How Many Landscape Lights Do You Need Per Tree?
If you’ve ever seen a perfectly lit oak or palm and wondered how many lights it takes to get that kind of drama — the answer is: it depends.
There’s no one-size-fits-all number. The number of fixtures needed to light a tree depends on its size, shape, and where it’s being viewed from. Some trees need one light. Others might take ten. Let’s break down what affects fixture count — and how to balance budget, impact, and design.
The First Question — Where Are You Viewing It From?
Before we talk numbers, we need to understand perspective.
Single viewing angle? (Like from the street or driveway)
You can often get away with fewer lights, focusing just on the side that faces the viewer.Multiple viewing angles? (Like from a backyard, patio, or walkway loop)
You’ll usually need additional fixtures to light the structure evenly from all sides.
When budget is a concern, we prioritize the primary vantage point — and add more fixtures later as needed.
How Many Lights for Common Tree Types
Every tree has different lighting needs based on trunk structure, canopy density, and how much visual interest it has.
Palms (Queen, Sylvester, etc.)
1 fixture is often enough if there’s a single viewing angle.
If you want full coverage around the trunk or multiple perspectives, 2–3 fixtures are ideal.
Robellini Palms (Multi-Trunked)
Typically require 2 fixtures minimum to angle properly across all trunks.
Sometimes 3, depending on spread.
Live Oaks & Large Canopy Trees
2–3 fixtures is standard for most established trees.
Wide canopies or twisted structures may need more to reach the branches.
Historic or showcase oaks can easily require 5–10 fixtures, especially if viewed from multiple angles or up-lit + down-lit.
Smaller Shrubs or Accent Plants
Often lit with a single wash light, depending on shape and size.
Ground Lights vs Tree-Mounted Fixtures
It’s not always about how many fixtures — sometimes it’s about where they go.
Ground-mounted lights (uplighting) are standard for trunks and canopies.
Tree-mounted downlights (moonlighting) can be used to cast soft shadows or light hard-to-reach areas from above.
On larger properties, we often combine both — uplighting for structure, downlighting for ambiance and pathway visibility.
Our Recommendation
We always base fixture count on:
Your viewing angles
The tree’s structure
Your desired level of drama or subtlety
We also design with the ability to add more later. Many of our clients start with 1–2 lights per tree and expand as their budget or vision grows.
Bottom line: there’s no perfect number — just the right amount to make your tree look amazing from where it matters most.
Not Sure How Many Lights Your Trees Need?
From palms to historic oaks, every tree has a different lighting need. Ecotek Outdoor Lighting designs custom systems that balance beauty, efficiency, and your budget — whether you're starting with a few fixtures or lighting your entire landscape. Fill out the form below to get expert recommendations for your property.