Tree Quercus falcata [Southern Red Oak] Generally only hardy up to zone 6, this oak is native to southeastern regions of the United States, but can sometimes be grown in colder climates. This tree gained its specific epithet name, "falcata", from the sickle-like weapon of the same name, in reference to the sickle-shaped lobes of the leaves. Root disturbance is known to severely affect this species, and can lead to decline or death.
Tree Indiana Native Quercus imbricaria [Shingle Oak] Somewhat tolerant of city conditions. Can be pruned into a hedge. Leaves persist into winter, after the normal leaf raking period, and then fall. Oak gall susceptible, but a minor problem.
Tree Indiana Native Quercus macrocarpa [Bur Oak] More tolerant of city conditions than most oaks. Perhaps too large for a typical residential landscape when mature.
Tree Indiana Native Quercus muehlenbergii [Chinquapin Oak] More tolerant of city conditions than most oaks.
Tree Indiana Native Quercus palustris [Pin Oak] Handsome tree, distinctive for its regular branching, spreading to horizontal to pendulous, from top to bottom of the tree. This effect is partly lost when lower limbs must be removed for traffic underneath. Requires an acidic soil and is subject to severe iron chlorosis on calcareous soils. This can be corrected but it means additional maintenance.
Tree Indiana Native Quercus phellos [Willow Oak] Somewhat tolerant of city conditions. Oak wilt and scales, and many other oak tree pests, though none considered very serious. Low maintenance, long-lived tree. Use Northern sources in Indiana.
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 shumardii [Shumard Oak] The Shumard Oak is a handsome tree that is drought and air pollution tolerant, and but can also be used in rain gardens. Transplanting and establishment can be difficult.
Shrub/Tree InvasiveThis plant is considered invasive Rhamnus cathartica [Common Buckthorn] Tolerates most sites. Dioecious. Very invasive, by the seeds that birds love to eat; probably best to refrain from planting this species in the landscape. Susceptible to rusts (Puccinia coronata), that also attacks oats (in oat growing areas, buckthorn eradication is recommended). The bark, leaves, and fruit were once used in purgatives, thus one of this plant's common names, "Purging Buckthorn".
Shrub Rhododendron maximum 'Roseum' [Roseum Rosebay Rhododendron] 'Roseum' requires wind and shade protection, although it is a vigorous grower. Susceptible to a large number of pests and diseases, which can largely be prevented by good cultural practices.
