Question
Hi Marc, I don't know anything about trees or gardening.  I just moved in to a new place and what I want is to plant a small tree that has some year-round color to it besides green.  Is there such a creature?  I've seen Japanese maples that tend to vary between dark red to crimson most of the year.  Can you suggest any other types of trees?  I suppose I don't necessarily need a tree, it would be a small area, about 3 by 3 feet planting area, but it would be right next to a green leafy hedge, so I wanted some variety.  But the main thing is the color.

Thanks a bunch
Tim

Answer
Depends on where you live...If color is the only consideration, I have a favorite site I go to so that I can evaluate my color/soil/climate options:

http://www.growit.com/PlantInfo/LandScape.Htm

I live in a zone 7, but you'll need to check where your area is. See the link in my question/intro. page, or just do a web search for "USDA Climate Zone", and scan the plant list accordingly.

If it is 3 x 3, then yes, a tree would over-power the small planter area.  I like Weigela or Barberry for interesting leaf color (Again, depends on your USDA climate zone).

And sorry for the delay - its been an unusual work week!

Regards. Marc