Help me decide what new tree to buy. photos!

[countrychic]

We removed the diseased crab apple tree yesterday. After much debate and watching it for 2 years, loosing its leaves in June (!) we chopped it down.

Now the fun part! We want to plant a new tree near to the same spot. I have been replanting and shaping the front yard. Anyone have design ideas? Any favourite trees you have to share?

-Something showy or colour in fall/spring
-Disease resistant.
-Hardy, Full Sun, exposed.
-Not a big tree as there is already a Paper Birch nearby.
-A decent rate of growth, not to slow.

I am in Zone 5a/b. Zone 6 would be pushing the limit.

Trees I already have in back yard are, Honey Locust, Magnolia, Smoke tree, many maples (no more thank you!), Redbud (not sure if this is going to make the winter).

[Eeyore]

How about a Toba Hawthorn?

[B_BQ]

....or a Euonymous 'Burning Bush'
....or a Japanese Silk Lilac (maybe not, as it can get large!)
....or a Weigela (many varieties to choose from - burgundy, green or variegated leaves, dark or pale blooms).
....or a Japanese Willow - lovely pinky/green small leaves.

Good luck. Let us know what you decide.

~BBQ

[OGrubber]

What a lovely garden you've created!
I'd go with another magnolia or another crab-apple. There are so many varieties to choose from in either you needen't duplicate if you didn't want to.

[countrychic]

I went past the nursery yesterday. What are your thoughts on a Weeping Nootka?

Somebody also recommended a Fat Albert spruce. I haven't seen this one around.

I like the idea of the hawthorn. Does the hawthorn have thorns?
I have two jap. willow shrubs in the backyard, I love them!
My other ideas are a Katsura, but I think the area is too exposed for it.

[Eeyore]

No, this Hawthorn doesn't have thorns. I like the Weeping Nootka idea but it depends on if you want an evergreen or a deciduous tree.