Summary
The symbolic tree objects placed in plan should show a corresponding symbolic side view in elevation.
Explanation
The tree objects all have various compromises when viewing in elevation.
To my mind, the most appropriate visually are the type as below:
However, these 2D side views can only be placed in elevation, not on the model, and can only appear behind or in front of all the 3D elements. This means that if you have trees which should be in different planes (so, behind one wall but in front of another) this can't be represented.
Annoyingly these objects, when placed on the model with a 2D symbolic plan view, have a height represented in the elevation view as highlighted below, but only as a rectangle:
It would be extremely useful to have this as being the 2D symbolic side view, aligned parallel to the elevation line. Especially as the options for the side view cover an acceptable amount of tree types for typical use.
Alternatives
With the Detailed Tree, when the settings are high enough to look good, the elevation drawing PDFs end up being large files. With certain submissions via websites having upload limits (namely, planning) file sizes need to be kept to a reasonable size (not to mention it being just plain inefficient!).
The Simple Tree model is certainly better for file sizes, but the 'layers' which decrease in size to give the tree depth don't look particularly good, especially the ones perpendicular to the view just giving vertical lines.
One solution I have taken to is importing a 2D DWG tree elevation, tracing it with the morph tool, then placing it in the correct position in the model to give the desired effect, then using a different layer for the trees in plan view. Whilst an archaic process for a BIM software, it does provide the drawing I want to see.
Open