Shrub Abeliophyllum distichum [Korean Abelialeaf] Koran Abelialeaf is a multi-stemmed shrub with a rounded habit with often a vibrant flower show in mid-March to early April. Native to Korea, this shrub provides color to the early spring landscape while most plants are still dormant. Flower are white to faintly tinged-pink, 4-petaled, 3/8 to 5/8" in diameter, fragrant, borne on 1/2 to 1 1/2" inflorescences. Stems are 4-sided.
Tree Acer pseudoplatanus [Sycamore Maple] Tolerates salt spray. Produces a lot of dead wood that needs removal. Anthracnose and canker disease can be serious.
Tree Acer tataricum ssp. ginnala [Amur Maple] Extremely hardy small tree with interesting foliage (elongated center lobe) and colorful fruits (on some trees). Widely adapted and trouble-free. Prefers sun but tolerates some shade. Good for growth in large planters. Among first trees to leaf out. Withstands heavy pruning. Can be damaged by ice stroms. Verticillium susceptible, but rare.
Tree Aesculus hippocastanum 'Baumannii' [Baumann Common Horsechestnut] 'Baumannii' is known for its large panicles of double flowers. The flowers are sterile, so none of the large, littering, poisonous fruit of the species type are produced, increasing this tree's usability. Widely adapted to soils and environments; however, very dry conditions must be avoided. Leaf blotch often disfigures foliage.
Shrub Indiana Native Aesculus parviflora [Bottlebrush Buckeye] Can be kept at a smaller size for a time with careful pruning, but it will in time occupy much space. Tolerates some shade, and can even be attractive under large shade trees. Suckers quite freely.
Tree Aesculus × carnea 'Fort McNair' [Fort McNair Red Horsechestnut] Fort McNair Red Horsechestnut is less suscebtible to leaf scorch, leaf blotch and mildew than the straight species, although it can still contract the diseases. Does not perform well in dry sites; plant in moister soils for best growth and flowering. Flowers at an early age. Prickly fruits may be a problem underfoot. Fruits are poisonous (containing toxic saponins). Often develops branches having narrow crotch angles (branches that should be removed).
Liana (Climbing Vine) Akebia quinata [Fiveleaf Akebia] Fiveleaf Akebia is a vigorous vine that establishes quickly under many different conditions, even to the point of invading an area. Prune to keep this plant within its boundaries. Best used to climb up structures, but can also be used as a sprawling groundcover. Although generally deciduous, Akebia quinata can be evergreen in the south.
Tree Albizia julibrissin [Albizia] Albizia julibrissin is known for its attractive, "pom-pom" like flowers that begin in late spring and last through the summer. The interesting effect of the flowers is due to the the over 1" long pink stamens. This plant is not an ideal landscape choice due to its susceptibility to many pests and diseases, including vascular wilt disease (Fusarium).
Liana (Climbing Vine) Allamanda cathartica [Golden Trumpet] Can be grown as a small shrub if pruned regularly. Quite tolerant of many soil types. Full sun needed for maximum flower show. All Allamandas are poisonous. Caterpillars and mites can be problematic. Not salt tolerant. 'Hendersonii' is most often planted, while 'Yellow Butterflies' is compact with many large yellow flowers.
Herbaceous Allium 'Millenium' [Ornamental Onion] Tolerates a wide range of soils but it performs well in sandy soils. It is wasily grown in average moisture, well drained soils in full sun or partial shade. The bulbs are best planted in the fall.