On 20 May 2003 04:42:03 -0700, (Justin
Hughes) wrote:

Hello,

Looking to plant a focal point tree in our garden. Unfortunately the
proposed position will be in full sun, south facing and be somewhat
exposed (only 3ft fences across about 50ft of neighbours gardens on
either side (north-south), and the wind can pick up.

We fancy something with either all year round colour (preferably
red/purple), or a good variation of colour across the seasons. We have
been looking at Japanese Acers. I understand most are not sun lovers,
but have read that Acer Bloodgood could be suitable. Any comments?

I've had suggested American Redbud 'Cercis canadensis Forest Pansy', a
tree I am not aware of at all. Any info would be great.

Also a local nursery sells "Royal Purple" Smokebush, Cotinus Coggygria
which have been pruned to be tree like. Anyone know how broad these
might get, as they look a bit narrow to be a convincing "tree shape".

If Acer Bloodgood would fit, can anyone suggest a cheap source. We
would be looking for a plant initially at least 1m high. Locally
(Berkshire) these seem to cost about £120-£160, a bit pricey!.

Thanks,

Justin

Bloodgood, being a japanese maple really will do better in a more
sheltered spot.

Plus if your after a reasonably mature tree (1m in acer palmatum terms
is a mature tree) then you are definately looking at a pricey
thing!!!!!

An alternative would be a trident maple (acer buerganum or some such).
You`ll be able to get a tree that could take a bit of the hammer from
the wind although they do get a bit of scorch but the bonus is they
grow like hell itself. The colour in autumn rivals the best of the jap
maples if it`s well fed. They are prolific growers and can grow by a
meter a year if left to go mad. But they respond well to cutting back.
Great for Bonsai and a really good alternative.

Acer Rubrum (red maple) would be good too as the autumn leaf is good
colour too. However it`s not so small and dainty and mine suffers with
aphids more than any other tree.