Central Anatolia typifies the semiarid agroecological conditions of Türkiye given its low annual precipitation and winter temperatures. Wheat, barley, chickpea, lentil, vetch, apples and potatoes are largely grown in this zone but native perennials, including oaks, Turkish fir and poplar, are on the decline thereby limiting their contribution to ecosystem services. The disconnect between the value of trees and ecosystem services in Central Anatolia has not been studied previously. This study focused on the knowledge, importance, intercropping, ecosystem services, community values and planting of trees in Niğde, a representative province in Central Anatolia, Türkiye. A quantitative survey of 301 participants was conducted to understand their perception of selected trees grouped as nitrogen fixing and nonnitrogen fixing. Indicators were tested for association (χ2) and responses were disaggregated into two participant groups, farmers and non-farmers. Generally, participants showed a widespread knowledge about the trees. The top five trees of perceived importance were fruit, poplar, hawthorn, black pine and oak which were mainly valued for environmental protection, health and income. High value tree agroforestry was a preference while perception of tree-based ecosystem services focused on cultural and provisioning services. Although there was considerable support for the concept of planting more trees, tree survival remains low and increased social engagement in further perennial studies is needed.