This year we planted an assortment of new trees in the three parks, and the species of trees were carefully chosen in keeping with the unique character and nature of each park. As Rebecca McKevitz, our Director of Parks Care & Capital Projects, points out, “We are very thoughtful about the temperature, moisture and level of sun exposure in each location, and choose species that will thrive in each individual planting location. We work to create as much biodiversity as possible by planting a variety of different species.”
In addition to the trees we chose, this year the Friends were very fortunate to receive support from four tree companies (Barrett, Bartlett, Tree Specialists and Hartney Greymont) on Arbor Day. Each company donated a tree and the labor to install it on the Common. These trees can be found along the MacArthur Mall, adjacent to the ballfields. Also, Embrace Boston planted two American Basswoods and two American Hophornbeams near the site of the new Embrace sculpture. The Friends will provide ongoing care for these eight trees, just as we do the roughly 1,700 other trees across the three parks!
For the first time this year, we installed temporary signage at the foot of each new tree outlining the common name, botanical name, and some fun facts about each species. These signs provide an educational opportunity for people to learn more about the new tree, and to amplify the work of the Friends while providing some insight into our role in these parks.
Boston Common
- Pin Oak
- Red Oak
- 2 Scarlet Oak
- White Oak
- 2 American Basswood
- 2 American Hophornbeam
Public Garden
- Weeping White Pine
- Blue Atlas Cedar
- Butternut
- American Chestnut
- Thundercloud Plum
Commonwealth Avenue Mall
- Overcup Oak
- 2 Hackberry
- Shingle Oak
- White Oak
- Shagbark Hickory