Hello, I am looking for a tree to go in my landscaping. I live in IL and this tree would need full sun.

Question

I am thinking about purchasing a tree that does well in landscaping and takes full sun most of the day. Please do not mention dogwoods because I have had some bad luck with them and I will not purchase another one of these trees. I want one that will not get too big but preferably not one that could get diseases either. A tree that has a flower in the Spring would be nice to have. Thank you for any references you may provide.

Answer 1

A Japanese maple.  

Answer 2

I would recommend Mountain Ash, Red Bud,Star Magnolia, Downy Serviceberry, Smoke Tree, Buckeye or Mockorange.

No Mountain Ash is not an ash tree that'll get Infested with  the Emerald Ash Borer that's going around but is an entirely different genus Sorbus.It produces creamy white fluffy flowers in spring that grow into orange attractive berries in the fall. Birds like it.

The source shows a list of trees for you and gives lots of info