[nmroberts]

I live in So. California, 5 miles inland,
Would like to plant a tree in my backyard, it needs to grow straight up for awhile, and then out, umberella like, for shade,
Any suggestions?

[LUNAGODDESS]

When I was little girl my grandmother showed me a Weeping Willow and said it was her favorite tree... I loved the tree... at first sight... and continued until this day. My suggestion is the weeping willow the following is information about the tree... it is a good choice since you are near water...

File Name: weeping_willow.jpg
Image URL: http://www.flowerpictures.net/java/weeping_wi...

Source URL: http://www.flowerpictures.net/java/reflection...


File Name: Willow.jpg
Image URL: http://www.businesscentre.net/images/Willow.j...

Source URL: http://www.businesscentre.net/Appraisal.htm
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WEEPING WILLOW

Summary:
Foliage: Deciduous broad leaf
Height: 30 to 40 feet
Spread: 30 to 40 feet
Shape: Weeping
Narrow, green leaves form on long weeping stems which reach to the ground. Fall color is yellowish.
Plant Needs:
Zone: 6 to 8
Light: Partial shade to full sun
Moisture: Wet to moist
Soil Type: Sandy, loam, or clay
PH Range: 3.7 to 7.3
Functions:
Suggested uses for this plant include specimen plant.
Planting Notes:
Transplants readily and is easy to propagate.
Plant thrives near water, but will grow about anywhere.
Care:
Maintenance needed to remove fallen twigs when planted in high traffic area.
Prune dead and damaged wood anytime of year.
Problems:
Brittle, soft wood breaks easily.
Tree litter is a nuisance in high-traffic areas.
Invasive root system may cause problems to septic tanks and water lines.
Insect problems include aphids, borers, defoliators, gall insects, Japanese beetles, lace bugs, sawflies, scale insects and spider mites.
Alternatives:
Consult local sources, including historic or public gardens and arboretum, regarding cultivates and related species that grow well in your area.

Related species (do not resemble Weeping Willow):
SALIX GRACILISTYLA (Rose gold Willow) has showy pink tinged catkins in spring (6 to 10 feet high, 6 to 10 feet wide).
SALIX CAPREA (Goat Willow) is often confused with the true " Willow" (Salix discolor). This small tree has soft, early spring catkins (15 to 25 feet high, 12 to 15 feet wide).
SALIX PURPUREA (Purpleosier Willow) is good for wet areas, such as stabilizing creek and pond banks (8 to 10 feet high, 6 to 8 feet wide).
Comments:
Weeping Willow is a beautiful, graceful tree when placed out in the open with adequate water and lots of room to grow.
Its extensive leaf and twig drop, shallow root system, and weak wood limit its usefulness in the home landscape.
Additional Materials:
The PRUNING SERIES videotape can be ordered through your local Extension office.
The following Extension publications are available through your local Extension office or directly from: Virginia Tech Extension Distribution Center 112 Landsdowne St. Blacksburg, VA 24061
#426-500 "Winter Injury to Trees and Shrubs"

[labman]

Why don't you browse the selection somewhere that sells nursery stock? Many of their trees will be ugly little sticks, but will have a tag with a picture of a mature tree. They will also be adapted to your area. Consider a nut or fruit tree. Apples take too much work, many take much less work. Mostly, let your heart be your guide.

Don't plant a tree that gets big near power lines or too near the house. Willows are a poor choice near drains and septic systems. Silver maples are fast growing, but quickly become a problem.

[LUNAGODDESS]

Weeping Willows are great for shade... keep the drains clean... the tree helps against erosion... if you are living near a beach... and if you are on hill... I just personally love this tree... I also love all trees... all trees grow roots that will cause all sort of drain problem... never place a tree near a house... yes... good placement of a tree is necessary... call a lands keeper... trees need trimming.. it just part of the beauty... enjoy