Fast growing tropical look tree suggestion 4 S. California?

Okay, I hope a LOT of people will post here to give me some good ideas for fast growing tropical looking trees, preferably evergreen, for Southern California USDA Zone 10a or b, depending on who you ask) or the much more considered Sunset Zone 21. I would love a Mindanao Gum, but they get too big - I am looking for something that I can either keep in check, or that will stay a mid sized tree (40-50 ft. or less).

Let the suggestions begin, and THANKS!

Jungleman,
I started a thread on this same question a while ago, you might want to check it out. Have fun!
http://davesgarden.com/community/forums/t/854567/

Thanks - I'll check it out!

How big and wide do you want said tree to be?

I am looking for canopy trees, so a circumference of about 20-30 ft. would be great. I already have a nice sized Magnolia grandiflora in the front yard, but need shade in the back with something evergreen. I am thinking Schefflera actinofila, though I'll need 2 more - I have one in a pot just itching to get in the ground! It would be great to have two different trees, for a more diversified effect.

As I am creating a jungle-like garden, I want things with bold foliage that don't mind a little cultivation at their feet.

Thanks for the inquiry!

I think your summer heat in Pasadena is going to be an obstacle for some tropicals.

Try going to the Arboretum in Arcadia and see what's growing there, as far as tropicals.

Very true JasperDale, and precisely why I need those shade trees!

They can be subtropical trees that just 'look' tropical (like the aforementioned Scheff's). I am not married to them being true tropicals

I have been to the Arboretum and the Huntington on several occasions and always come back with some good ideas. In fact, I think I'll head out to the Arboretum right now! :)