Shrub/Tree Indiana Native Prunus americana [American Red Plum] Common shrub or small tree, often forming large colonies along roadsides, in waste areas, and other uncultivated habitats.
Tree Prunus cerasifera [Cherry Plum] This tree is not pollution tolerant and is short-lived, often living to only about 20 years. There are numerous diseases and pests that can affect Prunus cerasifera, especially canker, fireblight, leaf spots, powdery mildew, aphids, scale, borers, and tent caterpillars. Despite its drawbacks, this tree is extraordinarily popular and has been used extensively in the landscape. The straight species Prunus cerasifera is not often seen, with purple-leaf forms being the most predominant.
Tree Prunus cerasifera 'Atropurpurea' [Purple Cherry Plum] This tree is not pollution tolerant and is short-lived, often living to only about 20 years. There are numerous diseases and pests that can affect Prunus cerasifera, especially canker, fireblight, leaf spots, powdery mildew, aphids, scale, borers, and tent caterpillars. Despite its drawbacks, this tree is extraordinarily popular and has been used extensively in the landscape. The straight species Prunus cerasifera is not often seen, with purple-leaf forms, such as 'Atropurpurea' being the most predominant.…
Tree Prunus × 'Newport' [Newport Cherry Plum] This tree is not pollution tolerant and is short-lived, often living to only about 20 years. There are numerous diseases and pests that can affect Prunus cerasifera, especially canker, fireblight, leaf spots, powdery mildew, aphids, scale, borers, and tent caterpillars. Despite its drawbacks, this tree is extraordinarily popular and has been used extensively in the landscape. The straight species Prunus cerasifera is not often seen, with purple-leaf forms, such as 'Newport' being the most predominant.…
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.
Shrub/Tree Indiana Native Prunus virginiana [Common Chokecherry] The Common Chokecherry can be a suckering small tree or large shrub that produces fragrant white racemes followed by small, purple-black cherries. These fruits can be used for pies, jellies, and jams (do not eat fresh). Suckers must be immediately removed to control growth.
Tree Indiana Native Quercus michauxii [Swamp Chestnut Oak] Similar to Quercus montana but obtains a larger ultimate size and is found in moister soils. Common in low areas, river bottoms, swamp borders and ravines. It gained its common name of "Basket Oak" from the baskets created from its wood, and the common name "Cow Oak" from the sweet, edible acorns relished by cows.
Shrub Indiana Native Ribes americanum [American Black Currant] American Black Currant is a shade and wet soil tolerant shrub species often found in our Indiana woodlands. Small greenish-white flowers bloom in May which leads to dark red to black fruits that ripen in late August/September. When placed in full sun, a brilliant reddish orange fall color is produced but often golden yellow in the fall. The edible fruits are used in jams and jellies and are desirable food source for wildlife. An alternative…
Shrub Rosa rugosa [Rugosa Rose] Widely adapted to soils and exposures, but especially good in full sun on dry soils. Relatively trouble-free among roses, even resists the common rose pathogens and phytopagous insects. The hips (rose fruits) are a rich source of vitamin C and used commercially in teas. Can get borers in canes (rarely). Good cultural practices are important for roses in order to prevent disease and other pests. Avoid wetting the foliage when watering, place the plant in…
Shrub Indiana Native Rubus occidentalis [Black Raspberry] This thorny shrub is an Indiana native found along woodland edges. Although its natural habit is spreading, the Black Raspberry can be cut back to the ground to allow control of the spread and rejuvenation. The fruits of the Black Raspberry are sweet yet a bit tart, becoming a commercial commodity in parts of the United States. Best use in the landscape would be property boarders and erosion control. Best growth in part shade and…
