Tree or shrub for exposed site

blair duncanson

Working in southern France justnow. Clients land lies at approx 1000mtr. Trees on the main hill are stunted Quercus ilex and non flowering Morus. Garden is small, with series of terraces due to the steepness of the mountains. Pockets of both acid and alkali soil can be found in the garden, although every where is free draining. Client has asked me to suggest a couple of small, compact trees or shrubs to be planted. Ideally evergreen to help create slight windbreak? The trees would need to be tough against very, very strong winds!Also roots cannot be too invasive due to all the dry stone walls.Apart from the obvious Quercus ilex, as it seems to do very well here, i thought maybe some of the ornamental Crataegus? Do not have my books or digital camera here.
Thing is i am sure that many types of tree will naturally shape to accomodate the prevailing wind, albeit growing very slowly. Do some trees do this better than others. Any ideas on tree suggestions? Site is not coastal but can get the occasional hard frost. Any help will be much appreciated. Have thought of Eucryphia and Ceanothus but unsure how they will cope with the wind?

Tim Craig

Crateagus as you've suggested, I think would be ok.

Not too familiar with Ceanothus but I think Eucryphia may be a touch delicate for hardcore wind.

Juniperus spp.?

Hippophae rhamnoides

Perhaps even Pines? Pinus contorta springs to mind as fairly tough.