Shade Trees

Although any tree can provide shade from the sun, deciduous trees that have broad, dense canopies are the only trees that are referred to as actual “shade trees.” Shade trees are generally tall, ranging in mature height from about 25’ to over 60’, although a few shade trees grow only to be 10-15’ tall. Shade trees in Colorado can be found across a variety of elevations, and almost without exception, provide rich fall colors. Most shade trees have green leaves throughout the growing season, but some, like the Chokecherry and Crimson Spire Oak, have reddish/crimson leaves throughout the year. With the exception of Aspen, which are often placed in clumps, shade trees are often planted as specimen trees, intended to stand alone—or at least a bit distant from one another— as focal point in a landscape. Brady’s West carries a wide range of shade trees with respect to size, shape, and elevation.