Denver's Celebri-Trees–They're kind of a big deal!
Learn what makes these trees special and share your appreciation for a chance to win some great prizes from Ace Hardware! To enter the challenge, submit an image and a note of tree appreciation via the form below.
Terms: No purchase necessary. By submitting an entry through the online form, you grant Denver’s Office of the City Forester and Denver Parks and Recreation the right to use the image on social media, website, print or digital media. Photographers will not be compensated for the use of the photo outside of this contest.
Bur Oak, Civic Center Park
Bur Oak, Civic Center Park
The bur oak (or mossycup oak) earns its name from its acorns’ stylish tops, which sport fringed, bur-like bristles. This Celebri-Tree has rubbed branches with plenty of A-listers at Civic Center Park, including Clint Eastwood during the filming of “In the Line of Fire” and President Obama who delivered a campaign speech in front of 100,000 people (and one Celebri-Tree). Wide as they are tall, these trees provide plentiful shade and are nice to look at, too.
Write them some fan mail using the template below.
Golden Rain Tree, Huston Lake Park
Golden Rain Tree, Huston Lake Park
The golden rain tree, or Koelreuteria paniculata, makes several dramatic costume changes throughout the year, including late summer and early autumn when its leaves transform from green to brilliant yellow and again during spring when its flowers fall to the ground, creating a ring of “golden rain.”
This Celebri-Tree is native to China but made its way to the United States over 260 years ago. It has since become a staple in urban landscapes due to its resilience amid pollution, drought and harsh winters, but its color makes it a true showstopper in any park or lawn.
Write the golden rain tree some fan mail today and celebrate this botanical superstar!
Catalpa, Observatory Park
Catalpa, Observatory Park
Catalpas are for lovers: You might notice the heart-shaped leaves and white flowers dangling from this tree’s branches. While the catalpa is visually impressive, like the main character in your favorite blockbuster RomCom, it also has the ability to withstand difficult urban conditions.
It’s easy to imagine “happily ever after” under this canopy. Take a minute to write a love letter to your favorite Celebri-Tree.
Japanese Tree Lilac, Cook Park
Japanese Tree Lilac, Cook Park
Standing 20-30 feet tall and 15 feet wide, the Japanese tree lilac is a great bee and butterfly-friendly addition to urban landscapes. Despite its modest size, this small but mighty tree has a fragrance that would rival any celebrity-backed perfume, with naturally sweet and musky flower clusters that captivate your senses. This Celebri-Tree has been known to have a smooth appearance, too. Ivory Silk is the most common variety of Japanese tree lilac seen around the Denver metro area. Just like any true breakout star, once you’ve seen it, its presence is unforgettable.
Take a deep breath and enjoy its blossoms while you write a note of gratitude to this Celebri-Tree!
Chinkapin Oak, Washington Park
Chinkapin Oak, Washington Park
A cousin of the bur oak, the Chinkapin oak is a favorite among visitors. Thriving in Colorado’s alkaline soil, this Celebri-Tree provides ample shade and produces up to 10 million acorns over its lifetime—talk about a hefty “nut worth!”
The Chinkapin oak was selected as the 2009 Urban Tree of the Year by the Society of Municipal Arborists (SMA), earning it a Lifetime Achievement Award in our book.
Write this remarkable tree some fan mail today.
Common Hackberry, Sloan’s Lake Park
Common Hackberry, Sloan’s Lake Park
Considered native to Colorado, the Hackberry may be a “common” tree, although it’s anything but ordinary! Much like a well-known top chef, this Celebri-Tree is resourceful and versatile, offering food for birds and insects while delighting with its unique appearance. Its signature dish, the petite berries often called “Nature’s M&Ms,” are a plant-based treat that packs a punch.
Take a moment to “cook up” some appreciation for this local Celebri-Tree.