Shrub Sorbaria sorbifolia [Ural Falsespirea] Coarse texture and unusual spirea-like flowers give this plant unique summer interest. Best in large-scale situations. Spreads vigorously by suckering if not contained. Intensive root pruning can be used to control spread. Does not do the best in dry soils but does tolerate them. Does poorly in heavy wind. Flowers turn brown with senescence and esthetic is slightly improved by their removal. To some, a bit too coarse in winter habit.
Tree Sorbus intermedia [Mountainash] Structural pruning is important for this species, as it has weak crotch angles. Prune so that the trunk and branches cannot rub against each other. This tree does not tolerate competition well and should be mulched to the dripline.
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.
Tree Stewartia pseudocamellia [Japanese Stewartia] In the wild, this specimen can grow up to 60' high, much larger than the mature landscape tree which ranges from 20-40' high. The outstanding, multi-colored bark is rich and flaking, ranging from soft grays and browns to orangish brown. There are no serious pests or diseases for this specimen.
Tree Styphnolobium japonicum [Japanese Pagodatree] A widely adapted tree with good drought and pollution tolerance, and foliage texture comparable to Gleditsia, but a smaller tree and with more seasonal interest. Relatively trouble-free except for fungi that live in weaker twigs that cause twig blight and canker. Fungi invade most readily those twigs killed by cold or self-pruning. Seeds are poisonous. Difficult to train a central leader. More cold sensitive when young.
Tree Styrax japonicus [Japanese Snowbell] Relatively trouble-free. Can be susceptible to Ambrosia beetle and canker. Partial shade best in Zones 7 and 8 due to heat intolerance.
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 [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 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 Syringa pubescens ssp. patula [Manchurian Lilac] Flowers in spring before leaves are fully out. Powdery mildew resistant. Very low maintenance.
