Tree Chamaecyparis pisifera [Sawara Falsecypress] The species and full-size variants are often used as "quick" foundation and corner plantings, and just as quickly outgrow these situations. These variants should be grown as trees, and the dwarf variants used in more intensive situations. Numerous brown needles and branchlets are retained, and not especially attractive. This species requires good drainage and does not tolerate wet soils. Provide shelter from the wind.
Tree Chionanthus retusus [Chinese Fringetree] The Chinese Fringetree can be a large, multi-stemmed shrub or a small single- or multi-trunked tree. In late spring to early summer, Chionanthus retusus produces a beautiful show of pure, white, fringe-like flowers that are borne in clusters on branch ends. For optimal flowering, place in a full sun location. This species is dioecious and female plants produce very ornamental blue fruits that are attractive to wildlife. Plants of known sex are not usually available…
Tree Chionanthus virginicus [White Fringetree] Dioecious with male plants showier in flower than females; plant a female if fruits are desired. Plants of known sex are not usually available unless selected in the flowering size. One of the last plants to leaf out in the spring.
Tree Indiana Native Cladrastis kentukea [American Yellowwood] A highly ornamental native tree, even though the pendulous clusters of flowers do not appear in great numbers every year. Well-adapted to Midwest conditions. Develops a tap root. Does not flower fully each year; part of a tree may flower one year, part the next, but the effect is striking even when only certain branches bear flowers. Bees are attracted to the flowers. Flowers appear only after many years from seed. Avoid pruning in spring…
Shrub Indiana Native Clethra alnifolia [Summersweet Clethra] Spreads by underground stems to make large clumps, but can be restrained when necessary. Can be badly infested with mites, especially on dry soils. Can suffer in full sun and/or dry soils, but can bloom well in shade.
Shrub Cornus alba [Tatarian Dogwood] Grows well in a variety of situations, including wet soil. Easy to transplant. Relatively trouble-free. A three-year pruning cycle improves form, vigor, and winter stem color effect. Cutting all stems 6-12" from ground in late winter has similar effect. Best in mass plantings. Excellent for winter color. Leaf blight can be a problem.
Shrub Cornus alba 'Kesselringii' [Kesselring Tatarian Dogwood] This cultivar is known for its deep purple twigs in winter and rich reddish-purple foliage in fall. Grows well in a variety of situations, including wet soil. Easy to transplant. A three-year pruning cycle improves form, vigor, and winter stem color effect. Cutting all stems 6-12" from ground in late winter has similar effect. Best in mass plantings. Excellent for winter color. Canker can be a problem.
