trees in containers

Hi all! can anyone recommend a smallish tree to grow in a container. I really need it for a bit of screening but there is a drain a foot away so it will have to be in a container. It doesnt even have to be a tree but a tree like shrub would do? I was thinking along the lines of an acer or even a smoke bush. Just to have on the patio to give some privavy from the side neighbours so it really doesnt have to be very big. Also advice on to size of container and type of soil to be used in it, thanks

 

either of those would do well - the Cotinus coggygria (what a mouthful!) is spectacular! Or in those catalogues, there's the sideshow bob plant - if your tastes run in that direction!! It's a buddleia - poor thing! One of my customers had an acer and underplanted it with bulbs and primroses. But there are so many possibilities!! Have a look at the J Parkers website, Crocus, Suttons, and T&M - then you can see what there is that's easily available, and see what takes your fancy! Even things like camellia, azalea and magnolia will do fine for a while like that, and it would allow you to get in the ericaceous compost!! (Not necessary for Magnolia, but essential for the others)

 

I think I have changed my mind now! I am still going to put a container there but would like something more fast growing so am now thinking about bamboo. They sell them in the local garden centres but there not much choice but i have located a specialist place about 30 miles away so am planning a day out there to have a look. I havent any experience with bamboo so am learning as i go.

 

I believe there are varieties that grow to different hights some dwarf only 3 ft.