PORTNEUF VALLEY TREE GUIDE - City of Pocatello

PORTNEUF VALLEY 

TREE GUIDE 

Tree Selection & Care 

2012 

$1. 00

TOWN & COUNTRY 

TOP 5 REASONS 

To Buy your Trees from Town & Country 

5. Our trees are “Climate Tested” for East Idaho 

4. Largest selection of trees 

3. Friendliest sta around 

2. 2 Year Guarantee on our hardy trees at no additional cost 

1. No one knows trees better 

Town & Country Gardens 

www.tcgardens.com 

1300 E. Oak Street 

Pocatello 232-7985 

5800 S Yellowstone Hwy 

Idaho Falls 522-5247

Contributors 

CONTRIBUTORS 

Thank you to the volunteer Tree Commission members and other contributors 

who donated their time and expertise to make this tree guide possible! Sandra 

Thorne-Brown and Robert Pitman deserve special thanks. Their decades of 

experience and generous gift of their time made this guide possible. Thank 

you to the City of Pocatello Parks & Recreation Department for helping to 

underwrite the printing of this publication. 

Text, photo, and species selection: Sandra Thorne-Brown (urban forester, 

retired), Brett Hewatt (City of Pocatello urban forester), Hannah Sanger (City 

of Pocatello environmental educator), Mike Stallsmith (Idaho State University 

forester), Craig Westling (Idaho Power utility arborist), and Robert Pitman 

(University of Idaho - Bannock County Extension horticulturalist). Project 

management: Paula Jones (USDA NRCS community development officer, 

retired) and Michelle Pak (USDA NRCS soil scientist). Layout: Alissa Salmore 

(RLA, Artemisia LP+D). Editing: Deborah Jeppson (copy editor). 

PhOTO CREDITS 

All photos were taken by Sandra Thorne-Brown, unless otherwise credited on 

the photo. Thank you to the following for granting permission to use their 

photos: 

Sandra Thorne-Brown, Deborah Jeppson, Alissa Salmore, Jonathan Zundel, 

Pocatello Tree Commission 

Michael Kuhns, Utah State University treebrowser.org 

Connecticut Agricultural Station, Tom DeGomez, Iowa State University, 

Keith Kanoti, Joseph LaForest, Joseph O’Brian, Dave Powell, Karen Rawlins, 

Vanessa Richins, Jan Samanek, Richard Webb, Paul Wray, and Robert 

Videki - Bugwood.org 

Daderot, Davefoc, Joseph DiTomaso, Luis Garcia, Jean-Pol Grandmont, 

John Ruter, Matthieu Sontag, and Willow - commons.wikimedia.org 

Bowpoint Nursery, Brigham Young University grounds staff, Michael Dirr, City 

of Coeur d’Alene, City of Portsmouth, hconlon@whatgrowsthere.com, 

Bruce Marlin, Ladislav Micek, Powell Gardens, John Swintosky (Landscape 

Architect - Louisville Metro Parks), University of Minnesota (Tracy Dougher 

and the Woody ID Class), and Jim Xerogenanes.

TABLE OF CONTENTS 

INTRODUCTION 1 

PLAN BEFORE YOU PLANT 1 

TREES AND UTILITIES 2 

STREET TREES 2 

BE FIREWISE 3 

PLANTING INSTRUCTIONS 3 

MAINTAINING hEALThY TREES 5 

TREE GUIDE LEGEND 7 

TREE SELECTIONS 

DECIDUOUS 

SMALL DECIDUOUS TREES 9 

MEDIUM DECIDUOUS TREES 24 

LARGE DECIDUOUS TREES 

CONIFERS 

36 

SMALL CONIFERS 46 

MEDIUM CONIFERS 48 

LARGE CONIFERS 52 

A FEW MORE TREES 57 

PROhIBITED AS STREET TREES 61 

TREES WITh SIGNIFICANT PROBLEMS 62 

RECOMMENDED ShRUBS 63 

CONTACTS 64 

ADVERTISERS 65 

Table of Contents

1 

Before You Plant 

INTRODUCTION 

Our urban forest defines our community’s landscape. It also provides 

aesthetic, health, and economic benefits. Trees offer protection from 

wind and sun; conserve water and soil; improve air quality; provide 

cover and food for wildlife; and increase property values. Our urban 

forest improves our quality of life. 

One way to improve the health of our urban forest is to plant 

and maintain diverse tree species. To promote tree planting and 

maintenance, the Tree Commission offers this guide to present 

information about selecting, planting, and caring for trees. Arborists 

and urban foresters, nurserymen, landscape architects, gardeners 

and groundskeepers, and city planners—all experienced with the 

challenges of keeping trees healthy in Pocatello—have contributed 

to this guide. 

PLAN BEFORE YOU PLANT 

The importance of matching the tree and its growth requirements 

to the planting site cannot be overemphasized. The best planting 

procedures and care will not save a tree that is poorly suited to the 

planting site. To produce a healthy, long-lived tree, make sure that 

the planting site’s soil, sunlight/shade, climate, and space will meet 

the tree’s needs. 

Make a sketch of your property showing buildings, vegetation, utilities, 

sidewalks, and driveways. When planting more than one tree, or 

more than one group of trees, group those requiring similar conditions 

together, and consider the different space requirements of each. 

To select a tree that meets your needs and matches the planting site, 

carefully consider: 

Landscape Purpose: Do you want to provide shade, color, wildlife 

habitat? Do you want a privacy fence or windscreen? Consider tree 

form, texture, seasonal color, and mature height and width. 

Planting Site: Are overhead or underground utilities present? How 

close are structures or driveways and sidewalks? How close are other 

trees? Envision the tree in 10 to 50 years. Will it still have enough room? 

Soils: In urban areas soils can be highly variable. Soil type affects 

drainage; too much or too little drainage often causes trees to

decline and die. Be sure to select trees that are well adapted to our 

alkaline soils. Check with your county extension office for soil testing 

information (Bannock County 208-236-7310). 

Maintenance: All trees need regular watering and periodic inspection 

for pests and disease. Broadleaf trees also need routine pruning. 

Carefully selecting a tree that is suited to the planting site will save 

time and money. 

TREES AND UTILITIES 

Tree limbs and power lines are not a good combination—especially 

when storms bring lightning, high winds, and ice. Utility companies trim 

tree limbs away from power lines to prevent power outages during 

severe weather. To prevent problems, choose utility-friendly trees from 

the “Small Trees” section, or contact cwestling@idahopower.com, 

208-736-3213/208-221-3128. 

Underground utility lines can easily be cut with a shovel, and you 

are legally and financially responsible if you damage them. Idaho 

law requires that you call Digline, 1-800-342-1585, before digging. 

Employees of utility companies will mark locations of underground 

lines at no charge. 

STREET TREES 

Street trees are planted in the area between sidewalk and curb. 

This area is called the parking strip, and it is under city jurisdiction. 

2 

Before You Plant

3 

Care For Your Trees 

Pocatello’s tree ordinance requires that tree branches be kept 8’ 

above sidewalks; 12’ above streets; and 14½’ above designated 

truck routes. The ordinance and Master List of Acceptable Trees 

explain requirements and prohibitions related to street trees. To see 

them, visit Pocatello City Hall or www.Pocatello.us/pr/documents/ 

acceptable_trees. 

BE FIREWISE 

Firewise practices include removing dead wood and low tree 

branches; removing vegetation from roofs, gutters, and under decks; 

selecting fire-resistant plants; and keeping tree limbs 15’ away from 

chimneys, buildings, and power lines. To learn more: www.firewise.org 

or Three Rivers RC&D at 208-241-4656. 

PLANTING INSTRUCTIONS 

The most common and serious planting error is planting too deep. 

Before planting, find the root flare—where roots spread at the base of 

the trunk. This flare should be partly visible at the top of the planting 

hole. 

The most common planting stock found at local nurseries are in 

containers, bareroot, or balled and burlapped (B&B). Planting 

procedures vary depending on the kind of stock selected. For a sturdy 

tree, carefully follow these procedures: 

1. Dig hole 2 to 3 times as wide as the root-ball and the same depth 

as the tree was planted in the nursery. The sides of the hole should be 

rough and uneven to help roots grow into the surrounding soil. 

Container Stock: Gently remove container and inspect root-ball 

for circling roots. If you see only a few, gently separate and spread 

them outward. Eliminate masses of circling roots by making two 

to four half-inch deep vertical cuts in the sides of root-ball. Cut a 

shallow “X” on the bottom of the root-ball. If soil covers the root 

flare, brush it off. Place root-ball in planting hole. Make sure top 

of root flare is level with or slightly higher than surrounding ground. 

Balled & Burlapped (B&B): If soil covers the root flare, brush it off. 

Carefully place tree in planting hole so top of root flare is level 

with or slightly higher than surrounding ground. If you need to 

adjust tree’s position, shift the root-ball; do not twist tree trunk. 

Straighten tree and add just enough soil to stabilize it. Cut and 

remove all twine or wire. Remove as much burlap as possible, as 

some is not biodegradable.

Bareroot: Keep roots moist at all times! Remove damaged or 

broken roots. Place tree in planting hole at the same depth that 

it grew in the nursery. Do not let roots curl up or around hole. Hold 

tree straight while filling hole with soil. With your hands, gently 

push soil under and between roots to remove air pockets. If tree 

settles too deeply, gently pull it back to the proper depth. 

2. Stand back and inspect the tree from several sides to make sure it’s 

straight. If it is not, adjust it. Add soil around roots until hole is half full. 

Lightly water to settle soil and remove air pockets. Gently tamp soil to 

compress it around root-ball, taking care not to damage any roots. 

Add soil until hole is filled. Do not cover top of root flare with soil. 

3. Make a shallow basin to hold water around the roots. Fill the basin 

with water several times, allowing it to soak into the root-ball between 

each filling. Add soil where excessive settling occurs. 

4. Fill the basin with 2–3” of wood chips. Do not place wood chips 

directly against the tree trunk, as this may promote trunk rot. 

5. Remove dead, broken, or crossing branches. 

6. Unless the site is windy, it is not necessary to stake the tree. Do stake 

if the root-ball is fractured or the trunk is not stable. Remove stakes 

after one year. 

Backlled soil 

HOW TO PLANT A TREE 

2/3 distance from 

root collar are to 

rst branch 

Root collar are 

Do not plant tree 

lower than this. 

Stake 

2 - 5 times width of root ball 

If necessary, stake the tree 

with wide, at straps and 

attachments that allow it 

to move a little in the 

wind. 

2 - 4 inches mulch 

4 

Care For Your Trees

5 

Care For Your Trees 

MAINTAINING hEALThY TREES 

Once a tree is planted, several steps must be taken to help it survive. 

Most threats to the health and life of young trees can be avoided or 

reduced with a few simple precautions. 

Watering the tree regularly during the first year is critical to its 

establishment. Begin watering in the spring when soils start drying out 

and continue until fall. Water more often during periods of drought or 

above-normal temperatures. Know the tree’s water requirements— 

low, medium, or high—and keep in mind that new plantings may 

need extra water. Use this schedule to determine how much watering 

plants with low, medium, or high requirements need: 

Low: 

Apply 2” water 1 or 2X per month from June 1 to Sept. 30. 

Medium: 

Apply ¾” water weekly from early May to early Oct. 

High: 

Apply ½” water weekly from mid-April to mid-Oct.; ¾” weekly 

mid-May to mid-June; 1–1¼” weekly mid-June to mid-Sept.; ¾” 

weekly mid-Sept. to mid-Oct. 

To find out how much water your sprinklers apply in a typical runtime, 

place small empty cans among your sprinklers. Measure 

accumulation to calculate how long the system must run to apply 

enough water. To learn more about waterwise landscaping, visit City 

Hall or www.pocatello.us/water. 

Mulching is a must! Wood chip mulch helps retain soil moisture and 

reduce weeds. It also protects trees from lawnmowers and weed 

whippers. Apply 2–3” of mulch at a 6’ diameter. Keep mulch several 

inches away from the trunk to avoid trunk rot. As mulch decomposes, 

it enriches the soil by providing organic matter and beneficial 

microorganisms. Replace as needed. 

Fertilizing, with the exception of adding nitrogen, is usually not 

required unless a deficiency has been identified. Fertilizers are natural 

or synthetic elements applied to soil or plant foliage to supply nutrients 

necessary for growth. If trees have normal leaf size and color and are 

growing well, nutrients in the soil are probably adequate. 

If a deficiency is suspected, have a soil analysis done to determine 

what nutrient or mineral is deficient. An agricultural soils lab or county 

extension service can usually test soils and will identify deficient 

nutrients. Only the nutrients known to be deficient should be applied, 

as overapplication of certain elements can be harmful to trees.

Overfertilization can also contaminate groundwater or pollute nearby 

bodies of water. When applying nitrogen, choose slow-release 

formulas to reduce the chance of root burning, which some quickrelease, 

high-concentrate nitrogen fertilizers can cause. Natural 

organic forms of nitrogen are the best choices. 

Pruning improves structure and enhances vigor of mature or aging 

trees. Dead, broken, or crossing branches should be pruned from 

trees of any age. Cut branches just outside the branch collar. Avoid 

making flush or stub cuts. Wound dressings are not necessary and may 

impede the tree’s natural healing process. For more information, or for 

a list of certified arborists, contact the city forester at 234-1895. 

PROPER PRUNING PRINCIPLES 

Pests are insects, mites, bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Many organisms in 

the landscape are considered pests because of the damage they do 

or because their numbers are so large. Some of these organisms do 

not harm plants but are in fact beneficial to them and are a valuable 

part of the ecosystem. 

Many pest problems result from improper watering, poor plant stock, 

or an inferior planting site. Trees that are poorly adapted to a site are 

usually most affected by pests. Choosing a tree that is well adapted 

to the site will significantly reduce many pest problems. 

In selecting trees for this guide, we have chosen species that have 

adapted well to our local environment. We have identified pests 

associated with some of these trees, but with proper attention to 

correct planting procedures, growing conditions, and maintenance, 

you will promote a tree’s best protection against pests: good health. 

6 

Care For Your Trees

7 

Tree Guide Legend 

Weeds and herbicides do not belong near trees. To keep areas 

around trees free of weeds and other competing plants, use wood 

chip mulch to suppress them, and remove them by hand when 

possible. Avoid using herbicides near trees as some formulations 

seriously injure or kill them. If you do use them, avoid getting any on 

leaves, branches, trunks, or near roots of any plants you wish to keep. 

Some fertilizers contain weed killers; these weed-and-feed fertilizers 

should not be used near tree roots. Remember that a tree’s roots 

extend well beyond its outermost branches. 

TREE GUIDE LEGEND 

LIGhT REQUIREMENT 

Full Sun Part Sun Shade 

TREE SIZES AND FORMS 

Height, width, and other characteristics are provided for specific 

trees in the Recommended Trees section of this guide. The tree forms 

pictured here are examples of crown shapes of mature trees. Seeing 

how a tree will look will help you plan its inclusion in your landscape. 

Tree descriptions in this guide refer to these forms. 

spreading columnar vase pyramidal 

oval rounded irregular multistem 

hARDINESS ZONES 

USDA Hardiness Zones are based on minimum winter temperature 

ranges throughout the U.S. A zone rating can help you select a tree 

that is cold hardy in your zone, but keep in mind that a cold-hardy 

tree may not tolerate other conditions (soil, wind, low rainfall) in our 

area. Other cautions: different growers may assign different hardiness 

zones to the same species; groups other than the USDA have created 

their own zone classifications, and their zone numbers do not mean 

the same thing as the USDA’s.

Most of Pocatello falls into USDA Zone 5, with minimum temperature 

ranges of -20 to -20F. Contact your local extension office to find out 

your area’s hardiness zone. A green ‘Z’ followed by the zone range is 

given for each tree in the tree selection section. 

AVAILABILITY 

Local nurseries sell some of the trees recommended in this guide, but 

some of the best trees for this area may have to be special ordered. 

When you place a special order, it may help you to know: 

• Almost all trees sold here are grown fairly far away. It is usually 

necessary to get your special order tree placed with a shipment 

that is already coming in or shipping expenses would be very high. 

• Just because growers have a certain tree in their catalogs does 

not mean that tree is always available. Tree availability is usually 

best in the fall and worst from April through July. The best time to 

order your special tree is in the fall for next spring. 

• If you want a special order of a bareroot tree, be aware that 

most bareroot trees must be ordered in bundles. The nursery may 

not want to order a bundle of 5 or 10 trees if you only want one. 

• When ordering special trees, don’t give up if they are not instantly 

available. Give the retail nursery advance notice and plenty of 

time. If you want a special tree you probably already know it’s a 

great tree, so don’t settle for a lesser substitute too quickly. 

Designations for availability of tree selections: 

readily = commonly available 

request = nursery can special order 

mail order = rarely available from nursery but available online 

seedling only = generally mail order as seedlings only 

ORIGIN 

Native to southeast Idaho and nearby regions 

8 

Tree Guide Legend

9 

Small Deciduous Trees 

SMALL 

DECIDUOUS 

TREES 

Small trees can be planted under power lines and in smaller planting 

areas, including 3’-wide parking strips. Space 15’–20’ apart. 

© Alissa Salmore 

Birch, Water 

Betula occidentalis 

Z 3-7 

Mature size: 20’h x 20’w 

Growth rate: slow 

Availability: request 

© Bowpoint Nursery © Deborah Jeppson 

Usually multistemmed but can be 

trained to single trunk. Coppery 

peeling bark. Light green 

summer leaves turn yellow in fall. 

Prefers moist sites but tolerant of 

somewhat dry conditions once 

established. Resistant to borers. 

Good substitute for aspen. 

Attracts birds. 

Where to see: 

Banks of Mink 

& City Creeks; 

5120 Daisy.

Chaintree, Golden 

Laburnum X watereri 

Z 5-7 


Growth rate: medium 

Availability: readily 

Clusters of yellow pealike flowers 

in long, hanging clusters become 

hairy pods that persist through 

winter. Bright green leaves and 

olive green bark. Poisonous. 

Good planted in groups. Tolerant 

of our alkaline soils. 

Where to see: 

454 Yellowstone; 

275 McKinley. 

Chokecherry, Common 

Prunus virginiana 

Z 2-6 




© Michael Kuhns 

Small white spring flowers produce 

clusters of edible black fruits. This 

large shrub or small tree tends 

to sucker but can be pruned to 

maintain a tree form. Excellent 

choice for wildlife plantings and 

windbreaks. ‘Canada Red’ and 

‘Shubert’ are common cultivars 

with purple-red leaves and 

treelike form. 

Where to see: Hillside ravines 

and Mink Creek. 


© Iowa State University 


10

11 


© Joseph LaForest 

© City of Portsmouth 

Crabapples 

Malus spp. 

Z 3-9 

Mature Size: 15–25’h x 15–25’w 

Growth rate: medium to fast 


This popular small tree is 

generally chosen by flower color, 

fragrance, and fruit’s color, size, 

and persistence (fruit clinging or 

falling in winter). Consider fruit size 

and persistence when planting as 

street tree. Most modern cultivars 

have persistent fruits; some have 

good fall color. Excellent accent 

for any area. Fruitless varieties 

are available. Becomes more 

drought tolerant at maturity. 

Fireblight and cedar–apple rust 

can be problems. 

Recommended red-flowered 

cultivars include: ‘Adams’, 

‘Prairiefire’, ‘Profusion’, ‘Indian 

Summer’, ‘Strawberry Parfait’, 

‘Radiant’, ‘Cardinal’, ’Centurion’; 

‘Prairie Rose’ has no fruit. 

Recommended white-flowered 

cultivars include: ‘Donald 

Wyman’, ‘Harvest Gold’, ‘White 

Angel’, ‘Jewelcole’, ‘Sargent’, 

‘Snowdrift’, ‘Sugar Tyme’, 

‘Narragansett’; ‘Spring Snow’ 

and ‘Marilee’ have no fruit. 

Where to see: ‘Spring Snow’ (no 

fruit) and ‘Jewelcole’ (persistent 

fruit) on Main in Old Town; 

‘Spring Snow’ at Bartz Field and 

Waterwise Garden by City Hall.

Dogwood, Cornelian 

Cherry 

Cornus mas 

Z 4-8 




Small yellow flowers cover bare 

twigs in early spring. Shiny green 

leaves turn yellow; some forms 

turn red in fall. Small edible cherryred 

fruits by midsummer. Better in 

alkaline soils and poor conditions 

than other non-shrub dogwoods. 

Native to western Asia and south 

central Europe. 

© Michael Dirr 

Elm, Camperdown 

Ulmus glabra ‘Camperdownii’ 

Z 4-7 

Mature size: 6–15’h x 6–15’w 

Growth rate: slow to medium 


This grafted elm slowly develops 

a broad, flat head and has a 

contorted, weeping habit. Hardy; 

suffers more from drought than 

cold. Rough, sharply toothed dark 

green leaves are sharply serrated 

and asymmetrical. Significant 

problems with scale insects and 

elm leaf beetle. 

Where to see: West side of The 

Grapevine, 455 S. 5th. 

© whatgrowsthere.com 



12

13 





© A. Barra 

Goldenraintree 

Koelreuteria paniculata 

Z 5-9 

Mature size: 20’ x 20’ 



Develops a uniform and rounded 

crown with age. Rich green 

leaves may turn yellow in fall. 

Showy upright clusters of small 

yellow flowers cover the tree in 

summer and become papery 

green lanterns that turn yellow 

then brown. Withstands drought, 

heat, wind, and dry, alkaline soils. 

Has grown well in Pocatello for 

over 40 years. 

Where to see: 1480 and 1450 

Paramount. 

hackberry, Netleaf 

Celtis reticulata 

Z 5-9 



Availability: seedling only 

Leaves are light green and rather 

rough, with netlike small veins. 

Found on dry, rocky foothills and 

canyons. Good choice for a small 

tree where water is limited. Birds 

eat its tiny red berries. Native in 

Bannock County. 

Where to see: Portneuf Gap north 

of I-15 on Chinese Peak.

hawthorns 

Crataegus spp. 

Z 3-8 

Mature Size: 15–25’h x 15–25’w 



Most hawthorns are small, dense 

trees with white or pink spring 

flowers and red clusters of berries 

that persist through the winter. 

Several are well adapted to our 

area; only River Hawthorn (C. 

rivularis) is native. Most have 

thorns, some more wicked than 

others. Good varieties for our 

area: Cockspur (C. crusgalli 

var. inermis); River (C. rivularis); 

Glossy (C. nitida); Winter King 

(C. viridis ‘Winter King’); Lavalle 

(C. X lavallei); Crimson Cloud 

(C. laevigata ‘Crimson Cloud’). 

Cockspur and ‘Crimson Cloud’ 

are thornless. 

Where to see: Lavalle at corners 

of Main in Old Town; banks of 

Mink 

& City 

Creeks. 


© BYU Grounds Staff 


14

15 


© Paul Wray 

hophornbeam, 

American 

Ostrya virginiana 

Z 3-9 




Graceful, pyramidal when young, 

becomes rounded with age. 

Gray, flaking bark adds winter 

interest. Wormlike yellow-green 

catkins become pale yellow 

hop-like fruit. Dark green sharply 

serrated leaves turn yellow-brown 

in fall. Good street tree. Tolerates 

alkaline soils. Native 

to eastern U.S. 

© Michael 

Kuhns 

Lilac, Japanese Tree 

Syringa reticulata 

Z 3-7 




Excellent specimen and street 

tree. Clusters of creamy white 

flowers stand out against dark 

green leaves. Red-brown 

cherrylike bark. Tolerant of 

alkaline soils, drought, and 

pollution. Easily pruned to tree 

form. Cultivars ‘Ivory Silk’ and 

‘Summer Snow’ have round, 

compact crowns; ‘Regent’ 

has an upright form. 

Where to see: Pocatello H.S. 

parking lot on N. Arthur; 1455 

Chokecherry Dr.

Lilac, Peking 

Syringa pekinensis 

Z 4-7 




Similar to Japanese tree lilac 

but more finely textured. Large 

honey-scented creamy white 

flower clusters. Tolerates wide 

range of conditions and soils. 

Fairly heat and drought tolerant 

once established. Useful as a 

small shade or street tree. 

Where to see: Parking lot of 

Federal Courthouse. 

Maackia, Amur 

Maackia amurensis 

Z 3-7 




White pealike flowers in upright 

clusters become flat pods. Leaves 

open with gray sheen then turn 

rich green. Shiny, amber bark 

peels with age. Lower branches 

tend to droop so early pruning is 

important if used as a street tree. 

An excellent, neat tree for streets, 

lawns, and patios. Seems to do 

better when planted from smaller 

sizes. Native to northeastern 

China. 

Where to see: Barton & S. 5th. 

© Powell Gardens 



16

17 



© Willow © Michael Dirr 

Maple, Bigtooth/Canyon 

Acer grandidentatum 

Z 4-7 




Native, tolerant of drought 

and alkaline soils, few disease 

or insect problems, windfirm, 

and strong wooded. Poor 

choice for irrigated lawns. 

Great fall color often turns our 

hillsides orange, yellow, and 

red. Flaking gray bark adds 

winter interest. Plant singly or 

in a grove. Species has better 

color than cultivar ‘Rocky Mt. 

Glow’. Where to see: Hillside 

ravines; City Creek; Humboldt 

& 4th; Waterwise Garden by 

City Hall. 

Maple, hedge 

Acer campestre 

Z 4-8 




Dark green leaves usually 

cling late into fall with sporadic 

yellow color. Resembles a 

small, dense Norway maple. 

Tolerant of urban conditions 

including poor, dry, alkaline 

soils. Can be pruned into a 

hedge. A good street and 

yard tree that casts dense 

shade. 

Where to see: ISU 

between Admin. & 

Engineering Bldgs.; 

Goody’s at 905 S. 5th.

Maple, Rocky Mtn. 

Acer glabrum 

Z 3-7 



Availability: request, mail order 

Variable form with reddish 

spreading branches. At least 

two varieties are native to our 

mountains. Dark green leaves 

with paler undersides turn yellow 

to muted red in fall. Red twigs, 

buds, and reddish winged seeds 

provide winter interest. Very easy 

to train as single-stemmed tree. 

Where to see: Shady 

slopes throughout our 

mountains; SW corner 

ISU Quad. 

Maple, Shantung 

Acer truncatum 

Z 4-8 




Glossy green leaves emerge 

reddish and turn yellow-orange 

to red in fall. Bright yellow flowers 

open before leaves in spring. 

Tolerates dry, alkaline soils. Pest 

and disease resistant. Its large 

leaves and regular branching 

make it an excellent shade 

and lawn tree for small 

spaces. Native to China. 

© John Ruter 

© Montana State University 



18

19 


© Vanessa Richins 



Maple, Tatarian 

Acer tataricum 

Z 3-8 




Bright green leaves with pale 

undersides turn yellow or red in 

fall. Showy red inch-long winged 

seeds in late summer. Similar to 

Amur maple but better adapted 

to our alkaline soils. Good for 

small spaces. ‘Rugged Charm’, 

‘Pattern Perfect’, and ‘Hot Wings’ 

are superior varieties and more 

treelike than the species. 

Where to see: ‘Hot Wings’ 

by ISU Rendezvous Bldg. 

Mayday Tree 

Prunus padus 

Z 3-6 




One of the first trees to bloom in 

spring; fragrant clusters of white 

flowers emerge soon after the 

first leaves. Bright, bronzy green 

leaves mature to dark green then 

turn yellow to bronze in fall. Birds 

love its astringent black cherries. 

Related to chokecherry, but 

taller, more treelike, and does not 

sucker. Showy, adaptable tree 

for small spaces. ‘Merlot’ and 

‘Summer Glow’ have red leaves. 

Where to see: Clark & 5th at Kicks 

66; Fredregill & 4th.

Mtn. Mahogany, Curlleaf 

Cercocarpus ledifolius 

Z 4-9 




A native broadleaf evergreen! 

Shiny, narrow, deep green 

leathery leaves contrast with light 

gray bark. Feathery, twisting seeds 

resembling bent pipe cleaners 

add summer interest. Can be 

grown as a small multistemmed 

tree or as a medium clipped 

hedge. Sun and heat tolerant. 

Where to see: 

Gibson Jack 

trails; near ISU 

Natural History 

Museum. 


Oak, Gambel 

Quercus gambelii 

Z 4-8 




Native as far north as Cache 

Valley, UT. Size and crown vary in 

response to growing conditions: 

some are treelike; others form 

thickets from root sprouts. Shiny 

green leathery leaves with paler 

undersides turn orange-yellow 

to brown in fall. Small acorns 

appear in late summer. Very 

useful in xeriscapes and native 

landscapes. 

Where to see: Shrub at Waterwise 

Garden by City Hall; tree at entry 

of 1450 Juniper Hill Rd. 




20

21 


© Tom DeGomez 

© University of Minnesota 

Plum, Purpleleaf 

Prunus cerasifera 

Z 4/5-8 




The purple-leaved cultivar 

‘Newport’ is common in 

Pocatello. Light pink flowers and 

purple-green to dark purple 

leaves. When mature, it develops 

an edible, dark purple fruit. A very 

popular and useful tree here. 

Where to find: In front of City Hall. 

© Joseph DiTomaso 

Plum, Princess Kay 

Prunus nigra ‘Princess Kay’ 

Z 2-6 




Selection of the native Canada 

plum. Fragrant double white 

flowers open before leaves and 

remain longer than other plums. 

Dark green leaves turn red-orange 

in early fall. Shiny black bark adds 

winter interest. Exceptionally cold 

hardy and adaptable but needs 

good drainage and consistent 

moisture. Excellent accent 

tree, particularly against a dark 

background. 

Where to see: On N. 7th, north of 

Black Swan Inn.

Redbud, Eastern 

Cercis canadensis 




Magenta buds cover branches 

with rosy-pink pea-like blossoms 

before leaves appear; bronze to 

red-purple heart-shaped leaves 

turn dark blue-green and may 

turn yellowish in fall. In summer 

flat seedpods appear. Lowbranching 

or multistemmed. 

Excellent small specimen tree. 

Adaptable, but susceptible to 

verticillium wilt in overwatered 

lawns. Native to eastern U.S. 

Where to see: NE 10th & Carter, 

344 S. 12th, 525 Washington. 

Serviceberry 

Amelanchier spp. 

Z 4-9 

Z 2-9 




May be shrub or tree. Delicate 

white blossoms. Red to deep 

purple berries attract wildlife. 

Leaves open hairy gray-green 

then turn medium green. Most 

have good yellow, orange, 

or red fall color. Adaptable 

and tolerates a wide range of 

conditions. Shrubby A. alnifolia 

and A. utahensis native to Idaho; 

nonnative tree forms sometimes 

chlorotic in local alkaline soils. 

Where to see: Area hillsides; ISU 

Natural History Museum. 

© Richard Webb 


22

23 



© Ladislav Micek © Derek Ramsey 

Smoketree, American 

Cotinus obovatus 

Z 4-8 




Billowy hairs cling to flower 

clusters and turn purplish pink in 

summer, covering the tree with 

smokelike puffs. Blue-green leaves 

offer excellent yellow, orange, 

red, or purple fall color. Grayblack 

flaky bark resembles fish 

scales. Excellent planted singly 

or in masses. Native to Missouri. 

Tree-form ‘Grace’ hybrid often 

available. 

Sumac, Staghorn 

Rhus typhina 

Z 3-8 


Growth rate: fast 


A large shrub or small tree 

that suckers to form colonies. 

Large leaves turn brilliant red in 

fall. Pyramidal clusters of fuzzy 

red-brown fruit (staghorns) 

attract wildlife. Staghorns and 

picturesque branching add 

winter interest. Good for massing 

and naturalized areas. 

Where to see: Pocatello H.S. 

parking lot on N. Arthur; 19th & 

Bonneville; 4940 Johnny Creek 

Rd.; Waterwise Garden by City 

Hall.

MEDIUM 

DECIDUOUS 


Medium trees are mainly planted for shade and general landscape 

uses, including in 4–6’-wide parking strips. Space 20–30’ apart. 


Alder, European 

Alnus glutinosa 

Z 3-7 




Small, plump catkins in spring turn 

to cones by summer and remain 

through winter. Dark green round 

leaves with prominent veins. 

Tolerant of fairly dry, infertile soils; 

can endure some standing water. 

May sucker from roots to form 

thickets; used to control erosion 

on unstable sites. Cultivars include 

cut-leaved and compact forms. 

Smaller A. tenuifolia is native. 

Where to see: SE corner of OMNI 

Bldg. at 275 S. 5th; A. tenuifolia 

Mink & City Creeks. 

© Jean-Pol Grandmont 

24 

Medium Deciduous Trees

25 

Medium Deciduous Trees 

© BYU Grounds 

© Joseph O’Brian 


Beech, European Columnar 

Fagus sylvatica ‘Dawyckii’ or 

‘Fastigiata’ 

Z 4-7 

Mature size: 30’h x 8–10’w 



Narrow, dense, rigidly upright 

crown can branch to the ground. 

Lustrous dark green leaves with 

light green undersides may turn 

yellow in fall. Distinctive long, 

pointed buds. Smooth gray bark. 

Seeds borne in bristled husks. 

Gold- and purple-leaved varieties 

available. Very effective in rows 

and narrow planting areas. Does 

not like wet or compacted soils. 

Where to see: ISU Holt Arena. 

Birches, White-barked 

Betula spp. 

Z 4-7 



Availability: readily or request 

Weeping white birch is popular 

but very susceptible to borer 

insects that can quickly kill trees. 

Varieties with attractive white 

bark and resistance to borer 

insects include: ‘Avalanche’, 

‘Dakota Pinnacle’, ‘Prairie Vision’, 

‘Prairie Dream’, ‘Renaissance’, 

‘Rocky Mountain Splendor’, 

and ‘Whitespire Senior’. Good 

replacements for aspen, which 

have their own serious problems. 

Where to see: Stanford & Yale.

Boxelder, Sensation 

Acer negundo ‘Sensation’ 

Z 2-9 




A cultivar of our native boxelder, 

‘Sensation’ has a more controlled 

growth, improved branch 

structure, and more uniform 

crown. Medium green leaves 

turn red in fall. Green to redbrown 

stems. ‘Sensation’ doesn’t 

produce fruit. Very tolerant of 

harsh conditions. The species is 

not recommended; it has weak 

wood and poor branch structure. 

Where to see: Taysom Park; Holt 

Arena south parking lot behind 

ISU Education Bldg. 

Buckeye, Ohio 

Aesculus glabra 

Z 3-7 




One of the first trees to leaf out 

in spring. Leaves emerge light 

green and deepen to dark green 

then orange to red-brown in fall. 

Upright pyramidal clusters of 

yellow-green flowers become 

prickly, leathery husks that open 

to reveal shiny brown seeds 

(buckeyes). Branches begin low 

on the trunk, swooping down and 

then upward. Hardy and drought 

tolerant. 

Where to see: ISU west of Educ. 

Bldg.; 1642 Monte Vista. 




26 


27 


© Bruce Marlin 


Cherry, Sargent 

Prunus sargentii 

Z 4-7 




Clusters of rich pink flowers open 

before leaves and are followed 

by very small purple-black fruit 

in June. Dark green leaves turn 

bronze in autumn. Glossy redbrown 

bark. Excellent specimen 

tree. Many cultivars, including 

columnar forms, are available. 

One of the most reliable trees for 

fall color. 

Where to see: On corners of Main 

in Old Town. 

Chokecherry, Amur 

Prunus maackii 

Z 2-6 




Fragrant white flower clusters in 

spring. Small red fruits mature to 

black in late summer, attracting 

birds. Medium green leaves 

turn yellow-green in fall. Glossy 

amber to reddish-brown, peeling, 

shaggy bark for winter interest. 

Prune to single or multistem tree; 

remove interior branches to open 

crown. Best in cold climates. Does 

not like excessive heat. Good as 

patio, street, and specimen tree. 

Where to see: Marshall Library; NE 

corner of Holt Arena.

Corktree, Amur 

Phellodendron amurense 

Z 3-8 




Excellent, picturesque tree for this 

area. Boldly branched, spreading. 

Corky, gray-brown bark. Dark 

green leaves turn yellow in fall. 

Yellow-green flower clusters from 

May into June. Females produce 

copious, messy pea-sized black 

fruit that animals love. Fruitless 

male cultivars are ‘His Majesty’, 

‘Macho’, ‘RNI 4551’. Tolerant of 

urban conditions and poor, dry, 

alkaline soils. Plant in large open 

spaces that can accommodate 

the low, wide branches. 

Elm, Lacebark 

Ulmus parvifolia 

Z 5-9 


Growth rate: fast to medium 


A superior shade and street tree. 

Highly resistant to Dutch elm 

disease and elm leaf beetle. 

Upright, spreading crown and 

uniform branching. Dark green 

leaves may turn yellow to deep 

red in fall. Exfoliating multicolor 

bark. Very adaptable to soil and 

climate extremes. Seedlings of 

the species vary in size, so choose 

cultivars. ‘Frontier’ has good fall 

color and no fruit. 

Where to see: 1552 S. 4th; ISU 

Engineering Complex at S. 2nd. 


© Karan A Rawlins 

© Daderot 

28 


29 


© Jan Samanek 

© Jan Samanek 

Filbert, Turkish 

Corylus colurna 

Z 4-7 




Excellent for this area. Strong 

central trunk, symmetrical 

branching, pyramidal form. 

Yellow male catkins emerge in 

spring and hang in clusters. Softly 

hairy leaves may turn yellow to 

purplish-red in fall. Nuts grow in 

clusters within thick, spiny husks. 

Flaky buff and pale gray bark. 

Does not sucker like other filberts. 

Very tolerant of urban sites and 

dry, alkaline soils. Plant singly or in 

groups. 

Where to see: ISU Liberal Arts Bldg. 

Ginkgo 

Ginkgo biloba 

Z 3-9 




Unique fan-shaped leaves turn 

bright yellow in fall. Gaunt, open 

form when young but later full and 

picturesque. Fruit from female 

trees is messy and smelly, so plant 

male clones ‘Autumn Gold’ or 

‘Princeton Sentry’. Practically 

pest free, tolerant of poor, dry 

soils, air pollution, heat, drought, 

and cold. Excellent park or lawn 

tree. Casts light shade. 

Where to see: ‘Autumn Gold’ on 

Main; ‘Princeton Sentry’ on Arthur 

Ave.; Prehistory Park.

hornbeam, European 

Carpinus betulus 

Z 4-7 




A neat, uniform tree. Good as 

a single specimen, a screen, 

a hedge, or in groups. Catkins 

appear in spring. Deep green, 

strongly ribbed leaves hold late 

into the fall when they may turn 

yellow. Small nutlets with leaflike 

projections hang in chainlike 

clusters. Smooth gray bark is 

a bonus in winter. Cultivars 

include ‘Fastigiata’ (narrow), 

‘Globosa’ (oval), and ‘Pendula’ 

(weeping). 

Where to see: ISU Rendezvous 

Bldg. 

horsechestnut, Red 

Aesculus X carnea 

Z 4-8 




A superior hybrid of horsechestnut 

and red buckeye. Rounded 

crown has stout, close-knit 

branches that make a dense 

canopy. Dark green leaves. In 

May, large pyramidal clusters 

of rose-red flowers cover the 

tree. Prone to leaf scorch in late 

summer. Adaptable to dry soils 

but best on moist, well-drained 

sites. 

Where to see: See 

from Benton in 488 

S. 7th backyard. 





30 


31 


© Matthieu Sontag 

© Petr Fillippov 

Linden, Crimean 

Tilia X euchlora 

Z 3-7 




Softly pyramidal when young, 

oval with age. Graceful, with 

symmetrical branching. Shiny 

green leaves may turn yellow 

in fall. Small yellow flowers in 

midsummer become small hard 

nutlets with leafy bracts. Tolerant 

of urban conditions including 

poor, alkaline soils. Suckers should 

be removed. A fine, graceful park 

tree where branches are allowed 

to touch the ground. 

Where to see: Near Ross Park 

baseball fields. 

Linden, Littleleaf 

Tilia cordata 

Z 3-7 




Excellent lawn or street tree. Heartshaped 

dark green leaves may 

turn yellow in fall. Small fragrant 

yellow flowers attract bees. 

Sensitive to road salts; prone to 

girdling roots and sunscald. Thinbarked 

young trees need extra 

water until very well established. 

Perhaps overplanted here. 

Good cultivars are ‘Glenleven’, 

‘Greenspire’, and ‘Chancellor’. 

Where to see: Satterfield Dr.; 

Simplot Square at Arthur & 

Center.

Maple, Norway 

Acer platanoides 

Z 3-7 




The most well-known maple. Dark 

green leaves cast dense summer 

shade and may turn bright yellow 

in autumn. Tolerant of climate 

and soil extremes. A few of the 

many cultivars are ‘Crimson King’ 

(dark red leaves), ‘Deborah’ 

(upright crown, red spring leaves 

turn green), ‘Emerald Queen’ 

(oval crown, yellow fall color), 

‘Columnare’ (~15’ wide, smaller 

leaves), ‘Schwedler’ (red spring 

leaves turn green). Where to see: 

‘Schwedlers’ on Carter by ISU. 

Maple, Norwegian Sunset 

Acer platanoides X truncatum ‘Keithsform’ 

Maple, Pacific Sunset 

A. platanoides X truncatum ‘Warrenred’ 

Z 4-8 

Mature size: 30–35’h x 25’w 



Hybrids of Norway and Shantung 

maples. Upright, symmetrical 

branches. Glossy dark green 

leaves turn red, orange, yellow 

when fall is long or dry. More 

heat and drought tolerant than 

parents. ‘Pacific’ smaller and 

more delicate than ‘Norwegian’. 

Where to see: Holt Arena north 

parking lots; ISU Rendezvous Bldg. 

© City of Coeur d’Alene 


32 


33 


Maple, Sycamore 

Acer pseudoplatanus 

© Michael Kuhns © Michael Kuhns 

Z 4-7 




Patchy outer bark flakes to expose 

orange-brown inner bark. Coarse 

dark green leaves with whitish 

undersides. Small, yellow sweetsmelling 

flowers turn into winged 

seeds. Adaptable, tolerant of 

air pollution, heat, alkaline soils, 

and fairly drought tolerant. Good 

shady street tree where planting 

strips are at least 6’ w. 

Where to see: ISU Liberal Arts 

Bldg.; 233 S. Lincoln; 211 S. 2nd. 

Oak, Columnar English 

Quercus robur ‘Fastigiata’ or ‘Skyrocket’ 

Z 4-8 




Tall slender tree with deep 

greenish-blue leaves. Acorns. 

Tolerant of fairly dry, alkaline soils. 

Bronze fall leaves may cling into 

winter. Strong limbed and long 

lived. Excellent replacement for 

short-lived Lombardy or Bolleana 

poplars. ‘Skymaster’ may retain a 

narrower crown than ‘Fastigiata’. 

Where to see: 341 S. 7th; 

ISU on Cesar Chavez.

Pagodatree, Japanese 

Sophora japonica 

Z 5-9 




A wide, spreading tree that 

casts light shade. Lustrous green 

leaves. Creamy-white pealike 

flowers bloom in clusters. Green 

seedpods turn brown and cling 

to the tree into winter. Tolerant of 

urban conditions and poor, dry 

soils. Excellent specimen or shade 

tree for parks and large yards. 

‘Regent’ is the cultivar of choice. 

Where to see: ISU Education 

Bldg.; 13th & Bonneville. 

Pear, Callery 

Pyrus calleryana 

Z 4-9 




Popular ornamental. Profuse 

white blossoms in spring followed 

by glossy green leaves that turn 

brilliant shades of red and purple 

in fall. Inconspicuous hard, peasized 

fruit. Very tolerant of heat, 

drought, and compacted soils. 

May turn chlorotic in heavily 

irrigated lawns. Some common 

varieties in Pocatello: somewhat 

narrow ‘Chanticleer’, very narrow 

‘Capitol’, broader ‘Aristocrat.’ 

Where to see: Main & Arthur in 

Old Town; Fred Meyer parking lot. 




34 


35 


© Vanessa Richins © Michael Dirr 


Yellowwood 

Cladrastis lutea/kentukea 

Z 4-8 




Broad, low-branching crown is 

covered with drooping, pyramidal 

clusters of fragrant white flowers 

in early summer. Silky hairs cover 

new leaves, which mature to 

pea-green then turn yellow in fall. 

Brown seedpods. Smooth gray 

bark is a plus in winter. Tolerates 

alkaline and dry soil. Excellent 

specimen tree. ‘Rosea’ has pink 

flowers. 

Where to see: Taysom 

Park. 

Zelkova, Japanese 

Zelkova serrata 

Z 5-8 




Upright and spreading crown is 

distinctly vaselike. Dark green 

leaves turn yellow, bronze, and 

red-purple in fall. Lightly flaking 

gray-brown bark and orange 

inner bark. Tolerant of heat and 

drought. Good cultivars are 

‘Green Vase’ and ‘Village Green’. 

An excellent street and park 

tree for its relative neatness, light 

shade, and quick growth. Good 

substitute for American elm. 

Where to see: 620 S. 8th; Main & 

Arthur in Old Town.

LARGE 

DECIDUOUS 


Large trees can be long lived. When selecting a tree from this group, 

be sure that the site has ample room to accommodate it at maturity. 

Plant in open areas or in planting strips wider than 6’. Space 30–50’ 

apart. 

Ash, Green 

Fraxinus pennsylvanica 

Z 3-9 




An extremely hardy tree that 

grows under many conditions. 

Shiny green leaves turn yellow in 

autumn. Seed can be a nuisance. 

Subject to several insect and 

disease problems; borers are the 

most serious. Overplanted but 

tough. Choose male cultivars. 

Some recommended varieties: 

‘Bergeson’, ‘Marshall’, ‘Patmore’, 

and ‘Urbanite’. 

Where to see: Common 

in town; SE corner of 

Terry & Princeton. 


36 

Large Deciduous Trees

37 

Large Deciduous Trees 


Ash, White 

Fraxinus americana 

Z 3-9 




Upright oval crown becomes 

rounded at maturity. Leaves turn 

yellow to reddish purple in fall. 

Gray-brown bark is tightly ridged 

in diamond shapes. Superior 

to more commonly planted 

green ash. ‘Autumn Purple’ 

is an excellent cultivar with 

dependable red-purple fall color. 

Native of eastern North America. 

Subject to borer insects. 

Where to see: ISU parking lot south 

of Holt Arena. 

Beech, European 

Fagus sylvatica 

Z 3-9 


Growth rate: medium to slow 


Long-lived. Wide, stately canopy. 

Leaves cast dense shade and 

turn reddish bronze in fall. 

Smooth gray bark. Nuts form in 

a prickly shell. Good on alkaline 

soils but needs adequate water. 

‘Riversii’ (coppery-green leaves); 

‘Atropunicea’ or ‘Purpurea’ (dark 

purple leaves); smaller ‘Tricolor’ 

and ‘Roseomarginata’ (leaves 

edged in pink and cream); 

‘Pendula’ (weeping form). 

Where to see: ‘Riversii’ at Taysom 

Park; ‘Pendula’ at ISU College of 

Business; ‘Purpurea’ 551 S. Duke.

Buckeye, Yellow 

Aesculus flava 

Z 4-8 




Medium green leaves turn 

orange-red in fall. One of our best 

trees for fall color. Yellow flower 

spikes appear in spring. Fruit 

is a smooth, rounded capsule 

holding brown seeds (buckeyes). 

Gray and brown bark has large 

flat plates and scales on old 

trunks. Less troubled by leaf 

diseases than other buckeyes 

and horsechestnuts. 

Where to see: 242 S. 7th by 

Presbyterian church, next to 

horsechesnuts for comparison. 

Catalpa, Northern 

Catalpa speciosa 

Z 4-9 


Growth rate: moderately fast 


Perhaps the last tree to leaf out 

in spring. Large heart-shaped 

leaves, snowy white flower clusters, 

and dangling winter seedpods 

offer year-round interest. Very 

hardy and adaptable. Can get 

chlorotic in overwatered lawns. 

Native in small area of Midwest; 

naturalized throughout eastern 

and midwestern U.S. 

Where to see: 1352 E. Center. 


© John Swintosky 


38 


39 



Coffeetree, Kentucky 

Gymnocladus dioicus 

Z 3-8 




A very fine shade tree for our area. 

Leaves emerge reddish, turn 

blue-green in summer, then pale 

yellow in fall. Inconspicuous but 

fragrant male and female flowers 

on separate trees. Thick seedpods 

cling to coarse branches through 

winter. Extremely hardy. Excellent 

fruitless male cultivars are 

‘Espresso’ and ‘Stately Manor’. 

Where to see: On Bonneville 

between Garfield & Arthur; Ross 

Park near horseshoe courts. 

Elm, hybrid 

Ulmus X hybrida 

Z 4-7 




Some of the best large trees for 

this area. These are NOT poor 

quality Chinese/Siberian elms. 

Resistant to Dutch elm disease, 

drought tolerant, vigorous, and 

good shade trees. ‘Pioneer’, 

‘Vanguard’,‘Homestead’, 

‘Sapporo Autumn Gold’, 

‘Accolade’, 

‘Discovery’. 

‘Regal’, and 

Where to see: Bannock County 

Fairgrounds; ‘Homestead’ at 

Bonneville 

426 N. 6th. 

Community Center,

hackberry, Common 

Celtis occidentalis 

Z 4-7 




Tough; should be planted here 

more often. A bit hard to establish 

but tolerates low temperatures 

and wind. Pyramidal in youth but 

develops a broad arching crown 

with ascending branches. Corky 

ridged gray bark and sweet 

orange-red, pea-sized fruits. Light 

to medium green leaves can be 

covered with nipple gall; witches 

brooms may develop. 

Where to see: ISU SE of Holt Arena; 

south side ISU Quad by Pharmacy 

Bldg.; 356 S. 8th. 

honeylocust, Thornless 

Gleditsia triacanthos var. inermis 

Z 4-9 




A hardy, finely textured tree that 

lets sunlight filter through. Good 

yellow fall color but leaves drop 

early. Flat brown seedpods can 

be messy, but are rare on seedless 

varieties. Drought resistant and 

tolerates diverse soil conditions; 

diseases and insects can be 

problems. Cultivars ‘Majestic’, 

‘Moraine’,‘Shademaster’, 

‘Imperial’, and ‘Skyline’ are 

superior to thorny species. 

Where to see: Common in town; 

208 S. 19th; ISU Biology Bldg. 




40 


41 




horsechestnut 

Aesculus hippocastanum 

Z 3-8 




Upright clusters of white flowers 

with blotches of yellow to red in 

spring. Flowers become green 

spiny balls that split open to 

expose brown nuts with pale 

eyes. Large deep green leaves. 

Best reserved for parks and large 

yards. Leaf scorch is a problem. 

Native to southeastern Europe 

but well adapted to our climate 

and soils. Cultivar ‘Baumannii’ is 

double-flowered and seedless. 

Where to see: 242 S. 7th; ISU 

Alumni House at 554 S. 7th. 

Linden, American 

Tilia americana 

Z 2-8 




A sturdy and imposing tree 

with dark green leaves. Gray to 

brown bark is smooth and shiny 

on young trees then develops 

flat, scaly ridges with age. Small, 

fragrant cream-yellow flowers 

become small, hard nutlets with 

winged bracts. Native to eastern 

and midwestern U.S. 

Where to see: ‘Redmond’ on 

Martin Luther King Blvd. in front of 

ISU Technical Arts.

Linden, Silver 

Tilia tomentosa 

Z 4-9 




Silver, shimmering leaves. 

Smooth gray bark. Fragrant 

pale yellow flowers attract bees. 

Requires extra water in youth 

but quite drought tolerant once 

established. Tolerates heat and 

drought better than other lindens. 

Good cultivars include the taller 

‘Sterling’ and ‘Green Mountain’. 

Excellent lawn or specimen tree. 

Native to Europe and Asia. 

Where to see: Potelco Credit 

Union on Oak & 8th; 296 N. 9th. 

Mulberry, White 

Morus alba 

Z 4-8 

Mature size: 30–50’h x 35’w 



Purple-black fruit can be used for 

pies or to feed birds. Adaptable 

to any soil. The species is rounded, 

twiggy, and irregular. Lustrous 

dark green leaves. Cultivars 

‘Mapleleaf’ and ‘Stribling’ are 

fruitless. ’Chaparral’ and ‘Urbana’ 

are fruitless with weeping crowns. 

Grafted fruitless varieties are 

medium sized; fruited varieties 

tend to be larger. 

Where to see: ISU by Frazier Hall; 

ISU between Health Center and 

Dental Hygiene Bldg. 

© 

© Luis Garcia 

42 


43 


© Robert Videki 

© Paul Wray 

Oak, Bur 

Quercus macrocarpa 

Z 2-8 




Everything is large: acorns, leaves, 

trunk, and branches. Dark green 

leathery leaves turn yellow brown 

in fall. Acorns have fringed cups. 

Stout, corky ridged stems and 

thick barked trunks. Columnar 

crown of young trees becomes 

wide and massive with age. Well 

adapted to our soils and climate 

of cold, heat, drought, and strong 

winds. No serious pest problems. 

Native to midwest, WY, MT. 

Where to see: Far SW corner of ISU 

Quad; Naval Ordnance Plant. 

Oak, English 

Quercus robur 

Z 4-8 




Sturdy and imposing with widespreading 

limbs. Blue-green 

leaves cling late into the fall. Quite 

adaptable and tolerates dry 

and alkaline soils. Great for large 

areas. Good cultivars include the 

narrow upright forms ‘Skyrocket’ 

and ‘Rose Hill’. Native to Europe. 

Where to see: North side of ISU 

Liberal Arts Bldg.; small tree 

in Waterwise Garden by City 

Hall; upright forms at ISU; 4th & 

Humboldt by apartments.

Planetree, London 

Platanus X acerifolia 

Z 5-9 




This excellent lawn or street 

tree has a massive, spreading 

crown. Flaking cream and olive 

bark and clusters of prickly 

fruit add interest. Adapts to 

variety of soils and conditions. 

Diseases can be a problem. 

‘Bloodgood’,‘Columbia’, 

‘Liberty’.‘Exclamation’, ‘Ovation’, 

and ‘Encore’ are slightly hardier 

than ‘Bloodgood’. 

Where to see: Arthur at Pocatello 

H.S. on N. Arthur; ISU Reed Gym. 

Walnut, Black 

Juglans nigra 

Z 4-9 


Growth rate: fast then medium 


Pocatello has many mature 

specimens of this stately tree. 

Hard-shelled nuts. Large aromatic 

leaves provide excellent fall color. 

Bark ridges form dark diamond 

pattern. Well adapted to our 

climate and alkaline soils. Insects 

and disease can be problems. 

Native to eastern U.S. 

Where to see: Riverside Golf 

Course parking lot on Bannock 

Hwy.; ISU at Fine Arts parking lot. 

© Jim Xerogeanes 

44 


45 

Conifers 

CONIFERS 

Walnut, English 

Juglans regia 

Z 4-9 


Growth rate: fast then medium 


Heavy horizontal or upward 

angled branches similar to 

black walnut. But bark is smooth 

and silver-gray; nuts are thinshelled. 

Only some seed sources 

or cultivars are hardy here; 

‘Carpathian’ and ‘Hansen’ are 

two of the more hardy cultivars. 

Where to see: ISU north side of 

Student Health 

Center; 655 S. 

Grant just north 

of LDS church. 

Conifers, or evergreens, provide year-round greenery, screening, and 

wildlife habitat. They generally shouldn’t be pruned, so need large 

growing areas away from buildings, sidewalks, and driveways. The 

city ordinance prohibits planting conifers as street trees. Spacing 

varies with species. 

© Jonathan Zundel

SMALL 

CONIFERS 

Juniper, Chinese 

Juniperus chinensis 

Z 4-9 




One of the most commonly 

planted junipers. Cultivars range 

from groundcovers to trees. 

Drought, heat, and alkaline soil 

tolerant; only upright juniper not 

susceptible to cedar–apple rust. 

‘Spartan’ (20’ x 3’) and ‘Hetzii (15’ 

x 10’) are good choices. 

Where to see: 211 S. 17th. 

Pine, Bristlecone 

Pinus aristata 

Z 4-7 

Mature size: 6–20’h x variable w 

Growth rate: very slow 


Picturesque, with irregular upright 

branching. Needles are dark bluegreen, 

short, stiff, curved, grow 

in bundles of 5, and are often 

flecked with white resin. Native on 

dry, tough sites at high elevations 

of western U.S. Trees in California 

have been documented at 4000– 

5000 years old. Should be planted 

more often. Does not do well in 

irrigated lawns. 

Where to see: ISU in front of Biology 

Bldg.; 744 S. 19th; 144 S. 8th. 

© Robert Videki 

46 

Small Conifers

47 

Small Conifers 

© Vanessa Richins 


Pine, Pinyon 

Pinus edulis & Pinus monophyla 

Z 4-8 




Open, airy texture, but can grow 

upright or crooked. Needles grow 

paired (P. edulis) or singly (P. 

monophyla). Dark, furrowed bark 

has small scales and abundant 

resin. Cones cluster at ends of 

branches. Pine nuts mature 

in two years. Idaho native P. 

monophylla has larger pine nuts. 

P. edulis is native in UT, WY, AZ, NM. 

Good for low water and wildlife 

plantings. 

Where to see: Waterwise Garden 

by City Hall; ISU Student Union. 

Pine, Mugo 

Pinus mugo 

Z 2-8 




Form varies from prostrate to 

dwarf to pyramidal and spreading 

trees. Dark green needles persist 

for five or more years, giving 

upright branches a full, tufted 

appearance. Good small tree 

varieties that do well in our area 

include ‘Tannenbaum’ (12’ x 6’ 

pyramidal), ‘Gnome’ (15’h x 3’w), 

‘Mugus’ (20’h). 

Where to see: ISU Education Bldg.; 

at corner of Oak & Yellowstone.

MEDIUM 

CONIFERS 

Arborvitae, American 

Thuja occidentalis 

Z 2-8 




Dense broad pyramidal crown 

with a stiff appearance. Green 

foliage takes on a yellow-green 

hue in winter. Useful for hedges 

and screens because it takes 

pruning well. Many cultivars 

available. Cold-hardy cultivars 

include ‘Emerald’, ‘Nigra’, and 

‘Techny’. 

Where to see: 219 S. 10th; 427 N. 

6th; 67 Colgate. 

Fir, Subalpine 

Abies lasiocarpa 

Z 3-6 




Flexible, blunt, and aromatic 

dark blue-green needles and 

dark blue-purple cones on 

horizontal branches of narrow 

pyramidal tree. Neat, manicured 

appearance. Native to our 

mountains but does quite well in 

our valley’s alkaline soils and hot 

dry air. 

Where to see: 

Omni Bldg. at 275 

S. 5th. 

© Dave Powell 


48 

Medium Conifers

49 

Medium Conifers 


Juniper, Rocky Mtn. 

Juniperus scopulorum 

Z 3-7 

Mature size: 25’ h x 12’ w 



This reliable, tough native makes 

a useful screen or high hedge. 

Birds love its fleshy berries. This 

reliable, tough native makes a 

useful screen or high hedge. Birds 

love its fleshy berries. Drought and 

heat tolerant. Good columnar 

varieties include ‘Moonglow’, 

‘Skyrocket’, Wichita Blue’, and 

‘Gray Gleam’. 

Where to see: 917 Eldredge; 1111 

E. Center; 525 N. Johnson; south 

Kirkham Trail has Rocky Mtn. and 

Utah junipers. 

Pine, Bosnian 

Pinus heldreichii or P. leucodermis 

Z 4-8 




Similar to Austrian pine but smaller, 

narrower, more pyramidal. Glossy 

dark green needles form dense 

foliage on upright branches. 

Dark blue-purple cones. Slow but 

steady growth on a wide range 

of soils. Tolerant of severe winter 

cold and wind. Its neat, conical 

crown is well suited to small yards 

and formal gardens. 

Where to see: ISU Facilities 

Services on Humboldt; near Holt 

Arena digital sign.

Pine, Limber 

Pinus flexilis 

Z 3-7 




(only for cultivar ‘Vanderwolf’) 

Picturesque and well adapted; 

should be planted more often. 

In youth, a dense pyramid of rich 

blue-green needles, but opens 

up with age. Drought tolerant 

once established. Does poorly 

in overwatered lawns. Species is 

hard to find, but the faster growing 

and more densely pyramidal 

‘Vanderwolf’s Pyramid’ is not. 

Where to see: Alta Animal Hospital 

berm on Bannock Hwy.; Pebble 

Creek Ski Area; Costco. 

Pine, Swiss Stone 

Pinus cembra 

Z 4-7 




Maintains neat, thick, and dense 

appearance most of its life. 

Narrow pyramidal form becomes 

more open and flat-topped with 

age. Blue-green, stiff needles. 

New stems are covered with 

orange-brown hairs. Violetbrown 

cones stay closed. Good 

specimen tree. In irrigated lawns it 

does poorly and soon dies. Native 

to Eurasian mountains. 

Where to see: Okay Ward Park; 

180 Mesa. 


50 

Medium Conifers

51 

Medium Conifers 

© Paul Wray 

© Connecticut Agricultural Station 

Redcedar, Eastern 

Juniperus virginiana 

Z 3-9 




Similar to our native junipers. 

Pyramidal but may become 

irregular with age. Small blue, 

waxy, berrylike cones. Scalelike 

green leaves have a strong cedar 

scent. Red-brown bark exfoliates 

in strips. Resistant to extremes of 

drought, heat, and cold. Native 

of eastern North America. Many 

cultivars are available, including 

the bright green ‘Hillspire’. 

Where to see: ‘Hillspire’ at Center 

& 7th; 150 S. Arthur. 

Spruce, White/Black hills 

Picea glauca 

Z 2-6 




Densely pyramidal, compact, 

and symmetrical with ascending 

branches. Short pale green 

needles are softer than those 

of other spruces. Tolerates 

wind, heat, cold, drought, 

and crowding. Excellent for 

windbreaks. Better in small yards 

than Colorado spruce. ‘Densata’ 

(Black Hills) is denser and more 

ornamental than the species. 

Where to see: 300 N. Johnson at 

Veterans’ Memorial Bldg.; 110 N. 

18th; 201 S. 19th.

LARGE 

CONIFERS 

Douglas–Fir 

Pseudotsuga menziesii var. glauca 

Z 3-6 




Tall, pyramidal, soft textured. 

Native to our mountains. With 

age it drops its lower branches, 

exposing a clear sturdy trunk 

with thick furrowed bark. Blunttipped 

needles grow singly. Tan 

woody cones have forked bracts 

beneath each scale. Grows at 

high elevations on deep, moist 

soils but is tolerant of drier sites. 

Needs plenty of room. 

Where to see: Scout Mountain; 

West Fork of Mink Creek; 807 S. 

Arthur. 



52 

Large Conifers

53 

Large Conifers 


Pine, Austrian 

Pinus nigra 

Z 4-7 




Hardy; tolerates city conditions 

better than many other pines. 

Very tolerant of dry, alkaline, and 

clay soils. Needles are dark green, 

long, stiff, sharp-pointed and 

grow in bundles of two. Develops 

character with age: crown 

flattens and dark bark becomes 

ridged and furrowed. One of the 

most popular landscape pines 

locally. Problems with Ips beetles 

and redband needle cast. 

Where to see: Common; 204 

Hyde; 255 S. 10th. 

Pine, Ponderosa 

Pinus ponderosa 

Z 3-7 




Stately native pine boasts long, 

dark green needles. Cinnamon 

brown bark of mature trees is 

broken into long orange or russet 

plates made up of thin scales. 

Orange-brown twigs smell of 

orange rind. Large cones. Drought 

tolerant at maturity. Will not 

tolerate wet feet; its most serious 

problem locally is overwatering. 

A favorite with wildlife. One of the 

largest pines in the world. 

Where to see: 741 N. Arthur; 444 

S. Arthur; West Fork of Mink Creek.

Pine, Scotch/Scots 

Pinus sylvestris 

Z 2-8 


Growth rate: medium to slow 


Picturesque form. Green or bluegreen 

needles. Bark on upper 

part of tree flakes off, revealing 

brilliant orange skin. Develops 

an open, wide-spreading, flat- or 

round-topped crown with age. 

Drought tolerant at maturity. Does 

poorly in wet soils. Fewer insect 

and disease problems here than 

Austrian pine. Excellent species 

for Idaho and a fine addition to 

many sites. 

Where to see: 255 S. 10th; 358 N. 

14th. 

Spruce, Colorado/Blue 

Picea pungens 

Z 2-6 




Very stiff, formal appearance. 

Needle color ranges from dark 

green to a silvery blue depending 

on the variety selected. Sharp, 

stiff needles. Steady growing and 

tolerant of adverse conditions. 

Overplanted and has significant 

problems with Ips beetles and 

disease. Often planted in sites too 

small for its mature size. 

Where to see: Nearly everywhere 

you look in Pocatello; Yellowstone 

& Oak. 

54 

Large Conifers

55 

Large Conifers 



© Dave Powell 

© Keith Kanoti 

Spruce, Engelmann 

Picea engelmannii 

Z 2-6 




Common native spruce at high 

elevations of SE Idaho, but only 

occasionally planted in Pocatello. 

Blue-green needles have a rank 

odor when crushed. Cones 

cluster at branch ends and are 

similar to small Colorado spruce 

cones. Red-brown bark has thin, 

loose scales. It grows as tall as 

Colorado spruce, but its narrower 

crown makes it better suited to 

smaller yards. 

Where to see: 803 N. 8th; 555 N. 

12th; 172 Warren. 

Spruce, Norway 

Picea abies 

Z 2-7 




Fast growth and pendulous 

branches distinguish this species 

from other spruces. Dark green 

needles maintain their color 

throughout the winter better than 

most spruces. Cones are long, 

narrow, shiny green-purple and 

turn brown with age. Hardy and 

wind resistant, but appreciates 

a deep watering during long 

droughts. 

Where to see: 619 N. Arthur; 430 

Pearl; 715 W. Cedar.

Spruce, Serbian 

Picea omorika 

Z 4-7 




Excellent foliage, slender trunk, 

and short ascending or drooping 

branches that form a very 

narrow crown. Shiny cinnamon 

brown cones. Needles are dark 

green underneath and whitish 

on top. Formal so best reserved 

for specimen use, but also quite 

good in groups of threes or fives. 

Thrives in alkaline soils. Adaptable 

and deserving of wider use. 

Where to see: SE of Holt Arena; 

south of Juniper Hills Country Club 

tennis bldg.; Omni Bldg. at 275 S. 

5th (weeping form). 

© Vanessa Richens 

56 

Large Conifers

57 

A Few More Trees 

A FEW MORE TREES 

Space prevents us from featuring as many trees as we’d like. The trees 

we list here are also good choices for our area. 

SMALL DECIDUOUS TREES 

Alder, Thinleaf, Alnus tenuifolia: Multistemmed. Light brown to gray 

bark; catkins in early spring; yellow fall color. Fruit resembles a small 

pinecone. Medium to high water. Part shade. Native. 

Buckthorn, Tallhedge, Rhamnus frangula or R. alnus ‘Tall Hedge’ 

or ‘Columnaris’: Tall, narrow, dense form. Twisting stems; glossy green 

leaves. Useful as a miniature Lombardy poplar. Full to part sun. 

Buffaloberry, Shepherdia argentea: Native tree/shrub easily trained 

to tree form. Silver-green leaves; orange-red fruits; thorns. Tolerant of 

dry alkaline soils but grows more rapidly with a little extra water. 

Cherry, Kwanzan, Prunus serrulata ‘Kwanzan’: Vase-shaped 

spreading crown. Deep pink, double blossoms in early spring; no fruit; 

bronze-colored new leaves turn green in summer. Full sun and regular 

water. ‘Royal Burgundy’ keeps reddish-purple leaves all season. See 

at Lewis & 7th. 

Cherry, Weeping higan, Prunus subhirtella ‘Pendula’: Upright 

trunk. Graceful, weeping branches; pale pink showy flowers before 

leaves. Many are thriving here. 

Euonymus, Winterberry, Euonymus bungeana: Tree forms are 

rounded and fine-textured with pendulous branches. In fall pink pods 

open to expose showy orange seeds. Tolerant of most soils and wind. 

Maple, Korean, Acer pseudosieboldianum: Resembles Japanese 

Maple; reddish-purple stems; good fall color. Plant in filtered shade 

out of wind. 

Maple, Paperbark, Acer griseum: Oval to rounded crown. Reddish, 

peeling bark. Medium water; well-drained soil; part sun with afternoon 

shade. Slow growth rate. See by Greenacres School on Franklin. 

Mountainash, Singleleaf, Sorbus latifolia (Korean) and S. aria 

(Whitebeam): Broad pyramidal crown. Leathery green leaves are 

downy white underneath; white flower clusters; red-orange berries. 

Better adapted to our soils and not as susceptible to insects and 

disease as the commonly planted European mountainash. Seldom 

available but worth the effort.

Pear, Korean, Pyrus fauriei: Round, dense crown. White flowers; 

small black fruits; red-purple fall leaves. Full sun and medium water. 

Good as screen or individual specimen. 

Pear, Willowleaf, Pyrus salicifolia: Semi-weeping. Narrow leaves; 

white flowers in spring; fruit is a hard nutlet. Very drought tolerant. 

Peashrub, Siberian, Caragana arborescens: Small tree or large 

shrub. Upright columnar or arching. Small green leaves; small yellow 

flowers. Full sun; very hardy. ‘Southerland’ is a narrow upright form. 

Plum, American, Prunus americana: Shrubby, readily suckers from 

roots to form colonies. Spiny branches; edible fruits; white flower 

clusters. Very hardy. Good windbreak, wildlife plant. Medium water; 

part to full sun. 

Privet, New Mexico, Forestiera neomexicana: Multistemmed 

shrub can be trained to a 12–15’ tree. White bark; smooth bright 

green leaves turn yellow in fall. Fast growing; tolerant of dry alkaline 

soils; full sun. Good aspen substitute. 

Sand Cherry, Purpleleaf, Prunus X cistena ‘Big Cis’: Tree-sized form 

of common cistena sand cherry. Deep red-purple leaves; fragrant 

pink flowers. Very hardy. Full sun. 

Sea-buckthorn, Hippophae rhamnoides: Very narrow silvery 

leaves. Edible orange fruits are used in health food products. Prune to 

tree form. Suckers. Tough and drought tolerant. Thriving in Hailey and 

Sun Valley. 

Smoketree, Common, Cotinus coggygria: Rounded, irregular 

form. Blue-green leaves; pink, smokelike plumes in early summer. Redpurple 

leaved cultivars are available. 

Yellowhorn, Xanthoceras sorbifolium: Rounded crown. Lustrous 

green leaves; tubular clusters of white flowers with red or yellow 

centers. Medium to dry soils. Very adaptable, but best in full sun. 

MEDIUM DECIDUOUS TREES 

Ash, Manchurian, Fraxinus mandshurica ‘Mancana’: Oval crown. 

May be more drought tolerant than other ash species. ‘Mancana’ is 

a particularly hardy cultivar. 

Cherry, Black, Prunus serotina: Dense oval crown with pendulous 

branches. Dark green leaves; clusters of white flowers in late spring; 

small edible fruits. Native to eastern U.S. 

Maple, Miyabe, Acer miyabei: Neat compact crown. Yellow in fall; 

corky bark. ‘State Street’ is good cultivar. 

58 

A Few More Trees

59 

A Few More Trees 

Osage-Orange, Maclura pomifera: Rounded crown on short trunk. 

Glossy dark green leaves turn yellow in fall. Fruit resembles a large 

yellow-green orange. Select thornless and fruitless varieties such as 

‘White Shield’. 

Parrotia, Persian, Parrotia persica: Variable form, often wider than 

tall. Colorful in fall; exfoliating bark. Appears insect and disease proof. 

Prefers moist, well-drained soils. See at 855 N. Garfield. 

Pear, Dancer, Pyrus betulifolia ‘Southworth’: Leaves open graygreen 

and shimmer in breeze; prolific white flowers in spring before 

leaves; small tan fruits. More tolerant of alkaline soils than most pears. 

Rubber Tree, hardy, Eucommia ulmoides: Broad rounded crown. 

Lustrous dark green leaves; no fall color. Native to China. 

Willow, Navaho, Salix matsudana ‘Navaho’: Fast-growing shortlived 

willow with wide, round crown. Requires moist soils. Not quite as 

weak wooded as most willows. Other cultivars: ‘Tortuosa’ or corkscrew 

with very curly leaves and ‘Scarlet Curls’ with curly leaves and red 

winter stems. Native to China. 

LARGE DECIDUOUS TREES 

Ash, Blue, Fraxinus quadrangulata: Narrow round crown. Bark 

broken into scaly plates; inner bark turns blue when exposed. 

Cottonwood, Lanceleaf, Populus x acuminata: Narrow pyramidal 

crown. Cream-colored bark. Does not grow as fast or as large as 

most cottonwoods. Hybrid of narrowleaf and plains cottonwoods. 

‘Highland’ is a common cultivar. 

Cottonwood, Narrowleaf, Populus angustifolia: Narrow crowned 

cottonwood. Narrow leaves turn yellow in fall. Native along our 

waterways. 

Elm, Prospector, Ulmus wilsoniana ‘Prospector’: Vase-shaped. 

Yellow in fall. Vigorous; Dutch elm disease resistant. 

Oak, Chinkapin, Quercus muehlenbergii: Open round/oval crown. 

Native to upland areas of eastern U.S. 

Oak, hybrid, Quercus hybrids: Hybrid oaks that do especially well 

here include Bur Oak X English Oak and Bur Oak X Gambel Oak. 

Pecan, Northern, Carya illinoinensis: Grown for nuts. Warm sites 

are best but hardiness varies with the source of the seed. For reliable 

hardiness get from a northern seed source.

GRAFTED CONIFER VARIETIES 

Grafted trees are more uniform and predictable than seed-grown 

trees, which can differ in size, shape, and growth rate even among 

trees from the same seed batch. Yet most conifers are seed grown 

because grafting them is difficult, time consuming, and expensive. 

Grafted conifers cost two to three times more than seed-grown trees, 

but the advantages of grafted conifers may be worth their extra cost. 

Buying the right variety of a grafted conifer allows you to reliably 

select specific traits. You can choose a blue spruce that is deep blue 

and tall but narrow in form. Or you can pick one that only grows to 

15’—not the 70’ that a seed-grown spruce might reach. Consider this 

scenario: you buy a $50 seed-grown blue spruce instead of a smaller 

$100 grafted spruce. In 20 years, paying for removal of the overgrown 

tree can cost up to $1,000. 

Hundreds of varieties of grafted conifers will grow well here. They grow 

in every imaginable shape, size, and sometimes color, and many can 

be ordered through local nurseries. You may find a grafted evergreen 

to be better suited to your particular needs than a seed-grown tree. 

MEDIUM CONIFERS 

Cedar of Lebanon, hardy, Cedrus libani var. stenocoma: 

Pyramidal-columnar crown with stiff horizontal branching. Only the 

variety stenocoma and the cultivar ‘Purdue’ are cold hardy here. 

Falsecypress, Nootka, Chamaecyparis nootkatensis: Conical 

crown; drooping branches. Best with some shelter from winds. 

Pine, Lacebark, Pinus bungeana: Usually multistemmed with 

branches to ground; distinctive exfoliating bark. See at south end of 

Okay Ward Park. 

Pine, Lodgepole, Pinus contorta: Relatively narrow, upright crown, 

open branching. Prickly oval cones. 

Pine, Southwestern White, Pinus strobiformis: Similar to limber pine 

but with more regular and predictable shape. Plant from cold-hardy 

sources. 

Pine, Swiss Mountain, Pinus rostrata or P. uncinata: A perfect tree 

form of Mugo pine. Resembles Lodgepole pine but better. 

Spruce, Meyer, Picea meyeri: Similar to Colorado spruce; dense 

blue-green needles but smaller at maturity. Appears to be more 

disease resistant than Colorado spruce. Native of China. See on west 

side of LDS church by Caldwell Park. 

60 

A Few More Trees

61 

Problematic Trees 

LARGE CONIFERS 

Fir, White, Abies concolor: Pyramidal, soft-textured fir native to our 

mountains. Alkaline soils can be problematic. Protect from drying 

winds. Best example is in front of Frazier Hall at ISU. 

Larch, European, Larix decidua: Pyramidal crown with horizontal 

branches. Bright green needles turn yellow and drop in fall. Tolerant 

of wind and both moist and dry soils. 

Larch, Siberian, Larix russica: Open pyramidal crown becomes 

irregular at maturity. Soft light green needles turn yellow and drop in 

fall. Full sun; perhaps more tolerant of poor soils than European larch. 

Native to northeastern Russia and Siberia. 

Redwood, Dawn, Metasequoia glyptostroboides: Pyramidal. 

Feathery needles turn red and drop in fall; reddish brown bark. Native 

to China. 

PROhIBITED AS STREET TREES 

May be planted anywhere except as street trees. 

BIRCH, EUROPEAN WEEPING Betula pendula 

Poses clearance/visibility problems; borer prone. 

ELM, SIBERIAN Ulmus pumila 

Noxious invasive weed; messy seeds; weak wood. 

LOCUST, BLACK Robinia pseudoacacia 

Borer prone; weak wood. 

MAPLE, RED Acer rubrum 

Intolerant of our alkaline soils. 

MAPLE, SILVER Acer saccharinum 


CONIFERS Pinus, Picea, Abies, Juniperus spp. 

Conifers pose visibility, ice/snow clearing problems. 

OLIVE, RUSSIAN Elaeagnus angustifolia 

Invasive weed, subject to toppling. 

POPLARS & COTTONWOODS (incl. Quaking Aspen) Populus spp. 

Borers and disease; weak wood; outgrows space. 

WILLOWS Salix spp. 

Borers and disease; weak wood; outgrows space.

TREES WITh SIGNIFICANT PROBLEMS 

IN SOUThEAST IDAhO 

ASH, GREEN Fraxinus pennsylvanica 

Overplanted; several pest problems. 

ASPEN, QUAKING Populus tremuloides 

Disease/insect problems; borers a problem in our area. 

BIRCH, EUROPEAN Betula pendula 

Borer infestations. 

BIRCH, RIVER Betula nigra 


BOXELDER Acer negundo 

Weak wood, prone to heartrot. Females associated with boxelder 

bug infestations; some male cultivars satisfactory. 

COTTONWOOD/POPLAR Populus spp. 

Insect/disease problems; relatively short lived; weak wood. Use 

sparingly only in open, natural areas. Suckers/colonizes. 

ELM, SIBERIAN Ulmus pumila 

Weedy; messy, prolific seeder; weak wood. 

ELM, AMERICAN Ulmus americana 

Choose only varieties resistant to Dutch elm disease. 

LOCUST, BLACK Robinia pseudoacacia 

Borer and disease problems. 

MAPLE, AMUR Acer ginnala 


MAPLE, AUTUMN BLAZE Acer X ‘Autumn Blaze’ 


MAPLE, RED Acer rubrum 


MAPLE, SILVER Acer saccharinum 

Intolerant of our alkaline soils; weak wood. 

MOUNTAIN ASH Sorbus spp. 

Fireblight, canker, and borer problems. 

OAK, PIN Quercus palustris 


OAK, RED Quercus rubra 


OLIVE, RUSSIAN Elaeagnus angustifolia 

Invasive weed; subject to windthrow. 

62 

Problematic Trees

63 

Shrubs 

PINE, WHITE Pinus strobes & Pinus monticola 

Intolerant of our alkaline soils; blister rust fungus. 

SPRUCE, COLORADO Picea pungens 

Declines readily from drought stress/spruce bark beetle. 

Overplanted; outgrows space. 

WILLOW Salix spp. 

Shortlived; weak wood; insect/disease problems. 

RECOMMENDED ShRUBS 

DECIDUOUS 

BLUE SPIREA 

Caryopteris X clandonensis 

BUCKTHORN, FERNLEAF 

Rhamnus frangula ‘Asplenifolia’ 

BUCKTHORN, TALL HEDGE 

Rhamnus frangula ‘Columnaris’ 

BUFFALOBERRY, SILVER 

Shepherdia argentea 

CHERRY, NANKING 

Prunus tomentosa 

CHERRY, WESTERN SAND 

Prunus besseyi 

CINQUEFOIL 

Potentilla fruticosa 

COTONEASTER, CRANBERRY 

Cotoneaster apiculatus 

COTONEASTER, PEKING 

Cotoneaster acutifolius 

CURRANT, GOLDEN 

Ribes aureum 

DOGWOOD, REDTWIG 

Cornus sericea 

ELDERBERRY, COMMON 

Sambucus canadensis 

FORSYTHIA 

Forsythia X intermedia 

MOCKORANGE / WESTERN 

SYRINGA 

Philadelphus lewisii 

NINEBARK 

Physocarpus opulifolius 

OREGON GRAPE, CREEPING 

Mahonia repens 

PEASHRUB, SIBERAN 

Caragana arborescens 

ROSE, AUSTRIAN COPPER 

Rosa foetida ‘Bicolor’ 

ROSE, RUGOSA 

Rosa rugosa 

SNOWBERRY 

Symphoricarpos albus 

SPIREA, BRIDALWREATH 

Spirea vanhouttei 

SUMAC, SMOOTH 

Rhus glabra 

SUMAC, THREE-LEAF 

Rhus trilobata 

VIBURNUM, AMERICAN 

CRANBERRYBUSH 

Viburnum trilobum 

VIBURNUM, NANNYBERRY 

Viburnum lentago 

VIBURNUM, SNOWBALL BUSH 

Viburnum opulus sterile

ShRUBS, CONT’D. 

VIBURNUM WAYFARING TREE 

Viburnum lantana 

WILLOW, ARCTIC BLUE 

Salix purpurea 

CONIFEROUS/EVERGREEN 

ARBORVITAE, ORIENTAL 

Thuja orientalis 

PINE, DWARF MUGO 

Pinus mugo ‘Pumillo’ 

© Matt Sanger 

CONTACTS 

CREEPING JUNIPER 

Juniperus horizontalis spp. 

JUNIPER, CHINESE 

Juniperus chinensis 

JUNIPER, TAM 

Juniperus X media 

YEW, DARK GREEN SPREADING 

Taxus cuspidate 

YEW, HICKS 

Taxus X media ‘Hickksii’ 

GOVERNMENT OFFICES 

Bannock County Extension 

www.uidaho.edu/extension/bannock 208-236-7310 

City of Chubbuck 208-237-2400 

City of Pocatello - Urban Forestry 208-234-1895 

City of Pocatello 

Storm Water StreetwiseRiverwise.pocatello.us 208-234-6518 

Water Department www.pocatello.us/water 208-234-6174 

Urban Forestry Division 208-234-1985 

UTILITY LINES 

Dig Line - Call before you dig! www.digline.com 800-342-1585 

Idaho Power - Urban Forestry www.idahopower.com 208-736-3213 

Idaho Power - Utility Arborist cwestling@idahopower.com 208-221-3128 

ADDITIONAL PICTURES OF TREES 

Utah State University Tree Browser www.treebrowser.org Contacts 

64

65 

ADVERTISERS 

CERTIFIED ARBORISTS 

Intermountain Tree 208-237-0726 

Jonathan Zundel www.jonathanzundelarborist.com 208-233-0104 

LawnTech www.golawntech.com/ 208-523-5296 

Top Notch Tree Services 208-233-8233 

What is an ISA Certified Arborist? 

The tree care profession has experienced rapid growth over the past 

decade, and a significant amount of knowledge is required to perform 

at the highest level. International Society of Arborists (ISA) credentials help 

consumers identify qualified, knowledgeable tree care professionals. ISA 

Certified Arborists have demonstrated, through a professionally developed 

exam and education program, that they have a thorough knowledge of 

tree care practices. 

LANDSCAPE NURSERIES 

Town & Country Gardens www.tcgardens.com 

Pinehurst Floral & Greenhouse 

208-232-7985 

www.pinehurstfloralandgreenhouse.com 

LANDSCAPE ARChITECTS AND DESIGNERS 

208-237-6522 

Artemisia Land Planning & Design artemisiaLPD.com 208-406-3294 

Jackson Land Design JLandDesign@cableone.net 208-589-4489 

Placid Pond 208-241-0007 

Advertisers 

EXPLORE THE CITY’S LOW WATER LANDSCAPING 

Located at the Pocatello 

Water Operations Facility 

1889 North Arthur Ave 

Across Portneuf River 

from Sacajawea Park 

Our beautiful demonstration 

garden uses 75% less water 

than conventional landscaping 

Check out plants that flower 

in spring, summer and fall 

AND don’t need much water

66 

It’s Not Easy 

“BEING GREEN” 

Services Offered: 

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Includes Spring and Fall “time release” lawn fertilization, weed and 

grub control, Plus frequent inspection and treatment for most 

common problems in trees and shrubs. 

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combine a water feature with a rock garden/wall, patio, arbor/pergola 

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3-year “Bumper to Bumper” sprinkler system: Warranted spray 

and drip systems - includes all 3 years winterization and spring turn on! 

Additional Services: Spring clean-up, aeration, power rake, 

professional pruning, hourly rates for “personal gardener” service! 

Water Features: 

Ponds for Hobbyists. No Maintenance “Pondless Streams” 

Water Feature Rebuilds: Clean out and consulting for those with a 

home-built or contractor installed pond that you can’t handle anymore. 

We’re a dierent kind of 

Lawn, Tree and Landscape 

Management Company 

and here’s why: 

We take a “Green” 

sustainable approach to 

Landscape Management. 

We rely on regular 

inspections and “slow 

release” granular fertilizers 

(to reduce run-o to rivers 

and streams!). We employ 

integrated pest 

management in our urban 

landscape management. 

Green Thumb Horticultural 

www.placidpond.com 

42 years experience - Visa/MC accepted 

208-241-0007

67 

Plan Before You Plant 

Planting the right tree in the right place enhances property value, provides shade 

and prevents power outages. When planting trees near power lines, please choose 

varieties with a mature height of no more than 25 feet. Check this Tree Guide to 

fi nd out how tall trees will be when mature. 

25’ 

15’ 

40’ 

www.idahopower.com

Looking Good 

If the trees in your yard are 

out of shape, we can help. 

Services We Provide 

Professional Pruning 

Weed & Vegetation Control 

Premium Lawn Programs 

Pest-control Services 

208-233-5296 

www.golawntech.com 

Contact us today, we'll send one of our 

certified arborists to your home for a 

tree and shrub evaluation. 

68 

ISA Certified 

Arborists On Staff

69 

Pollution 

Your street connects to t

Pollution Prevention 

he Portneuf River 

Plant a tree. 

70 

StreetwiseRiverwise.pocatello.us

71 

Trees give the biggest return on your investment of all landscaping. 

Your Local Family Store 

residential and commercial 

land design solutions for the 

intermountain west 

waterwise landscape design 

landscape architecture 

land planning 

illustration + graphics 

Alissa Salmore, RLA 

208.406.3294 

artemisiaLPD@yahoo.com 

www.artemisiaLPD.com 

Need help with choosing the right tree or the right 

place to plant? The nursery specialists at Pinehurst 

would be glad to help you. We have a good selection 

of great trees for our climate and soil conditions. 

130 Evans Lane 

Chubbuck, ID 83202 

208-237-9326 

Locally owned 

244 Yellowstone 

Pocatello, ID 83201 

208-232-2414 

Your local connection 

for all your 

Tree, Lawn, Flower 

& Garden needs. 

Big Enough to Handle Any Job 

Small Enough to Care! 

INTERMOUNTAIN 

TREE SERVICE 

Lacing • Trimming • Stump removal 

Shrub & fruit trees 

Sprinkler systems & landscaping 

60’ aerial tower for rent 

Licensed contractor 

ISA Certified Arborist: Howard Cornwall 

Licensed Applicator: Kevin Cornwall 

Arborist: Bill Cornwall 

Serving Southeast Idaho 

208-237-0726 

1355 Kinghorn Rd • Pocatello, ID 

Fully insured 

lawn & tree 

spraying

"Excellent work, fair prices, 

providing dignity for your trees" 

Complete Tree Care: Tree pruning, shaping, removal, 

planning and consulting. Hazard and risk assessment, 

value appraisal, and disease diagnosis. 

25 years of experience, fully insured 

ISA Certied Arborist# PN 5464AU. 

208-233-0104 www.jonathanzunelarborist.com 

Your Tree & Lawn 

Care Specialist 

Tree & Stump Removal, Large or Small 

RESIDENTIAL · COMMERCIAL 

Lacing or thinning 

Brush chipping (mulching) 

Complete lawn and tree spraying 

Custom shrubbery work 

Fruit tree pruning 

Pollarding 

Firewood 

Full liability insurance 

Landscaping 

Sprinkler installation 

33 Years of Quality 

Tree Care 

I.S.A. Certified Arborists 

Dennis Anderson 

Dirk Anderson 

Chad Anderson 

Free Estimates 

233-8233 

72

Notes

Sidebar

PORTNEUF VALLEY TREE GUIDE - City of Pocatello

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