Tree Gleditsia triacanthos f. inermis 'Impcole' [sold as Imperial®] [Imperial Thornless Honeylocust] This rounded, compact, and low-fruiting cultivar has finely compound leaves that provide a pleasant, dappled shade in the summer. The thornless forma inermis is only sold in commerce, as the profuse thorns of the species type can be a liability. Mimosa webworm and locust mite are serious pests in the Midwest, and are becoming more serious (especially in areas tending toward monoculture). Can be controlled with spraying.
Tree Gleditsia triacanthos f. inermis 'Skycole' [sold as Skyline®] [Skyline Thornless Honeylocust] The Skyline Thornless Honeylocust is a nearly fruitless compact, pyramidal tree with a strongly upright habit and finely compound leaves that provide a pleasant, dappled shade in the summer. The thornless forma inermis is only sold in commerce, as the profuse thorns of the species type can be a liability. Mimosa webworm and locust mite are serious pests in the Midwest, and are becoming more serious (especially in areas tending toward monoculture). Can be controlled…
Tree Gleditsia triacanthos f. inermis [sold as Shademaster®] [Shademaster Thornless Honeylocust] The Shademaster Thornless Honeylocust is a popular cultivar that is nearly fruitless and has dark green, finely compound leaves on ascending branches that provide a pleasant, dappled shade in the summer. The thornless forma inermis is only sold in commerce, as the profuse thorns of the species type can be a liability. Mimosa webworm and locust mite are serious pests in the Midwest, and are becoming more serious (especially in areas tending toward monoculture). Can…
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.
Tree Halesia carolina 'Rosea' [Pink Mountain Silverbell] The Pink Mountain Silverbell is interesting in bloom (pale pink flowers), rather neutral otherwise, but relatively trouble free and useful in many situations as a neutral background plant, or for its flowers. Flowers and fruits are larger than the related species H. carolina. Best grown as a single stem and allowed to branch low (20-30"). Does not transplant well (a particular problem with field-grown plants).
Tree Kalopanax septemlobus [Castor Aralia] No disease or insect problems. Stout prickles could cause injury. Slight weediness via the seeds. Not common in commerce.
Tree Koelreuteria paniculata [Goldenraintree] Colorful small tree in bloom and interesting for its form. Tolerates heat, drought, wind, alkaline soils, and air pollution. Newly emerging leaves can be damaged by late spring freezes. Rather weak-wooded. Can be damaged or killed by –25 degrees F. Invasive in some parts of the country.
Tree Indiana Native Liquidambar styraciflua [American Sweetgum] Handsome shade tree with few troubles and outstanding seasonal interest. Widely adapted to soils and climates, as evidenced by its wide range. Fall foliage coloration varies greatly in timing and intensity among individuals. Rather difficult to transplant in large sizes. Varies widely in hardiness. Select native northern stock for use in North. Horned fruits can be a serious litter problem, dulling mower blades and injuring bare feet. Also see Liquidambar styraciflua (Shuttle Gum Group).
Tree Liquidambar styraciflua 'Hapdell' [sold as Happidaze™] [Happidaze American Sweetgum] Handsome shade tree with few troubles and outstanding seasonal interest. Widely adapted to soils and climates. 'Hapdell', commonly sold under the name Happidaze, is a fruitless cultivar with a dense crown and deep maroon fall foliage. Rather difficult to transplant in large sizes.
