The biggest misconception about Flagstaff stems from its association with the state of Arizona. People will often conjure up images of Tucson and Phoenix and extrapolate that into the northern areas of Arizona as well. In reality, northern Arizona is riddle with beautiful boutique towns and cities like Williams, Prescott, and Snowflake. When you move into this area of Arizona, the climate reaches over 6,000 feet and brings colder temperatures and consistent snow throughout the winter season. It is here where a diverse range of tree species can be found. Read on to find out more about the local flora that we are grateful to share in our beautiful state. 

Ponderosa Pine
The Pinus Ponderosa, or more commonly referred to as the Ponderosa Pine is one of the most widespread species of tree in North America. There is no exception for that rule in Flagstaff. People will notice when they are driving to higher points in Flagstaff like Snowbowl that this species will be the most common breed that they will come across. 

Rocky Mountain Juniper
Flagstaff natives will recognize this species immediately as they are prevalent above 5,000 feet. This species features multiple main stems and has the appearance of a stout evergreen. 

White Fir
The abies concolor, or white fir, at first glance, this type of tree is comparable to the iconic Christmas tree. An hours drive away is the town of Prescott that has coined the term 'Arizona's Christmas Town' because of its prevalence of white firs and its illustrious Christmas atmosphere. 

Blue Spruce
Less commonly found than the Ponderosa Pine, the blue spruce are scattered through certain growing zones throughout the United States. These species are found in Flagstaff and other areas above 6,000 feet in Arizona. This tree features the typical needle like features of a spruce but comes in varying shades of green and blue. It is renowned for its ability to withstand wind better than other spruces due to its deep root structure. 

Alligator Juniper
Juniperus deppeana, or the alligator juniper is a smaller species that do not grow in excess of 20 meters tall. Its name is derived from its alligator type bark that arranges itself in cracked rectangular segments. This type of tree is one of the least common types found in Flagstaff but are much more common as you move south towards Phoenix. 

These are just five of the most common breeds of tree that are found in Flagstaff. There are many other types that did not make the list, for that reason we compiled a list of honorable mentions:

• Narrowleaf Cottonwood (populus angusifolia)
• Boxelder (acer negundo)
• Quaking Aspen (populus tremuloides)



Flagstaff is blessed with all of these amazing organisms and we intend to treat them with the kindness and respect that they have afforded our incredible state. At Flagstaff Tree Service, we are licensed and certified to work on all of these variations. We are trained on ethical handling of sensitive species, as well as best practiced techniques. We take our job seriously when it comes to evaluating a tree for removal, pruning, or treatment. If you have a tree in question and are searching for an experts opinion, we have a licensed ISA arborist ready to take your inquiry. Drop us a line today to learn about how we can serve you in the future.