9 Trees That Will Thrive Basically Anywhere

Looking for trees that won’t give up on you, no matter what? You’re in the right place. We all love the idea of a lush, beautiful yard, but not everyone has the time or energy to babysit delicate plants. That’s why I’ve rounded up 10 tough-as-nails trees that are as resilient as they are stunning.

These are the kind of trees that thrive in nearly any setting, making your home look great with minimal effort on your part. Ready to see which trees made the list? Here’s a peek at some green giants that promise to keep your garden gorgeous without the extra work.

Tamarack | Larix laricina

Talk about a show-stopper—Tamarack trees make a stunning statement with needles that turn golden in fall and then gracefully bow out for the winter. No need to pull out your pruning shears, as Tamaracks are happy to grow without much fuss.

They’re flexible about where they live, too, doing well in both sunny and slightly shaded spots. Just keep them away from the hustle and bustle of city life, as they’re not fans of pollution.

Evans Cherry | Prunus ‘Evans’

Evans Cherry Trees are perfect for adding a splash of charm to smaller spaces. In spring, they’re a cloud of white blossoms, and by summer, they’re dripping with bright, tangy cherries that are sure to catch the eye—and the taste buds of local birds! While these trees are tough and generally carefree, the falling fruit might need some tidying around walkways.

They love soaking up the sun in open spaces, and though they prefer their soil moist, they’re not fans of waterlogged feet. With just a bit of cleanup, these trees are virtually hassle-free and a delightful addition to any yard.

Hackberry

If you’re looking for a sturdy tree that just gets on with it, Hackberry is your go-to. Native to the Great Plains, it’s no stranger to harsh conditions, handling wind, pollution, and drought with the kind of grace you’d admire in a seasoned gardener.

This tree grows quickly and comes to life with berries that local wildlife can’t resist. Whether you plant it in loamy, sandy, or heavy soil, Hackberry doesn’t fuss—making it a dream for those of us who want green without the grief.

Ginkgo | Ginkgo biloba

Ginkgo trees bring a touch of prehistoric elegance to modern gardens, having survived since the dinosaur era. Opt for a male tree to enjoy its slow yet steady growth and the beautiful fan-shaped leaves that turn a brilliant yellow each fall, without the mess of the female’s fruit. This tree is incredibly adaptable, thriving in everything from sandy to well-drained soils.

Northwood Red Maple | Acer rubrum ‘Northwood’

Imagine a tree that lights up your yard with fiery red leaves every fall and greets spring with bursts of red flowers—that’s the Northwood Red Maple for you. Born in the cold reaches of northern Minnesota, this tree is a champion of low-maintenance living. It only needs pruning once a year, and even then, it’s after the leaves have fully appeared to avoid any messy sap situations.

It’s perfect for those of us who sometimes give our plants a little too much love, since it’s pretty forgiving with water and thrives in the full sun and acidic soil conditions typically found in pine-dominated areas.

Dropmore Linden | Tilia x flavescens ‘Dropmore’

The Dropmore Linden offers shade in the summer and a show of golden leaves in the fall. In early summer, it attracts bees with clusters of sweet, yellow flowers, making your garden a little haven for wildlife.

This tree is wonderfully low-key about its care, robust enough to handle most settings, including the tough conditions of urban life. Whether you’ve got dry soil or a bit damper earth, it adapts and thrives.

Crabapples

Imagine stepping outside to a burst of spring color so intense it covers entire branches—welcome to the world of crabapples. These trees are not just a spring wonder; they continue their vibrant display with fruits that last into winter, painting your garden with strokes of red and gold year-round.

The newer varieties are not only gorgeous but are also resistant to many common tree diseases, making them a hassle-free choice for those of us who want maximum impact with minimal effort.

Hawthorns

Hawthorns are the kind of tree that keeps on giving. Not only do they provide shelter for birds throughout the year, but their scarlet berries brighten the winter landscape, clinging to branches when almost everything else has faded.

For those wary of the traditional thorns, varieties like the thornless cockspur offer all the benefits without the prickly drawbacks.

Easy to care for, drought-resistant, and happy in nearly any soil, Hawthorns are perfect for adding a splash of autumn color to your yard.

Bur Oak | Quercus macrocarpa

If you’re after a tree that’s as sturdy as they come, the Bur Oak is a top contender. It’s a real survivor, thriving under conditions that would challenge less hearty trees. This tree doesn’t ask for much—just a spot in the sunshine and a little trimming once the coldest winter days are behind us.

It’s practically tailor-made for busy folks who love a good-looking yard but don’t have time for high-maintenance plants. Plus, it’s a favorite hangout spot for squirrels, so expect some furry visitors adding life to your garden scene.