Tree Indiana Native Quercus ellipsoidalis [Northern Pin Oak] Quercus ellipsoidalis is very closely related to Q. palustris (Pin Oak), but is better suited for the Midwest. Very similar to the Pin Oak, the Northern Pin Oak is a handsome tree with distinctive and regular branching, spreading to horizontal to drooping, from top to bottom of the tree. This effect is partly lost when lower limbs must be removed for traffic underneath. While this species is still prone to chlorosis (yellowing of leaves) in…
Tree Indiana Native Quercus marilandica [Blackjack Oak] The Blackjack Oak is a small to medium sized tree with distinct, stout, irregular branches. It is very tolerant of poor, dry conditions, but does not tolerate wet conditions. This oak's common name is in reference to its dark, blackjack-like leaves.
Tree Indiana Native Quercus michauxii [Swamp Chestnut Oak] Similar to Quercus montana but obtains a larger ultimate size and is found in moister soils. Common in low areas, river bottoms, swamp borders and ravines. It gained its common name of "Basket Oak" from the baskets created from its wood, and the common name "Cow Oak" from the sweet, edible acorns relished by cows.
Tree Indiana Native Quercus pagoda [Cherrybark Oak] Generally only hardy up to zone 6, this oak is larger than the closely related Southern Red Oak (Quercus falcata) and prefers wetter sites. It is native to southeastern regions of the United States and naturally grows as far north as southern Indiana and Illinois.
Tree Indiana Native Quercus rubra [Red Oak] One of the best and most reliable of oaks as a shade or street tree. More vigorous and fast-growing than most oaks. Good street tree since it performs reasonably well in small soil volumes (although it tends to branch close to ground). Oak wilt disease has been troublesome in certain areas of the Midwest. Hybridizes easily with other oaks (be careful of source).
Tree Indiana Native Quercus velutina [Black Oak] Quercus velutina is a large, deciduous oak with an irregular canopy. It is closely related to Q. rubra (Red Oak), which it is known to hybridize with. The interesting bark of the Q. velutina is nearly black and furrowed. Transplanting is made difficult by the long tap root. Not generally sold commercially.
Shrub Rhododendron catawbiense 'Chionoides' [Chionoides Rhododendron] White flowers have the yellow centers and make numerous dome shaped trusses. The broad, dense plant is easy to grow and has attractive, narrow foliage.
Shrub Indiana Native Ribes americanum [American Black Currant] American Black Currant is a shade and wet soil tolerant shrub species often found in our Indiana woodlands. Small greenish-white flowers bloom in May which leads to dark red to black fruits that ripen in late August/September. When placed in full sun, a brilliant reddish orange fall color is produced but often golden yellow in the fall. The edible fruits are used in jams and jellies and are desirable food source for wildlife. An alternative…
Shrub Indiana Native Robinia hispida var. fertilis [Bristly Locust] Can fix nitrogen. Especially well adapted to poor, dry, alkaline soils. Though native, can be invasive on sandy soils. Frequent pruning may be needed.
Tree Indiana Native Robinia pseudoacacia [Black Locust] Widely variable in form, the most picturesque are straight-trunked with branches abruptly fanning out at the top. Fixes N2. Locust borers are troublesome and difficult to control, but many trees live with them successfully for many years. Leaf minors and permanently wet soils can be problems.
