It is hot here in Las Vegas and shade is a hot commodity. Most of us have our AC on constantly which is causing our utility bills to soar. We have a solution. Plant some evergreen trees! Evergreen trees provide year-round interest to our yards and create much needed shade. And, by planting evergreen trees strategically around your home, you can naturally cool your home and cut down the cost of your utilities. Add value to your home and be comfortable, that’s pretty great. What’s even better is that at Moon Valley Nurseries, we have evergreens that grow quickly, meaning more shade sooner.
Here at Moon Valley Nurseries, we custom-grow the best trees that thrive in our environment, at our local farms; and, we have been doing it for the past 20 years. We have superior trees, we only grow the best trees in smaller boxes, saving you money! Any of our knowledgeable nursery pros can help you find the perfect evergreen for the perfect spot in your yard. Planting fast-growing evergreens is the greatest choice you can make for any type of landscape or yard; it gives you all the benefits without the long wait. Below are some of our favorite fast-growing evergreens.
California Pepper (Schinus molle) – This picturesque evergreen is sure to give any landscape a face-lift. California Pepper trees require little water, once established, you may never have to water this tree again. The bright green, fern-like leaves and the bright red berries along with the weeping shape of the tree creates a stunning focal point. Available in single or multi-trunk. Its gnarled, thick trunk is the perfect spot for carving initials. Use nighttime lighting to create a dramatic scene. California Pepper trees have an upright yet broad canopy growth that provides much needed shade. This lovely evergreen loves heat and is drought tolerant, just what Nevada folks need in a tree!
Australian Bottle (Brachychiton populneus) – Also known as Kurrajong, this evergreen tree is a favorite due to its distinct canopy shape. Australian Bottle trees have a tall, narrow upright growth habit, making them a preferred choice for closed-in areas. This hardy and water-wise tree is ideal for desert areas, they require little water once established and are ultra-drought tolerant. Bright green leaves contrast beautifully with the gray or green trunk. The Australian Bottle thrives in full sun and gives off the shade we desire. These trees are perfect for planting in rows to create privacy and block unwanted views.
African Sumac (Rhus lancea) – The superior drought tolerant tree! The African Sumac tree thrives in hot, dry climates just like ours in Nevada. Deep green foliage grows naturally in an umbrella-like shape but can easily be pruned into any desired shape, providing much needed shade. African Sumacs are very durable trees that can withstand intense desert heat, cold, and high winds. We like to use these trees as a specimen lawn tree, planted near a home to cool it, or in rows as a natural windbreak. Rhus lancea require little to moderate watering once established. These long-lived trees will delight generations to come!
Acacia Saligna (Acacia salinga) – This beautiful tree has an upright yet broad umbrella-like canopy that provides a needed shade, making it a fantastic addition to any style of landscape. Originating from Australia, the Acacia tree is well suited for thriving in hot and arid areas. This drought tolerant tree can adapt to many landscape applications. Also known as Orange Wattle, it requires low water once established and loves the sun. The large, silvery-blue leaves help the fluffy yellow flowers pop in spring. This seasonal color will wow your neighbors. If you are looking for a low maintenance shade tree that is easy to grow, look no further than the Acacia Saligna!
We Can Help!
Not sure which evergreen to choose? Or where to put it? No worries, we can help! Our nursery pros can help you select the perfect tree(s) and will do a free in-nursery design consultation to determine the perfect spot for the evergreens you just chose. Want to make sure your new trees grow to their full potential? We can help with that, too! Moon Valley Nurseries has developed custom fertilizers for our local environment, like our amazing Moon Juice and Moon Dust. Just ask any of our nursery pros at your local Moon Valley Nurseries location for help!