My first year here in the 'burbs of New Orleans, I bought a potted Norfolk Pine for my living tree. It could only take very light weight ornaments.... and I managed to use the same tree a second year, but then it wanted a new pot, so I planted it. It is now as tall as the house! Got a bit battered by the hurricanes, but didn't we all. The boughs are still down to the ground which provides perfect hiding spots for my kitties, and keeps the outside water bowl shaded.