Mexican Plum or Caddo Maple

[Cat]

I am looking to plant a memorial tree in honor of my dad. I don't have a large front yard, but it does receive a lot of sun, and has clay soil (treated organically only). Oh and I live in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area. I have narrowed it down my choices to either the Caddo Maple for its great fall color or the Mexican Plum for the great white flowers in the spring. I really need to know which one is the longest lived????? I also, would like opinions on whether others would consider either of these trees as memorial trees. [/b]

[Tony M]

Cat-
I guess you are limited to smaller trees because of your small front yard. There are several other choices, Eve's Necklace, Lacy Oak, and Redbuds. Given your two choices, I would go for the Cado Maple.
If I were choosing a smaller tree for a memorial I would also consider a crape myrtle. It is perfectly suited to this climate, you might be able to get close to your Dad's favorite color, and the flowers will make you smile every day you look at them. It is the only tree that flowers all summer long. It would be like planting flowers for your Dad every day.
Tony M

[Cat]

Tony M
I appreciate your comments. I have actually considered a Crepe Myrtle and think I may go that way! :!: I am curious as to your decision about the Caddo Maple instead of the Mexican Plum, can you tell me more about why you made that choice? :?:

[Tony M]

The plum is fine but for fall color, strength, shape, longevity, etc I would go for the maple.
Tony M

[dman]

i have a mex plum.it is about 5 years old and you cant beat it in the spring for the fragrant white flowers,and in fall for red yellow leaves.
the maple is a very slow grower but has great fall color.
good luck