Selecting the right shade tree for your landscape is an important decision, just as important as to where you want to plant it. "Shade tree" is a general term that describes trees that eventually grow to a height of 40' or more, with a potential canopy spread to match.
Some shade trees are more upright in growth habit, such as Winged Elm (pictured above), Red Maple, Sycamore, Sweet Gum, and Magnolia. Other shade trees are more rounded in growth habit, such as Live Oak, Laurel Oak, Camphor, and Drake Elm. When deciding where you want to plant your new tree, the growth habit may narrow your choices, and make your decision easier.
If you have the space for a shade tree to grow, then you may want to next consider it's leaf and seed drop potential, with regards to it's maintenance level. Most shade trees are deciduous (meaning that they drop their leaves in the winter such as Maples, Elms, Oaks, Sweet Gum and Sycamore), while others shed their leaves throughout the year (such as Camphor and Magnolia). And, all shade trees drop their seeds, of which some can be a nuisance in size (Sweet Gum, Sycamore, Magnolia) or in germinating or freely seeding in your landscape beds (Camphor, Drake Elm).
Next, evaluate your desired planting location for your new tree. Determine if you have enough room for the canopy to grow, and for the roots to spread out at least three times the canopy size. While the canopy can be pruned and trimmed to a degree, the roots cannot be. While the majority of a shade tree's root system is not a concern, most certainly those within 15-20' of the trunk can be. Large roots can crack sidewalks, water pipes, sewer lines, and house foundations.
Picking the right shade tree for your landscape can avoid many headaches in the future. Most cities, counties, and HOA's have restrictions on tree removal, and in some cases, permitting is required. As well, large tree removals are expensive, and unnecessary with proper planning!
As a last note, if you are uncertain as to whether a shade tree is the right choice for your landscape, consider an "ornamental" or "understory" tree that can grow to 20-30'. Some potential options are select varieties of Bottlebrush, Crape Myrtle, Holly, and even palms. With the right planning and a little education, you can find the perfect shade tree that you can enjoy for many, many years to come.