"Kate" wrote in message ...

Thanks for all the suggestions so far

I'm in the Midlands, slightly acidic clay soil. It's a corner behind a
raised bed with an access path behind, that's why it can't spread too far
but also needs to be fairly tall to be seen. But not too tall or it will
be out of proportion with the bed.

Don't mind about deciduous or evergreen... flowers are always nice


Another suggestion - a much admired "ever yellow" form of Yew.


http://www.flickr.com/photos/8130344...in/photostream

More a miniature tree really but very slow growing. Mine is about two metres
high
after about twenty years of growth. Never needs pruning and is as naturally
tall
and thin as you go ! Small red berries form the fruit.

Pete