Q.Need a small tree recommendation
about to have my front yard landscaped. It’s a small yard with clay soil. The designer has chosen a Chinese pistache Keith Davey. I love the choice but I’m concerned that the area is too small. Before I vocalize my concerns I would like to be able to make other suggestions. I’ve looked up some other small trees and would like to consider a Dogwood of some type or a Japanese maple such as the Coral Bark. I have an asian inspired back yard that this landscaper completed last year. I live in Lincoln, CA and our summers are pretty hot. The tree will get plenty of sun in the afternoons. If you believe that the Chinese pistache is a fine choice for this area I would be ok with it.
Certified GKH Gardening Expert
Though the Coral Bark maple or the dogwood can tolerate full sun, you will have to water more or risk scorched leaves on either tree. I might be concerned about the size of the Pistache, too, it can grow to 35 to 50 feet tall.
How about a star magnolia? It has great spring flowers and stays under 20 feet tall.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/tgen/selecting-trees-for-small-yards.htm
