Spring Spectacle: Discovering the Beauty of Flowering Trees in the Spring
As the frost of winter gives way to the warmth of spring, the landscapes of Iowa come alive with a breathtaking display of flowering trees. From delicate blossoms adorning branches to vibrant hues painting the skyline, spring in Iowa is a time of wonder and delight.
We have a small peach, pear and apple orchard on our hobby farm and we were given a great piece of advice by a season aborist once - add an early flowering tree to attract pollinators.
1. Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis)
The Eastern redbud is a beloved native tree that heralds the arrival of spring with its profusion of pink or lavender blossoms. Adorning the bare branches before the emergence of leaves, these exquisite flowers create a striking contrast against the backdrop of early spring skies. Eastern redbuds thrive in Iowa's Zone 5 climate, adding a pop of color to gardens, parks, and woodland edges.
2. Crabapple (Malus spp.)
Crabapple trees are renowned for their abundant spring blooms and ornamental value. With a wide range of cultivars available, these trees offer a spectrum of colors, including shades of pink, white, and red. The delicate flowers of crabapples attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, while their small fruits provide sustenance for birds and wildlife throughout the year.
3. Dogwood (Cornus spp.)
Dogwood trees captivate the senses with their graceful form and elegant blooms. Native species such as flowering dogwood (Cornus florida) and kousa dogwood (Cornus kousa) adorn the landscape with clusters of white or pink flowers in spring. These trees thrive in Iowa's Zone 5 climate and are valued for their year-round beauty, from spring blossoms to vibrant fall foliage.