safe dwarf/miniature tree-like plants

[JoshgOC]

Looking for a safe/edible plant that gives off a tree-like impression (think bonsai looks or manicured boxwood bush)? I was at Disneyland the other day with my kids and on the Casey Jr. train the miniature towns had little boxwood bushes shaped into 12-18" trees. Although I know boxwood is toxic for tortoises I'm looking for the same concept. I was thinking of using hostas plants to give a tropical tee feel, but I live in southern CA, the encloure gets too much sun for them (so the nursery people tell me).

Any ideas for a sun tolerable, low growing(enclosure has 18" wire ceiling), safe, tree-like plant?

 

[Kristina]

Here is a great link to check out - http://africantortoise.com/edible_landscaping.htm

I personally like dwarf weeping mulberry trees, dwarf fruit trees, blueberry bushes, ferns, etc. You can also keep hibiscus and althea trimmed down.

Some hostas can take partial to full sun. Just research some different varieties.

 

[terryo]

I keep a Rose of Sharon tree cut down in my Cherry Head's garden. I keep triming it each year so it stays small. Looks cute, like a little tree now. Also a small fig tree. They go crazy over the figs, and you can keep that small too. I keep mine small because I have to cover it in the Winter.