Growth habits of trees can be ornamental when outlined with snow during the winter. Most trees have a characteristic shape. Some have cultivars with a shape or growth habit different from the species. For instance, a cultivar may have either a weeping or very upright growth habit. Some tree cultivars are dwarfs and and grow like shrubs.
Dwarfs are useful where a small tree is needed.
Weeping trees can be especially ornamental when flowering, however mowing under trees weeping to the ground can be a problem. Tall, narrow, upright trees are used where overhead growing space is limited but are generally not good shade trees. This information is for educational purposes only. References to commercial products or trade names does not imply endorsement by MSU Extension or bias against those not mentioned. This information becomes public property upon publication and may be printed verbatim with credit to MSU Extension.