Tree Prunus padus [European Bird Cherry] The European Birdcherry is a rounded, low branching tree that produces long, drooping clusters of fragrant white flowers in the spring after the leaves have emerged (leafs out early). Black knot, leaf spot, and canker can potentially be a problem.
Shrub Indiana Native Prunus pumila [Sand Cherry] Prunus pumila is a creeping, low-growing small shrub naturally found in sandy locations, such as dunes, where it acts an important stabilizer. The cherry fruits are too bitter to eat fresh, but can be used in jams and jellies.
Tree Indiana Native Prunus serotina [Black Cherry] Probably the best native-American species of cherry for landscape use, but still useful only in a few situations, especially for naturalizing. A valuable timber tree, especially for furniture. Subject to several minor pests, none usually serious in naturalized situations. Wood is slightly brittle. Eastern tent caterpillar problematic is some years.
Shrub Prunus tomentosa [Nanking Cherry] Among earliest of Prunus to flower. Subject to the troubles of other cherries (fireblight, etc.), but less so than some. Leaf spot in wet seasons. Often short-lived.
Shrub/Tree Indiana Native Ptelea trifoliata [Hoptree] A widely adaptable species which performs best in well-drained soils, can be grown in full sun or even under heavy shade. This plant is susceptible to several leaf spot and even a rust disease, but none are serious. It's fruit can also be use as a substitute for hops, thus giving rise to one of its common name: the 'Hoptree'. This tree's bark can also be utilized for medical purposes, and its stems when bruised…
Tree Indiana Native Quercus alba [White Oak] One of the most majestic trees at maturity with a picturesque framework, but requires many years to reach maturity. Long-lived, the kind of tree to use where it can be appreciated by succeeding generations. Slow growth eliminates it as a tree for quick effect. Roots are highly sensitive to disturbance, even foot traffic. Almost impossible to transplant from the wild. Often difficult to find in nurseries due to slow growth and recalcitrance to propagation by…
Tree Indiana Native Quercus bicolor [Swamp White Oak] The Swamp White Oak is a sturdy, long-lived tree that is generally tolerant to average conditions and even wet soil, but requires full sun and acidic soil.
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 Quercus macrocarpa 'JFS-KW3' [sold as Urban Pinnacle® Oak] [Urban Pinnacle Bur Oak] 'JFS-KW3' is a cultivar with smaller acorns that other bur oaks. It has glossy foliage that turns yellow in the fall and has disease resistance to both powdery mildew and anthracnose.
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).
