Shrub/Tree Salix caprea [Pussy Willow] Salix caprea is one of several species commonly referred to as "Pussy Willows". The common name is derived from the silky soft male catkins (species is dioecious). Tolerates heavy pruning and can be cut to the ground every 3-5 years to maintain size. The wood of this plant is weak and easily damaged. This species is susceptible to many pests and diseases.
Shrub Salix purpurea 'Canyon Blue' [Canyon Blue Purpleosier Willow] Canyon Blue Purpleosier Willow is very similar to the compact cultivar Nana in its habit and shape. What stands out is its deeper bluish leave color. This is a great choice for wet areas, soil stability, and in rain gardens. Unlike most willows (Salix ssp.), the Purpleosier tends to stay a compacted shrub and will sucker less than others in this genus.
Shrub Salix purpurea 'Nana' [Dwarf Purpleosier Willow] Salix purpurea 'Nana' is a dioecious, compact, rounded shrub well-suited for wet areas, rain gardens, and bank stablizition. Tolerates heavy pruning.
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 Spiraea japonica 'Little Princess' [Little Princess Spirea] Grows larger and faster than species
Shrub Spiraea × vanhouttei [Vanhoutte Spirea] The Vanhoutte Spirea is a tough shrub with a beautiful, fountain-like habit. In late spring, the long, gracefully arching branches are covered in numerous white flowers. Moderately drought tolerant. May be affected by leaf spot.
Shrub Indiana Native Symphoricarpos albus [Common Snowberry] Useful as a bank cover or large scale groundcover. Transplants well. This plant has a beautiful fruit show and is shade tolerant, however, it is also a twiggy, "garbage can plant" (collects leaves and blowing debris); this quality (especially prominent in the fall and winter) limits its usability in the landscape.
Shrub Syringa × chinensis [Chinese Lilac] Can become ratty in appearance, and so should be pruned properly on 3 year cycle. Problems with aphids, powdery mildew, scales, and caterpillars, although powdery mildew is worst problem.
Shrub Syringa meyeri 'Palibin' [Dwarf Meyer Lilac] Flowers by the time it reaches one foot tall, very floriferous. Flowers in spring before leaves are fully out. Powdery mildew resistant. Very low maintenance. Flowers can be damaged by a late spring freeze. Best to prune immediately after flowering to promote flower buds for the next year.
Shrub/Tree Syringa sp. [Lilac] The Lilac genus, Syringa, is composed of over 20 species and numerous cultivars and variants of shrubs to small trees. The most well-known feature of lilacs is their showy, many times fragrant, flower panicles. Lilacs prefer cooler climates. Leggy plants can be rejuvenated by a hard pruning in the winter, with less intensive maintenance pruning after flowering. Can be affected by powdery mildew, leaf spot, borers, and blight.