Shrub/Tree Juniperus virginiana 'Hillii' [Hill Eastern Redcedar] 'Hillii' is a dense, columnar cultivar with foliage that becomes distinctly purple in the winter. Widely adapted to soils and climates. Does well in alkaline soils, but not wet soils. Alternate host for cedar-apple rust disease. Plant other juniper species in areas having many apples, hawthorns, etc. Susceptible to bagworms.
Tree Juniperus virginiana 'Nova' [Columnar Eastern Redcedar] 'Nova' is narrow, upright, and quite hardy. Widely adapted to soils and climates. Does well in alkaline soils, but not wet soils. Alternate host for cedar-apple rust disease. Plant other juniper species in areas having many apples, hawthorns, etc. Susceptible to bagworms.
Tree Indiana Native Juniperus virginiana 'Taylor' [Eastern Redcedar] Fantastic upright conical-columnar form; may have originated or been tested through Nebraska Statewide Arboretum. Widely adapted to soils and climates, as evidenced by the species' wide geographic range. Does well in alkaline soils, but not wet soils. Alternate host for cedar-apple rust disease. Plant other juniper species in areas having many apples, hawthorns, etc. Susceptible to bagworms.
Shrub Kalmia latifolia [Mountain-laurel] Mountain-laurel is an Ericaceous broadleaf evergreen shrub with an abundance of interesting flower buds and stunning flowers in the spring. Site and exposure requirements similar to Rhododendron, that is, acidic, well drained soil and at least light protection from afternoon sun in winter for best results. Mulch to keep roots cool. Hardiness varies widely with geographic source of genetic material. Does not tolerate extremely dry conditions. Flowering is reduced by shade, but deadheading enhances flowering…
Shrub Kalmia latifolia 'Elf' [Elf Mountain-laurel] The Elf Mountain-laurel is a dwarf broadleaf evergreen shrub with an abundance of interesting flower buds and stunning flowers. Site and exposure requirements similar to Rhododendron, that is, acidic, well drained soil and at least light protection from afternoon sun in winter for best results. Mulch to keep roots cool. Hardiness varies widely with geographic source of genetic material. Does not tolerate extremely dry conditions. Flowering is reduced by shade, but deadheading enhances flowering for…
Shrub Kalmia latifolia 'Minuet' [Minuet Mountain-laurel] The Minuet Mountain-laurel is a dwarf broadleaf evergreen shrub with an abundance of interesting flower buds and stunning flowers. Site and exposure requirements similar to Rhododendron, that is, acidic, well drained soil and at least light protection from afternoon sun in winter for best results. Mulch to keep roots cool. Hardiness varies widely with geographic source of genetic material. Does not tolerate extremely dry conditions. Flowering is reduced by shade, but deadheading enhances flowering for…
Tree Kalopanax septemlobus [Castor Aralia] No disease or insect problems. Stout prickles could cause injury. Slight weediness via the seeds. Not common in commerce.
Tree Koelreuteria paniculata [Goldenraintree] Colorful small tree in bloom and interesting for its form. Tolerates heat, drought, wind, alkaline soils, and air pollution. Newly emerging leaves can be damaged by late spring freezes. Rather weak-wooded. Can be damaged or killed by 25 degrees F. Invasive in some parts of the country.
Shrub Kolkwitzia amabilis [Beautybush] The Beautybush is an arching, deciduous shrub known for its spectacular pink flower show in the spring. However, it can be too coarse for the landscape when not in bloom. Dead wood should be removed and the plant should be pruned (even hard pruning to the ground) every few years to prevent the plant from becoming overgrown. Plants bloom on old wood so hard prunings will result in loss of bloom, but will improve the…