Tree Indiana Native Acer saccharum [Sugar Maple] Widely adapted to climate, but best in at least reasonably fertile soil. One of the best shade tree species over a wide area, but for best results select plants known for adaptability to the local region. Quite shade tolerant. Low maintenance in a good site. 50 gal. sap or more needed to make 1 gal. syrup. Not so drought-tolerant as silver maple, but reasonably so. Does poorly in compacted soils, and doesn't like salt spray.…
Tree Indiana Native Aesculus glabra [Ohio Buckeye] Widely adapted to soils and environments; however, very dry conditions must be avoided. Drought causes early leaf drop. Leaf blotch and leaf scorch often disfigure foliage, especially in dry soil. 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 × 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 Indiana Native Amelanchier arborea [Downy Serviceberry] Would grow well on a streambank. Susceptible to rust, leaf blight, powdery mildew, fruit rot, leaf minor, borers, and scale. Rarely requires pruning.
Tree Indiana Native Amelanchier laevis [Allegheny Serviceberry] An excellent small tree for naturalizing and for very early, but short-lived, bloom. Fruits are edible and a prime source of food for birds. Can produce fruit by apomixis. Subject to the troubles of Rosaceous plants in general, including fire-blight and mites, which can be controlled, usually quite easily.
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 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.
Tree Indiana Native Betula nigra [River Birch] Graceful tree, interesting for its curling bark, and especially well adapted to wet soils. Immune to the bronze birch borer, which is a serious problem for the native Betula papyrifera in the Midwest. This species prefers full sun and is quite heat tolerant, but does not have tolerance for drought. If pruning is required, prune in summer or during the dormant season.
Shrub Buxus sinica var. insularis [Korean Littleleaf Boxwood] The Korean Littleleaf Boxwood grows best when placed in areas of moderate shade that are away from strong winter sun and wind. It has shallow roots and prefers moist, cool soils. This shrub flowers in April; flowers can attract bees due to the fragrance but are not showy.
Shrub Buxus × 'Green Velvet' [Green Velvet Boxwood] This species is a hybrid of Buxus sinica and Buxus sempervirens and is primarily used for smaller spaces.