Shrub Microbiota decussata 'Prides' [sold as Celtic Pride™] [Celtic Pride Russian Arborvitae] The Russian Arborvitae is a low spreading, groundcover conifer that was discovered in Russia in 1921. It is generally easy to grow and can be a good substitute for Juniper in part shade situations, although it is best in full sun. 'Prides', often sold under the name Celtic Pride is known for its excellent disease resistance and tolerance to difficult conditions. Seeds of this plant can remain in a dormant state for up to 28…
Shrub Indiana Native Opuntia humifusa [Pricklypear] The Pricklypear is a cactus native to the eastern United States, including Indiana, and is hardy to USDA zone 4. The cactus pads can break off and root into the ground, forming colonies. It is an evergreen plant, but becomes shriveled and wilted during cold winters. Fruits are edible and are often used to make jams and candies. The pads (fleshy green segments with thorns) are also edible as a roasted vegetable. This plant has…
Herbaceous Panicum virgatum 'Cloud Nine' [Cloud Nine Switchgrass] Switch Grass is native to Missouri prairies. Has a vertical shape and remains stiff throughout the growing season. Will tolerate occasional flooding. It is rhizomatous. 'Cloud Nine' is recorded as the tallest cultivar.
Herbaceous Panicum virgatum 'Northwind' [Northwind Switchgrass] Switch Grass is native to Missouri prairies. 'Northwind' is more compact han the straight species and more vertical in comparison.
Herbaceous Panicum virgatum 'Rotstrahlbusch' [Rotstrahlbusch Switchgrass] 'Rotstrahlbusch' is used for the burgundy-red color it has in the fall. Similar vertical clump to 'Northwind'.
Tree Parrotia persica [Persian Parrotia] One of the best trees for foliage and bark effect. Very adaptable, tolerating drought, various soils, heat, cold, etc. Prefers full sun but tolerates light shade. Sites with strong winter winds will surely cause tip dieback in Northern Indiana.
Tree Parrotia persica 'Vanessa' [Vanessa Persian Parrotia] Vanessa is a cultivar that has a distinctly upright or columnar habit. One of the best trees for foliage and bark effect. Very adaptable, tolerating drought, various soils, heat, cold, etc. Prefers full sun but tolerates light shade. Sites with strong winter winds will surely cause tip dieback in Northern Indiana.
Liana (Climbing Vine) Indiana Native Parthenocissus quinquefolia [Virginia Creeper] One of the strongest-climbing vines, given solid support for attachment of the adhesive discs on tendrils (not root). Not a vine for trellises or fences. Tolerates any soil, and sun or shade. Limited value as groundcover.
Liana (Climbing Vine) Parthenocissus tricuspidata [Boston Ivy] One of the strongest-climbing vines, give solid support for attachment of the adhesive discs on tendrils. Not a vine for trellises or fences. Very tolerant of urban soils. Not a good groundcover.
Tree InvasiveThis plant is considered invasive Phellodendron amurense [Amur Corktree] A striking tree for its interesting bark and massive framework. Widely adaptable to soil, trouble-free, and drought and pollution resistance. Easily transplanted. May be less hardy when young and rapidly growing. Fruits smell like turpentine when crushed (or stepped on). This tree is demonstrating invasive characteristics in suburban and urban fringe forests. It escapes intended plantings to invade and displace native hardwood forests. Note: only female plants have the potential to become invasive. Phellodendron amurense…