Tree sizes

I am having problems with information from various sites (including RHS). I'm trying to identify a small tree suitable for a smallish garden. I've been given lots of advice, but on looking up more info from RHS and Suppliers am getting lots of conflicting information, i.e.
one site will state that it will grow 10 - 12ft (i.e. small) then the other site will state that the same tree will grow up to 15 mts (ooo-er) is it all down to "how long is a piece of string"? Can anyone help?

 

You can always restrict a tree by hard pruning and as most trees take absolutely years to mature you should not have too many problems, particularly if you choose a "small" variety anyway. Not a perfect answer but it's a thought!

 

I think its down to what you consider small. To someone with acres of space 30ft is small, to someone else its big.
Most times a size after 10years or so is given, but they can only give a guide. Trees grow at different rates in different conditions, its not an exact science, thats what makes it interesting

 

How small is your garden and what final height are you looking for in your tree of choice. What else do you want your tree to do, smell, have good flowers, bark, autmun colour??? The more precise you are in your posting the more likely you will get good advice!