What shade tree loves high desert conditions?

Welcome to the site!

I had good luck with Eucalyptus when I lived in Riverside

I thought about them, but they don't provide much shade until they're about 50 years old!

When we moved to our area, the city streets have Poplar trees. Thankfully there were some along our fence line..so we get good shade in summer when sun shifts west and the relentless heat wave comes around.

But it is rather messy during Spring when it throws out catkins as it comes out of its winter slumber and goes deciduous during cold season.

Wow, looks beautiful! Are you high desert?

Eucalyptus are fast growers, maybe plant a few together for the shade.

Use to do touch and go's at Palmdale.

Your best bet is to drive around town and see what is growing and what you like. Then visit nurseries and ask the people there (not the big boxes). If you have a nearby tree farm, most definitely go there. I'm certain you'll find a great selection of native or climate appropriate shade trees to choose from. There are many species of eucalyptus, but the most common are large upright growers that aren't shade trees and might be too big for a small urban lot (you don't say where you want to plant your tree). In addition, they have a high level of volatile oils which cause them to virtually explode in fire conditions. Many poplars also are large uprights and have high water requirements.

A tree is a long-term investment and the most important landscape choice you'll make. The right tree can be a treasured asset to your yard for decades to come. The wrong choice can be an expensive nuisance and even a liability. Take your time. Do research. Choose wisely.

NMoasis said: Your best bet is to drive around town and see what is growing and what you like.

Great advice from zoe...

Your local extension service has 'master gardeners' who are local gardeners from your area, university trained, and often staff a helpline.

Is Los Angeles your county?
https://celosangeles.ucanr.edu...

Master Gardener said:
The Master Gardener helpline is available by phone at (626) 586-1988 or email at [email protected].

I almost guarantee they will have a list of tree favorites, or know a local expert who can help.

kasling said: Wow, looks beautiful! Are you high desert?

Our area is somewhat similar in growing conditions as yours, very inland. We get excessively hot and dry here, then the cool air inversion during colder season.

I would also suggest, check with your city too, if they have an approved list of trees that you can plant in your area. Our city has it, it may be different in yours.