Specimen tree

Specimen tree is a hobbyist's term for an ornamental tree planted as a feature in a house park or garden.

There are no rules as to the type of trees that may be used as specimens, but they are typically selected for outstanding qualities, such as unusual or variegated foliage, spectacular flowering, or beautiful autumnal colour.

Exotic tree varieties may be rare or expensive; these may be planted as status symbols. An example would be a Douglass Fir planted in an Australian garden.

Qualities gardeners may use to select specimen trees

• Beautifully shaped trees - called a tree's "form"
• Interesting style of growing branches - called "habit" - "weeping" trees are an example
• Coloured and/or variegeted (two-toned) leaves
• Autumnal colour
• Floral or fruit display
• Edible fruit
• Rare species or variety
• Shade or shelter in a particular spot
• Provide a focal point in a park, set off a house or outbuilding