11 Stunning White Flowering Trees In Missouri (Photos & Care)

The white flowering trees in Missouri stand out amongst this vibrant symphony of colors, offering a visual treat that never fails to delight the beholder’s eyes. For generations, these iconic blossoms have captivated both locals and visitors with their timeless elegance and unblemished purity.

In this article, we will look at the 11 most common white flowering trees in Missouri, beginning with the dogwood, which is the most common of all.

Let’s get started.

1. Flowering Dogwood

• Scientific Name: Cornus florida
• Common Name(s): Flowering Dogwood
• Mature Height: 15-30 feet (4.5-9 meters)
• Native Region: Eastern United States
• Flowers: Clusters of small white petal-like bracts, with tiny yellow-green flowers in the center. Flowers bloom in spring and last for several weeks.
• Uses: Ornamental tree in landscapes, attracts birds and butterflies, and provides shade.

The Flowering Dogwood, scientifically known as Cornus florida, is a popular and lovely tree that may be found throughout Missouri. It’s a deciduous tree with a mature height of 15-30 feet (4.5-9 meters), making it an excellent choice for tiny yards or gardens. The tree is indigenous to the eastern United States, including Missouri, and has adapted well to the local climate and growing circumstances.

The Flowering Dogwood’s blossoms are one of its most stunning characteristics. Clusters of little white petal-like bracts bloom in the spring, providing a visually striking show. In the heart of each bract is a small yellow-green bloom. These flowers attract a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies, making the tree an excellent addition to any garden. The blossoms last for several weeks and offer a splash of color to the landscape.

In addition to its lovely blossoms, the Flowering Dogwood has little berry-like fruits in late summer. Many birds enjoy these fruits, which can attract a variety of species to the garden. The tree’s foliage is particularly appealing, with oval-shaped leaves that turn a vivid scarlet in the fall, adding intrigue and beauty.

Flowering Dogwood is a low-maintenance tree that is appropriate for both expert and inexperienced gardeners. It prefers well-drained soil and some shade, while in temperate climates it may withstand full sun. Watering the tregularlyasis, especially during dry months, will help maintain it healthy. Pruning is not usually required, however, it can be done to shape the tree or remove dead or damaged branches.

Because of its lovely blossoms and foliage, this tree is widely employed as an ornamental tree in landscaping. Its tiny size and lovely beauty make it ideal for small yards or gardens. The Flowering Dogwood is also beneficial to the environment since it attracts birds and butterflies, bringing life and diversity to the garden. It also provides shade, making it an ideal tree to sit under on a hot summer day. The Flowering Dogwood, whether planted as a single specimen or in groups, will add to the beauty of any Missouri landscape.

2. American Fringe Tree

• Scientific Name: Chionanthus virginicus
• Common Name(s): American Fringe Tree
• Mature Height: 12-20 feet (3.7-6.1 meters)
• Native Region: Eastern and Central United States
• Flowers: White, fluffy fringe-like flowers
• Fruit: Blue-black drupes
• Uses: Ornamental tree, attracts pollinators, used in landscaping, herbal medicine, bird food source

The American Fringe Tree, Chionanthus virginicus, is a tiny flowering tree that can grow to be 12-20 feet (3.7-6.1 meters) tall when fully grown. It is indigenous to the eastern and central United States, including Missouri. 

The stunning white blossoms that resemble delicate, fluffy fringes distinguish the American Fringe Tree. The blossoms bloom from late spring to early summer, covering the tree in blooms and bringing beauty and elegance to the scene. These blossoms are very appealing to pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, making them a popular tree for gardeners who want to help local wildlife.

The American Fringe Tree has blue-black drupes as fruits in addition to its gorgeous flowers. While these fruits are not very tasty to humans, they serve as a food source for birds, drawing them to the area. During the fall and winter seasons, the tree’s fruits can also give decorative interest and visual attractiveness.

Because it is adaptable to a variety of soil types and can endure both full sun and partial shade, the American Fringe Tree is very easy to cultivate in Missouri landscapes. It prefers moist, well-draining soil, but once established, it can endure periods of drought. It is a tough tree that can resist harsh winter conditions.

In terms of cultivation, the American Fringe Tree is largely grown for its ornamental value. Its lovely blossoms make it a popular choice for landscaping, particularly in gardens and parks where its graceful display may be appreciated. Furthermore, the tree has been utilized in herbal medicine for its purported medical benefits, such as healing digestive and respiratory problems.

3. Hawthorn

• Scientific Name: Crataegus spp.
• Common Name(s): Hawthorn, Thornapple
• Mature Height: 10-30 feet (3-9 meters)
• Native Region: North America, Europe, Asia
• Flowers: Small white flowers with five petals, arranged in clusters
• Fruit: Small red or black berries
• Uses: Hawthorn is often used as an ornamental tree in landscapes, thanks to its attractive flowers and berries. It also has medicinal uses and is known for its heart health benefits.

Hawthorn (Crataegus spp.) trees are common in Missouri settings. These deciduous trees grow to be 10 to 30 feet tall, making them ideal for smaller gardens or as a hedge. They are native to North America, Europe, and Asia, and they can be found in a variety of settings.

Hawthorn trees have specific traits that allow them to be easily identified. The leaves are simple, with lobed or serrated margins, and are usually alternately placed on the branches. When the tree is young, the bark is smooth and grayish brown, but as it ages, it becomes darker and slightly fissured. 

Flowers are one of the most appealing aspects of hawthorn trees. They produce clusters of little white blooms with five petals in the spring. The flowers have a pleasant scent and make a lovely display in the landscape. After flowering, hawthorn trees produce little red or black berries that attract birds and other wildlife.

Hawthorn trees flourish in full sun to light shade in Missouri environments. They may grow in a variety of soil conditions but prefer well-drained soil. They are low-maintenance trees, but they may benefit from regular pruning to keep their shape and eliminate dead or diseased limbs. 

Hawthorn trees offer a variety of applications aside from ornamentation. Hawthorn has traditionally been used to maintain heart health and improve circulation. The berries are edible and can be used to make jellies and jams. Hawthorn tree wood is firm and resilient, making it ideal for tool handles and other minor woodworking tasks.

4. Japanese Tree Lilac

• Scientific Name: Syringa reticulata
• Common Name(s): Japanese Tree Lilac
• Mature Height: 20-30 feet (6-9 meters)
• Native Region: Asia (Japan, Northern China, Korea)
• Flowers: Creamy-white flowers in large, showy clusters
• Fruit: Small brown capsules
• Uses: Ornamental tree, attracts pollinators, suitable for urban landscapes, often used as a specimen or street tree.

Syringa reticulata, or Japanese Tree Lilac, is a deciduous ornamental tree native to Asia, including Japan, Northern China, and Korea. Its mature height ranges from 20 to 30 feet (6 to 9 meters), making it an excellent choice for smaller landscapes or urban environments.

The Japanese Tree Lilac’s gorgeous creamy-white blossoms are one of its most distinguishing characteristics. During the early summer months, these blooms bloom in huge, brilliant clusters, providing a magnificent spectacle. The blossoms are not only beautiful but also aromatic, generating a sweet and pleasant scent that attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies.

The Japanese Tree Lilac has broad, dark green leaves that create a lovely backdrop for the flowers. As the tree matures, the bark turns grayish-brown and develops a unique peeling texture. 

This tree is well-suited to Missouri settings due to its hardiness and adaptability to a wide range of soil types, including clay and loam. It thrives in full sun to medium shade and is low-maintenance once established, requiring little pruning and watering. The Japanese Tree Lilac is particularly drought tolerant, making it an excellent choice for street plantings and urban environments.

Aside from its decorative significance, the Japanese Tree Lilac has utilitarian applications. It can be used as a specimen tree in any garden or landscape, bringing beauty and elegance. Furthermore, the flowers and aroma attract pollinators, which helps to maintain a healthy habitat. 

5. Saucer Magnolia

• Scientific Name: Magnolia × soulangeana
• Common Name(s): Saucer magnolia, Tulip magnolia
• Mature Height: 20-30 feet (6-9 meters)
• Native Region: Asia, specifically China and Japan
• Flowers: Large, showy, fragrant, and white to pinkish-purple flowers with a saucer shape
• Uses: Ornamental tree, widely planted for its beautiful flowers

The Saucer magnolia, commonly known as the Tulip magnolia, is a beautiful flowering tree that enhances Missouri landscapes. It is a deciduous tree with a mature height of 20-30 feet and a spread of 15-25 feet. Its broad canopy and luxuriant leaves complement any garden or yard.

The blossoms of the Saucer magnolia are one of its most stunning features. The enormous, beautiful, and fragrant blossoms develop before the leaves in early spring. The flowers range in color from white to pinkish-purple and have a distinctive saucer shape, hence the name. The contrast between the colorful blossoms and the tree’s barren branches makes an enthralling picture. Pollinators such as bees and butterflies love these blooms.

In terms of growing conditions, the Saucer magnolia prefers full sun to partial shade. It prefers well-drained soil and has to be watered on a regular basis. This tree is resilient and can handle a wide variety of soil conditions as long as they are not excessively damp. Once established, it is low-maintenance and does not require substantial trimming.

The Saucer magnolia is not indigenous to Missouri but rather comes from Asia, notably China and Japan. However, because of its ornamental appeal, it has been widely planted throughout Missouri and other parts of the United States. Its lovely blossoms are its main draw, making it a popular choice for gardens and parks. The Saucer magnolia brings elegance and beauty to the environment, making it a favorite of many homeowners and landscape designers. Its remarkable beauty and flexibility distinguish it as an important complement to any Missouri landscape.

6. Serviceberry

• Scientific Name: Amelanchier species
• Common Name(s): Serviceberry, Juneberry, Shadbush
• Mature Height: 15-30 feet (4.5-9 meters)
• Native Region: North America
• Flowers: Clusters of small, white to pinkish-white flowers
• Fruit: Edible berries that are initially red and ripen to dark purple
• Uses: Ornamental tree, wildlife habitat, edible fruit for humans and wildlife

Amelanchier, often known as Serviceberry, is a small to medium-sized tree that is common in Missouri settings. It grows to a height of 15-30 feet, making it ideal for small yards or as an understory tree. Serviceberry is a North American native that can be found throughout Missouri.

This tree is well-known for its lovely blooms, which bloom in the early spring, generally in March or April, before the leaves appear. The delicate white to pinkish-white flowers are placed in clusters, producing a lovely display against the still-bare branches. The flowers attract bees and other pollinators, which benefits the environment as a whole.

Serviceberry yields edible berries that are originally red and then develop to a dark purple tint when the flowers disappear. These berries are popular with birds and wildlife, but they can also be appreciated by people and utilized in a variety of culinary dishes like pies, jams, and jellies.

Serviceberry grows best on well-drained, wet soils that receive full sun to partial shade. It can survive a wide range of soil types and, once established, can even withstand moderate drought. Serviceberry is low-maintenance and resistant to pests and diseases.

Because of its colorful flowers, appealing fruit, and stunning fall leaves, Serviceberry is frequently utilized as an ornamental tree in Missouri. It can also be used in wildlife plantings because the berries are a rich source of food for birds. Furthermore, Serviceberry’s modest size and versatility make it a viable choice for urban and suburban environments where space is restricted.

7. Chokecherry

• Scientific Name: Prunus virginiana
• Common Name(s): Chokecherry
• Mature Height: 10-25 feet (3-8 meters)
• Native Region: North America
• Flowers: White, small, and clustered in elongated clusters
• Fruit: Small, round, dark red to purple berries
• Uses: The berries are used for making jellies, jams, and syrups. The tree is also used for erosion control and as a wildlife habitat.

Chokecherry (Prunus virginiana) is a small deciduous tree or large shrub that can grow to a height of 10-25 feet (3-8 meters). It is native to North America and may be found in Missouri and other parts of the continent, where it thrives in a variety of environments such as forests, prairies, and slopes.

Chokecherry trees are distinguished by their oval to round-shaped, dark green leaves with serrated borders. A young tree’s bark is smooth and reddish-brown, gradually turning gray and creating shallow grooves as it grows. Branches frequently create a narrow, compact crown.

The chokecherry tree is renowned for its clusters of small, white blossoms that bloom in the spring. The blooms are grouped in elongated clusters known as racemes to create a lovely show. These aromatic blossoms are a significant nectar source for bees and other pollinators.

Chokecherry bushes yield small, spherical berries that ripen from green to dark crimson or purple after the blossoms. While edible, the berries have a harsh and astringent taste, hence the common name “chokecherry.” Despite their tart and astringent flavor, these berries are used to make wonderful jellies, jams, and syrups. They are also a popular food source for birds and other creatures.

Chokecherry trees prefer full sun or light shade and well-drained soil for growth in Missouri landscapes. Once established, they can withstand a wide range of soil conditions and are relatively drought-tolerant. The trees grow slowly and can be easily propagated through seedlings or stem cuttings.

Aside from culinary purposes, the chokecherry tree offers other advantages. Because of its fibrous and robust root system, it is frequently utilized for erosion control on slopes and stream banks. Various bird species benefit from the lush greenery. Furthermore, the chokecherry tree is regarded for its ornamental attributes, particularly while in blossom, making it a popular choice for Missouri landscaping and garden projects.

8. Southern Catalpa

• Scientific Name: Catalpa bignonioides
• Common Name(s): Southern Catalpa, Indian Bean Tree, Catawba Tree
• Mature Height: 30-60 feet (9-18 meters)
• Native Region: Southeastern United States
• Flowers: The Southern Catalpa produces large, showy, white, trumpet-shaped flowers with purple and yellow spots in the throat. These flowers typically appear in late spring or early summer.
• Fruit: The tree produces long, cylindrical seed pods that resemble beans. These pods contain numerous small, flat seeds.
• Uses: The Southern Catalpa is often planted as an ornamental tree for its beautiful flowers. 

Catalpa bignonioides (Southern Catalpa) is a medium to large-sized deciduous tree native to the southeastern United States. It grows to a mature height of 30–60 feet, with a rounded or uneven crown. The tree has huge, heart-shaped, dark green leaves that can grow up to 12 inches in length. Southern Catalpa bark is gray-brown in hue and contains deep furrows.

The Southern Catalpa’s native area is mostly in the southeastern United States, including Missouri. It’s most frequent in bottomland woods, along streams, and in disturbed places. The tree prefers moist, well-drained soils but may withstand considerable drought.

The blossoms of the Southern Catalpa are one of its most distinctive characteristics. The tree blooms with huge, spectacular white flowers that have purple and yellow dots in the throat. These fragrant trumpet-shaped flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. The flowers bloom in late spring or early summer and give a breathtaking display of beauty to the area.

In addition to its lovely blossoms, the Southern Catalpa has long, cylindrical seed pods that look like beans. These pods can grow to be up to 12 inches long and contain a slew of little, flat seeds. Wind or water scatter the seeds, allowing the tree to grow and occupy new places.

The Southern Catalpa tree is relatively low care and versatile when it comes to flourishing in Missouri environments. It enjoys full sun to partial shade and may grow in a variety of soil types. It grows best in damp, well-drained soils. Because of its relatively fast growth rate, the Southern Catalpa is a popular choice for people wishing to quickly establish a shade tree.

Southern Catalpa is generally planted as an ornamental tree due to its gorgeous blossoms. Because of its great size and spreading crown, it is an excellent shade tree for parks, yards, and other open spaces. Furthermore, the Catalpa tree’s wood is noted for its toughness and is frequently used in outdoor building projects such as fence posts and railroad ties. The tree also serves as a home and food source for a variety of wildlife species, making it a vital component of the ecosystem.

9. Star Magnolia

• Scientific Name: Magnolia stellata
• Common Name(s): Star Magnolia
• Mature Height: 10-15 feet (3-4.5 meters)
• Native Region: Japan
• Flowers: Large, showy, white, star-shaped flowers with up to 12 petals.
• Fruit: Red or pink, cone-like fruit.
• Uses: Often used as an ornamental tree in gardens and landscapes.

The Japanese Star Magnolia (Magnolia stellata) is a tiny deciduous tree. Its gorgeous display of huge, showy, white blooms makes it a popular option for landscapes and gardens. The mature height of the tree is approximately 10-15 feet.

Star Magnolia has oval-shaped leaves that are bright green in hue. They appear alongside the flowers in early April. The tree’s bark is smooth and grayish-brown in appearance.

Star Magnolia blooms in early April, before the leaves develop, with a profusion of white, star-shaped flowers. Each flower can have up to 12 petals, giving it a lush appearance. The tree’s appeal is enhanced by these fragrant blossoms, which attract bees and butterflies.

Star Magnolia bears cone-shaped fruit that ripens from green to red or pink. While the fruit isn’t very noteworthy or flashy, it does offer some interest to the tree.

Star Magnolia prefers full sun to light shade and well-drained soil in Missouri. It may grow in a variety of soil conditions but likes slightly acidic soil. Because the tree is robust and can tolerate freezing temperatures, it is well suited to the Missouri environment.

Because of its lovely blossoms, Star Magnolia is frequently used as an ornamental tree in landscaping. It can be planted as a single specimen or in groups. Because of its tiny stature, the tree is ideal for small yards or urban gardens. Star Magnolia may thrive and become a center point in any Missouri landscape with appropriate care.

10. Kausa Dogwood

• Scientific Name: Cornus kousa
• Common Name(s): Kausa Dogwood, Japanese Dogwood
• Mature Height: 15-30 feet (5-9 meters)
• Native Region: Asia (China, Japan, and Korea)
• Flowers: Creamy white or pinkish-white flowers in spring. Each flower consists of four bracts that surround a cluster of small greenish-yellow true flowers.
• Fruit: Raspberry-like red fruits in late summer, which can be edible but are not typically consumed by humans.
• Uses: Ornamental tree, used for landscaping and as a specimen tree in gardens and parks.

The Kausa Dogwood, technically known as Cornus kousa, is an Asian deciduous tree native to China, Japan, and Korea. It is also known as Kausa Dogwood or Japanese Dogwood. At maturity, this tree grows to a height of 15-30 feet (5-9 meters).

The Kausa Dogwood is well-known for its lovely blossoms and decorative value. It blooms in the spring with clusters of creamy white or pinkish-white flowers. Each bloom is made up of four enormous bracts that encircle a cluster of little greenish-yellow genuine flowers. These blooms provide a lovely display and attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.

The Kausa Dogwood yields raspberry-like red fruits in late summer. Although these fruits are theoretically edible, they are rarely ingested by humans. Birds and other creatures, on the other hand, appreciate them.

The Kausa Dogwood thrives in well-drained soil and loves partial shade to full sun in Missouri environments. It is relatively tolerant of diverse soil types and adaptable to a variety of growing environments. Watering should be done on a regular basis, especially during dry spells.

The Kausa Dogwood is a popular landscaping plant that is frequently used as a specimen tree in gardens and parks. Its eye-catching blossoms and vivid foliage make it a focal point in any setting. It is also suitable for planting in groups or as a native woodland tree.

11. Black Cherry

• Scientific Name: Prunus serotina
• Common Name(s): Black Cherry
• Mature Height: 50-90 feet (15-27 meters)
• Native Region: North America
• Flowers: The flowers of the Black Cherry are small, white, and borne in clusters. They have a distinct fragrance and attract bees and butterflies.
• Fruit: The fruit of the Black Cherry is a small, dark red to black cherry that is edible and has a sweet taste. It is a favorite food source for wildlife.
• Uses: The Black Cherry wood is highly valued for its durability and beautiful reddish-brown color. It is used in furniture, cabinets, and flooring. The cherries are also used in jams, pies, and other culinary uses.

The Black Cherry (Prunus serotina) is a deciduous tree that can grow to be 50-90 feet (15-27 meters) tall when mature. It is indigenous to North America and is common in Missouri settings. 

The Black Cherry is distinguished by its lustrous, dark green leaves that are 2-5 inches long and have finely serrated edges. When young, the bark of the tree is smooth and reddish-brown, but it becomes rough and dark with age. 

The Black Cherry blooms in the spring with clusters of small, white flowers that have a lovely aroma. These blossoms attract bees and butterflies, making the tree an excellent choice for pollinator-friendly gardens and landscapes. 

After flowering, the Black Cherry produces small, dark red to black cherries with a pleasant taste. Wildlife, especially birds and mammals, like these cherries as a food source. 

The Black Cherry tree is a sturdy tree that can thrive in a wide range of soil types and growing conditions. It enjoys full sun to partial shade and, once established, is drought tolerant. Because of its capacity to swiftly establish and provide excellent habitat and food for wildlife, this tree is frequently employed in reforestation projects. 

Other than its environmental benefits, Black Cherry wood is widely recognized for its strength and durability. It is frequently used in the manufacture of furniture, cabinets, and flooring. Cherries are also utilized in a variety of culinary applications, including jams, pies, and other desserts. 

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Common White Flowering Trees In Missouri – Sources

The Regional Gardening team makes sure that the information in our articles is accurate by only using sources that are known to be trustworthy. Some of these sources are peer-reviewed journals from government agencies, well-known universities, and scientific research organizations.

1. Plant Finder, Missouri Botanical Garden
2. Native Trees Of Missouri, University Of Missouri Extension
3. Trees Field Guide, Missouri Department Of Conservation
4. Choosing Tree For Yard, Arbor Day Foundation
5. Trees Of Missouri Field Guide, Book By Stan Tekiela