248 Landscape Design, Installation, and Management Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. Tree Sizes Trees can be divided into two catego- ries: small and large. Small trees have a mature height approximately up to 25′. Large trees are defi ned as those having a mature height over 25′. Small Trees Small trees are easily incorporated in landscape designs and are used more frequently than large trees, Figure 10-3. Small trees are often used as specimens. A specimen is a plant that is a focal point due to its aesthetic characteristics, includ- ing leaf color, unique growth habit, exfoli- ating bark, and/or fl oral and fruit displays. When used as an accent, small trees complement other plants through their fl oral or fruiting display, Figure 10-4A. The fl owers, fruits, and seeds can be the most exciting display for a plant during the year. Small trees used as specimens are focal points due to their aesthetic properties. These properties include interesting leaf color, unique growth habit, exfoliating bark, and/or fl oral and fruit displays, Figure 10-4B. Large Trees In addition to providing shade and contributing oxygen to the atmosphere, large trees may be used as windbreaks or specimens. A windbreak is a row or rows of trees planted to divert wind, Figure 10-5. Christopher D. Hart Figure 10-3. Small trees, such as this Japanese maple (Acer palmatum), provide interest year round. The weeping growth habit, fine textured leaves, and beautiful fall color make these trees highly desired in any landscape. KPG_Payless/Shutterstock.com Figure 10-5. A wide variety of plants can function as windbreaks. Windbreaks provide shelter from the wind and other elements to create a more pleasant outdoor living area. Jill Lang/Shutterstock.com Figure 10-4. A—Deciduous trees provide accent in the autumn with their colorful changing leaves. B—Small trees are excellent sources of spring color. Many small trees, such as crape myrtle, have attractive flowers and ornamental bark. Christopher D. Hart A B