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types of specimen trees

Specimen trees are the showstoppers of the garden, chosen for their striking form, stunning foliage, or seasonal interest. If you're searching for the best types of specimen trees to create a focal point in your New Zealand landscape, you've come to the right place. The right specimen can instantly elevate curb appeal, add structure, and provide year-round charm. Explore our guide to the various types of specimen trees, from delicate, lacey trees to strong architectural forms, to find the perfect standout for your outdoor space.

A large Agathis australis (Kauri tree) in a native reserve.

Agathis australis (New Zealand Kauri)

Agathis australis, commonly known as the Kauri tree, is a revered New Zealand native conifer renowned for its immense size and longevity. Reaching heights of up to 50 metres with a trunk girth exceeding 16 metres, Kauri trees can live for over 2,000 years, making them one of the world's largest and longest-living tree species.

Buy Agathis australis (New Zealand Kauri)

From $34.95

Suited to regions: Subtropical, Temperate

Plant type: Trees

Height: 50.00 m

Spread: 20.00 m

Garden uses: Parks, Screening, Specimen

Garden styles: Native

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 flowers, and decorative golden berries that persist into winter. It provides excellent shade during summer while adding seasonal interest to New Zealand landscapes.

Buy Melia azedarach (Bead Tree)

From $387.55

Suited to regions: All regions

Plant type: Trees

Height: 10.00 m

Spread: 8.00 m

Flowering time: Autumn

Tolerances: Extended dry periods, Hardy

Garden uses: Parks, Specimen

Garden styles: Alpine, Backyard, Frontyard, Japanese

What Are Specimen Trees?

A specimen tree is simply a tree selected and planted to serve as a centrepiece or feature in a garden or landscape. Unlike trees grouped in avenues or borders, a specimen tree stands alone, drawing attention through its unique characteristics. Specimen trees are chosen for their dramatic shape, exceptional foliage, lovely flowers, or vibrant autumn colour, making them ideal for lawns, courtyards, and driveways.

Popular Types of Specimen Trees

Choosing the right specimen tree can be transformative for your garden. Here are some of our favourite types of specimen trees suited to New Zealand conditions:

Ornamental Flowering Trees

Trees such as Robinia Lace Lady excel as specimens, thanks to their graceful, finely divided foliage and elegant form. These ornamental varieties are perfect for adding interest to small spaces or softening hard landscaping with their delicate appearance.

Deciduous Trees for Autumn Colour

For those who want a burst of autumn brilliance, deciduous ashes like Fraxinus excelsior, Fraxinus Annesbrook, and Fraxinus excelsior aurea make excellent specimen choices. Each brings its own flair: - Fraxinus excelsior offers classic, bold foliage that turns a vivid yellow in autumn. - Fraxinus Annesbrook is known for its upright habit and intense seasonal colour. - Fraxinus excelsior aurea, also known as the golden ash, delights with bright golden stems in winter and lush foliage in summer.

Architectural and Upright Specimen Trees

When you need height, structure, or a strong vertical statement, consider columnar varieties such as Fraxinus Purple Spire. This tree is beloved for its narrow silhouette and rich, deep purple autumn tones. It makes a perfect specimen in both modern gardens and traditional landscapes.

How to Choose the Best Specimen Tree for Your Garden

When selecting from the many types of specimen trees, consider your garden's size, sunlight, soil, and the effect you want to create. Think about seasonal changes: do you want a flowering spring highlight, cooling summer shade, or a blaze of autumn colour? Remember, the best specimens often combine beauty with easy care.

Find Your Dream Specimen Tree

Browse our full range of specimen trees, including stunning options like Robinia Lace Lady, Fraxinus excelsior, Fraxinus Annesbrook, Fraxinus Purple Spire, and Fraxinus excelsior aurea, to find the perfect highlight for your garden. Whether you seek a single, elegant tree or want to create dramatic impact, there's a specimen to suit every style and space.

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.

types of specimen trees

Agathis australis (New Zealand Kauri)

Melia azedarach (Bead Tree)

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What Are Specimen Trees?