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Trees usually thrive in rich soil with great drainage properties. We also know that some varieties, such as the weeping willow, may thrive in moist soils or even standing water. However, there are some absolutely astonishing trees that need nothing more than water. Known as swamp trees, keep reading to discover the best trees that grow in water!
1. Pumpkin Ash
The pumpkin ash tree is a type of ash tree that thrives in water. When planted in standing water, the base of its trunk starts to swell, resembling the shape of a pumpkin. This tree is commonly found on the Atlantic plains, and it can reach up to 130 feet.
2. Sweetbay Magnolia
Sweetbay magnolia fills the air with unbelievable fragrance in early spring, similar to vanilla. These trees love water, but they do not need to be planted in standing water as they also thrive in moist soil. The magnolia tree is a relatively low-maintenance option, making for an excellent choice for your garden or front yard.
3. Willow Tree
If you want to plant one of the most elegant trees, the weeping willow should be high on your list. It is colorful, vibrant, and extremely stylish, no matter what your property style is. The tree also grows quickly, approximately four feet per year, so you can plant it to get shade as soon as possible. The weeping willow loves water or swamps, but they can also survive in drier soil.
4. Mangrove
Mangrove trees are so resilient that they can even survive when the roots are completely covered by saltwater. In the United States, you can find three main species, and all of them are located in Florida, but there are more than 50 types worldwide. Apart from providing shade and nourishment for birds and water organisms, these trees prevent ground erosion.
5. Bald Cypress
The bald cypress is an exquisite presence in the Deep South swamps. It is a prominent, large tree, usually covered in elongated needles and plenty of moss. The bald cypress tree can grow in any type of water, either flowing or standing, and they provide a welcoming home for wildlife. At the bottom of the tree, you can notice some knee-shaped root extensions that help the tree obtain oxygen from above the water level.
6. Water Tupelo
The water tupelo tree loves standing water all year-round. As a result, you can find it in swamps and other flooded areas, providing shelter for wildlife, including birds and even raccoons. It is a beautiful tree that you can see in the Deep South and other wet areas in the North. Its base swells when it is covered in water, turning it into a breath-taking view.
7. River Birch
The river birch can be an excellent addition to your garden or yard. It looks elegant and casual at the same time, and it provides quick shade due to its accelerated growth rate of up to four feet per year. The river birch, as the name suggests, loves wet soil, and it takes about a decade to reach its maturity height, approximately 50 feet.
8. Pin Oak
The pin oak tree is the fastest growing variety among other oak trees. It is very unpretentious, as it can thrive in hot weather, wet or dry soil. It is very adaptable, but it will not survive in highly elevated areas. The tree provides plenty of food for wildlife, including rabbits, squirrels, deer, and other game. The pink oak tree can easily become the focal point of your property.
9. Red Maple Tree
The red maple tree comes with vibrant leaves, especially during autumn, but the color remains impressive during the other seasons, too. The tree can grow in standing water, and it is usually found all over North America.
10. Dawn Redwood
Another resistant tree, the dawn redwood, grows quickly in nearly any environment, including water or very wet soil. It has a beautiful evergreen look that can elevate any property, although it is not an evergreen per se. Its spring leaves resemble fern.
