Tree Indiana Native Oxydendrum arboreum [Sourwood] This plant gets it common and scientific name from its sour-tasting leaves. The genus name is derived from the Greek word "oxys", meaning sour, and "dendron", meaning tree. Honey produced from the pollen of Sourwood flowers is considered valuable. The attractive, slightly fragrant flowers are often prolifically produced, especially in full sun, and are effective for up to four weeks. Like all Ericaceous plants, Oxydendrum arboreum requires rich, organic, moist, well-drained, and acidic soil. This…
Liana (Climbing Vine) Indiana Native Parthenocissus quinquefolia [Virginia Creeper] One of the strongest-climbing vines, given solid support for attachment of the adhesive discs on tendrils (not root). Not a vine for trellises or fences. Tolerates any soil, and sun or shade. Limited value as groundcover.
Tree Indiana Native Pinus resinosa [Red Pine] Forms a decent screen when young, especially on poor, dry soils, but soon drops lowers limbs necessitating the need of companion plants to complete the screen. Develops a shorter, thicker trunk when grown in the open. Pine bud moth (as well as other moths) can be problem if not controlled. Foliage presentation not always full or clearly esthetic. Best in groves or plantations where bark color can be admired.
Tree Indiana Native Pinus strobus [Eastern White Pine] More graceful than most pines, both as a young and an old specimen. Excellent neutral screening plant, it can be kept full by occasional pruning. Among best pines for resistance to moth borers. Transplants easily with a bit of shade tolerance. Somewhat less adapted to severe exposures and very dry soils than Pinus resinosa or Pinus nigra. Very sensitive to air pollution and road salt. Susceptible to White Pine Blister Rust. Decaying needles acidify soil…
Tree Indiana Native Platanus occidentalis [American Sycamore] One of the largest of shade trees, making massive, majestic specimens. Tolerant of urban conditions, but generally found in riparian areas in the wild. The mottled, multi-colored, exfoliating bark is very beautiful and makes for excellent winter interest. Needs a large volume of soil space. Anthracnose leaf and twig blight occasionally disfigure this tree, and can damage it severely. Leaves, twigs, bark, and fruit contribute to a significant litter problem. Although this species can tolerate…
Tree Indiana Native Populus balsamifera [Balsam Poplar] Buds exude a resin (the source of "balm of Gilead") that is traditionally used as an ointment to relieve chest congestion. The resin is also flammable, so twigs are used for starting fires. The streaked brown and grey wood is used in carving and woodworking. Trees are found along forest edges, forests, meadows and fields, and shores of rivers or lakes.
Tree Indiana Native Populus deltoides [Eastern Cottonwood] Populus deltoides is a large, fast-growing tree that is not generally advised for use in the landscape. This plant is weak-wooded, weedy, and a litter problem, dropping twigs, flowers, branches, leaves, and fruits (the cottony masses that float through the air in early summer). In the wild, it tends to grow along streams, rivers, and other moist areas. Susceptible to many pests and diseases, especially canker.
Tree Indiana Native Populus grandidentata [Bigtooth Aspen] This tree is very fast-growing with best development in moist, fertile soils but will grow on dry, sand or gravelly soils. It is very valuable for pulp wood. Often pyramidal in youth with a central leader, developing an oval, open, irregular crown at maturity.
Tree Indiana Native Populus tremuloides [Quaking Aspen] The common name of Populus tremuloides is derived from the tendency of the leaves to tremble (quake) in the wind, or even light breezes, due to flattened petioles. This is a fast-growing and short-lived species that regenerates from root suckers and can quickly recolonize disturbed sites. Generally, most of the specimens in a grove of P. tremuloides are clones, all originating from the same stem. This plant is dioecious, so groves are usually all male…
Shrub/Tree Indiana Native Prunus americana [American Red Plum] Common shrub or small tree, often forming large colonies along roadsides, in waste areas, and other uncultivated habitats.
Indiana Native
