Best Shade Trees for Jacksonville
Oct 16, 2025
When designing landscapes in Northeast Florida, few decisions shape a property’s comfort and character more than the trees you choose. The right shade tree cools the home, frames the architecture, and brings life to outdoor spaces for generations.
At Township Design, we look for species that thrive in Jacksonville’s sandy soils, summer humidity, and occasional salt exposure — trees that balance beauty with resilience. Below are a few of our favorite performers, drawn from the Florida-Friendly Plant List and the City of Jacksonville’s Approved Tree List — both proven, local resources we rely on for every design.
Our Top 10 Shade Tree Picks
1. Live Oak (Quercus virginiana)
The quintessential Southern tree. Majestic, evergreen, and enduring. This is perfect for anchoring a front yard or creating a timeless canopy along drives or streetscapes.
2. Shumard Oak (Quercus shumardii)
Fast-growing and stately with brilliant red fall color. This is excellent for large properties and mixed native plantings where seasonal contrast is desired.
3. Nuttall Oak (Quercus nuttallii)
It is adaptable to both dry and moist sites, making it a favorite for development-scale landscapes. Offers dense shade and reliable form.
4. Swamp Chestnut Oak (Quercus michauxii)
Native to North Florida, this oak thrives in wetter soils while maintaining excellent structure and strength.
5. Southern Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora)
A classic evergreen with glossy leaves and large, fragrant white blooms. A must for traditional Southern architecture.
6. Red Maple (Acer rubrum)
Known for its vivid red foliage in fall and tolerance for wet soils. Works beautifully near ponds or retention areas.
7. Sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua)
Fast-growing, colorful, and striking in larger spaces. Provides beautiful fall tones and a tall, upright canopy.
8. Tulip Poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera)
A standout for its large leaves and tulip-shaped spring flowers. Great for open areas where its size can shine.
9. Bald Cypress (Taxodium distichum)
They are equally at home in dry uplands or wet basins—a strong native species with fine texture and high wind resistance.
10. Blackgum (Nyssa sylvatica)
It is highly adaptable and known for its brilliant red fall color—a wildlife favorite and reliable native shade tree.
Whether you’re creating a fabulous backyard retreat or planning a neighborhood streetscape, these trees form the framework of healthy, enduring landscapes in Northeast Florida.
If you’re ready to select the right trees for your project, reach out. We’d love to help design a canopy that grows more beautiful each year.