It's arguably one of the best aspects of summer–sitting in the shade on the patio or in the garden. But when you look up at the canopy of your shade-giving tree, do you see a monster in the making? A tree that's soon to dwarf the patio, the house and everything around? Here are some wonderful little trees that won't take over your yard — or your neighbor's.
Japanese Maple
The Japanese maple is one of the classiest trees around--whether it's the weeping threadleaf form that typical creates a broad mound or the upright. And it's the tree form Japanese maple that makes a small shade tree. Typical size of the mature tree is 15 to 30 feet tall and wide. USDA Zones 5 to 8. Find out more about Japanese maples.
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