There are 5 species of evergreen trees that do well in high deserts up to 7,500 feet and 7 species that do well up to 10,500 feet.
Here are 12 evergreens that do well in high deserts, high plains areas and arid mountain regions. Although this list isn’t exhaustive, it does provide some hardy species that have already been tested and grown in these areas.
Five Evergreens for gardens up to 7,500 feet in elevation
- Concolor Fir (Abies concolor). This tree is quite hardy below 7,500 feet, although it has been grown above 8,500 feet. It does need well-drained soils, and also requires regular watering.
- Black Hills Spruce (Picea glauca). Hardy up to 7,500 feet. Plant in moister areas.
- Pinyon Pine (Pinus edulis). Once the tree is established, it will do well on very dry slopes, with very little, irregular watering. Does best on south-facing slopes.
- Austrian Pine (Pinus nigra). While it is hardy, it does need some protection from high winds. Plant in well-drained soils.
- Western Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis). Does need some protection from drying and cold winter winds, but does well in drought conditions.
Seven Evergreens for gardens up to 10,500 feet in elevation
- Subalpine Fir (Abies lasiocarpa). This pine is native to western U. S. and Canadian mountains. Plant in well-drained soil.
- Rocky Mountain Juniper (Juniperus scopulorum). Also a tree native to western North America, it will grow on very dry slopes, after it becomes established.
- Engelmann Spruce (Picea englimanni). A native to North America, this tree will grow as high as the timberline. Will grow in dry soils, once established, but will tolerate areas along streams and near springs.
- Colorado Spruce (Picea pungens). Try not to plant above 9,500 feet.
- Bristlecone Pine (Pinus aristata). Well-drained soil. Native.
- Lodgepole Pine (Pinus contorta latifolia). Native. Well drained soils.
- Limber Pine (Pinus flexilis). This native tree will tolerate dry, rocky hilltops, once it is established.
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