Shrub Indiana Native Arctostaphylos uva-ursi [Bearberry] Hard to establish, can develop winter burn from sun and wind when cold. Does not like excessive summer heat. Can develop foliar diseases (leaf spot) when stressed. Leaves are used to make a tea in some parts of Russia, where it is known as Kutai and Caucasian Tea. The dried leaves have been used to treat diseases of the bladder and kidney, and inflammatory diseases.
Herbaceous Arctostaphylos uva-ursi 'Massachusetts' [Massachusetts Bearberry] 'Massachusetts' is known for having a large amount of flowers and fruits and its disease resistance to leaf gall and leaf spot. Also has smaller leaves than any other plant in the species.
Shrub Kalmia latifolia [Mountain-laurel] Mountain-laurel is an Ericaceous broadleaf evergreen shrub with an abundance of interesting flower buds and stunning flowers in the spring. Site and exposure requirements similar to Rhododendron, that is, acidic, well drained soil and at least light protection from afternoon sun in winter for best results. Mulch to keep roots cool. Hardiness varies widely with geographic source of genetic material. Does not tolerate extremely dry conditions. Flowering is reduced by shade, but deadheading enhances flowering…
Shrub Kalmia latifolia 'Elf' [Elf Mountain-laurel] The Elf Mountain-laurel is a dwarf broadleaf evergreen shrub with an abundance of interesting flower buds and stunning flowers. Site and exposure requirements similar to Rhododendron, that is, acidic, well drained soil and at least light protection from afternoon sun in winter for best results. Mulch to keep roots cool. Hardiness varies widely with geographic source of genetic material. Does not tolerate extremely dry conditions. Flowering is reduced by shade, but deadheading enhances flowering for…
Shrub Kalmia latifolia 'Minuet' [Minuet Mountain-laurel] The Minuet Mountain-laurel is a dwarf broadleaf evergreen shrub with an abundance of interesting flower buds and stunning flowers. Site and exposure requirements similar to Rhododendron, that is, acidic, well drained soil and at least light protection from afternoon sun in winter for best results. Mulch to keep roots cool. Hardiness varies widely with geographic source of genetic material. Does not tolerate extremely dry conditions. Flowering is reduced by shade, but deadheading enhances flowering for…
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…
Shrub Pieris japonica [Japanese Pieris] Excellent large shrub specimen with handsome, lustrous, evergreen foliage, prominently red new growth in the spring, and small, interesting, urn-shaped flowers. Leaf spots, Phytophthora induced die back, and lace bug are most problematic. Struggles in alkaline and heavy, wet soils.
Shrub Rhododendron × 'Aglo' (P.J.M. Hybrid Group) [Aglo Rhododendron] 'Aglo' is a compact grower and early bloomer. One of the most cold tolerant flower buds of the evergreen rhododendrons. Avoid harsh, dry, windswept sites. Susceptible to a large number of pests and diseases, which can largely be prevented by good cultural practices.
Shrub Rhododendron catawbiense [Catawba Rhododendron] The Catawba Rhododendron is considered to be one of the hardiest rhododendron species. Beautiful plant when it is used in mass. Flower color of the species does not combine well with some other flower colors. Flower color bleaches out in high pH. Subject to winter burning of foliage in exposed sites near the limits of its range. Both flowers and foliage are of equal value in the landscape. Cultivars are usually less hardy than species.…
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.