Tree species selection
Selection criteria
We help you select the right mix of trees, shrubs and ground cover based on the requirements
and parameters of your project. Our arborists, horticulturists and irrigation experts work closely with your landscape designers to select the species that will best meet your objectives.
Are you seeking shade trees for an urban project designed to lower the ambient temperature? Are you planning green spaces for a tourism or residential project where the aesthetic value is a key consideration? Do you need to stock a national park or Royal reserve with native trees to combat desertification?
Environment
- Urban environment: Trees and shrubs to be planted in public parks, along roadways, or in dense urban sites.
- Natural environment: Trees and shrubs to be planted in wadis, rocky or gravel plains, shrublands, woodlands, or coastal areas.
Native vs. adapted species
- Native species: Does the project require native species? These trees will take longer to grow from local seeds.
- Adapted species: Is it acceptable to use adapted species that are known to thrive in the Saudi climate?
- Approved list: Does the municipality or project sponsor have a list of pre-approved tree species for the geographic zone where the project is located?
Climate
- Desert climate: Hot summers, mild winters, and very low annual rainfall (less than 250 mm).
- Semi-arid climate: Hot summers, cooler winters, and slightly more rainfall than desert regions (250-500 mm annually).
- Coastal climate: Hot and humid, especially in summer, with higher rainfall than inland areas.
- Mountainous climate: Cooler temperatures due to elevation, with more rainfall than surrounding areas.
Site typology
- Terrain: Is the terrain flat or hilly? Are there buildings, roads and underground utilities to consider?
- Soil type: What is the soil composition (clay, sandy, loamy) and pH level?
- Sunlight: What is the sun exposure of your site? Are there shaded areas to consider?
- Drainage conditions: Does the site have good drainage? If not, tree species that prefer wet conditions can be proposed.
Water conditions
- Water source: Will the project site be irrigated? Are draught-resistant species required?
- Water salinity: Groundwater in the Kingdom is often quite saline. Where required, we can propose tree species that are more tolerant of high salinity levels.
- Irrigation efficiency: Has a water-consumption target been established per tree, per ha?
Growth characteristics
- Mature size: What size trees (ranging from 2 inches to 8+ inches) do you need on your project site?
- Growth rate: Do you need a species that grows more rapidly than others?
Maintenance requirements
- Pest and disease resistance: Which tree species are most resistant to local pests and diseases?
- Pruning: How important is it to have low maintenance trees?
