top of page
Search

How to Identify Common Trees in the Minneapolis West Metro

  • Writer: Jordan
    Jordan
  • Apr 19
  • 2 min read

Knowing what kinds of trees grow on your property isn’t just a fun fact — it can help you plan better trimming, recognize disease early, and care for your landscape year-round. In the Twin Cities West Metro area, we see a consistent mix of native hardwoods, ornamental trees, and evergreens, each with distinct characteristics.

Here’s a practical guide to help you identify the most common types of trees in our service area.


  1. Red Oak

    1. Leaf Shape: Pointed lobes with bristle tips (classic “oak” look)

    2. Fall Color: Deep red

    3. Notes: Common across Minnetonka, Edina, and Hopkins; susceptible to oak wilt if pruned at the wrong time

      fallen oak leaves on forest floor
      Fallen Red Oak Leaves

  2. White Pine

    1. Needles: Soft, long, in bundles of five

    2. Shape: Tall, symmetrical conifer

    3. Notes: Found in older wooded lots and natural areas near Orono and Excelsior


      white pine needles on bough with pine cones
      White Pine Trees have long soft needles

  3. Crabapple

    1. Leaf Shape: Small and oval with serrated edges

    2. Bonus: Spring flowers and small decorative fruit

    3. Notes: Commonly planted in front yards and near sidewalks across suburban neighborhoods


crabapple tree bough with flowers in bloom
Crabapple trees are popular for their pink blooming flowers

  1. Sugar Maple

    1. Leaf Shape: 5 lobes with smooth edges (think Canadian flag)

    2. Fall Color: Bright orange or red

    3. Notes: Popular in Plymouth and Eden Prairie for their stunning fall display


red maple leaf
Maple leaves are among the most recognizable leaves

  1. American Basswood (Linden)

    1. Leaf Shape: Heart-shaped with serrated edges

    2. Flowers: Small, fragrant blooms in early summer

    3. Notes: Large shade trees found near parks and boulevards


linden tree leaves with blooming flowers
Linden trees produce small white flowers in early summer

  1. Green Ash

    1. Leaf Shape: Compound leaves with 5–9 leaflets

    2. Bark: Ridged and diamond-patterned

    3. Notes: Many have been removed due to Emerald Ash Borer, but still present in some areas


green ash tree branches
Green Ash Trees provide excellent shade

  1. Colorado Blue Spruce

    1. Needles: Short, stiff, and blue-gray

    2. Shape: Dense and pyramidal

    3. Notes: Popular for privacy screening and winter color


blue spruce needles
Blue Spruce needles can be quite sharp


Why Tree ID Matters

Understanding what’s growing on your property helps you:

  • Plan safe, seasonal pruning

  • Watch for species-specific pests and diseases

  • Avoid unnecessary removal of protected trees

  • Stay in compliance with city tree ordinances

At TreeTec, we’re familiar with the tree species native to Hennepin and Wright County — and we’re here to help you manage them properly.


Need Help Identifying a Tree?

Snap a photo and send it our way. You can text our main phone number (612) 472-8733. Our certified team can help you identify your tree and recommend next steps for care or removal




 
 
 

Comments

bottom of page