Flowering trees do two jobs at once: they carry a garden's structure for most of the year, then take over for the few weeks of blossom. Species selection comes before colour. Crepe myrtles cope with heat and restricted root space; magnolias want shelter from wind and soil that holds moisture. Across much of Australia that difference decides what will thrive. The listings here include potted specimens such as the Potted Magnolia Tree 90cm by OneWorld Collection, which can go into the ground or stay in a large container.

Flowering Trees

One species reads differently depending on arrangement: a single tree, trees in a row along a driveway, or a small grove each ask for different mature spread. A pink flowering tree carries well against pale render or light cladding and recedes among mixed foliage, so check what sits behind the planting position. Where space is tight, a small flowering tree suits a courtyard, an entrance strip or a verge in ways a broad canopy cannot. On many trees, pink buds show weeks before the flowers open, which stretches the display well past peak bloom.

How far from a wall or fence should a flowering tree go?

Allow the canopy's mature radius plus room for airflow and maintenance access. Keep planting clear of eaves, foundations and services.

When is the best time to plant?

Autumn and winter suit most deciduous stock while it is dormant. Container-grown plants can go in at other times if watering holds up through the first summer.

Do pot-grown trees need repotting?

A tree kept in a container will eventually need a larger pot and fresh growing medium. Match the pot size to the height you plan to keep the plant at, not the size it could reach in the ground.