What is the best tree for a small backyard?
Clive Blazey explains why trees are the most important element in any garden, particularly in small spaces.
Both the Kapok and Lancewood are intriguing small trees with extraordinary character. They are more of a living sculpture than a shade tree, but are the perfect bizarre character to integrate with succulents such as Aloes, Agave, Aeoniums, Cotyledons and Yuccas.
Fruit trees
Fruit trees provide the best of both worlds, giving gardeners with small spaces both fruit and shade.
The Seville Orange is a tough, fast growing citrus for small gardens. Planted as an evergreen street tree in southern France and Spain, it provides glowing winter colour, exceptional spring fragrance and globes of orange fruit in winter.
The Persimmon, which is deciduous, is probably the most ornamental edible tree available, producing handsome orange fruit after its vibrant autumn foliage. With the development of dwarf root stocks and espalier pruning, apples and pears can also be kept small, allowing these fruit trees to be grown in the smallest spaces.
Climbing plants
Climbers are a great way to bring plants to small spaces and create living walls. These plants will pay their way many times over by reducing the need for both air conditioning in summer and heating in winter.
Boston Ivy (Parthenocissus tricuspidata) is an indispensable climber for inner city gardens because it is self-clinging, without damaging the brick work beneath.
It is capable of climbing 2-3 stories without additional support, and thrives in low light conditions as well as full sun.
During spring it provides lush, green, maple-like leaves which turn a spectacular sequence of orange, yellow and red in autumn.
Why not plant a deciduous Grape vine or a vigorous Kiwi fruit?
Both will readily ascend a pergola or shade a major north or west window in summer, while allowing the winter sun to penetrate during the cooler months.