• Crabapples are flowering ornamental trees that thrive in Oregon.crabapple tree image by A74.FR Ben Fontaine from Fotolia.com
  
  When selecting ornamental trees in Oregon, look to the commonly planted horticultural trees that make a visual impact. Broad-leaved species that offer diverse form and color are chosen for their beauty as well as their ability to withstand the varied climate of Oregon, including coastal wetlands, deserts and mountains. Though forest terrain is most heavily populated with conifers, ornamental trees make their mark as well.
  
  

Buckeyes

• Buckeyes (Aesculus species) are also commonly referred to as horse chestnut trees, but must not be confused with true chestnut trees. Though they are visually similar, the nuts on the buckeye tree are inedible whereas true chestnut trees or American chestnut trees (Castanea dentata) produce edible nuts, according to the University of Minnesota Extension. The sun-loving Ohio buckeye (Aesculus glabra), for example, is one of the most common buckeyes and is native to America. With a height of 30 to 50 feet, this species displays an oval habit with green foliage that changes to yellow and orange during autumn. Spring bloom includes the appearance of clustered yellow-green flowers for which the tree is prized. Buckeyes grow most successfully in moist, well-drained soil with a slightly acid pH level, according to the University of Illinois Extension.
  
  

Birches

• European white birches (Betula pendula) are commonly planted in Oregon in clumps, according to the Oregon State University Extension. A deciduous tree known for its white, peeling bark, European white birches exhibit drooping branches with green foliage that becomes yellow during fall. Thriving in full sun to partial shade, these ornamentals prefer moist soil with a pH of 3.7 to 6.5, according to the Virginia Cooperative Extension. European white birches reach a height of 40 to 50 feet with a spread of 25 to 35 feet.
  
  

Crabapples

• Crabapples (Malus species) are a wild version of the apple tree, known as the leading fruit tree in Oregon, according to the Oregon State University Extension. A common horticultural tree in Oregon, crabapples are prized as ornamental trees due to their beautiful and abundant spring blooms in red and white hues. Additionally, small edible fruits are produced annually in green, red or yellow with diameters under 2 inches. These ornamental trees reach a height and spread of 10 to 25 feet. Crabapples perform best in full sun exposure and moist soil with an ideal pH of 5.0 to 6.5, according to the Clemson University Extension.