9 Evergreen Trees You Should Never Plant in Your Yard

New Growth on an Evergreen Yew Bush — Photo:
Nancybelle Gonzaga Villarroya / Getty Images

Evergreen trees are a beautiful addition to any landscape, with many varieties even providing interest during the coldest days of winter. But like any plant, there are a number of species you should avoid planting in your yard. Some evergreens are invasive and can be hard to remove once established. If left to spread, they can take essential nutrients from other desirable plants growing in your landscape. Additionally, some evergreen trees contain toxic leaves or fruit that can be dangerous to pets, humans, and wildlife. To ensure you're choosing the right varieties for your landscape, we spoke to an arborist and horticulturist who shared the evergreen trees you should never plant in your yard.

Eric North, program manager of urban forestry and ISA certified arborist at Arbor Day Foundation, the world’s largest member nonprofit dedicated to planting trees
Damon Abdi, horticultural expert at the Hammond Research Station at Louisiana State University's AgCenter

01 of 09

Redwood

Redwoods (Sequoia sempervirens) are one of the largest and most impressive tree species in the world. "This species can grow to over 300 feet tall and live a couple millennia," says Eric North, program manager of urban forestry and ISA certified arborist at Arbor Day Foundation. "The sheer size of the species makes it difficult to imagine how it would even fit in most yards. Given the size and longevity of the tree I would not recommend planting this species in a yard." For a smaller variety, consider dawn redwood (Metasequoia glyptostroboides), a deciduous conifer that is similar in appearance.

02 of 09

Manchineel

Manchineel (Hippomane mancinella), a small tree with evergreen leaves, is native in South Florida, Mexico, and Central and South America. "This tree is often listed as one of the most poisonous trees in the world," says North. "The sap can cause serious skin irritation with reports of people developing skin rashes after seeking shelter under the tree when it’s raining. The fruit is also toxic and can be fatal if ingested."

03 of 09

Yew

Yew plum pine tree with cones — nickkurzenko / Getty Images

There are several types of yew (Taxus spp.), including tree and shrub forms. While North appreciates the look of this plant, he notes that there are downsides to growing it in your yard. "Most parts of the yew contain taxine alkaloids, which are toxic when ingested. There are documented cases of pets, livestock, and people that have become gravely ill or died from ingesting parts of the plant," says North. "If you have a yard frequented by pets and people, I recommend steering clear of yew to avoid potential health issues from accidental ingestion."

04 of 09

Coulter Pine

Coulter pine (Pinus coulteri) is a medium-sized tree native to the western U.S. and parts of Mexico. "Most pines make a nice addition to a yard, providing year-round green and habitat for birds and other wildlife," says North. "However, the coulter pine produces cones up to 14 inches long, weighing 4 to 6 pounds. A falling cone can be damaging to property and people."

05 of 09

Australian Pine

Not a true pine, Australian pine (Casuarina equisetifolia) is a fast-growing evergreen introduced to the U.S. in the late 1800s and is now considered invasive. "In addition to being a problematic invasive species, the tree can leach allelopathic compounds (natural chemicals) that inhibit plant growth," says North. These compounds can take nutrients away from desirable plants in your landscape.

06 of 09

Alder Buckthorn

Alder buckhorn (Frangula alnus) is a small, flowering tree that can be evergreen or deciduous. While it's pretty to look at, the invasive habit of this species can put stress on your landscape. "Not only does this plant aggressively spread through suckers, but birds love the berries and can readily disperse seeds throughout an area," says horticultural expert Damon Abdi. "Originally imported from Europe to serve as a hedge and as a source of food for wildlife, this plant is now often recognized as an invasive species in the Northeast and Midwest."

07 of 09

Chinese Privet

Chinese privet (Ligustrum sinense) is another invasive evergreen tree. It was introduced to the U.S. from Asia in the 19th century for use in the landscape, but is a prolific seed producer and readily spreads via suckers, says Abdi. Once established, it is very difficult to remove from the landscape. What's more, its flower fragrance is considered by many to be unappealing.

08 of 09

English Holly

English holly (Ilex aquifolium) is native to Europe and considered invasive in parts of the Pacific Northwest, as it can crowd out understory plants in forests. "Seed spread via birds contributes to its invasive nature," says Abdi. "The sharply pointed leaves can pose a prickly problem in the landscape."

09 of 09

Leyland Cypress

Leyland cypress (Cupressocyparis leylandii) is a fast-growing species that is often grown as a hedge; however, it is highly susceptible to disease. "Root rots and cankers are common disease issues with leyland cypress," says Abdi. These diseases are often a result of poor spacing and planting practices. Excessive drought and poor drainage can also lead to diseases with this variety.

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