Recently, we discussed native plants as the foundation of biodiversity in Quebec ecosystems.
Biodiversity loss in Quebec remains a significant concern, largely driven by urbanization and intensive agriculture, which fragment and degrade natural habitats—including wetlands. This situation is further compounded by invasive species and the impacts of climate change.
In its 2016 report, the Quebec Natural Heritage Data Centre highlighted the vulnerable status of several native tree species. When these species decline, the wildlife and plant communities that depend on them are also affected.
Examples include:
- Cockspur Hawthorn (Crataegus crus-galli)
- Shagbark Hickory (Carya ovata)
- Swamp White Oak (Quercus bicolor)
- White Oak (Quercus alba)
- Black Maple (Acer nigrum)
- Eastern Red Cedar (Juniperus virginiana)
- Common Hackberry (Celtis occidentalis)
- Thomas’ Elm (Ulmus thomasii)
- Pitch Pine (Pinus rigida)
Rare Species to Prioritize in Quebec
Inspiring Citizen Initiatives to Preserve Forest Biodiversity
Fortunately, inspiring initiatives are emerging across Quebec. Last July, La Presse featured “The Man Who Plants Rare Trees”.
Charles Lussier, an agroforestry consultant, has spent over 20 years reintroducing rare and vulnerable tree species into agricultural landscapes in Montérégie and Centre-du-Québec.
At an individual level, everyone can contribute to preserving native biodiversity by planting rare species in suitable environments.
Image from Freepik
Rare Native Trees for Urban Areas in Quebec
Swamp White Oak (Quercus bicolor) thrives in deep, moist, slightly acidic soils. It is a large, long-lived tree well suited to spacious urban environments.
Common Hackberry (Celtis occidentalis) is highly adaptable and performs well in challenging urban conditions, in full sun or partial shade.
Cockspur Hawthorn (Crataegus crus-galli) tolerates a range of soils, especially moist ones. It tolerates urban pollution but is sensitive to road salt—avoid planting it near streets.
Eastern Red Cedar (Juniperus virginiana) is a conifer less common in Quebec. It naturally grows in dry, sandy soils in the southern Outaouais region. It adapts well to a range of soil textures, including rocky soils.
Rare Native Trees for Rural or Natural Settings
Black Maple (Acer nigrum) grows best in deep, well-drained soils. It prefers shaded environments and is not well adapted to urban conditions. In its natural habitat, it occurs in the Montreal area and surrounding regions.
Shagbark Hickory (Carya ovata) is a large tree producing edible nuts. It prefers rich, well-drained soils and partial shade. Urban settings are best avoided due to its sensitivity to pollution and road salt. It is valued for the golden colour of its foliage in fall and its decorative bark. It establishes slowly—patience is key.
White Oak (Quercus alba) prefers loamy, acidic soils and full sun. While it tolerates some road salt, it performs better outside urban environments.
Please note that Thomas’ Elm and Pitch Pine are not currently available on the market. We are actively working to source mother plants so we can offer them in the future.
In conclusion, integrating rare native trees into your landscape is more than an aesthetic choice—it is a meaningful act of conservation. By planting these species, you actively support biodiversity and contribute to healthier ecosystems. Every landscape can become a valuable link in preserving Quebec’s natural heritage for future generations.
Article co-written by Audrey Rondeau, Biol., M.Env., and Suzanne Simard, horticultural writer and technologist.
