Tree Indiana Native Gymnocladus dioicus [Kentucky Coffeetree] Gymnocladus dioicus is a large deciduous tree with strong winter character from the branches and bark. Drops pods (female trees) and twigs, frequently causing litter problem, thus eliminating the straight species as a good street tree. Seeds were once used by US settlers as a coffee substitute, however pulp and seeds are toxic when not properly and completely roasted.
Tree Gymnocladus dioicus 'Espresso' [Espresso Kentucky Coffeetree] Gymnocladus dioicus 'Espresso' is a large, male, fruitless deciduous tree with strong winter character with its vase-like habit and rough bark.
Shrub Hamamelis × intermedia 'Sunburst' [Sunburst Witchhazel] The Sunburst Witchhazel is a large, vase-shaped deciduous shrub that produces a profusion of interesting, strap-like lemon-yellow and red flowers in mid to late winter.
Shrub/Tree Hamamelis vernalis [Vernal Witchhazel] Earliest blooming shrub for the Midwest. Good as a neutral filler for the border with quiet seasonal interest. More pH tolerant than Hamamelis virginiana. Should not be pruned (tip pinching would be acceptable to direct growth). Not as showy in bloom as Hamamelis mollis, the Chinese Witchhazel, or its hybrids.
Shrub/Tree Indiana Native Hamamelis virginiana [Common Witchhazel] Flowers are in evidence because of their spicy fragrance before they are visually obvious, but are fairly showy after leaf drop. Should not be pruned (tip pinching would be acceptable to direct growth).
Liana (Climbing Vine) InvasiveThis plant is considered invasive Hedera helix [English Ivy] Tolerant of heavy shade to full sun except at the northern limits of its useful range, where some protection from full winter sun is necessary. Useful as a groundcover only, not as a vine, in Zone 5b, except hardiest cultivars in sheltered sites. Vigorous and can be a weed problem in certain regions of the country (like the NW US) where it can smother woodlands. Poisonous fruits, but it generally takes many years for it…
Liana (Climbing Vine) InvasiveThis plant is considered invasive Hedera helix 'Baltica' [Baltica English Ivy] 'Baltica' has smaller leaves with more prominent white veination. Foliage becomes tinged with purple in the winter. Tolerant of heavy shade to full sun except at the northern limits of its useful range, where some protection from full winter sun is necessary. Vigorous and can be a weed problem in certain regions of the country (like the NW US) where it can smother woodlands. Poisonous fruits, but it generally takes many years for it to…
Liana (Climbing Vine) InvasiveThis plant is considered invasive Hedera helix 'Thorndale' [Thorndale English Ivy] 'Thorndale' is a very hardy cultivar that has large, glossy leaves with striking white veination. Tolerant of heavy shade to full sun except at the northern limits of its useful range, where some protection from full winter sun is necessary. Useful as a groundcover and vine. Vigorous and can be a weed problem in certain regions of the country (like the NW US) where it can smother woodlands. Poisonous fruits, but it generally takes many…
Tree Heptacodium miconioides [Seven-son Flower] The common name, Seven-Son Flower, is derived from the cluster of 7 small flowers contained within each whorl. The flowers are followed by very showy, reddish fruit structures that have the appearance of flowers. The tan, shredding bark is attractive and exfoliates in long strips to reveal a dark brown inner bark. This plant can be hard to find, both in the wild and in commerce. Needs pruning to maintain aesthetics.
Liana (Climbing Vine) Hydrangea anomala ssp. petiolaris [Climbing Hydrangea] Among the best ornamental vines. Holds to a wall using root-like holdfasts arising from nodes. Grows best in shaded areas. Slow to establish. Best to transplant from a container. Although it can eventaully reach up to 80 feet, its size is controllable, if desired.