• A shade tree describes any tree that offers substantial shade through its large, spreading branches or canopies in either an urban or residential setting. Shade trees can add both beauty and value to your landscaping. They can help keep your house cool and help lower your energy bill. When looking for new trees, consider not only potential size and suitability for your soil or climate, but also insect resistance. There's no avoiding bugs, but some trees are better than others at withstanding attacks.
  
  

Bald cypress

• The bald cypress is able to withstand poorly drained soil and urban conditions, and can reach 100 feet in height. The Department of Horticulture at the University of Missouri Extension says this tree has "excellent" insect resistance. The U.S. Department of Agriculture says that this tree's most common pests---the forest tent caterpillar and fruit tree leafroller larvae---can "build webs and feed on needles," and can kill the tree if not kept in check.
  
  

Blackgum

• Also known as sour gum or tupelo, the blackgum can harbor pests such as the Tupelo leaf miner and the forest tent caterpillar. Although these insects can retard growth and occasionally cause death, they typically are not considered dangerous or lethal. The University of Missouri extension says the blackgum has "excellent" insect resistance.
  
  

Gingko biloba

• Another tree that the University of Missouri considers to have excellent insect resistance is the gingko biloba. It withstands pollution, and grows in many types of soil, though it thrives in moist, well-drained soil.
  
  

Goldenrain

• The goldenrain (or golden rain) tree can grow to about 20 feet, making it ideal for smaller yards. The University of Missouri Extension says it "has no serious insect or disease pests," though the tree's lifespan can be relatively short.
  
  

Japanese pagoda

• Also known as the Sophora or scholar tree, the Japanese pagoda is well-suited for hot, dry areas, but requires well-drained soil. The University of Missouri Extension says the tree has "excellent" insect resistance.
  
  

Kentucky yellowwood

• Also well-suited for hot, dry areas and requiring good drainage, the Kentucky yellowwood grows slowly, but can reach 40 feet in height. The University of Missouri Extension says it has "excellent" insect resistance.
  
  

Maple

• The Amur, Norway, red, silver and trident maple trees have "good freedom from insect pests," according to the University of Missouri Extension. The U.S. Department of Agriculture says the Amur maple is usually pest free, but spraying is sometimes necessary to control aphids. A symbiotic relationship may also exist between the flowering red maple and beneficial insects. Bees might depend on the red maple's early-produced pollen.
  
  

Oak

• Several varieties of oak tree are considered to be relatively free of insect pests. They include the Bur, English, pin, red, swamp white and white oak. Several types of insects, such as leaf eaters, scale insects and moths, can attack the trees. But few pose serious problems.