Trees labeled “crazy” possess distinctive features that set them apart. These unusual characteristics create striking visual interest in a landscape, offering unique forms and textures.
Unusual growth habits, like contorted, twisted, or weeping branches, create a sculptural appearance. This is especially noticeable when leaves have fallen, revealing intricate branching. Such habits create natural focal points, drawing the eye with their unconventional shapes.
Striking foliage also contributes to a tree’s “crazy” appeal, featuring unexpected colors or unique shapes and textures. Leaves might maintain vibrant reds, purples, or variegated patterns throughout the growing season, not just in autumn. These colors provide year-round interest, contrasting with common green landscapes.
Distinctive bark is another standout feature, ranging from peeling and colorful to highly textured. Some trees shed bark in papery layers, revealing new, brightly colored bark underneath. Others develop deep fissures or unique patterns. These characteristics add tactile and visual appeal, particularly during winter.
Uncommon forms, such as dwarf, miniature, columnar, or broadly spreading shapes, also contribute. These trees allow for unique landscape designs. Peculiar fruits or flowers, displaying unusual colors, sizes, or abundant displays, enhance a tree’s distinctive charm and seasonal beauty.
Trees Often Called “Crazy”
Many trees are called “crazy” due to their extraordinary visual traits. The Contorted Filbert (Corylus avellana ‘Contorta’), or “Harry Lauder’s Walking Stick,” is known for its remarkably twisted branches and twigs. This deciduous shrub or small tree offers significant winter interest when its unique structure is exposed, complemented by golden-yellow catkins in late winter and early spring.
The Corkscrew Willow (Salix matsudana ‘Tortuosa’) also has an unusual form, featuring contorted branches and curled leaves. This fast-growing tree reaches 25 to 35 feet tall with a 15 to 20-foot spread, making its architectural form striking in winter. Its branches grow upright before curving back, creating a captivating silhouette.
Weeping varieties, characterized by soft, pendulous branches that cascade towards the ground, are also notable. Examples include Weeping Cherries, with abundant pink or white flowers in spring, and Weeping Norway Spruces, known for their rich, dark green needles on gracefully drooping branches. These trees offer a flowing form that adds elegance and vertical interest.
Trees with striking purple foliage, such as the Purpleleaf Plum (Prunus cerasifera) and ‘Crimson King’ Maple (Acer platanoides ‘Crimson King’), are known for their vibrant leaf colors. The Purpleleaf Plum features dark red to purple leaves that retain color throughout the growing season, complemented by pale pink spring blossoms. The ‘Crimson King’ Maple maintains rich purplish-crimson leaves all summer, contrasting with green landscapes and reaching 35 to 45 feet. These trees provide year-round color, adding a bold statement to a landscape.
Caring for and Managing “Crazy Trees”
Caring for trees with unusual characteristics involves specific considerations to maintain their unique forms and health. Pruning plays a role, often enhancing the tree’s distinctive shape rather than controlling size. For contorted or weeping varieties, selective pruning highlights their architectural structure, removing any straight-growing branches that might detract. This includes removing suckers, especially for grafted plants, to prevent the rootstock from overtaking the cultivated variety.
Appropriate site selection is important for these distinctive trees, ensuring enough space to fully develop their mature size and unique habit. Consider their eventual spread and height, as some unique forms can be broad or tall. Planting them where their unusual features can be a focal point allows their attributes to be showcased.
General watering and fertilizing practices are important for tree health. Consistent moisture is beneficial, especially during dry periods. A balanced fertilizer supports vigorous growth without encouraging unwanted straight shoots. While many unique trees adapt to various soil conditions, good drainage is preferred to prevent root issues.
Monitoring for common pests and diseases is part of routine care. Although some unique cultivars may exhibit increased susceptibility, vigilance allows for early detection and intervention. Addressing problems promptly helps preserve the tree’s health and distinctive appearance.
Choosing and Planting “Crazy Trees”
Selecting a “crazy tree” requires thoughtful consideration to ensure it thrives and fits your landscape. Understanding the mature size and spread of a chosen variety is important. This ensures adequate space, preventing future overcrowding or structural issues.
The aesthetic impact of the tree’s unique features within your landscape design should be considered. A contorted or weeping tree can serve as a striking specimen. Planning its placement allows its distinctive silhouette or vibrant foliage to complement existing garden elements.
Maintenance commitment is another factor, as some unique forms may require specialized pruning or attention. While not all “crazy” trees are high-maintenance, understanding a variety’s specific needs helps manage expectations for preserving its unique characteristics.
Compatibility with your local climate and soil conditions is always a primary consideration. Selecting varieties well-suited to your hardiness zone and soil type promotes robust growth and reduces health problems. This ensures the tree has the best chance to flourish.