Five of the most common trees in Oklahoma City parks

Arborists who surveyed more than 19,000 trees growing in 134 Oklahoma City parks identified 185 species of trees.

The recently completed tree inventory provides a wealth of information that city parks officials can use to track the health of trees, plan for future plantings and tree replacements and help protect against diseases and other threats, among other benefits. Here are a few key findings from the project:

Here's a look at the five most common trees inventoried: 

5. Chinese elm, or Ulmus parvifolia

This medium-sized tree, which is native to China, Korea and Japan, typically grows to be about 40 to 60 feet tall with a 30 to 40 foot spread, according to the Arbor Day Foundation. The tree earned the name "lacebark elm" because of its distinctive bark, which often creates colorful patterns. In the fall, the tree's foliage often turns shades of red and purple. Chinese elms are adaptable trees that are resistant to Dutch elm disease. 

Number of trees inventoried: 932

Percentage of tree population at Oklahoma City parks: 4.75

Sometimes called the "lilac of the South," the crapemyrtle can be grown as a shrub or a small tree. It is known for its beautiful bark and showy flowers, which range in color from white to shades of pink, purple and red. The flower petals have a wrinkled appearance, similar to crepe paper. 

Number of trees: 1,069

Percentage of tree population at Oklahoma City parks: 5.45

3. Post oak, or Quercus stellata

These medium-sized trees are abundant throughout the southeastern and south central United States. Their average size is 30 to 50 feet tall and 12 to 24 inches in diameter. The post oak grows slower than most other oak species. It is drought tolerant and has been called the "iron oak" because of its hard, durable wood, which is resistant to decay.

Number of trees: 1,211

Percentage of tree population at Oklahoma City parks: 6.17

2. Chinese pistache, or Pistacia chinensis

The Chinese pistache is known as the "Ugly Duckling" of the tree world because the tree develops from "an unattractive and misshapen young tree into a magnificent specimen," according to the Arbor Day Foundation. During the fall, the tree's typically dark green leaves change to a vibrant display of orange and red. 

Number of trees: 1,279

Percentage of tree population at Oklahoma City parks: 6.51

1. Eastern redcedar, or Juniperus virginiana

This aromatic tree has reddish wood that gives off the smell of cedar chests and crushed fruit, according to the Arbor Day Foundation. Eastern redcedars have a tolerance of heat, drought, cold and other adverse conditions. These trees are very susceptible to fire, especially when they are small, according to Oklahoma Forestry Services.

Number of trees: 1,365

Percentage of tree population at Oklahoma City parks: 6.95