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.
Shrub Buxus 'Glencoe' [Chicagoland Green Buxus] Low maintenance cultivar popularized in Illinois through partnership with the Chicago Botanic Garden. Broad mounded shrub that is a fast grower in full sun.
Shrub Buxus 'Green Gem' [Green Gem Boxwood] This species is a hybrid of Buxus sinica and Buxus sempervirens and is described as a perfect round ball. Hardier than var. insularis 'Winter Beauty'. Requires little prunning and shearing. Avoid cultivating around plants because they have a shallow root. Roots appreciate a good mulch ( 1-2"). Thin plants and remove damaged branches annually to improve air circulation. Buxus X 'Green Gem' is best suited to a sheltered lacation which protects it in the winter…
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 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 sinica var. insularis 'Wintergreen' [Wintergreen Korean Littleleaf Boxwood] The Wintergreen Korean Littleleaf Boxwood is quite hardy (to zone 4) and 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 Calycanthus floridus [Common Sweetshrub] The Common Sweetshrub was one of the first native plants in the US used as an ornamental. Widely adapted to soil and sun or shade. Certain selections can permeate an area with fragrance. Can be forced for indoor fragrance. Not all plants have equally fragrant flowers; don't use seed propagated plants for that reason. Seeds are poisonous, causing convulsions, myocardial depression, and hypotension.
Liana (Climbing Vine) Campsis radicans [Common Trumpetcreeper] Very tolerant of soils and environment, except it does not tolerate shade. Can be trained as a standard. May require special support on some surfaces, especially as it becomes large and heavy (could pull down weaker structures). May also require pruning to keep size in check.
Tree Indiana Native Carya cordiformis [Bitternut Hickory] Carya cordiformis is naturally found growing in low woodlands and along rivers, streams, and ponds. This is one of the fastest growing of the hickories. The long taproot can make this species difficult to transplant. There are no serious insect or disease threats.
Tree Indiana Native Carya glabra [Pignut Hickory] With its straight trunk and strong, hard wood, the Pignut Hickory is most commonly grown for the lumber industry and is not generally used as an ornamental tree. In the wild, it tends to grow on ridges and hillsides in dry to moist soils. This large tree needs a great deal of room to grow and transplants poorly due to its large taproot. The nuts are generally too bitter for humans to eat, but are…
