Understory or Small "Patio" Trees

These understory trees thrive under large shade trees.  While not as grand as the street trees, these small, slow growing trees provide an additional layer of privacy screening and ornamental value.  They are perfect for planting in areas where there isn't enough space for a more substantial tree - under larger specimen trees and right up near homes.  Consider planting one of these small trees near your front window or door to provide some light screening, and a nice focal point on your front yard.  

​Please note:  These patio trees are not approved for use as street trees.  If you are planting a tree that is within 15 ft of the street please select a Street Tree.  
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Click on the pictures for more information.   TIP: You can see how a tree will look throughout the seasons by doing a Google image search.

Pink Flowering Dogwoods bloom in the spring and have spectacular reddish-purple leaves in the fall. They provide food for many birds including robins, cardinals and waxwings. Grows slowly to 15-25ft tall and wide.

Saucer Magnolia ‘Verbanica’ Produces large, white flowers with pink or purple at the base of the petals in the spring. Grows slowly to 10-15 feet tall and wide.

Bloodgood Japanese Maple. Attractive foliage with burgundy red coloring turns brilliant scarlet in fall. Interesting blackish red bark. Slender, airy tree well-suited for use as a small lawn tree or for patios and entryways. Slow grower to 15-20 ft. tall, 15 ft. wide.

Coral Bark Japanese Maple. Beautiful small tree has brilliant coral bark on young branches; color intensifies in winter. Deeply cut light green leaves display attractive red margins; turn golden in fall. Deciduous. Moderate grower 15-20' tall and wide.

Crepe Myrtle - A small tree with smooth mottled gray or light brown bark. Does NOT need topping for flower production. Grows to 24' high and 12' wide.

White Crepe Myrtle

Lavender Crepe Myrtle

If you'd are interested in plant something that isn't on the list, please submit a special request for approval.  

Return to the Street Tree List

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Resources

Arbor Day Foundation 
Sacramento Tree Foundation  ​

Someone is sitting in the shade today because someone planted a tree a long time ago. ~Warren Buffett