Excellent Shade Trees For Palm Springs
We’ve all heard about the multiple important benefits of trees, and in Palm Springs they can make an especially powerful impact.
Shade trees planted on the west and/or east sides of your home can be particularly effective at shading your structure from the most intense summer sun and heat. In turn, you will reduce energy use, and feel more comfortable inside your home.
The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. the next best time is today.
If you’re considering planting a shade tree or two in your yard, fall is a perfect time to plant. The young roots will have time to begin their growth before the following summer’s intense heat.
While we aren’t arborists or nurserymen, as Palm Springs residents for 20 plus years, we have our opinions on which shade trees do best, and possible planting locations. If you need help deciding, there are many local professionals who can consult with you. There are also several good gardening books with pertinent information on desert plants and trees.
“Desert - Lower Water Use - Trees”
Olive (fruitless and fruit-bearing varieties): You’ll see olive trees all around town. And, there’s a reason for that! In my opinion, they are the ideal shade tree for Palm Springs. While they are not appropriate for tight spaces (a narrow side yard, for example), they are perfect for a front or back yard, casting a nice shade that’s not so dense that smaller nearby plants won’t thrive. While many people prune their olive trees to the extreme, there are at least a couple specimens in town that have made it to maturity without having ben butchered at some point. One is located on Sonora in the Los Compadres (La Reina Estates) neighborhood, and the other is on Sierra Way (I believe!) in the Indian Canyons neighborhood. Olive trees grow relatively fast in young age, and become slow growing with age.
Chilean Mesquite: We don’t see enough of these beautiful “architectural” trees in residential yards in my opinion. While they do get quite large in time, they are suitable for many yards, and will cast lovely light shade. Like most trees, they will require periodic pruning (thinning only!) to withstand the occasional seriously strong winds we can have. If I had a specimen of this wonderful tree, I’d likely prune it annually. Cacti, such as barrel and others love the dappled shade and will appreciate the relief from the hottest afternoon sun.
Texas Ebony: At first glance, you might not think this small evergreen tree with deep green leaves is “desert appropriate”, but after a closer look, you’ll notice the leaves are tiny, and the curvaceous branches thorny! In late spring/early summer, mature trees will be covered in sweet, white puffy flowers that bees adore. Texas Ebony are perfect for shading a driveway or sidewalk, or planted closer to the house to shade a west-facing wall. They are also “solar panel friendly” since they do not get super tall, again, perfect for shading a wall or a driveway. Prune lightly annually to help prevent wind damage.
Shoestring Acacia (and other varieties): Light and airy describes this Australian native! The trees can vary widely in form and structure, so do your best to pick the best choice for your location. They will get quite tall with age, but remain “airy”. They’re beautiful to look at from a distance, and smaller plants and cacti, once again, thrive in its dappled shade. While I’ve not seen it done, I imagine a grouping of these trees would be spectacular.
California Fan Palm: Yes, we know…fan palms are not considered shade trees! But, these gorgeous natives are iconic to Palm Springs, and have cultural significance. If you’re looking for shade, plant a group of three or five, and you will have quite the canopy of shade. I think every Palm Springs yard (or condo grounds, etc) should have at least one of these native palms. Caution: don’t confuse these big boys with the tall, skinny Mexican palm that is most often planted. California fan palms strike quite a different pose!
“Tropical - More Water Use - Trees”
Tipuana (Tipu): This native to South America is a standout large shade tree for Palm Springs. If you have the space, it’ll be perfect to plant a good distance from your house for late afternoon shade. Or, perhaps to shade the pool from the hottest late afternoon sun (yes, it’s possible to have winter sun AND late afternoon summer shade!). We’re seeing more of these planted, often in condo developments, but I hope we’ll see more in residential neighborhoods.
Jacaranda: This tropical tree - think Mexico City, Buenos Aires, Los Angeles - does well here, but does require ample water. We almost didn’t include it because of that, but we think it has a place in our desert landscape. If you’re looking for a whispy tropical-feel tree, consider it for your yard, perhaps in an area that you water more because of existing plantings. Some of the best I’ve seen in town are at the Sunrise East Condos in south Palm Springs.
Pomegranate: One doesn’t generally think of pomegranate trees when they think of Palm Springs, but these small deciduous trees do quite well in our desert. And, for me, there’s nothing better to announce the arrival of fall than the ripening crimson fruit. And, around Christmas, the leaves turn a golden yellow. They provide just a touch of fall in Palm Springs. Who says we don’t have seasons! While they won’t cast a lot of shade, they’re perfect for creating a micro climate…a place to plant something that wants a little shade. Perhaps plant a group of pomegranate trees for a bigger punch.
Fig (Various varieties): Fig trees absolutely love the desert heat. While they will look best with regular water (much like the pomegranate), they will do well in a desertscape…with decorative rock or DG (decomposed granite) at its base. I’d like to see more fig trees planted; their large tropical leaves seem decadent in our desert, and then, of course, there’s the delicous fruit! Check the variety for tree size and quality of fruit.
