Savannah, Georgia, is renowned for its distinctive and abundant tree canopy. The city’s charm is greatly enhanced by its verdant expanses and shaded avenues. This lush arboreal character creates an inviting atmosphere, drawing visitors and residents alike into a landscape rich with natural elegance, integral to Savannah’s unique aesthetic and historical narrative.
The Iconic Live Oaks
The Southern Live Oak, Quercus virginiana, is the most recognizable tree species in Savannah, synonymous with its historic squares and scenic avenues. These majestic trees feature expansive, sprawling branches that often extend wider than their height, sometimes reaching over 80 feet in spread while typically standing around 60 feet tall. Their thick, furrowed bark and leathery, evergreen leaves provide dense shade year-round.
Many live oaks are famously draped with Spanish moss, Tillandsia usneoides, an epiphyte that uses the trees for physical support without causing harm. This resilient species thrives in the coastal plain climate, tolerating salt spray and short-duration flooding. It requires well-drained, acidic soil with 40-65 inches of annual precipitation. Designated Georgia’s state tree in 1937, its strong wood was used in early American shipbuilding, notably for the USS Constitution. Many live oaks in downtown Savannah are over a century old, including the 300-year-old Candler Oak near Forsyth Park.
Common Native Trees of the Region
Beyond the iconic live oaks, Savannah’s landscape features a variety of native tree species adapted to the coastal Georgia environment. The Southern Magnolia, Magnolia grandiflora, is identified by its large, glossy evergreen leaves and fragrant, showy white flowers that bloom from spring into summer. These magnolias are often found in parks and cemeteries.
Pine trees are also prominent, including the Loblolly Pine, Pinus taeda, and the Longleaf Pine, Pinus palustris. Loblolly Pines are fast-growing and adaptable, frequently seen in forests and urban areas. Longleaf Pines, known for their long needles and historical prevalence, are valued for their ecological importance and resilience, often found in drier, sandy soils. These pines are integral to the natural ecosystem, providing habitat and contributing to the region’s timber resources.
Another distinctive native is the Bald Cypress, Taxodium distichum, often found in wet, swampy areas or along riverbanks. This deciduous conifer is notable for its “knees” that emerge from the roots, and its feathery foliage turns a striking russet color in autumn before dropping. Other native hardwoods include the Sweetgum, Liquidambar styraciflua, recognized by its star-shaped leaves and spiky fruit. The Water Tupelo, Nyssa aquatica, thrives in wetlands and is characterized by its swollen base.
Trees Popular in Urban and Landscaped Settings
Savannah’s urban and landscaped areas feature diverse trees planted for aesthetic appeal, shade, and adaptability. The Crape Myrtle, Lagerstroemia indica, is a ubiquitous sight, celebrated for its long-lasting, crinkled blooms in shades of pink, purple, red, and white from summer into fall. These trees are valued for their ornamental qualities and ability to thrive in warm climates.
Various palm species also contribute to Savannah’s Southern atmosphere, with the Cabbage Palmetto, Sabal palmetto, being a common example. This native palm, also South Carolina’s state tree, is frequently used in street plantings, providing a tropical feel. Its tall, unbranched trunk topped with fan-shaped leaves makes it a recognizable feature.
While non-native species like the Bradford Pear, Pyrus calleryana, known for its early spring white blossoms, have been widely planted, its use is less favored due to brittle branches and invasive tendencies. In contrast, the Flowering Dogwood, Cornus florida, a native understory tree, is cherished for its delicate white or pink bracts that appear in early spring, adding beauty to residential areas and parks. These trees collectively enhance the city’s green infrastructure, offering both visual interest and functional benefits.
Unique and Less Common Species
Beyond widespread varieties, Savannah hosts unique and less common tree species. The Ginkgo, Ginkgo biloba, an ancient species native to China, can be found in locations like Forsyth Park. It is recognized for its distinctive fan-shaped leaves that turn a brilliant golden-yellow in autumn. This tree’s resilience and striking seasonal display make it a notable presence.
Certain fruit trees, common in private backyards, also contribute to the city’s flora. The Common Fig, Ficus carica, is cultivated for its sweet, edible fruit and broad, lobed leaves. The American Persimmon, Diospyros virginiana, a native species, bears small, orange fruits that ripen in the fall and are a food source for wildlife. These trees offer a glimpse into localized horticultural practices and historical use of edible plants.