur oak require substantial room. Smaller trees such as eastern redbud fit more comfortably near homes and gardens. Moisture-loving trees should be placed in naturally damp areas, while species that require good drainage should not be planted where water collects.

Also look above the planting site for utility lines and below it for pipes, septic systems, foundations and paved surfaces. Choosing the right location now can prevent expensive problems later.

Give Ohio Wildlife a Place to Thrive

Planting native trees is one of the best ways to improve an Ohio landscape. Oaks, hickories and walnuts provide nutritious nuts for wildlife. Redbuds and basswoods support pollinators, while maples, black gums and tulip trees bring striking seasonal color.

Whether you want shade, spring flowers, fall foliage or a more wildlife-friendly yard, there is an Ohio native tree that can meet your needs. Planting this fall gives your new tree time to develop roots and prepare for healthy growth when spring returns.