Understanding San Antonio’s Trees: A Quick Guide to Local Tree Types

San Antonio has a mix of trees that offer shade, color, and character. Some thrive with little maintenance, while others need regular care to stay healthy. If you have trees on your property—or are thinking of planting some—here’s what you should know about the most common types in the area.

Live Oak – The Iconic Texas Tree

If you picture a Texas ranch, you’re probably thinking of a live oak. These trees are everywhere, and for good reason.

✅ Stays green year-round

✅ Provides deep shade

✅ Can live for centuries

⚠️ Things to Watch For:

•Drops leaves in early spring, not fall

•Attracts insects like oak galls

•Limbs get heavy and need occasional trimming

Texas Red Oak – Fall Color in a Hot Climate

San Antonio doesn’t get a full fall season, but Texas red oaks bring a splash of red when temperatures drop.

✅ Grows up to 50 feet tall

✅ Handles rocky and clay soils

✅ Turns bright red in autumn

⚠️ Things to Watch For:

•Prone to oak wilt, a serious tree disease

•Shouldn’t be pruned in spring

Cedar Elm – Tough and Low-Maintenance

Need a tree that can take whatever Texas weather throws at it? Cedar elms are some of the most drought-resistant trees around.

✅ Survives on little water

✅ Grows fast and adapts to different soils

✅ Offers great shade

⚠️ Things to Watch For:

•Can develop weak limbs without proper pruning

•Attracts aphids, which leave a sticky residue

Pecan – Great for Shade and Snacks

If you love pecan pie, this tree is for you. It’s the official state tree of Texas and grows well in San Antonio.

✅ Produces edible pecans in the fall

✅ Offers deep shade

✅ Grows strong in well-drained soil

⚠️ Things to Watch For:

•Heavy branches can break in storms

•Needs deep watering during dry spells

Mesquite – A True Texas Native

Mesquites are rugged, fast-growing trees that thrive in dry conditions. They’re great for rural properties but can spread quickly.

✅ Handles drought like a champ

✅ Produces sweet seed pods that wildlife love

✅ Has unique, twisting branches

⚠️ Things to Watch For:

•Thorns can make trimming tricky

•Wood is brittle and breaks easily in storms

Mountain Laurel – Smells Like Grape Kool-Aid

This small, slow-growing tree is known for its purple flowers that smell like grape soda in the spring.

✅ Stays green all year

✅ Thrives in rocky soil

✅ Drought-resistant

⚠️ Things to Watch For:

•Toxic seeds if eaten by pets or kids

•Grows slowly, so don’t expect instant shade

Choosing the Right Tree for Your Yard

Before planting, think about:

✅ Space – Some trees need room to spread out

✅ Soil – San Antonio has rocky, sandy, and clay soils

✅ Water – Drought-resistant trees save on maintenance

✅ Upkeep – Some trees drop leaves, others need frequent trimming

If your trees need expert care in San Antonio or the Texas Hill Country, we’re here to help. Whether it’s trimming, removal, or seasonal maintenance, our certified arborists ensure your trees stay strong, healthy, and beautiful year-round.

📞 Call us today at (210) 857-2006 or (830) 857-2006 for a free estimate and professional tree service you can trust.

Serving San Antonio, Boerne, Helotes, New Braunfels, and surrounding areas.