Tree Pollen: Best and Worst Trees for Allergies

If you have seasonal allergies, also known as a pollen allergy, tree pollen is a major concern. But when it comes to tree pollen, no two trees are created equal. This article will help you understand which trees are the best and the worst for allergies, based on which ones do and do not produce a lot of pollen.

Tree Pollen

Tree pollen, which can cause allergies some people call hay fever, is powder substance trees use to fertilize themselves and other trees, relying on the wind to carry the pollen for them.

More pollen is released in the spring, hence why some people consider pollen allergies to be seasonal. Since pollen will be in the air in heavy doses in the spring, it can cause allergies as it lands on or near you.

Female vs Male

While trees may not be commonly associated with gender, there are actually male and female trees. Male trees are the trees that those with pollen allergies should avoid.

Female trees produce fruit and seeds, while male trees create pollen. Pollen from male trees is spread to female trees to allow for reproduction.

Some trees have both male and female parts. Some even generate male flowers, or pollen, and then female flowers years later.

The gender usually becomes apparent once trees start to flower, which can happen anywhere from one to 50 years of age depending on the type of tree and its expected lifespan.

Worst Trees For Allergies

Birch

Birch trees are one of the more common types of trees out there but are not very allergy-friendly to people with a pollen allergy.

Elm

The elm is another common tree variety that can be problematic for people with allergies.

Maple

The maple is another beloved and commonly found tree that can irritate pollen allergies.

Oak

The oak tree is another common tree that is difficult for people with pollen allergies to be around.

Cedar

Like the birch tree, cedar trees are incredibly common. Also like the birch tree, cedar trees are no friend to those with allergies.

Willow

The willow tree is as close to a statement tree as you will ever find. The tree had a distinctive shape and isn't as common as other types of trees, making them very desirable to some tree lovers. They are not desirable, however, for those with allergies as they release a lot of pollen into the air.

Walnut

In addition to making beautiful floors, walnut trees also make a lot of pollen and are not a good option for someone with allergies.

Aspen

The aspen tree, known for its root sprouting ability, is not a good choice for someone with a pollen allergy.

Ash

While beautiful, the ash tree is known for being hard on people with allergies.

Pine

Pine trees are evergreen trees commonly associated with Christmas. Despite their warm and positive connotations, what's not positive is the impact these trees have on those will a pollen allergy.

Sycamore

This common tree variety is no friend to people with pollen allergies.

Best Trees for Allergies

Crepe Myrtle

The crepe myrtle tree is known for its bright flowers. It is also an allergy-friendly option for those who are allergic to pollen and still want a beautiful tree in their yard.

Flowering Crabapple

Like the crape myrtle, the crabapple tree is a great option for someone with allergies. The tree blooms and attracts birds, but is not known for causing allergies.

Dogwood

The dogwood tree, which produces flowers in the spring, is also known for being allergy-friendly.

Tulip

Tulip trees grow fast and are great options for shade and color. They are also a great option for someone with a pollen allergy.

Flowering Plum

Like the tulip, the flowering plum will add a lot of color to your home and is a great option for someone with a pollen allergy.