Updates to the Approved Street Tree Planting Lists

Portland's Urban Forestry staff unveiled significant updates to the Approved Street Tree Planting Lists, reflecting the city's commitment to a healthy urban forest. The revised lists now feature 15 new climate-adapted tree species, enhancing resilience against climate change. Notable additions include Ponderosa pine and black hawthorn, while species like grand fir and western hemlock were removed due to their poor performance in hotter summers. The updates also eliminated ten species and cultivars with low nursery availability. The city aims to provide more options for smaller planting sites, while also prioritizing larger tree species for expansive areas.

These adjustments were informed by stakeholder input, tree inventory data, and scientific research. This effort supports Portland’s initiative to foster a climate-resilient urban forest for future generations. Community members can now better select appropriate trees following the "right tree, right place" principle.