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small trees to plant near house

Choosing the right small trees to plant near house foundations and outdoor living areas can transform your property without causing future problems. Well-placed compact trees can provide privacy, soften harsh lines, attract birds, and frame pathways or entryways—all while fitting beautifully into smaller New Zealand gardens. Selecting trees with non-invasive roots, modest canopies, and controlled heights is essential for harmony between house and landscape.

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. This elegant deciduous tree performs very well in New Zealand gardens and is ideal for feature planting in both small and medium landscapes.

From $349.95

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Trees
Height: 5.00 m
Spread: 5.00 m
Flowering time: Summer
Tolerances: Hardy
Garden uses: Parks, Specimen
Garden styles: Alpine, Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern
magnolia-liliiflora-nigra-1

Magnolia liliiflora Nigra (Magnolia Tree Nigra)

5 from 1 customers

Magnolia liliiflora Nigra, commonly known as Black Lily, is a stunning tree that bears masses of large and showy, purple flowers from late winter through into summer. Flowering begins on the naked stems before the foliage emerges. It typically grows to 3 m tall and the same wide and can easily be contained with trimming.

From $270.40

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Trees
Height: 3.00 m
Spread: 3.00 m
Flowering time: Spring, Summer
Garden uses: Hedging, Living areas
Garden styles: Alpine, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Formal, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern
Stromanthe triostar plant.
Stromanthe Triostar (Stromanthe Plant)

Stromanthe Triostar is a popular indoor plant owing to its lush and colourful foliage. It features elegant, dark green, pink, and cream-coloured...

From$33.05
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
Chlorophytum comosum variegatum plants growing in pots on a shelf.
Chlorophytum comosum variegatum (Spider Plant)

Chlorophytum comosum Variegatum, commonly known as the Spider Plant, is a tender, herbaceous perennial grown for its lush and variegated foliage. It...

From$30.29
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
magnolia-margaret-helen-
Magnolia Margaret Helen (Magnolia Tree Margaret Helen)

Magnolia Margaret Helen is a deciduous tree that bears masses of large and showy, rose-pink flowers through late winter and early spring. These are...

From$387.55
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
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
White flowers on a Cistus 'Snowmound' plant with green foliage.
Cistus 'Snowmound' (White Rock Rose Plant)

Cistus ‘Snowmound’ is a compact evergreen shrub that produces a breathtaking display of pure white flowers with golden-yellow centres from late...

From$24.77
Melia azedarach tree.
Melia azedarach (Bead Tree)

Melia azedarach (Bead Tree, White Cedar) is a graceful deciduous tree valued for its attractive fern like foliage, fragrant clusters of lilac...

From$387.55
A Salix babylonica (Weeping Willow) specimen tree in a park.
Salix babylonica

Salix babylonica, commonly known as the Weeping Willow, is a majestic deciduous tree admired for its long, graceful branches that sweep toward the...

From$387.55
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
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
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
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
fagus-dawyck-purple-2
Fagus sylvatica Dawyck Purple

Fagus sylvatica Dawyck Purple, commonly known as the Purple Beech tree, is grown for its beautiful colours and slender growth habit. The foliage...

From$270.40
aloe-barberae-
Aloidendron barberae (Tree Aloe)

Commonly known as Tree Aloe, this is a large variety of Aloe that can reach 15 m tall and 3 m wide. This impressive tree forms a rounded crown of...

From$57.89
pb-28-planter-bags-
PB28 Planter Bags (Growing Bag)

These PB28 planter bags are 125 microns thick and each bag holds 12 litres of potting mix. They are durable and won’t rip which makes them great for...

From$130.50
clianthus-puniceus-
Clianthus puniceus (Parrot Beak Plant)

Clianthus puniceus (Kakabeak) is a spectacular New Zealand native shrub renowned for its striking clusters of brilliant red, beak shaped flowers that...

From$44.09
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
Moss pole for plants.
Moss Pole For Plants (Moss Pole For Plants)

These moss poles for plants are made from Coir Fibre (i.e., the husks of coconuts). They are an eco-friendly option to help plants grow healthier and...

From$6.90
pb-18-planter-bags-
PB18 Planter Bags (Grow Plant Bags)

These PB18 planter bags are 125 microns thick and each bag holds 10 litres of potting mix. They are durable and won’t rip which makes them great for...

From$77.47
A large Monstera deliciosa (Swiss Cheese Plant) in a garden with lush, green leaves.
Monstera deliciosa (Swiss Cheese Plant)

Monstera deliciosa, also known as the Swiss Cheese or Fruit Salad Plant, is a popular indoor tropical plant loved for its striking, holey leaves and...

From$44.09
A Spearmint plant with lush, green leaves.
Mint Plant

Mint Plant (Spearmint) is a popular herb grown for its fresh fragrant leaves and versatile use in cooking drinks and home remedies. Well suited to...

From$16.49
Disphyma australe pink flowers and fleshy, green leaves.
Disphyma australe (NZ Ice Plant)

Disphyma australe, commonly known as NZ Ice Plant, is a hardy and attractive groundcover valued for its fleshy, bright green foliage and striking...

From$14.95
Sedum rubrotinctum (Jelly Bean Plant) bright red foliage.
Sedum rubrotinctum (Jelly Bean Plant)

Sedum rubrotinctum, commonly known as Jelly Bean Plant or Pork and Beans Plant, is a compact, low-growing succulent reaching 15–20 cm tall and...

From$21.39
pb-12-planter-bags-
PB12 Planter Bags (Grow Bags For Plants)

These PB12 planter bags are 125 microns thick and hold 6.75 litres of potting mix. They are durable and won’t rip which makes them great for...

From$57.76
A strong and studry planting spade.
Ace1 Planting Spade

The Ace 1 planting spade is a must for any gardener. This spade is designed so it can penetrate the ground easily without jarring the wrists in the...

From$225.86
pb-95-planter-bags-
PB95 Planter Bags (Growing Bags Near Me)

These PB95 planter bags are 240 microns thick and each bag holds 50 litres of potting mix. They are durable and won’t rip which makes them great for...

From$230.50
emguard-biodegradable-plant-shelter-
Tree Guards (Tree Guards)

Our tree guards and plant shelters are bio-degradable products that are perfect for using in riparian areas and other exposed positions. They are...

From$5.00
tree-and-shrub-fertiliser-
Tree Fertiliser (Tree Fertiliser)

Using tree fertiliser results in plants having better quality foliage, more profuse flowering, stronger stems, and a much healthier and brighter...

From$13.40
Acer 'Fireglow'

Did you find what you are looking for?

You might be interested in exploring related Latin Names - Acer, Chlorophytum, and Cistus, or related Categories - Indoor Plants, Evergreen Shrubs, and Deciduous Trees.

Search small trees to plant near house

Why Choose Small Trees to Plant Near Your House?

Planting small trees near your house offers unique benefits. They add year-round structure, shade sunny windows, offer seasonal blooms, and support curb appeal. Importantly, compact species are less likely to interfere with foundations, plumbing, or power lines. Whether you want to create a welcome entrance or a tranquil retreat, the right small tree helps make the most of limited space.

Top Picks: Best Small Trees for Planting Close to Homes

We’ve gathered some top-performing small trees and elegant shrubs perfect for Kiwi gardens, each ideal for planting near your house.

1. Magnolia Amethyst Flame (Amethyst Flame Magnolia Tree)

With its deep purple-pink blooms and tidy growth habit, Magnolia Amethyst Flame (Amethyst Flame Magnolia Tree) is a stunning choice for small gardens. This deciduous magnolia remains neat and upright, making it one of the best small trees to plant near house entrances, patios, or along walkways.

2. Magnolia liliiflora Nigra (Magnolia Tree Nigra)

Loved for its graceful structure and dramatic goblet-shaped flowers, Magnolia liliiflora Nigra (Magnolia Tree Nigra) stays compact yet provides year-round interest. Its moderate size and low maintenance make it an excellent option for homes with limited planting room.

3. Pittosporum Small Ball (Dwarf Pittosporum)

If you prefer evergreen structure, Pittosporum Small Ball (Dwarf Pittosporum) is a versatile choice. This hardy, rounded shrub offers dense foliage and is easily shaped to your desired size, acting as a small tree or shrub depending on your landscape goals.

4. Schefflera arboricola (Dwarf Umbrella Tree)

For striking tropical texture, consider Schefflera arboricola (Dwarf Umbrella Tree). It’s often grown indoors but, in sheltered spots, can thrive outdoors in warm regions. Schefflera’s compact profile and lush leaves add architectural style near entryways or sheltered patios.

Tips for Planting Small Trees Near Your House

More Ideas for Lush Planting

For an extra pop of colour and foliage interest in your entryway gardens, consider pairing small trees with striking plants like Stromanthe Triostar (Stromanthe Plant).

Create a welcoming, beautiful home environment by selecting small trees specifically suited for planting near the house. Browse our expert-curated collection for New Zealand gardens and start your next outdoor transformation with confidence.

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.
We love Magnolia stellata 'Waterlily' and Lomandra Lime Tuff as much as anyone, but part of the fun is discovering Selenicereus undatus, Camellia 'Paradise Belinda', and Buxus sempervirens 'variegata'.
–The Plant Company

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