how about a pic .. ken

Too embarrassed to post a pic of that ugly corner, but here is a cartoon shrub that I like. It has even some semblance of a layered structure :-) Is there an actual shrub like that with a winter interest of some sort?

I have volunteer maples growing in my backyard this spring 6" - 18" tall, the tallest by far grows right in front of an underground drain pipe, it apparently likes pretty wet growing conditions. I have been thinking of moving it to that corner, cheap as in free. Don't know what species it is, but can a maple (not a JM) grow as an understory tree at all (to the existing trees of the neighbors in the back) I would not mind at all getting an 'interesting' tree structure :-)

I am also searching for conifer shrubs for growing in part shade (or woodland edge) Visually best would be variegated or chartreuse or similar bright foliage, hopefully it won't grow all green in that corner LOL but I think I gain half a zone of micro-climate if I stay within 5' to 6' from the side and back fence.

really.. lol .. a picture of the cartoon ... sheesh ... lol

ken

Yay, looks promising, I am still North of the HWA. I like the T.c. 'Sargentii' perhaps even better but it grows much larger.

Tsuga canadensis 'Gentsch White'