Native Trees of the Rocky Mountains

• Explore Tree Species Native to the Rocky Mountain Ecoregion

• Find out how native trees help wildlife, the environment, and you

• Get tips on incorporating these native trees into your landscape

  • Ponderosa Pine (Pinus ponderosa)

    Zone: Typically found in Zones 4-9.

    Soil Conditions: Prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soil but can adapt to various soil types.

    Light Requirements: Thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.

    Mature Size: Can reach heights of 60-125 feet (18-38 meters) with a spread of 25-35 feet (7.6-10.7 meters).

  • Quaking Aspen (Populus tremuloides)

    Zone: Commonly found in Zones 1-7.

    Soil Conditions: Grows in a wide range of soils, including well-drained to moist soils.

    Light Requirements: Flourishes in full sun.

    Mature Size: Typically ranges between 20-50 feet (6-15 meters) tall with a spread of 15-30 feet (4.5-9 meters).

  • Rocky Mountain Maple (Acer glabrum)

    Zone: Commonly found in Zones 4-8.

    Soil Conditions: Prefers well-drained, moist soils.

    Light Requirements: Thrives in partial shade to full sun.

    Mature Size: Typically grows between 15-30 feet (4.5-9 meters) tall with a spread of 15-25 feet (4.5-7.6 meters).

  • Cottonwood (Populus deltoides)

    Zone: Thrives in Zones 3-9.

    Soil Conditions: Prefers moist to wet soil conditions and can tolerate periodic flooding.

    Light Requirements: Flourishes in full sun to partial shade.

    Mature Size: Can grow between 50-100 feet (15-30 meters) tall with a spread of 40-60 feet (12-18 meters).

  • Blue Spruce (Picea pungens)

    Blue Spruce (Picea pungens)

    Zone: Primarily grows in Zones 2-7.

    Soil Conditions: Thrives in well-drained, slightly acidic soil but can adapt to various soil types.

    Light Requirements: Prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade.

    Mature Size: Usually grows between 30-75 feet (9-23 meters) in height with a spread of 10-20 feet (3-6 meters).

Why Choose Native Trees?

All About Relationships

Native trees have co-evolved with wildlife over millions of years, creating complex relationships with insects and animals in that time. Native trees' relationships with wildlife aren't just a natural wonder; they directly impact people's lives in important ways, from water quality and air purity to our food sources.

Biodiversity Promotion

Keystone species play important roles in providing food and shelter for a variety of wildlife. In the Rocky Mountains, native tree species serve as host plants for various insect species, providing essential sustenance and shelter for their lifecycle. For instance, Ponderosa Pine hosts species like the Western Pine Elfin butterfly and various moths, while Quaking Aspen serves as a host for the Populus-feeding swallowtail butterfly, etc.

Resource Conservation

Native trees are essential to maintain the balance of ecosystems. Native trees assist in stabilizing the soil, reducing the risk of erosion, and supporting the health of watersheds. These trees have evolved root systems that are suited to retaining soil integrity, preventing erosion, and aiding in water retention, which are crucial for sustainable landscapes.

Climate Adaptation

The Rocky Mountains have a unique climate, but native trees like Ponderosa Pine and Blue Spruce are well adapted to it. These trees have genetic traits that make them resilient to extreme weather conditions, ensuring their ability to endure and support the region's ecosystem.