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…
Shrub Indiana Native Rubus odoratus [Flowering Raspberry] The Flowering Raspberry offers great texture into the landscape with its exfoliating bark during the winter months and its large course leaves during the summer months. Its rich, pink-purple flowers begin to bloom in early June, offering fragrance and color. The flowers and fruits often attract birds and other wildlife, including butterflies and bees.
Shrub Indiana Native Sambucus canadensis [American Elderberry] This plant is known most for its fruits, which have a high Vitamin C content and are attractive to both people and wildlife. The berry-like fruits are popular for making wine, juice, jellies, preserves, and pie. However, this plant is not generally advised for use in the landscape due to its excessive suckering and difficult to maintain form (can become quite unkempt). Very tolerant of various environmental conditions.
Shrub Sambucus nigra 'Eva' [Sold as Black Lace®] [Black Lace Elderberry] More lacy, fern-textured, dark purple leaves, pale pink flowers, 6 to 8' high; Origin for Black Beauty
Shrub Indiana Native Vaccinium angustifolium [Lowbush Blueberry] The Lowbush Blueberry requires acidic soils with a pH between 4.5 and 5.5. Iron chlorosis can be a problem in higher pH soils. Mulch around roots to maintain high organic matter. For higher blossom and berry output, grow in full sun. Berries are sweet and edible.
Shrub/Tree Indiana Native Viburnum lentago [Nannyberry Viburnum] The Nannybery can be grown as a large, suckering shrub or small tree and is noted for its white flower cymes and edible berries. The flower buds for the following year are formed in the summer, so if pruning is desired, it should be completed immediately after flowering.
Shrub/Tree Indiana Native Viburnum prunifolium [Blackhaw Viburnum] Widely tolerant of different soils and exposures. Transplants well. Relatively trouble-free. Can be pruned to form a nice hedge. Scale and borers are occasional problems. The edible fruits are sweet and can be eaten fresh, or used in jams and preserves.
Shrub Viburnum prunifolium 'Mrs. Henry Large' [Mrs. Henry Large Blackhaw Viburnum] 'Mrs. Henry Large' is quite rare and unlikely to be found in commerce. Widely tolerant of different soils and exposures. Transplants well. Relatively trouble-free. Can be pruned to form a nice hedge. Scale and borers are occasional problems. The edible fruits are sweet and can be eaten fresh, or used in jams and preserves.
