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small evergreen trees for landscaping

Looking to create year-round structure and beauty in your outdoor space? Small evergreen trees for landscaping offer the perfect solution, providing lush foliage and privacy without overshadowing your garden. Whether you want a striking focal point or a low-maintenance hedge, these compact evergreens thrive in Kiwi gardens, offering versatility and effortless colour all year long.

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Daphniphyllum macropodum

Daphniphyllum macropodum is an impressive evergreen shrub or small tree grown for its lush, glossy green foliage and attractive architectural form. The large leathery leaves provide year round interest and create a tropical appearance without requiring a warm climate. Well suited to New Zealand gardens, this hardy specimen is ideal for screening, feature planting, and adding structure to the landscape.

From $366.25

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Trees
Height: 3.00 m
Spread: 3.00 m
Flowering time: Spring
Garden uses: Living areas, Pool areas, Screening
Garden styles: Alpine, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Japanese, Mediterranean, Modern
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Pittosporum 'Small Ball'

Pittosporum 'Small Ball' is a compact evergreen shrub prized for its naturally rounded growth habit, dense foliage, and tidy appearance. This dwarf variety provides year round structure and colour while requiring very little maintenance, making it ideal for modern landscapes and smaller gardens. Its neat form makes it perfect for low hedges, borders, containers, and feature planting. Well suited to New Zealand conditions, Pittosporum 'Small Ball' is a reliable shrub that delivers lasting visual appeal and practical landscaping benefits throughout the year.

From $22.01

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Shrubs
Height: 1.00 m
Spread: 1.00 m
Tolerances: Coastal
Garden uses: Borders, Containers, Hedging, Living areas, Paths & Steps, Ponds, Pool areas, Topiary
Garden styles: Alpine, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Formal, Frontyard, Japanese, Mediterranean, Modern, Native, Rock
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Acacia howittii (Sticky Wattle)

Acacia howittii, commonly known as the Sticky Wattle tree, is a fast-growing, small tree that is grown for its weeping growth habit. The branches...

From$129.95
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Magnolia Kay Parris (Magnolia grandiflora Kay Parris)

Magnolia grandiflora Kay Parris, commonly known as Southern Magnolia or Evergreen Magnolia, is a small tree that produces masses of large and showy...

From$387.55
Laurelia novae-zelandiae

Laurelia novae-zelandiae, commonly known as Pukatea, is a magnificent NZ native tree admired for its glossy green leaves, fluted trunk, and...

From$589.90
azara-microphylla-2
Azara microphylla

Azara microphylla (Vanilla Tree) is a graceful evergreen tree admired for its small glossy leaves and wonderfully fragrant yellow flowers. In spring...

From$387.55
Sophora microphylla specimen tree covered in yellow flowers.
Sophora microphylla (Small Leaved Kōwhai)

Sophora microphylla, commonly known as Weeping Kowhai, is a treasured New Zealand native tree admired for its graceful, drooping branches and masses...

From$28.91
A large and showy Quercus ilex specimen tree in a field.
Quercus ilex

Quercus ilex, commonly known as the Holm Oak or Evergreen Oak, is an evergreen tree with lush foliage. The dark green leaves are glossy and...

From$270.40
fraxinus-griffithii-3
Fraxinus griffithii

Fraxinus griffithii (Evergreen Ash) is a fast growing evergreen tree valued for its glossy foliage and neat upright form. It is well suited to New...

From$270.40
An Acer 'Katsura' specimen tree with orange and green foliage.
Acer 'Katsura'

Acer 'Katsura' is a stunning Japanese maple known for its brilliant apricot orange spring foliage that matures to fresh green before turning vibrant...

From$299.95
A Kunzea robusta shrub with masses of pretty, white flowers.
Kunzea robusta

Kunzea robusta (White Tea Tree) is a fast growing NZ native tree known for its fine foliage and masses of small white flowers that attract bees and...

From$8.97
Acer 'Shidava Gold' small tree with lush, green and yellow foliage.
Acer 'Shidava Gold'

Acer 'Shidava Gold' is a bright and elegant Japanese maple valued for its golden yellow foliage that brings light and contrast to garden spaces. This...

From$349.95
podocarpus-henkelii-1
Podocarpus henkelii (Yellowwood)

Podocarpus henkelii (Henkel Yellowwood) is an elegant evergreen tree admired for its graceful weeping foliage, stately form, and year round appeal...

From$270.40
Alnus jorullensis lush green foliage.
Alnus jorullensis

Alnus jorullensis (Evergreen Alder, Mexican Alder) is a fast growing and versatile tree that performs superbly in many New Zealand landscapes. It is...

From$165.51
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Podocarpus gracilior (African Fern Pine)

Podocarpus gracilior (Fern Pine) is an elegant evergreen tree valued for its fine textured foliage, graceful form, and versatility in the landscape...

From$270.40
Phyllocladus trichomanoides lush green foliage.
Phyllocladus trichomanoides (Celery Pine)

Phyllocladus trichomanoides, commonly called Celery Pine, is a striking New Zealand native tree valued for its unique, celery like foliage and tall...

From$515.35
Acer palmatum 'Fireglow' bright red foliage.
Acer 'Fireglow'

Acer 'Fireglow' is a striking Japanese maple prized for its brilliant deep red foliage that holds colour exceptionally well throughout the season...

From$349.95
Acer palmatum Atropurpureum elegant specimen tree.
Acer palmatum Atropurpureum

Acer palmatum Atropurpureum is one of the most popular Japanese maples, prized for its deep purple red foliage and elegant branching habit. This...

From$69.95
A large Beilschmiedia tawa (Tawa tree).
Beilschmiedia tawa (Tawa Tree)

Beilschmiedia tawa, commonly known as the Tawa Tree, is a tall and graceful evergreen native to New Zealand. It is admired for its straight trunk...

From$313.00
Metrosideros excelsa (Pohutukawa) specimen tree with masses of red flowers in a coastal location.
Metrosideros excelsa (Pōhutukawa)

Metrosideros excelsa, commonly known as Pōhutukawa or the New Zealand Christmas Tree, is a coastal evergreen renowned for its brilliant red flowers...

From$30.29
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Sorbus aucuparia Scarlet King (Rowan Tree NZ)

Sorbus aucuparia Scarlet King is a variety of the commonly known, Mountain Ash, and is a small-sized, deciduous with impressive characteristics...

From$387.55
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Dichroa Blue Stars (Evergreen Hydrangea)

Dichroa 'Blue Stars' is a striking evergreen shrub admired for its clusters of intense blue star shaped flowers followed by brilliant metallic blue...

From$30.29
Liriodendron tulipifera 'Fastigiata' trees with yellow foliage in autumn.
Liriodendron tulipifera 'Fastigiata' (Tulip Tree)

Liriodendron tulipifera fastigiata, also known as the Upright Tulip Tree, is a stunning deciduous tree admired for its narrow, columnar form. It...

From$515.35
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Tilia cordata

Tilia cordata, commonly known as the Small Leaved Lime, is grown for its lush foliage and great form. The medium sized, heart-shaped leaves emerge in...

From$515.35
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Magnolia liliiflora Nigra (Magnolia Tree Nigra)

Magnolia liliiflora Nigra, commonly known as Black Lily, is a stunning tree that bears masses of large and showy, purple flowers from late winter...

From$270.40
cedrela-sinensis-flamingo-7
Cedrela sinensis 'Flamingo' (Toon Tree)

Cedrela sinensis 'Flamingo' (Toon Tree) is a spectacular deciduous tree prized for its striking flushes of vibrant pink foliage that mature through...

From$28.91
magnolia-grandiflora-teddy-bear-4
Magnolia Teddy Bear (Magnolia grandiflora Teddy Bear)

Magnolia grandiflora Teddy Bear, commonly known as the Magnolia Teddy Bear Tree, is a variety of Southern Magnolia, and is an evergreen tree with...

From$270.40
Dacrydium cupressinum (Rimu) tree juvenile foliage.
Dacrydium cupressinum (Rimu Tree)

Dacrydium cupressinum, commonly known as Rimu or Red Pine, is an iconic and slow-growing tree. The juvenile form features drooping branches densely...

From$99.29
magnolia-deryk-2
Magnolia Deryk (Magnolia Tree Deryk)

Magnolia Deryk is a deciduous tree that bears masses of large and showy, dark red-purple flowers from late winter until early spring. The flowers are...

From$387.55
pinus-pinea-1
Pinus pinea

Pinus pinea (Pine Nut) is a distinctive evergreen conifer admired for its broad umbrella shaped canopy, long green needles, and edible pine nuts...

From$270.40
magnolia-strawberry-fields-1
Magnolia Strawberry Fields (Strawberry Fields Magnolia Tree)

Magnolia Strawberry Fields is a stunning deciduous tree that bears masses of large and showy, semi-double, deep red flowers through late winter and...

From$515.35
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Fuscospora solandri (Black Beech)

Commonly known as Black Beech, this is a large, evergreen tree native to NZ. The foliage comprises small, dark green leaves which are held densely in...

From$270.40
Daphniphyllum macropodum

Did you find what you are looking for?

You might be interested in exploring related Latin Names - Acacia, Acer, and Azara, or related Categories - Evergreen Shrubs, Evergreen Trees, and Magnolia Trees.

Search small evergreen trees for landscaping

Why Choose Small Evergreen Trees for Landscaping?

Small evergreen trees for landscaping are prized for their modest size, making them ideal for urban yards, narrow borders, and even large pots. They provide essential shelter for birds, help filter wind, and can hide unwanted views. Unlike their larger counterparts, small evergreens fit perfectly into modern landscapes, cottage gardens, and even formal designs, blending seamlessly with both native and exotic plantings.

Top Picks for Small Evergreen Trees

When selecting small evergreen trees for landscaping in New Zealand, it’s important to consider growth rate, shape, and foliage colour. Here are some popular choices that perform beautifully in a variety of settings:

Magnolia Jade Emperor (Evergreen Magnolia Jade Emperor)

A favourite among gardeners, the Magnolia Jade Emperor (Evergreen Magnolia Jade Emperor) grows into a compact, upright tree with large, glossy green leaves and stunning creamy-white flowers in summer. Its moderate height makes it an excellent choice for boundaries and accent planting.

Acacia howittii (Sticky Wattle)

For a fast-growing, graceful look, Acacia howittii (Sticky Wattle) is hard to beat. Its pendulous branches and soft, evergreen foliage create a serene effect. It’s particularly useful for screening, informal hedges, or adding fine texture to your garden design.

Magnolia Kay Parris (Magnolia grandiflora Kay Parris)

The Magnolia Kay Parris (Magnolia grandiflora Kay Parris) produces striking, dark green leaves with a bronze underside and showy, fragrant blooms. Compact in form, Kay Parris excels as a feature plant or structured backdrop in mixed plantings, offering evergreen elegance all year.

Laurelia novae-zelandiae

If you favour a uniquely New Zealand touch, Laurelia novae-zelandiae (Pukatea) is a small native tree that offers lush, glossy foliage and impressive resilience. Its tidy growth habit makes it ideal for native garden designs or as part of a sustainable landscape.

Pittosporum Small Ball (Dwarf Pittosporum)

Perfect for tight spaces or for creating neat, evergreen borders, Pittosporum Small Ball (Dwarf Pittosporum) is a dense, rounded shrub that holds its shape with minimal pruning. Its compact size allows it to fit in almost anywhere, making it a favourite among landscapers and home gardeners alike.

Getting the Most Out of Your Small Evergreen Trees

To thrive, small evergreen trees for landscaping require well-drained soil, regular mulching, and a sunny to partially shaded position. Once established, most are drought-tolerant and easy to care for with occasional pruning to maintain their shape and size.

Ready to transform your garden? Explore our diverse selection of small evergreen trees for landscaping and discover unique plants that will keep your landscape vibrant and inviting in every season.

Contact us

Whether you need assistance finding the plant you’re looking for or you simply want to know more about who we are and what we do, we invite you to get in touch with us today. A member of The Plant Company team will get back in touch as soon as possible.

Illustration of plant leaves.
You’ve probably heard of our garden favourites like Alcantarea imperialis 'Rubra' and Buxus sempervirens (Boxwood), but did you know we also grow hidden gems like Grape 'Albany Surprise', Acer 'Emerald Lace', and iceberg-roses iceberg-roses?
–The Plant Company

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