The three you mentioned prefer or require a sunny position. Try something often seen growing acceptably beneath taller deciduous trees, maybe a locally native species.

How can the spot be full sun and be only 15 feet away from "tons of maples"? Maybe American Beech?

Redbud is an understory tree and the woods of WV are full of them.

If you can't grow a redbud there It might be hard to grow anything in that location. One plant that might work would be Ironwood.

If you are going to try anything else though I would dig an extra large hole, mabe 4 feet wide, and mulch heavily to help retain moisture so the plant can get established.

If moisture isn't an issue in that location Pawpaw is a nice understory tree.

David

Ironwood is a common name given to both Ostrya virginiana and Carpinus carolinana. They're both nice understory trees, but I'd recommend the latter for ornamental use. Fall color can be outstanding, but best to buy one in fall so you can be sure of it. If the conditions aren't too hot/dry, Cornus alternifolia is another choice native understory tree.

Bob

The redbud is why I said "prefer". One in a tar pit of shade will not be as full as one with more light, same as any other tree. There is a gradation from too dark to too bright for all trees. What varies is where on the scale each species falls. Many trees in nature will function at a reduced level beneath taller trees in a forest or wood, otherwise they would die out under natural conditions except where there were clearings left due to fire or thin soils.

i'm looking to plant a tree here in my yard in Greensboro, North Carolina and i was wondering if anyone had any suggestions on the best type of tree to plant for this area and this time of the year. Thanks

W, I live ten miles to the east of you and there are hundreds of trees you can grow and thousands of variables that impact which tree would be "best" to plant. Do some searches on this forum and get an idea of what you like (flowering, fruiting, shade, ornamental, etc.), and what type of site and soil you have. Then you can post a new thread and get some specific answers.