As part of the Clean It Up, Green It Up campaign, former Mayor John Delaney encouraged the community-wide planting of specific flowering trees. The target trees were selected after consideration of their appearance, resistance to disease and insects, adaptability to local weather and soil conditions, and ease of maintenance.

Three trees were selected based on varying soil and light condition found across Jacksonville. The tree of choice is the crape myrtle.  For areas with heavy shade, the eastern redbud is recommended. For extremely wet conditions the loblolly-bay is the appropriate tree. All of these trees are available locally and are very hardy.

Crape myrtle: This hardy tree exhibits a long period of striking summer flower color with flowers available in all shades of white, pink red or lavender. Its beautiful flowers, attractive fall foliage and good drought tolerance combine to make it a favorite tree in urban and suburban areas. Click here for recommendations for planting crape myrtles.

Eastern redbud: A moderate to rapid grower, this tree's splendid purple and pink flowers appear in the spring, just before the leaves emerge. Its high tolerance and its adaptability to shade make this an attractive tree for understory planting.

Loblolly-bay: The loblolly-bay in well-suited for planting in boggy and other poorly drained soils. White, cup-shaded flowers are sparsely distributed through the canopy from late spring through fall and its glossy, dark green leaves with light grey undersides give it a two-toned effect. Although evergreen, several leaves at a time will turn a brilliant scarlet in the fall adding to its attractiveness.

Questions regarding planting or care of these trees can be directed to the city's Agriculture Department extension service office at (904) 387-8850.