Not every yard in the Pacific Northwest comes with acres of room—but that doesn’t mean you have to compromise on beauty, privacy, or seasonal color. Small trees are the perfect solution for compact landscapes, patios, or urban gardens. With the right selection, you can bring charm, character, and even wildlife into your space without worrying about root invasions or overcrowding.

Here are our top recommendations for small trees that thrive in the PNW, with both evergreen and deciduous options to fit your landscape style.

🌳 Deciduous Options

Japanese Maples 
Delicate, sculptural, and endlessly beautiful, Japanese Maples are beloved in the Pacific Northwest. Varieties like Full Moon and Paperbark offer stunning fall foliage, striking bark, and graceful shapes that work well in shaded or partially sunny areas. They rarely grow too large and are perfect for creating a focal point in small garden beds or containers. Portlands Japanese Garden has a beautiful display of these trees.

Vine Maple 
A true native of the region, the Vine Maple boasts fan-like, palmate leaves that burst into brilliant reds and oranges in fall. It grows naturally in woodland areas and adapts well to both sun and shade, making it ideal for naturalistic and native gardens.

Weeping Cherry 
Nothing says spring like a blooming weeping cherry tree. These graceful trees have a gentle cascading habit and are covered in soft pink or white blossoms in early spring. Their compact form and elegant movement make them a showstopper in small yards.

🌲 Evergreen Options

Hinoki Cypress 
With its tidy form and soft, dark green foliage, the Hinoki Cypress is a favorite for modern and traditional gardens alike. It stays relatively compact, making it a smart choice near foundations, walkways, or tight corners.

Incense Cedar 
While known for its potential to grow large, this cedar can be pruned and trained to remain at a manageable height. It’s an excellent option if you’re looking for fast-growing privacy or a natural windbreak, with the bonus of a lovely citrusy fragrance.

🌿 Other Small Tree Favorites

Serviceberry 
A four-season performer that attracts birds and pollinators, the serviceberry offers fragrant spring flowers, summer berries, vivid fall color, and striking bark in winter. It’s perfect for homeowners interested in supporting local wildlife.

Crabapple 
Compact, colorful, and a pollinator magnet, crabapples are great for adding springtime cheer. Their ornamental fruits persist into winter, providing food for birds and interest for humans.

Redbud
These trees bring a burst of bright pink or purple flowers before their heart-shaped leaves emerge in spring. Many cultivars stay under 20 feet, and their irregular branching adds sculptural beauty throughout the seasons.

Let Harrity Tree Specialists Help You Plant the Right Tree

Planting a tree is an investment in your home’s landscape—and the right choice can bring beauty and function for decades to come. At Harrity Tree Specialists, we understand the unique demands of the Pacific Northwest climate and how to match the perfect small tree to your space.

Whether you’re looking to enhance curb appeal, attract wildlife, or create a peaceful garden escape, we can help you choose and plant the best tree for your yard.

👉 Contact us today for a free consultation and let’s bring your small space to life with the perfect tree!