This study evaluated the effects of lead (Pb) stress on seed germination and early seedling growth of ten tree species, which are commonly used for afforestation in arid regions in China (Ailanthus altissima, Amaorpha fruticosa, Gleditsia japonica, Koelreuteria paniculata, Pinus armandii, Pinus sylvestris, Pinus tabuliformis, Platycladus orientalis, Pyrus betulaefolia, Robinia psedoacacia). A laboratory experimental investigation was conducted to examine the seed germination and seedling growth indices (germination rate, root elongation, shoot elongation, biomass, vigor index) of ten species under different Pb-addition levels (Pb contents of 0, 0.3, 0.5, 1.0, 2.0, 3.0, 4.0, 5.0, 6.0, 7.0, 8.0, 9.0, 10.0 g/kg). The result showed that the seed germination and seedling growth of most species suffered gradual inhibition with increasing Pb levels, R. pseudoacacia, P. orientalis, and P. tabuliformis showed enhanced growth at lower Pb concentrations (0.3 g/kg-0.5 g/kg), but faced significant inhibition beyond 1.0 g/kg. The root elongation inhibition rate was more sensitive to Pb stress than the other indices, seed vigor index exhibited the highest contribution to the prediction of Pb tolerance among species. The evaluation of Pb tolerance of 10 tree species in this study identified P. orientalis and A. fruticosa as potential candidates for the ecological restoration of Pb contaminated sites, while P. armandii and A. altissima emerged as sensitive species to monitor soil Pb toxicity levels.