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small specimen trees nz

Discovering the perfect small specimen trees NZ gardeners love is essential for anyone looking to create stunning focal points in a compact garden, courtyard, or landscape. Whether you’re working with limited space or simply want a striking individual tree to elevate your outdoor design, New Zealand offers a gorgeous range of small trees ideally suited to our climate and aesthetic. From native treasures to elegant exotics, small specimen trees provide structure, seasonal interest, and an inviting sense of scale to any Kiwi garden.

A Liquidambar 'Gumball' tree with fabulous autumn colours.

Liquidambar styraciflua 'Gumball'

Liquidambar 'Gumball' is a small tree grown for its form and fantastic autumn colours. This popular ornamental tree features leaves that emerge lime green in spring, darken during summer, then change to a myriad of orange-red and dark purple colours in autumn before falling.

From $387.55

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Trees
Height: 3.00 m
Spread: 2.00 m
Garden uses: Parks, Specimen
Garden styles: Alpine, Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern
Acer 'Mikawa Yatsubusa' specimen tree with lush, green foliage.

Acer palmatum 'Mikawa Yatsubusa'

Acer palmatum 'Mikawa Yatsubusa' is a sought-after dwarf Japanese Maple prized for its dense, layered foliage and elegant form. Its small, overlapping green leaves create a unique, architectural appearance that turns fiery shades of red and orange in autumn.

From $299.95

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Trees
Height: 1.50 m
Spread: 1.00 m
Garden uses: Containers, Living areas, Parks, Specimen
Garden styles: Alpine, Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern, Rock
Prunus 'Jim's Delight' rose pink flowers on a tree.
Prunus 'Jim's Delight'

Prunus 'Jim’s Delight' is a stunning flowering cherry renowned for its spectacular spring blossoms and vibrant seasonal foliage. This small deciduous...

From$387.55
Acer 'Asahi Zuru' green and white variegated foliage.
Acer 'Asahi Zuru'

Acer 'Asahi Zuru' is a stunning Japanese Maple known for its delicate, variegated leaves that blend pink, white, and green tones. In autumn, the...

From$24.95
A Parrotia persica (Persian Ironwood) specimen tree with colourful, orange foliage in autumn.
Parrotia persica

Parrotia persica, commonly known as the Persian Ironwood Tree, is a small tree grown for its fantastic autumn colours. The foliage emerges light...

From$192.51
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
ulmus-parvifolia-1
Ulmus parvifolia

Ulmus parvifolia (Chinese Elm) is a graceful deciduous to semi evergreen tree admired for its elegant spreading canopy, small glossy green leaves...

From$192.51
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
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
prunus-autumnalis-rosea-6
Prunus autumnalis 'Rosea'

Prunus autumnalis 'Rosea' is an attractive deciduous flowering tree valued for its delicate pink blossoms and unusually long flowering season. Small...

From$515.35
A Sophora chathamica tree growing in a garden with green foliage.
Sophora chathamica

Sophora chathamica (Coastal Kōwhai) is a stunning New Zealand native tree known for its masses of bright yellow flowers that appear in early spring...

From$323.65
prunus-blireiana-
Prunus blireiana

Prunus 'Blireiana' is an attractive deciduous flowering tree valued for its abundant double pink blossoms and colourful foliage. Masses of fragrant...

From$515.35
tilia-cordata-1
Tilia cordata

Tilia cordata (Small Leaved Lime) is a majestic deciduous tree admired for its symmetrical form, heart shaped green leaves, and highly fragrant pale...

From$515.35
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
eugenia-uniflora-surinam-cherry-
Eugenia uniflora (Surinam Cherry)

Eugenia uniflora, commonly known as the Surinam or Brazilian Cherry, is a small tree that features new foliage which emerges a bronze colour and ages...

From$50.99
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
Elegant Michelia 'Bubbles' admisdt lush, green foliage.
Michelia 'Bubbles'

Michelia ‘Bubbles’ is a striking evergreen shrub or small tree valued for its glossy green foliage and masses of creamy white, fragrant flowers that...

From$41.33
A lagre Podocarpus totara tree about 150 years of age.
Podocarpus totara

Podocarpus totara, commonly known as the Totara tree, is a majestic native tree of New Zealand, prized for its durable timber and cultural...

From$26.91
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
Hoheria 'Alba Variegata' variegated foliage with white flowers.
Hoheria populnea 'Alba Variegata'

Hoheria populnea 'Alba Variegata' is a striking NZ native tree prized for its distinctive foliage and seasonal displays. This evergreen variety...

From$494.05
ulmus-lobel-
Ulmus 'Lobel' (Dutch Elm Tree)

Ulmus 'Lobel' is a refined deciduous elm valued for its narrow upright form, dense green foliage, and excellent suitability as an avenue or specimen...

From$557.95
Sophora longicarinata yellow flowers.
Sophora longicarinata (Limestone Kowhai)

Sophora longicarinata is a rare and beautiful NZ native tree belonging to the kowhai family. This evergreen to semi deciduous species is admired for...

From$323.65
Quercus robur 'Fastigiata' specimen trees.
Quercus robur 'Fastigiata'

Quercus robur 'Fastigiata', commonly known as the English Columnar Oak or Cypress Oak, is a deciduous tree with lovely foliage and great form. This...

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
Hoheria sextylosa (Lacebark) branch with masses of white flowers and green foliage.
Hoheria sextylosa (Lacebark)

Hoheria sextylosa, commonly known as Lacebark or the Lace Bark Tree, is a quick growing, NZ native tree. The bark has a lace like appearance, hence...

From$323.65
magnolia-deryk-2
Magnolia 'Deryk'

Magnolia 'Deryk' is a striking deciduous tree prized for its richly coloured spring flowers and attractive garden form. The large blooms appear...

From$387.55
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
Nestegis montana narrow green leaves on a tree.
Nestegis montana (Narrow-Leaved Maire)

Nestegis montana is a hardy and attractive native tree of New Zealand, known for its upright growth habit and glossy green foliage. This evergreen...

From$270.40
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
A large Prumnopitys ferruginea (Miro Tree) with lush, green foliage.
Prumnopitys ferruginea

Prumnopitys ferruginea, commonly known as Miro, is a majestic New Zealand native tree belonging to the Podocarp family. This long lived evergreen...

From$408.85
prunus-pink-cloud-
Prunus 'Pink Cloud'

Prunus 'Pink Cloud' is an attractive deciduous flowering tree valued for its beautiful pink spring blossom and elegant garden form. The branches...

From$425.89
prunus-southern-gem-
Prunus 'Southern Gem'

Prunus 'Southern Gem' is an attractive deciduous flowering tree valued for its beautiful spring blossom and elegant garden form. The branches become...

From$387.55
Liquidambar styraciflua 'Gumball'

Did you find what you are looking for?

You might be interested in exploring related Latin Names - Acer, Liquidambar, and Parrotia, or related Categories - Deciduous Trees, Evergreen Trees, and Flowering Cherry Tree.

Search small specimen trees nz

Why Choose Small Specimen Trees in NZ?

Small specimen trees are ideal for NZ gardens where space is precious, or you want a standout feature without overpowering your surroundings. These trees typically grow between 2–5 metres and offer benefits like manageable maintenance, dazzling flowers or foliage, and compatibility with urban environments or smaller rural properties. They’re perfect for planting as a centerpiece in a lawn, accenting entrances, or flanking patios and pathways.

Top Small Specimen Trees NZ Gardeners Recommend

Acer palmatum 'Mikawa Yatsubusa'

One of the most admired compact Japanese maples, Acer palmatum 'Mikawa Yatsubusa' brings intricate, layered foliage and vibrant autumn colour to small spaces. Its slow growth and outstanding form make it a popular choice for NZ containers and courtyard gardens.

Sophora microphylla (Small Leaved Kōwhai)

For something uniquely Kiwi, consider Sophora microphylla (Small Leaved Kōwhai). This native specimen tree is beloved for its clusters of golden-yellow flowers and attractive fine foliage, attracting native birds and lending a strong sense of place.

Laurus nobilis

If you’re seeking an evergreen tree with culinary uses, Laurus nobilis, or Bay Laurel, makes a remarkable small specimen tree. It’s happy in NZ’s temperate conditions, and its aromatic leaves are a classic addition to soups and stews, while the dense foliage offers privacy and structure.

Podocarpus laetus (Mountain Totara)

The elegant Podocarpus laetus (Mountain Totara) brings understated beauty to smaller gardens. This NZ native features dark green, soft needle-like foliage and a graceful, layered habit – ideal for planting as a focal point or integrating into mixed borders.

Robinia pseudoacacia Umbraculifera

With a distinctive rounded canopy, Robinia pseudoacacia Umbraculifera offers visual drama and shade without growing overly large. Its tidy form and tidy leaflets suit contemporary and classic NZ landscapes alike.

Tips for Planting and Caring for Small Specimen Trees NZ-wide

Choose a spot with appropriate sun, shelter, and well-drained soil to help your small specimen tree flourish. Mulching and regular watering are especially important in the tree’s early years, and selective pruning will maintain its attractive form. Consider pairing your specimen tree with groundcovers or border plants to enhance its visual impact.

Transform Your NZ Garden with Small Specimen Trees

With their manageable size and stunning features, small specimen trees NZ gardeners select bring lasting beauty and character to landscapes of every style. Explore our range to find the perfect tree for your space and enjoy year-round interest without the challenges of larger trees. Whether native or exotic, these specimens deliver both practicality and visual delight for New Zealand gardens.

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.
Sure, Ficus benjamina variegata and Anemanthele lessoniana (Pheasant's Tail Grass) are crowd-pleasers, but Liriodendron tulipifera 'Fastigiata' (Tulip Tree), Camellia 'Les Jury', and Monstera deliciosa (Swiss Cheese Plant) are quietly making a name for themselves.
–The Plant Company

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