Which Trees And Shrubs Aren’t “On The Menu” For Deer?

Missouri was home to 1.4 million deer in 2023. While they’re beautiful creatures – and a sought-after game animal – the state’s robust deer population has its downsides. They can pose a serious danger to drivers with more than 3,700 accidents involving deer in Missouri in 2023.

Even more common is damage to plant life, crops and residential landscaping and vegetation. If you’ve seen your trees, shrubs and landscaping damaged or destroyed by deer, you’re not alone. Hungry deer can be essentially unstoppable when it comes to nibbling on landscaping.

But the good news is that there are several native trees and shrubs that are more resistant to deer browsing, which can help you create a beautiful, sustainable landscape that’s less likely to attract unwanted nibblers.

Why Do Deer Eat Certain Plants?

Deer are herbivores and feed on a wide range of plants, but they are particularly attracted to young, tender foliage, flowers, and fruit. Deer may target plants that are easy to access, especially during colder months when food is scarcer. However, certain plants are unappealing to deer either because they are toxic, have a strong scent or taste, or are not as palatable or nutritious. Fortunately, many of these deer-resistant plants are native to Missouri and well-suited to the local environment.

Deer-Resistant Trees Native to Missouri

  • Shagbark Hickory – The shagbark hickory is a large, deciduous tree native to Missouri’s woodlands. Its distinctive shaggy bark, which peels away in long strips, is a hallmark of this tree. Deer tend to avoid hickories because the leaves are not very palatable and the tree has a relatively slow growth rate, making it a less attractive option for hungry deer. Additionally, the hickory’s large nuts may attract other wildlife, but the tree itself typically remains safe from deer browsing.
  • Oaks – Various species of oak, including the northern red oak  and white oak, are native to Missouri and generally considered deer-resistant. While deer will occasionally feed on young shoots or acorns, mature oaks are less likely to suffer significant damage from browsing. The tough leaves and high tannin content in the foliage make them less appealing to deer. Oaks are also great for wildlife, as they produce acorns that many animals depend on for food.
  • Black Gum – Also known as sour gum, the black gum is a medium to large tree native to Missouri that thrives in moist, well-drained soils. The tree has glossy green leaves that turn a vibrant red in the fall. Deer generally avoid black gum trees because of their bitter-tasting leaves. Although deer may nibble on young saplings, mature trees are usually left undisturbed. The black gum is also an excellent choice for adding fall color to your landscape.
  • American Hornbeam – The American hornbeam, also known as the musclewood, is a small to medium-sized tree native to Missouri’s bottomlands and forests. The tree has smooth, grayish bark that resembles muscle tissue, hence its name. Deer are typically not fond of the American hornbeam because its leaves and twigs are tough and not particularly flavorful. This tree is perfect for adding texture and shade to your landscape without worrying about heavy deer damage.
  • Eastern Red Cedar – The Eastern red cedar is a hardy, evergreen tree native to Missouri, often found in rocky hillsides and prairies. Its dense, aromatic foliage and blue-green berries make it unappealing to most deer. Additionally, the tree’s ability to withstand droughts and poor soil conditions makes it a low-maintenance option for a deer-resistant landscape. Eastern red cedars provide excellent year-round coverage, making them a good choice for privacy hedges and windbreaks.

Deer-Resistant Shrubs Native to Missouri

  • Serviceberry – The Serviceberry, also known as juneberry, is a native Missouri shrub or small tree that is known for its early spring blooms and edible berries. While deer may occasionally snack on the tree’s fruit or tender young shoots, the serviceberry is relatively resistant to heavy browsing. The shrub’s relatively high tolerance to deer, combined with its ornamental value, makes it an excellent choice for your landscape.
  • American Beautyberry – The American beautyberry is a deciduous shrub native to Missouri, famous for its vibrant purple berries that appear in late summer and fall. While deer may nibble on the leaves, they tend to avoid the plant once the berries ripen, as they are not particularly attractive to deer. This shrub does well in shaded areas and can be used as a foundation plant or an attractive accent in your garden.
  • Winterberry Holly – The Winterberry holly is a deciduous shrub that produces brilliant red berries in late fall and winter, providing excellent winter interest. Deer tend to leave winterberry holly alone, likely due to its prickly leaves and the shrub’s relatively tough texture. In addition to being deer-resistant, winterberry holly is also a great choice for attracting birds to your garden. It thrives in moist, acidic soils and is an excellent option for planting near wetlands or ponds.
  • Ninebark – The Ninebark is a versatile, deciduous shrub native to Missouri, known for its attractive peeling bark and clusters of white or pink flowers. While deer may browse on the leaves occasionally, ninebark is generally not a favorite among them due to its coarse texture and somewhat bitter taste. This shrub is great for adding color and texture to your garden, with varieties available in purple, red, and green foliage.
  • Spicebush – The Spicebush is a deciduous shrub that grows in moist, shaded areas and is known for its aromatic leaves, twigs, and berries. Deer tend to avoid spicebush because of its strong, spicy scent and its bitter-tasting foliage. This shrub also attracts a variety of wildlife, including birds and pollinators, making it a beneficial addition to a wildlife-friendly landscape.

You Can Enjoy Your Deer and Your Landscaping!

When it comes to creating landscaping that is both beautiful and resistant to deer browsing, choosing the right species of native trees and shrubs is key. By selecting species like the shagbark hickory, American beautyberry, and ninebark, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of damage caused by deer. In addition, planting these native species provides ecological benefits, such as supporting local wildlife and reducing the need for chemical treatments.

Want to Keep Your Landscaping off the Menu for Deer? Call Us, We’re Here to Help!

Our certified arborists and plant care specialists are experts in guiding homeowners through the process of caring for your trees, shrubs and ornamental plants for your landscaping and have years of experience helping homeowners develop beautiful, deer resistant landscapes.

Contact us today and let our insured, experienced professionals take care of all your tree-related needs!

 

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