He will probably do the replant...we walked his little patch of woods for a possible candidate but he is going to have to buy something...he had some scrubby willow oaks and sweetgums mostly.
I am thinking maybe this (below) or a rosebud:
Paperbark Maple
Acer griseum
Orange-red fall color. Rich, reddish bark adds interest to winter.
Type: Deciduous
Environment: Full Sun
Plant Height: 20' to 30' tall
Spacing: 15' to 20' on center
Growing Pattern: Slow to moderate growth rate
The height will be realistic and the bark looks very unique.
YOU guys helped educate him..thanks for all the input.