A Gardeners Forum Forums Gardening Reference Gardening in 2006 Shade tree suggestions

Hi,
I need suggestions for a nice size, 20-30 ft, tree that will provide shade to my cute un-insulated house. We'd like something that grows fairly quick and has a nice canopy. This will be in our front yard so I'd prefer to not to do a fruit tree (DH was thinking of an avocado for a while). Any suggestions? It would be in full sun, surrounded by the lawn.

I've noticed there is a type of maple that has the beautiful red leaves in the fall where some of the maples just turn brown and crispy here. (So. Cal., zone 9) Anyone have any info on the different types of maples? The maple that turns red here has big leaves, so I don't think its a Japanese, but I could be wrong.

Thanks in advance!

Kristen

Poinciana. Delonix regia
http://www.hear.org/starr/hiplants/images/thumbnails/html/delonix_regia.htm

hybrid poplar

Cool tree, Longy. Thanks for the suggestion.

eClaire, I googled the hybrid poplar. That's a great looking tree. Thanks!

Mt Ash. They are fast growers and attract birds

Honey locust. Nice shape, and attract birds

Bradford Pear. Nice flowers in spring

Thanks plant Doc!

My hubby had time to play today and found the following website... fast growing trees

I am in between the October Glory and the Tulip Poplar. Anybody have one of these trees?

Thanks!

Kristen

tulip poplar will grow way past 30 feet.

For your area I would suggest a Bauhinia Blakeana, hong kong orchid tree . It has unique leaves & beautiful flowers. It stays within your range 0f 30 feet.

Make sure you go with a 'blakeana', they are sterile & produce no volunteer trees.