Treedimensional

[ktzmoh]

I have a question about trees, and I hope you don't mind me asking. We have about 8ft - 10ft between our house and a retaining walk that separates our lot from the neighbors'. I really would like to put a tree in next to our house, our neighbors have one in that space and it really softens some harsh angles from a curb appeal perspective.

Do I have any hope of finding a tree that will do well in a space that small, that will be foundation and retaining wall friendly? I'd like something that grows to about 20 ft. Do you have any recommendations?

[treedimensional]

Absolutely. What zone?

[ktzmoh]

we are USDA zone 9 and Sunset zone 15. Our soil is clay, but drains well and the spot i have in mind is eastern facing. If it helps, I went out and measured and we've got more like 10 ft of space. Thank you!!

[treedimensional]

To recap the criteria:
Z9, part sun, clay soil. Space about 20' tall x 10' wide.
Sounds right?
Any other criteria you'd like to add?

[ktzmoh]

I could go up to 25 ft, and it'll be between a retaining wall and our foundation, so nothing with crazy pwerful lateral roots.

[treedimensional]

Okay.
First, you have tons of options. Many more than I can list. But I want you to keep in mind that the best plant may be something you normally think of as a shrub, not a tree.
Several species of Viburnum would work here. Both Alleghany and Chindo Viburnums work well in partial sun and tolerate heavy pruning (to control size). I'd also try Blackhaw Viburnum or Arrowwood Viburnum.
Another route: Windmill Palm. I love this plant; I have planted many (in zone 7) and NONE have ever failed. They just grow slowly.
Another route: Holly.
This is just off the top of my head. Many choices for this space.

[ktzmoh]

Viburnum huh? I would have never thought to venture into the world of shrubs as I was kind of fixated on finding a smallish tree- but I love the Alleghany and Blackhaw in particular and they might be perfect for that spot!

Thank yoU!

[treedimensional]

I have tested both Alleghany and Chindo. The Chindo got so big, so fast, I had to sell it (which is what I do with most of my successful test subjects). Now I just have the Alleghany and I prune the hell out of it, sometimes twice a year. I have made it lollipop shape and Xmas tree (cone) shape. It doesn't hold grudges, it just keeps on growing. It's jammed tightly into a corner and would be pretty hard to dig up at this point, so I'll probably have to keep on pruning it; but I'm trying to manage it at around 15' and keep it narrow.
And most people are shocked to see palm trees in my yard, but I have 4. so far the Windmill palm is my favorite. It performs BEAUTIFULLY in our local clay, and only part sun. Just an amazing plant. May have to move that one soon, I am constantly running out of room in my little test garden.