Tree pollen
Trees release most of their pollen in late winter and spring, before or as their leaves open. 11 guides, each with its sources.
Today across our metrosHighest level in any metro, and how many metros reach it
OakLoadingBirchLoadingMapleLoadingElmLoadingAshLoadingJuniper and cedarLoadingPineLoadingCottonwoodLoadingAlderLoading
Source: Includes pollen data from GoogleIncludes data from Google Maps
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QuercusOakOaks grow in nearly every state and release large amounts of wind-borne pollen in spring. AAFA rates oak pollen as very allergenic.BetulaBirchBirch is a major spring tree pollen. Many people allergic to it also get an itchy mouth from some raw fruits, vegetables and nuts.AcerMapleMaples grow in nearly every state, and red maple is one of the first trees to flower each spring. AAFA rates box elder, a maple, as very allergenic.UlmusElmMost elms flower in late winter and spring, before their leaves open. A few, such as cedar elm, flower in late summer and fall.FraxinusAshAsh trees, members of the olive family, flower in spring with or just before their leaves. AAFA rates ash pollen as very allergenic.JuniperusJuniper and cedarJunipers release wind-borne pollen. Mountain cedar, the juniper of central Texas, sheds it in winter and causes the allergy known as cedar fever.PinusPinePine pollen is the yellow dust of spring. Allergy to it is relatively uncommon, and smaller pollen from trees that shed at the same time causes more trouble.PopulusCottonwoodCottonwood pollen flies in early spring and can cause hay fever. The white “cotton” that drifts weeks later is seed fluff, not pollen.AlnusAlderAlder is a birch relative that flowers in late winter and spring. Its main pollen allergen cross-reacts with birch’s, and it can trigger reactions to some foods.MorusMulberryMulberry trees shed wind-borne pollen in spring that can cause hay fever and asthma. Male “fruitless” mulberries make no fruit but plenty of pollen.CaryaPecan and hickoryPecan and hickory trees release wind-borne pollen in spring that can cause hay fever. AAFA rates both as very allergenic.