Savannah, Georgia, is recognized for its picturesque, tree-lined streets and historic urban squares. This unique arboreal landscape contributes significantly to the city’s distinct charm and atmosphere. Its mature urban forest creates a sense of timeless beauty, drawing visitors and residents alike into its verdant embrace. Savannah’s identity is deeply intertwined with its green spaces, which provide both aesthetic appeal and a tranquil setting.
Savannah’s Signature Trees
The Live Oak, scientifically known as Quercus virginiana, is Savannah’s most iconic tree species, defining much of its visual identity. These majestic trees have expansive, sprawling branches that often reach the ground, creating a wide, sheltering canopy. Many oaks have graced the city for centuries, with some specimens, like the Candler Oak, dating back to the 1700s. Their size and age make them natural landmarks throughout the historic district and city squares.
Draping from Live Oak branches is Spanish Moss (Tillandsia usneoides), an epiphytic plant that forms a symbiotic relationship with the trees. This gray-green vegetation does not harm the host tree but uses it for support, absorbing moisture and nutrients from the air. The combination of sturdy Live Oaks and flowing Spanish Moss creates a distinctive landscape synonymous with Savannah’s Southern charm, contributing to the city’s shaded avenues.
Other Prominent Species
Beyond Live Oaks, Savannah’s urban forest features a variety of other tree species. The Southern Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora) is common, recognized by its large, glossy evergreen leaves and fragrant, creamy-white flowers that bloom in late spring and summer. These trees are often found in residential areas and parks. Another familiar presence is the Palmetto (Sabal palmetto), a native palm species.
Crape Myrtles (Lagerstroemia indica) are widely planted, known for their vibrant, crinkled flowers in shades of pink, purple, red, and white during warmer months. These flowering trees add splashes of color to streets and gardens across Savannah. Dogwoods (Cornus florida) grace the city with their delicate white or pink blossoms in early spring. Various other palm species also thrive in Savannah’s mild climate.
The City’s Green Canopy
Savannah’s urban forest thrives due to its favorable climate, characterized by mild winters and ample rainfall, allowing a wide range of tree species to flourish. The city’s commitment to its green spaces has historical roots, dating back to its founding. General James Oglethorpe’s 1733 city plan incorporated numerous squares designed with open spaces, laying the groundwork for Savannah as a “Forest City.”
Savannah has actively managed and expanded its tree canopy throughout its history, particularly after natural events like hurricanes in 1804 and 1893. The establishment of the Park and Tree Commission in 1896 underscored the city’s dedication to organized tree planting and beautification efforts. This commitment has resulted in a dense urban canopy that provides ecological benefits, including significant shade to mitigate urban heat. Trees also improve air quality by filtering pollutants and contribute to the city’s aesthetic appeal and livability.