Trees are a signature feature of Los Angeles landscapes offering shade, beauty, and improved property value. But they come with responsibilities. From protected natives losing value when removed, to hidden dangers from pests and toxicity, understanding your home's trees is crucial. Here's your comprehensive guide to the trees you'll likely encounter and which deserve special care.

1. Protected Native Trees

What the Law Says

Los Angeles city ordinances protect several Southern California native species. Any oak (like coast live oak Quercus agrifolia or valley oak Q. lobata) with an 8″+ diameter, plus California black walnut, sycamore, and bay laurel must not be removed or damaged without permits streets.lacity.gov+5Los Angeles Parks+5ncsa.la+5. Removing them can result in significant fines

Why It Matters

These mature trees bring heritage value, ecological benefits, and significant curb appeal. But if they’re on your property, treat them as treasured—and legally protected—assets.

2. Pest-Prone Trees to Watch

Some non-native trees attract pests that can damage them or spread to other species. These include:

• Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima): A prolific invasive that spawns pests like spotted lanternfly, aggressively dominating landscapes and poisoning nearby plants invasivespeciescentre.ca+2The Nature Conservancy+2Wikipedia+2.
• Citrus trees: Vulnerable to Asian citrus psyllid, leaf miners, red scales, and thrips: pests that threaten harvests and health Evergreen Arborist Consultants+1Tree Doctor+1.
• Birches & ashes: Susceptible to bronze birch borer and emerald ash borerwood-boring insects that kill from within American Arborists+1groundsguys.ca+1.

What to Do: Monitor annually. Early intervention: pruning, treatment, or removal can save your tree and others nearby.

3. Toxic Trees & Shrubs

Some attractive ornamental species carry hidden risks:

• Melia azedarach (Chinaberry): Produces yellow berries that are toxic if ingested
• Lantana camara: Very toxic to animals; its berries can be lethal even when ripe groundsguys.ca+5Wikipedia+5Wikipedia+5

Tip: Avoid planting these near children, pets, or vegetable/family gardens.

4. Trees That Create Maintenance Nightmares

Larger specimens often mean more upkeep:

• Moreton Bay Fig: Massive canopy equals heavy leaf/seed/fruit cleanup Wikipedia
• Encino Oak: These iconic giants have deep roots that damage sidewalks, utility lines, and foundations Wikipedia+1The Nature Conservancy+1

Tip: Consider long-term costs for leaf removal, root management, and pruning.

5. Invasive Tree Risks

Tree of Heaven grows quickly, invades water tables, and inhibits other vegetation—its removal may be nearly mandatory for safe landscaping The Nature Conservancy.

Tip: Choose California natives or well-adapted ornamentals that support local ecosystems

Summary:

If you’re buying or selling in Los Angeles, don’t overlook the trees on the property. A healthy canopy of protected natives can be a huge asset. Problematic, toxic, or messy species? They could cost you time, money, or even compliance issues down the road.

Looking for tree care advice or help navigating local regulations? The Stephanie Younger Group can connect you with trusted arborists and landscaping experts who understand LA’s complex urban forest—and how it adds real value to your home.