Which small garden tree would be appropriate for my front bed?

Question

The bed is about 8 foot diameter. It butts up to my front porch, so the roof is right beside the area over the garden. I need a tree that won't grow very large. I'd love it to be green all year round, but that's not a must have.

My house faces north and I'm in the South-Midwest US, 7a hardiness zone, I believe if I read the map correctly. Very hot and humid. Thanks for any suggestions!

Answer 1

a dwarf japanese maple. crimson queen would be my recommendation.

Answer 2

A small crape myrtle?