31 Most Famous Songs About Trees in Nature (Must Hear)

Songs about trees capture the beauty, symbolism, and wisdom of nature, using trees to explore themes of growth, resilience, and connection.

Across genres, these songs weave stories of life, love, and reflection, often portraying trees as symbols of stability or transformation.

From folk ballads to rock anthems, music about trees invites listeners to consider their own roots and the strength they draw from nature. Whether celebrating life’s cycles or evoking environmental awareness, songs about trees offer a timeless blend of melody and meaning, bridging the human experience with the natural world.

31 Greatest & Most Popular Songs About Trees Ever Written

Each of these songs draws inspiration from the imagery, symbolism, or beauty of trees, representing everything from rooted stability and growth to seasonal change and personal reflection.

Here’s a list of 31 songs inspired by trees, from metaphors of growth and life to the natural beauty they represent:

#1 “Big Yellow Taxi” by Joni Mitchell

Joni Mitchell’s “Big Yellow Taxi” is a timeless folk song that uses trees as a symbol of natural beauty and environmental loss. The lyrics, “They paved paradise and put up a parking lot,” capture the sadness of seeing green spaces replaced by concrete, representing the cost of urbanization. Mitchell’s lighthearted melody contrasts with the serious message, making the song both catchy and thought-provoking.

As she sings about tree removal and nature’s fragility, Mitchell emphasizes the importance of preserving the environment. “Big Yellow Taxi” is a reminder to cherish what we have, highlighting trees as treasures worth protecting for their beauty and the life they support.

#2 “A Forest” by The Cure

The Cure’s “A Forest” is a haunting new wave track that uses the imagery of a forest to symbolize mystery, introspection, and a sense of longing. With atmospheric synthesizers and Robert Smith’s ethereal vocals, the song creates a dark, immersive experience, as if wandering through a dense, shadowy woodland. The forest in this song is more than just a setting—it’s a metaphor for searching for something elusive and never quite reaching it.

The lyrics evoke a sense of being lost, capturing the emotional and psychological complexity of finding oneself amidst confusion. “A Forest” transforms trees into symbols of unknown realms within, making it a profound exploration of inner emotions.

#3 “Lemon Tree” by Fool’s Garden

Fool’s Garden’s “Lemon Tree” is a catchy pop-rock tune that uses the image of a lemon tree as a symbol for boredom and unfulfilled longing. The upbeat melody contrasts with the lyrics, which express a sense of dissatisfaction and the yearning for change. The lemon tree in the song represents life’s routine, a constant reminder of how everything seems to remain the same even when one craves excitement.

As the song progresses, the tree stands as a metaphor for life’s disappointments, but its playful rhythm keeps it lighthearted. “Lemon Tree” captures the universal experience of feeling stuck and hoping for something more, using a simple image to convey complex emotions.

#4 “The Trees” by Rush

Rush’s “The Trees” is a thought-provoking rock song that uses trees as an allegory for societal conflict and equality. The lyrics tell the story of a dispute between maples and oaks, with each species representing different social classes and their demands for fairness. The song’s complex instrumental arrangement reflects the tension within the story, giving life to the battle of ideologies.

Rush uses the forest as a microcosm for society, where power struggles and desires for fairness clash. “The Trees” is a unique fusion of music and metaphor, examining the balance of individual rights and societal structure through the lens of nature.

#5 “Family Tree” by Kings of Leon

Kings of Leon’s “Family Tree” is a soulful rock track that explores the deep roots of family heritage and identity. The song’s upbeat rhythm and Southern rock feel make it a celebration of lineage, with the “family tree” representing both ancestry and the strength passed down through generations. With gritty guitars and passionate vocals, Kings of Leon create a song that’s as bold as it is reflective.

The lyrics convey a sense of pride in one’s origins, honoring the connections that shape identity. “Family Tree” is a tribute to the resilience and legacy within family ties, celebrating the power of roots that hold us steady and strong.

#6 “Tree By the River” by Iron & Wine

Iron & Wine’s “Tree By the River” is a nostalgic folk ballad that uses the image of a tree by the water as a symbol of memory and youthful love. The gentle melody and Sam Beam’s soft vocals create a warm, wistful atmosphere, inviting listeners to reminisce about past relationships and moments by the river’s edge. The tree represents the steadfast presence of memories that remain even as life moves on.

The song’s lyrics evoke a sense of longing and reflection, capturing the bittersweet beauty of remembering a love that has faded. “Tree By the River” is a poetic exploration of how memories are like trees, rooted in time but revisited with a sense of tenderness.

#7 “Fake Plastic Trees” by Radiohead

Radiohead’s “Fake Plastic Trees” uses artificial trees as a metaphor for the emptiness and disillusionment of modern life. The haunting melody and Thom Yorke’s emotive vocals capture a sense of longing for authenticity in a world filled with superficiality. The “fake plastic trees” symbolize everything artificial and hollow, reflecting a society obsessed with appearances and consumerism.

As the song unfolds, it becomes a commentary on the disconnect between human experiences and material excess. “Fake Plastic Trees” invites listeners to reflect on the importance of true connection and the need to escape from synthetic facades to find something real and lasting.

#8 “Money Trees” by Kendrick Lamar feat. Jay Rock

Kendrick Lamar’s “Money Trees” is a powerful hip-hop track that uses trees as a metaphor for wealth, success, and the pursuit of dreams. The song delves into the challenges of ambition, as Kendrick explores the sacrifices and moral conflicts that arise in the pursuit of financial stability. The “money trees” symbolize the allure of wealth, rooted in both aspiration and societal pressures.

With Jay Rock’s hard-hitting verse and Kendrick’s introspective lyrics, the song portrays a nuanced view of success. “Money Trees” highlights the tension between survival and ethical choices, inviting listeners to question what we’re willing to trade for prosperity in the complex landscape of modern life.

#9 “Under the Ivy” by Kate Bush

Kate Bush’s “Under the Ivy” is a hauntingly beautiful song that uses ivy as a symbol of secrecy, intimacy, and hidden emotions. Bush’s ethereal vocals and minimalist piano create an atmosphere of longing, as if she’s revealing a deeply personal moment concealed beneath nature’s cover. The ivy represents a hidden place where she feels safe to explore her truest self, away from the world’s prying eyes.

The song’s lyrics are poetic and introspective, inviting listeners into a private space of vulnerability. “Under the Ivy” captures the idea of sanctuary, portraying nature as a place where one can connect with inner emotions and find solace.

#10 “Cherry Tree” by The National

The National’s “Cherry Tree” is a dark, introspective song that uses the image of a cherry tree to symbolize longing, regret, and emotional growth. The song’s melancholy tone and Matt Berninger’s deep, expressive vocals create a sense of reflection, as if the cherry tree is a witness to past mistakes and unfulfilled desires. The lyrics weave a tale of yearning for connection and clarity amidst life’s complexities.

The cherry tree serves as both a reminder of what’s been lost and a symbol of resilience, growing quietly despite sorrow. “Cherry Tree” is a somber exploration of memory, growth, and the difficult journey of self-understanding.

#11 “Shady Grove” by Jerry Garcia and David Grisman

“Shady Grove” by Jerry Garcia and David Grisman is a traditional folk tune that celebrates the simple beauty of nature and the peace found in shaded places. The song’s rootsy, acoustic sound and warm harmonies create a comforting atmosphere, invoking a sense of escape to the tranquility of a grove. The lyrics tell a story of love and longing, with “Shady Grove” becoming a metaphor for solace and refuge.

Garcia and Grisman’s rendition captures the timeless appeal of folk music, blending nature and emotion in a way that feels genuine and timeless. “Shady Grove” is a tribute to natural sanctuaries, where love and peace find a home among the trees.

#12 “Oak Tree” by Morris Day

Morris Day’s “Oak Tree” is a funky, upbeat song that celebrates strength, resilience, and confidence, using the sturdy oak as a powerful symbol. The song’s lively beat and Day’s charismatic vocals give it a playful, empowering vibe, as he encourages listeners to stand strong like the mighty oak. The oak tree in this song represents stability and unshakable self-assurance.

With its infectious groove, “Oak Tree” is both a celebration of individuality and a call to embrace one’s unique strengths. The track’s fun, rhythmic energy reminds listeners to be rooted, confident, and unapologetically themselves, much like the steadfast oak.

#13 “Apple Blossom” by The White Stripes

The White Stripes’ “Apple Blossom” uses the image of an apple blossom to convey themes of love, care, and emotional support. Jack White’s vocals and the minimalist instrumentation give the song a vintage feel, as he sings of being there for someone in need, offering protection and comfort. The apple blossom represents a gentle promise of hope and renewal, blooming despite life’s challenges.

The song’s simple lyrics and melody create a sense of sincerity, capturing the spirit of kindness and loyalty. “Apple Blossom” is a heartfelt reminder of the beauty in being there for others, and it uses nature’s gentle imagery to emphasize its tender message.

#14 “Green Leaves” by Damien Dempsey

Damien Dempsey’s “Green Leaves” is an uplifting folk song that uses the image of green leaves as a symbol of renewal, resilience, and the cycles of life. With his rich, soulful voice, Dempsey brings a sense of optimism and strength to the lyrics, which reflect the hope of new beginnings after hardship. The green leaves represent nature’s ability to endure and return with fresh growth each season.

Dempsey’s message is one of resilience and perseverance, capturing the beauty of life’s natural cycles. “Green Leaves” celebrates the strength to keep going, with the promise of renewal that mirrors the natural world’s continuous ability to flourish and thrive.

#15 “Treefingers” by Radiohead

Radiohead’s “Treefingers” is an instrumental track that immerses listeners in an ethereal, ambient soundscape, evoking the quiet serenity of a forest. The piece’s soft, ambient layers create a sense of being surrounded by trees, as if each sound is a “finger” of a branch reaching out. This track offers a meditative experience, capturing the calming influence of nature without words.

The soothing tones encourage listeners to slow down and breathe, much like a walk through a tranquil forest. “Treefingers” is an exploration of nature’s peaceful embrace, transporting listeners to a place of solitude and reflection, where they can connect with the quiet power of trees.

#16 “Palm Trees” by Flatbush Zombies

“Palm Trees” by Flatbush Zombies uses the iconic tree as a symbol for escapism, wealth, and the allure of a West Coast lifestyle. The laid-back beat and chill vibe of the song capture the feeling of relaxation and ambition that palm trees represent. In the lyrics, palm trees are a sign of success and the freedom that comes with it, evoking a sense of aspiration wrapped in a haze of California dreams.

The track is both introspective and celebratory, reflecting on life’s highs and lows. “Palm Trees” invites listeners to imagine a world where the iconic tree serves as a gateway to relaxation, ambition, and self-discovery.

#17 “Jungleland” by Bruce Springsteen

Bruce Springsteen’s “Jungleland” is a sweeping rock ballad that uses the imagery of a jungle as a metaphor for the wildness and chaos of urban life. In the song, city streets become tangled forests, filled with characters navigating a landscape of dreams, dangers, and desires. Springsteen’s vivid storytelling and powerful instrumentation turn the song into an epic journey through the concrete jungle.

The lyrics paint a cinematic picture, highlighting the struggles and hopes of people surviving in a city’s tangled web. “Jungleland” captures the raw, untamed side of human nature, using the metaphor of trees and jungles to illustrate life’s challenges and the search for freedom.

#18 “Willow” by Taylor Swift

Taylor Swift’s “Willow” uses the image of a willow tree to symbolize adaptability, grace, and the winding path of love. The song’s gentle melody and poetic lyrics evoke the flexibility and strength of willows, mirroring the ups and downs of a romantic relationship. Swift’s voice flows like a stream, capturing the resilience that love often requires as it bends but does not break.

The willow tree serves as a metaphor for staying grounded yet adaptable, with roots that remain steady through life’s changes. “Willow” is a tender exploration of love’s twists and turns, celebrating a connection that is both rooted and resilient, much like the tree itself.

#19 “Orange Trees” by MARINA

MARINA’s “Orange Trees” is a vibrant, summery pop song that celebrates the beauty of nature and the carefree joy it inspires. The song’s upbeat rhythm and colorful lyrics paint a picture of orange trees as symbols of warmth, growth, and happiness. MARINA’s playful, uplifting vocals invite listeners to escape to a paradise filled with bright colors and fresh scents.

The orange trees in the song represent life’s simple pleasures and the joy of being fully present in the moment. “Orange Trees” is a tribute to nature’s beauty, capturing the essence of sunshine and freedom in a way that feels refreshing and revitalizing.

#20 “Tall Tall Trees” by Alan Jackson

Alan Jackson’s “Tall Tall Trees” is a fun, country track that uses tall trees as a metaphor for boundless love and devotion. Jackson’s upbeat tempo and lively vocals convey a sense of joy and determination, as he promises to go to great lengths to prove his affection. The “tall tall trees” represent something grand and unwavering, much like his commitment to love.

The song’s catchy rhythm and playful lyrics make it a lighthearted, feel-good anthem about going above and beyond for someone special. “Tall Tall Trees” celebrates the strength of love and the joy in going the extra mile, using nature’s grand scale as a symbol of devotion.

#21 “Cedarwood Road” by U2

U2’s “Cedarwood Road” is a powerful rock song that explores Bono’s childhood memories, with the titular road symbolizing roots, growth, and self-discovery. The song’s gritty guitar and intense vocals create a sense of nostalgia, capturing both the comfort and challenges of growing up. Cedarwood Road represents a place of formative experiences, where Bono’s sense of identity was shaped.

The lyrics reflect on the importance of confronting one’s past to understand the present. “Cedarwood Road” is a reflection on the powerful role that memories and roots play in shaping who we are, using the tree-lined street as a poignant reminder of the journey of self-discovery.

#22 “Joshua Tree” by U2

While “Joshua Tree” isn’t a song, the album by U2 is heavily inspired by the symbolic imagery of the tree itself, representing resilience, faith, and the harsh beauty of the desert. The Joshua tree, known for surviving in extreme conditions, became a powerful emblem for the band as they explored themes of spiritual searching and the American dream. The album’s tracks, filled with soulful reflection, examine hope, despair, and the quest for meaning.

The Joshua tree symbolizes the beauty in hardship, standing as a beacon in the desert’s vast emptiness. Through the album, U2 uses this imagery to delve into themes of survival, endurance, and the search for purpose in life’s stark landscapes.

#23 “The Hanging Tree” by James Newton Howard feat. Jennifer Lawrence

“The Hanging Tree,” featured in The Hunger Games, is a haunting folk song that uses the tree as a symbol of rebellion, sacrifice, and remembrance. The lyrics are both dark and poetic, conveying the lingering sorrow and strength associated with standing up for justice. Jennifer Lawrence’s haunting vocals bring a raw authenticity to the song, making the tree a symbol of resistance and solidarity.

The tree serves as a meeting place, representing a point of no return in the struggle against oppression. “The Hanging Tree” captures the tension between loss and hope, reminding listeners of the resilience found in unity and the sacrifices required in the pursuit of freedom.

#24 “Birch Tree” by Foals

Foals’ “Birch Tree” is a reflective indie rock song that uses the image of a birch tree to evoke memories, growth, and the passing of time. The song’s mellow melody and nostalgic lyrics bring listeners into a world of youthful moments and fleeting relationships. The birch tree serves as a symbol of the fragility and beauty of life, standing as a reminder of both innocence and the inevitable changes of adulthood.

Through its introspective lyrics and soothing rhythm, “Birch Tree” captures the bittersweet nature of looking back on life’s pivotal moments. The song invites listeners to cherish their roots, while acknowledging the delicate balance of holding onto memories and moving forward.

#25 “Old Pine” by Ben Howard

Ben Howard’s “Old Pine” is a serene, acoustic song that captures the peaceful, grounding presence of nature, particularly through the imagery of a wise, old pine tree. Howard’s lyrics and gentle guitar create an atmosphere of calm and reflection, as he sings of spending time by the sea and under the shade of towering pines. The old pine symbolizes stability, wisdom, and a place to find solace amid life’s uncertainties.

The song’s soft, meditative tone invites listeners to connect with nature’s quiet beauty, finding peace in its enduring strength. “Old Pine” is a reminder of the grounding, healing power that trees—and nature itself—can provide for the soul.

#26 “Pineapple Skies” by Miguel

Miguel’s “Pineapple Skies” is a vibrant R&B track that references tropical trees and imagery to celebrate optimism, love, and life’s bright moments. The song’s smooth melody and feel-good lyrics create a mood of joy and relaxation, inviting listeners to bask in the warmth of “pineapple skies.” The tropical trees symbolize a place of paradise, where worries melt away under sunny skies.

Miguel’s vocals and the song’s upbeat energy make it an anthem for positivity and hope. “Pineapple Skies” is a celebration of love and carefree days, capturing the beauty of escaping to a tropical haven where happiness feels as endless as the horizon.

#27 “Mango Tree” by Zac Brown Band feat. Sara Bareilles

“Mango Tree” by Zac Brown Band and Sara Bareilles is a sweet, soulful duet that uses the mango tree as a romantic setting for love to blossom. The song’s warm melody and rich harmonies bring to life the feeling of being under a shady mango tree, where love grows naturally. The mango tree serves as a symbol of simplicity and grounding, reminding us of the joys of being rooted in the moment with someone special.

The duet’s playful lyrics and soothing rhythm make it a perfect soundtrack for summer romance. “Mango Tree” is a heartfelt, gentle ode to love’s simplicity, capturing the essence of connection and the peace found in each other’s presence.

#28 “The Giving Tree” by Plain White T’s

“The Giving Tree” by Plain White T’s is a poignant song inspired by Shel Silverstein’s classic story, exploring themes of selflessness, love, and loss. The song tells the story of a one-sided relationship, where one person gives endlessly, much like the tree in the story. The melancholic melody and heartfelt lyrics capture the pain and vulnerability of giving without receiving, reflecting the tree’s unconditional love and sacrifice.

Through this emotional ballad, the tree becomes a symbol of enduring love and the complexities of relationships. “The Giving Tree” is a reflection on the bittersweet nature of love that knows no bounds, celebrating the tree’s quiet strength and compassion in the face of heartbreak.

#29 “Tangerine Trees” by Shpongle

“Tangerine Trees” by Shpongle is an experimental electronic track that immerses listeners in a world of surreal, psychedelic imagery. The song’s ambient layers and trance-like beats create a vivid, dreamlike landscape where tangerine trees evoke a sense of wonder and imagination. Shpongle’s use of exotic sounds and hypnotic rhythms make it feel as though you’re wandering through an enchanted forest, where each tree holds secrets and magic.

The tangerine trees are symbolic of exploration and discovery, encouraging listeners to let go and embrace the unknown. “Tangerine Trees” is a sensory journey that captures the whimsy and mystery of nature, transporting listeners to a world that feels otherworldly and boundless.

#30 “Acorn” by Madeline Kenney

Madeline Kenney’s “Acorn” is a delicate indie-folk song that explores themes of growth, transformation, and the resilience found within small beginnings. The acorn, as a symbol, represents potential and the journey from seed to towering tree, capturing the beauty of gradual change. Kenney’s gentle vocals and subtle guitar strums create a peaceful, intimate atmosphere, inviting listeners to consider their own journeys of self-discovery and growth.

The song reflects on the patience and time needed for dreams and ideas to fully mature. “Acorn” is a reminder of the strength within small things, offering a meditation on life’s process of growth and the incredible transformations that can come from humble beginnings.

#31 “This Tree” by My Morning Jacket

“This Tree” by My Morning Jacket is a soulful rock track that uses the image of a tree as a symbol of endurance, strength, and rootedness. Jim James’s emotive vocals and the song’s powerful melody create a sense of reverence for nature’s resilience, as the tree stands firm through storms and seasons. The lyrics reflect on the lessons trees teach about patience, stability, and the interconnectedness of all life.

The song’s passionate delivery and reflective tone make it a tribute to nature’s wisdom. “This Tree” is a celebration of nature’s strength and the groundedness that trees inspire, encouraging listeners to find stability and meaning in their own lives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are trees a popular symbol in songs?

Trees represent growth, resilience, and the passage of time, making them powerful symbols in music. They allow artists to explore themes of life, nature, and personal development in relatable ways.

What genres of music feature songs about trees?

Songs about trees appear in various genres, including folk, rock, pop, and hip-hop. Trees’ universal appeal allows them to convey different moods, from reflective to celebratory.

Do songs about trees often carry environmental messages?

Yes, many songs about trees emphasize environmental themes or raise awareness about nature’s importance. These songs encourage listeners to appreciate and protect the natural world.

Are trees used as metaphors in most songs about them?

Often, yes—trees are commonly used as metaphors for growth, stability, and endurance. Through this symbolism, artists convey complex emotions and life experiences.