When looking for a tree to create shade in a backyard, look no further than a fruiting tree. That way you get the best of both worlds delicious tasty fruit and a cool spot to sit in summer.

Top 10 fruiting small trees for urban backyards

• Quince – Historically, this small tree was highly valued by the Ancient Civilisations as a symbol of love and fertility. It has been grown for its fruits and flowers for thousands of year and deserves a position in any garden. It loves full hot sun, looks amazing when planted on a border or to create a terrace along a fence and is one of the hardiest small fruiting trees available. It has a semi branching habit, soft pink flowers and slightly furry foliage. (Deciduous)
• Strawberry Guava – Is an evergreen small tree that will tolerate salt laden winds. Its hard leathery foliage ensures it’s not susceptible to burning and can be planted in exposed positions. Being more cold hardy than its tropical cousins it will thrive just as well in the cooler areas of the state. Small red fruit are sweet, with a tangy aftertaste and will fruit prolifically once the tree is mature. The Strawberry Guava is slow growing and will grow in a large pot if needed for many years. (Evergreen)
• Pomegranate – This small tree has been cultivated for thousands of years and has been associated with many different religions and cultures. Few trees are as well known as the Pomegranate. What many don’t know about this tree is just how easy it is to grow. This tree requires hot summers to produce an abundance of fruit. (Deciduous)
• Shatoot Mulberry – The King Mulberry or ‘Shatoot Mulberry’ is a well behaved small tree with the most incredible sweet fruit. Many of the other Mulberry cultivars are larger growing, but the Shatoot is ideally suited to a smaller backyard. The fruit does not stain as it is light green in colour and the longer it’s left on the tree the sweeter it becomes. A great super healthy snack for children that will sure to become a firm favourite amongst the family. (Deciduous)

• Pistachio – Is not widely planted in residential gardens, even though it’s slow growing and will fruit regularly for many years. This tree is incredibly drought hardy and will tolerate 40 degrees plus temperatures. Two trees are needed, a male and a female to ensure crop set, it responds to pruning and will start fruiting when it’s about 8 years old. (Deciduous)
• Citrus – Most of Western Australia’s climate is ideally suited to citrus trees. They produce highly perfumed blossom, have dark glossy green foliage and the added bonus of fruit. These small trees are suited to small backyards, hot positions and will grow very successfully in large pots. Citrus, once established are very drought tolerant, surviving on minimal water and fruiting at the same time. Apply controlled release fertiliser at the beginning of every season around the tree and mulch thickly for the best fruit. (Evergreen)
• Jujube – The Chinese Red Date is growing in popularity as more gardeners discover just how versatile these trees are. Not suited to the smallest backyard as it often reaches heights over 6m, but can be pruned easily. Jujubes are drought tolerant, but will require a small amount of water when in full fruit production. (Deciduous)
• Mango – This tropical tree has overtaken the Lemon tree as the fruiting tree of choice for urban backyards. Mangos are evergreen, attractive and easy to look after even when they are not fruiting. Keep in a warm position and protect from frosts when young. These trees create a lovely shady tropical microclimate under the leaf canopy which can be planted with tropical foliage plants. (Evergreen)
• Finger Limes – the most well known of all the Australian native citrus, the finger lime flavour is superb. It’s worth growing this tree, just to experience the fresh flavour that it has to offer. Fingers limes are incredibly slow growing and will adapt to even the smallest garden. (Evergreen)
• Dwarf Stonefruit Varieties – There are many apricots, plums, nectarines and peaches that will grow in small backyards. Fruiting trees are vigorous and will tolerate a hard summer prune after the last of the fruit has been harvested. Plant into well improved soil, feed regularly and apply a thick layer of organic mulch at the beginning of spring. Many of the fruiting varieties are ornamental as well and look gorgeous when in full flower. Plant in parts of the garden where they can be enjoyed. (Deciduous)