What tree species are planted as street trees in Boston?
The Parks and Recreation Department has a flexible list of 20-30 tree species. A flexible list allows us to plant trees that will thrive in Boston and provide a range of benefits to the city. If a tree becomes recognized as invasive (Norway maple-Acer platanoides) or highly susceptible to storm damage (Bradford pear, a typeof Callery pear-Pyrus calleryana) we limit or eliminate our use of that particular species or variety. In addition, we use arboricultural research findings as well as our experience with various species in Boston to help shape the tree list. A tree is chosen for a particular site based on several criteria including available growing space, the presence of over head utility wires, and available light. Traditional large canopy street trees include red oak (Quercus rubra) and littleleaf linden (Tilia cordata). We do plant disease-resistant American elm (Ulmus americana) varieties like the Princeton elm. Short statured trees include hedge maple (Acer campestre) and Japan
