The 13 Best Flowering Trees for Arkansas Yards

After the cold winter temperatures begin to subside, a variety of flowers begin blooming throughout the state of Arkansas. While some gardeners like to plant bulbs that come back each year, others prefer the appearance of flowering vines or bushes. However, flowering trees are some of the easiest, low-maintenance plants of all. In fact, many will bloom for decades on end with minimal upkeep and care. Let’s explore 13 of the best flowering trees that Arkansas residents will enjoy growing and find easy to maintain.

1. Eastern Redbud

The eastern redbud will surely add a vibrant pop of color to any garden or yard. In addition to being beautiful, this tree is also low-maintenance and relatively drought-resistant. This makes it an excellent choice for gardeners of any skill level to plant.

2. Cherry Tree

In Arkansas, the period in which cherry blossom trees bloom is a huge event. In fact, locals even host a festival to celebrate this fleeting yet beautiful time! The Arkansas Cherry Blossom Festival is held during the first week of March each year.

3. Dogwood

Dogwood trees are native to the state of Arkansas and can be found in many places throughout the Ozark Mountain range. These trees perform best when planted in full sun to partial shade and bloom during early to mid-spring.

4. Tulip Tree

Let’s be honest, tulip trees are one of the cheeriest flowering trees of all. These plants explode with color during their bloom time, which usually takes place during early to mid-summer.

5. American Wisteria

Wisteria has been a popular flowering tree among Arkansas gardeners for a long time. Planting these trees in locations that get plenty of sun will reward gardeners with a wealth of blooms that return each year. According to the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture, “American wisteria makes a good vine for planting over gateway arches, for topping pergolas and even training along fences. Like other vigorous vines, it should be supported by a strong trellis.”

6. Empress

Although this tree might produce beautiful flowers, it is incredibly fast-growing. Because of this, it is considered invasive in certain areas and it has the potential to outcompete other plants in your garden. Be sure to do your research before planting this tree.

7. Jacaranda Tree

Although jacaranda trees are considered somewhat low-maintenance after they’re fully established, they can be a little labor-intensive after initially planting. Make sure you water this tree regularly and plant it in an area that gets plenty of sun.

8. Dynamite Crape Myrtle

Individuals who enjoy vibrant and eye-catching flowers need to look no further than the incredible dynamite crape myrtle. According to the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture, “Dynamite crape myrtle is such an outstanding plant that it was selected as a 2002 Arkansas Select plant. Arkansas Select plants are chosen by the green industry and University of Arkansas experts for their outstanding ornamental qualities and widespread adaptation across the state.” This is an impressive accolade that speaks to just how beloved this tree is by Arkansas natives.

9. Japanese Snowbell

The Japanese snowbell tree grows a wealth of delicate and elegant flowers each year that add a touch of class to any garden. These trees are easy to care for, which is a primary reason why they’ve become so popular throughout the years. As long as you plant your Japanese snowbell tree in an area that gets full sun, water it frequently, and provide it with slightly acidic soil, it will perform beautifully.

10. Ann Magnolia

Ann magnolia trees have quite a few good qualities. These trees are on the smaller side, affordable, easy to prune, low-maintenance to care for, slow-growing, and simply beautiful. They first blossom during late spring and many will retain their flowers for weeks on end.

11. Trumpet Tree

Let’s be honest, trumpet trees are a timeless classic. These trees explode with color during the spring and have a long bloom time that lasts for several weeks. They are somewhat easy to maintain and enjoy full sunlight and frequent watering. Despite all their good qualities, these trees might be sensitive to sudden changes in environment and temperature.

12. Serviceberry

Serviceberry trees are the animal lover’s best friend. The flowers that bloom from these trees attract a variety of pollinators, such as butterflies, bees, and moths. In addition, the fruit that these trees bear is popular among a variety of birds and small animals. Planting serviceberry trees is a fool-proof way to ensure that your garden becomes a wildlife hotspot.

13. Orange Tree

Who doesn’t love a good fruit tree? In addition to bearing juicy citrus fruit, orange trees are well known for their beautiful white blossoms. While these trees do well outside in Arkansas during the warmer months, gardeners may want to transfer them inside during the winter to prevent damage.

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