Hi All,
New gardener here, living on Mid North Coast of NSW for climate reference.
We have brought our back garden a long way (I feel) however the rear of the house faces due west. We have no good sized trees in the back yard (besides a Lassiandra in the north corner)
What I would love is to plant a large growing shade tree to sit in the middle of the fence line that will grow and allow us to sit in the yard or play with the kids in the grass in the summer afternoon that provides some nice dapple shade.
I like the look and soft foliage of Poincianas, though am open to any suggestions better suited to our climate or more native.
Also low maintenance and low water usage is preferred.
Thanks all in advance.
Shade Tree Guidance for a new Gardner
Discussion
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Albizia julibrissin is a lovely deciduous tree which has a fabulous umbrella shape. It offers dappled shade, is fast growing and has fluffy pink blossom on the top side of the branches all through summer. The have tiny leaves which, miraculously, close up every night and open in the morning. I’m astounded at the effort this must be for the plant every day!
However, they are prone to borers and there is no cure for this. But I still love them and planted 4 in a rectangle to create a pergola, without using a man-made structure. They look beautiful!
I’m out of my depth when it comes to your climate, James. But it’s worth thinking about the form that’s best for the job – in this case a wide umbrageous canopy well above a (preferably single) clear trunk. The poinciana you already thought of would be perfect – I so wish I could grow one down south! – as would Hilary’s Albizzia. I’m thinking that Koelreuteria would also work (for a smaller canopy, if necessary), though was recently working in northern NSW and was informed that it can self sow a little too enthusiastically. Also I’m wondering about the white cedar – Melia azedarach