The 5 Best Trees for Utah Landscaping That Are Drought-Resistant and Attractive

1. Columnar Oak | Quercus robur ‘Fastigiata’ 

If you want a natural and effective privacy and sound barrier for your residence, you’ll want to consider strategically planting a number of columnar oak trees. Their strong bark makes them fairly pest-resistant, making this tree one of the best trees for Utah landscaping.      

Key Features and Characteristics

• Drought tolerant
• Tolerant of most soil conditions
• Perimeter tree. 
• Dark green leaves in the summer; the crimson spire variety has bright red foliage in the fall

Ideal Growing Conditions and Soil Requirements

• Thrives in clay soils
• Prune regularly for health–usually in late winter to early spring
• Sunny location
• Drought and aerosol salt-tolerant

Seasonal Appeal

• Blossoms early spring, bright green leaves
• Most varieties turn brown in the fall; the crimson spire variety turns bright red.

2. Hot Wings Maple (Tatarian variety) | Acer tataricum ”GarAnn’ 

If you’re looking for something to brighten your landscaping, the Hot Wings Maple Tatarian variety is one of the best trees for Utah landscaping. Its bright red samaras (helicopter seeds) illuminate the tree all summer long. Come fall, the leaves will be aflame with bright red foliage. 

Key Features and Characteristics

• Drought resistant
• Disease and insect-resistant
• Iron chlorosis (yellowing of leaves) resistant 

Ideal Growing Conditions and Soil Requirement

• Thrives in partial shade to full sun
• Prefers locations with average to dry conditions
• Avoid excessive moisture

Seasonal Appeal

• Summer: bright red samaras (helicopter seeds)
• Fall: fiery red foliage

3. Zelkova Tree | Zelkova Serrata

Though the Zelkova tree is native to Japan and other parts of Asia, they are drought-resistant and do quite well in alkaline soils. Their vase-like branch structure provides plenty of shade for hot summer days and is a fantastic tree for Utah landscaping. 

Key Features and Characteristics

• Drought tolerant
• Disease resistant
• Medium in size; provides good shade

Ideal Growing Conditions and Soil Requirements

• Full sun locations
• Tolerates many different types of soil
• Drought tolerant
• Wind resistant

Seasonal Appeal

• Summer: dense green leaves that provide plenty of shade
• Fall: brilliant red-purplish foliage

Pro tip: Plant the tree in springtime to avoid exposing a young Zelkova to frost.

4. Scarlet Regal Petticoat Maple | Acer pseudoplatanus ‘Tunpetti

The Scarlet Regal Petticoat Maple gets its royal name from its bright red and yellow fall colors. As one of our choices for best trees for Utah landscaping, it provides lush shade during the hot summer months and requires less watering than other trees.

Key Features and Characteristics

• Drought tolerant
• Provides ample shade in summer months
• Wind-tolerance
• Does well in urban areas
• Disease resistant

Ideal Growing Conditions and Soil Requirements

• Adapts to most soil types and growing conditions
• Does well in full sun 6+ hours per day

Seasonal Appeal 

• Summer: full, lush greenery for shade
• Fall: bright reds and yellows

5. Utah Juniper | Juniperus osteosperma

Number five of our best trees for Utah landscaping is a beloved native plant–the Utah Juniper. As a desert evergreen, it’s drought-resistant and cold-tolerant. With thoughtful placement, this wild and shrubby tree brings life to otherwise unimaginative landscapes.  

Key Features and Characteristics

• Drought resistant 
• Cold tolerant
• Little or no maintenance required
• 10-20 ft. tall
• Blue berries for birds and humans

Ideal Growing Conditions and Soil Requirements

• Loose rock, sandy, gravelly soil
• Full sun

Seasonal Appeal

• As an evergreen, these trees bring life to your yard year-round
• Berries are year-round, though they take about 18 months to mature

Pro Tip: use the berries in spice blends and dry rubs, infuse vinegar, or add a little extra flavor to your sauerkraut or other pickled/preserved foods.

Landscaping with Trees in Utah: Best Practices

Best Time of Year To Plant Trees

In general, the best time to plant most trees in Utah is during the fall season. If it’s been a dry fall season, water the trees to give them a healthy foundation for thriving in the upcoming years. Always do your research, as some trees have a better chance of survival when planted in the spring.