Tree Aesculus hippocastanum [Common Horsechestnut] Widely adapted to soils and environments; however, very dry conditions must be avoided. Leaf blotch often disfigures foliage. Spiny fruits in autumn can be troublesome underfoot, and eliminates species type as a good street tree. Fruits are toxic containing 3-5% saponins.
Tree Aesculus hippocastanum 'Baumannii' [Baumann Common Horsechestnut] 'Baumannii' is known for its large panicles of double flowers. The flowers are sterile, so none of the large, littering, poisonous fruit of the species type are produced, increasing this tree's usability. Widely adapted to soils and environments; however, very dry conditions must be avoided. Leaf blotch often disfigures foliage.
Shrub Indiana Native Aesculus parviflora [Bottlebrush Buckeye] Can be kept at a smaller size for a time with careful pruning, but it will in time occupy much space. Tolerates some shade, and can even be attractive under large shade trees. Suckers quite freely.
Tree Aesculus × carnea [Red Horsechestnut] More drought resistant and more resistant to blotch and mildew than A. hippocastanum. Comes true to type from seed. Flowers at early age. Does not perform well in dry sites. Prickly fruits may be a problem underfoot. Fruits are poisonous (containing toxic saponins). Often develops branches having narrow crotch angles (branches that should be removed).
Tree InvasiveThis plant is considered invasive Ailanthus altissima [Tree of Heaven] Unusual form and texture not unlike a large sumac. Highly adaptable. Tolerates salt spray. Dioecious. Coarse and inclined to drop twigs. Male flowers are malodorous; female plants make many weed seedlings. Ailanthus altissima forms dense, clonal thickets which displace native species and can rapidly invade fields, meadows, and harvested forests. This invasive tree species is extremely tolerant of poor soil conditions and can even grow in cement cracks. Ailanthus altissima is not shade tolerant, but…
Tree Amelanchier × grandiflora 'Autumn Brilliance' [sold as Autumn Brilliance®] [Autumn Brilliance Apple Serviceberry] A. x grandiflora 'Autumn Brilliance is a vigorous selection with impressive blooms and bright red fall colors. It is resistant to leaf spot. The berries are frequently used to make jams, jellies, and pies. This selection can be found in both single and multi-trunk forms.
Shrub Aronia arbutifolia 'Brilliantissima' [Brilliant Red Chokeberry] The Brilliant Red Chokeberry has dark green leaves that turn a stunning deep red in the fall. 'Brilliant' produces larger and more abundant flowers and a greater number of red berries than the species type. Because birds find the fruits unappealing, the berries are allowed to persist well into the winter months. This plant tends to sucker and create colonies.
Shrub Indiana Native Aronia melanocarpa [Black Chokeberry] This Indiana native shrub is similar to the Red Chokeberry in habit and form, but differs in that the Black Chokeberry is larger, has black-colored fruits, broader leaves, and generally larger flowers. Place in a higher light location for the best flower and fruit display. Best used for naturalizing, mass plantings, and wetland reclamation projects. The berries are edible, but only palatable when used in jellies and jams.
Tree Indiana Native Asimina triloba [Common Pawpaw] Needs filtered or full shade in its first few years, then tolerates full sun. Good specimen tree in a shady landscape. Fruits resemble a short, fat banana, at first green then turning yellowish then brown as they ripen in the fall, and taste like a combination between a banana and mango. Suckers rapidly.
Shrub InvasiveThis plant is considered invasive Berberis thunbergii var. atropurpurea 'Crimson Pygmy' [Red Dwarf Japanese Barberry] The Red Dwarf Japanese Barberry is exceedingly popular due to its dense, low growing form, brilliant foliage, and tolerance to tough urban conditions. For the best leaf coloration, place in full sun. This plant tolerates dry soils, but will suffer in wet, poorly drained soils.
