Tree Betula × 'Crimson Frost' [Crimson Frost Birch] This hybrid birch is very closely related to Betula platyphylla in form and care, with the exception of its striking red-purple leaves. It is a graceful tree, interesting for its pure white bark that contrasts nicely with the dark foliage. The Crimson Frost Birch is especially well adapted to wet soils, and does not do well in dry situations. Less subject to the borer troubles of B. papyrifera in the Midwest, although still susceptible.
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.
Tree Betula nigra 'Cully' [sold as Heritage™] [Heritage River Birch] This vigorous cultivar makes a graceful tree, interesting for its richly colored, strongly curling bark and large, glossy leaves. It is somewhat resistant to leaf spot and is 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…
Tree Betula papyrifera 'Renci' [sold as Renaissance Reflection®] [Renaissance Reflection Paper Birch] Betula papyrifera 'Renci' is faster growing and more heat resistant than the straight species. This tree requires full sun and is not suitable for poor or polluted city conditions.
Tree Betula papyrifera 'Uenci' [sold as Renaissance Upright™] [Renaissance Upright Paper Birch] Betula papyrifera 'Uenci' is narrow and pyramidal in form and with a strong central leader. This tree performs best in colder climates, requires full sun, and is not suitable for poor or polluted city conditions.
Tree Betula pendula [European White Birch] A graceful tree with beautiful white bark and pendulous branches, the European White Birch was once a common tree in many landscapes across the United States. However, the popularity of this species has decreased rapidly due to its extreme susceptibility to the birch borer. Despite its beautiful aesthetics, other birch species, such as Betula nigra (the River Birch), are recommened for use in the landscape instead.
Tree Betula pendula ssp. mandshurica [Asian White Birch] A generally better choice than the species type, Betula platyphylla var. japonica is a larger, graceful tree with thinner, spreading branches and striking pure white bark. It is especially well adapted to wet soilsand does not do well in dry situations. Less subject to the borer troubles of B. papyrifera in the Midwest, although still susceptible.
Shrub Buxus × 'Green Mountain' [Green Mountain Boxwood] The Green Mountain Boxwood is known for its very dense, upright pyramidal form. It 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. Tolerates feeding by deer and rabbits.
Shrub Calycanthus floridus 'Aphrodite' [Aphrodite Sweetshrub] 'Aphrodite' has an upright form with deep red flowers. The flowers are fragrant and large and bloom throughout the summer season. Large bright green leaves, can grow to be bigger than a human hand.
Shrub Caragana arborescens [Siberian Peashrub] The Siberian Peashrub is quite a tough and adaptable, nitrogen-fixing plant that can grow in extremely difficult conditions, but it has very limited use ornamentally. Best reserved for tough environments, such as in a windbreak, hedge, or screen.
