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Avenue Trees: 6 Powerful Ways They Transform Landscapes

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Why Avenue Trees Add Value to the Street/Driveway

Let’s be honest – most streets are pretty boring. Asphalt, signage, the odd lamppost… and that’s about it. But line the same street with trees, and suddenly – bam! It feels like somewhere you want to be. That’s the magic of avenue trees. They don’t just look good. They work hard behind the scenes to boost value, cool the air, clean up the environment, and turn ordinary roads and even driveways – into memorable places.

Think trees are just decorative? Think again – this is what they really do.

Ginkgo biloba ‘Fastigiata’ lining an avenue. Make perfect Avenue Trees.
Ginkgo biloba ‘Fastigiata’

1. They give instant appeal

A bare road is just a road. A tree-lined roat? That’s a scenic drive. That’s premium. Trees bring rhythm and structure, softening hard edges and giving a sense of purpose to the street. Whether it’s the symmetry of Tilia x europaea (Common Linden), or the bold form of Quercus robur ‘Fastigiata’ (English Oak), they make the street feel thought out – not just thrown together. And this goes for driveways too – whether it’s a private home or a public space, trees instantly lift the look and feel, turning simple paths into welcoming entrances.

Carpinus betulus 'Fastigiata' in Queenstown lining residential street.
Carpinus betulus ‘Fastigiata’

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2. They literally add value

Yes, actual dollars. Properties on fully grown streets can be worth significantly more – according to The Tree People, healthy trees can add up to 20% to the value of your property. Why? Because mature streets signal stability, beauty and community. For developer and councils, that’s a no-brainer return on investment.

 

3. They turn up the comfort

Ever walked down a sun-scorched footpath in summer? Now imagine the same stroll under a canopy of shade. Trees drop surface temperature dramatically and make spaces walkable – even in peak heat. In a climate-conscious world, that’s pure gold.

 

4. They do the dirty work

Avenue trees don’t just stand there looking pretty. They’re working:

  • Filtering the air
  • Soaking up stormwater
  • Reducing noise
  • Providing homes for birds and bees

They’re nature’s multitaskers – and they do it all silently, for free.

 

5. They make people feel good

Being around trees reduce stress. They encourage people to get outside, talk to neighbors, and linger longer in shared spaces. In other words, they build community – one tree at a time.

 

6. They’re a long-term win

When you plant an avenue trees, you’re not just designing for today – you’re creating legacy. Decades from now, people will walk those streets and benefits from what you planted. Their value doesn’t just last – it multiplies over time.

 

Our Top Selling Avenue Trees

Need some tried-and-true options to spec or plant? Browse all our recommended trees here. These are our top performers – loved by councils, landscapers, and designers alike:

Pyrus calleryana ‘Aristocrat’ – Graceful flowering pear with elegant form and excellent autumn/spring displays.

Metrosideros excelsa ‘Maori Princess’ – Iconic Pohutukawa variety known for striking red flowers and coastal toughness.

Ulmus ‘Louis van Houtte’ – Classic elm with strong structure and golden autumn foliage.

Acer rubrum ‘Jeffersred’ – A vibrant red maple with brilliant autumn colour and strong growth.

Prunus x yedoensis ‘Awanui’ – Stunning cherry tree with spectacular spring blossoms and vibrant autumn colour.

Quercus palustris – A bold oak with formal form and vivid red autumn colour.

All grown here at Leafland for performance you can trust.

 

Bottom Line?

Whether it’s an entire street, or a single driveway, avenue trees add character, value and comfort. From grand entranceway to cozy lanes, planting trees is a long-term win for every kind of project.

 

The best time to plant a tree was 15 years ago, the second best time is now!