In the central hardwoods region of the US, several small trees have potential for landscaping as either understory plants or in full sun where their fall color, wide adaptability, and apparent resistance to pests make them attractive. I outline 6 species of deciduous trees, representing the genus Sassafras, Oxydendron, Nyssa, Cladrastis, Cephalanthus, and Viburnum, that I find particularly interesting and deserving of more widespread use.