There are some miniature paniculatas, like Little Lamb and Little Lime, which you might check out. Those you could more easily control. Things like Limelight would get way too big for you, even if you were pruning them down every year.

Personally, I think you would be fine to go with an oakleaf - they're impressive in their own right, especially once they fill out. Either way, you'll get a nice plant.

Glad to see you here ml - posted this for you in the Shrub Forum ...

BTW, ml - I severely pruned *Little Lamb* Hp, to the tall center canes ... an experiment on redesigning (nature vs nurture) ... too early to tell what shape creature he turns out to be. I'll post pix when he fills out & flashes (before & after) ... he is fast filling out on both ends, top & bottom (crown)!

& yes, do check out Lil Lime! Â;)

Me again - perhaps posting pix of the 3x3 site w/ the constraints you mentioned in the Shrub Forum, will help w/ suggestions/help.

FWIW

Dita,
Thanks for all the info, I have decided to go with oakleak little honey. Aside from the space contraints, I realized I already had plenty of flowering plants and the foliage was important. I'm just not sure I liked the foliage on the paniculata. I will lose out on winter interest but thats ok with me.
Have already ordered the plant and based on yours and others descriptions, really looking forward to it. Thanks.