I would replace the rocks with a coarse groundcover like cotoneaster, and then plant a fine-leafed tree like one of the larger crepe myrtles, or honeylocust. The leaves will sift down thru the groundcover and not need to be raked. I don't have a pool, so I'm not sure how fussy pool filters are. How many leaves wind up in the pool depends on where the pool is in relation to the tree. Our winds tend to blow from the north, so if the pool is to the south of the tree you WILL get leaves in the pool. You could call Capitol Nursery or Green Acres Nursery in Sacramento for knowledgeable advice, and also check with a pool service company to see how fussy pool filters are about leaves.

Thank you, Davissue for your suggestion. I will look into cotoneaster. Do you know what the root system is like for the crepe myrtles or the honey locust?

Not Davissue, but Crape Myrtles have a great deep-rooted root system.

Another deep-rooted tree to consider is Geijera parvifolia (Australian Willow).

wanda

You want something that does not drop a lot of litter. Crape Myrtles are gorgeous, gorgeous, gorgeous, but they drop a lot of stuff. Look at the section in the Sunset Western Garden book about "What to plant near pools", also the tree section has a lot of good information on invasive roots, leaf drop, etc. Usually the local library has at least one copy if not many more of the Sunset Western Garden Book.

Don't make a rushed decision if you are planting a tree close to your house or to paved areas. You could damage your foundation, the concrete, the pool if you make the wrong choice, or have a maintenance nightmare with litter drop.

Honeylocusts are pretty but very messy trees and if they get too much water they will sucker. The suckers will come up as black locust and you will never get rid of them - ask me how I know : ) They are also prone to diseases.

They do great in dry areas where they can get individual water but don't plant one near a septic system or a lawn. Again, ask me how I know. : )

Diana

Thank you, everyone for your suggestions. Someone mentioned Ginkgo biloba would be a good tree for this area. I understand that a male tree is necessary as the female trees are messy and ill-smelling. Does anyone have this tree or know if it would work? I so appreciate people's help.

Crape myrtle is extremely messy - drops flowers ALL OVER. I have ginko and it, too drops leaves in fall. I would say Japanese Maple (there are sun varieties) the leaves turn colors. Many to choose from. I bought mine at Farmer's Market (Long Beach). Even Acer Palm Japanese Maples(green) has red stems. LOVE them. Many varieties. Lovely leaves. Don't get anything that drops leaves. 8' x 8' wide. lovely!!!!!