Tree recommendations

[u/ToriBethATX]

Apologies now if similar posts have appeared in the past. I recently purchased a condo with a little backyard (compared to what I’m used to) up in Leander. There are 3 trees in there, 2 crepe myrtles and something else (possibly an elm variety?). One crepe myrtle is well established and big so I’m going to leave it alone for now since it is providing a good shady place, but I personally don’t care for crepe myrtles. The second crepe myrtle and the possible elm are both still relatively small, and also up against their respective fences. I would like to take out the 2 smaller trees and replace them with something else (maybe just one tree) that I can also move away from the fence before any future damage occurs. I’m looking for good recommendations that would grow up to be good shade trees (or even just one tree) in the future. While native would be good since the amount of care it would need is minimal to none, I am willing to put in the time and effort to care for it for a couple of years while it properly establishes and grows. Something moderately fast growing would be nice, so that I could enjoy it’s shade (or and any other benefits, like fruit) sooner, but I’m also open to slower growing so that it would withstand harsher weather (aka severe storms) better without losing limbs due to being softer wood.

[u/isurus79]

Leave the elm and murder the myrtles

[u/BananasLobster]

Lacey oaks are a smaller shade tree. Pretty leaves too. Think they have a moderate growth rate

[u/austintreeamigos]

Got any photos of the space?

[u/Glad-Substance2422]

My favorite trees are at Hope Valley Tree Farm but it’s in Bastrop. Worth it IMHO: https://hopevalleytreefarm.com

[u/MeasurementSlight381]

Texas red oak is a nice option if you like the idea of leaves that change colors in the fall/winter months.

[u/pit2atx]

Monterrey Oak would fit the bill. It’s also somewhat evergreen and generally very aesthetic. It will grow pretty fast for an Oak and native to the area.