We all know trees are essential for life, and all permie people can express countless reasons for planting trees. Fruit trees, timber trees, N-fixing trees are all essentials for any garden. So I want to start a discussion on trees that are less totally functional, more fun trees. What do you plant just because you like it? Yes trees always have value, but let me know what you plant for love not for practicality!

In my case, I live in New Zealand at about the same distance from the equator as are cities like Philadelphia and Denver. For a while I lived in the subtropics in Australia (incidentally only a few kms away from the later location of Zaytuna Farm). I grew to love the subtropical vegetation, and after returning to NZ I planted a lot of trees that can give that warm climate 'vibe' without actually needing a warm climate to survive in.

My favourite tree, Ficus columnaris a true temperate climate banyan tree! I planted this guy just on 20 years ago.

And another tree I've planted a lot of, another Aussie native, Archontophoenix cunninghamiana;

Who's next? Show us your trees!

Hi Ben! I too have planted some trees just for the fun of it. Can't upload photos right now, but I'll try it later when I can

Cinnamon tree. I'll probably never harvest any bark in my lifetime, but it's just fun to have the tree growing here.
Allspice and clove trees. I initially planted them just for fun, but have since learn to use a few leaves in cooking here and there.
Bilimba tree. Called the pickle tree around here, it's just a fun tree to plant. I can't imagine ever really eating the sour fruits. Maybe the next owner will try eating them.
Siranam cherry tree. I don't like the fruit, but I planted one anyway.
Variegated lemon. I surely don't need more lemon trees, but who can resist a variegated one? So I planted one in the orchard.

My favorite tree is Mimosa, Albizia julibrissin

Albizia julibrissin (Persian silk tree, pink silk tree) is a species of tree in the family Fabaceae, native to southwestern and eastern Asia