Tree Abies balsamea var. phanerolepis [Canaan Fir] The Canaan Fir is more tolerant of different environmental conditions than many other firs. It can tolerate wetter soils, and because of its later bud break, is more resistant to damage caused by late spring frost. Can be affected by spruce budworms, wooly adelgid, and several canker diseases, as well as deer. This species transplants well.
Tree Abies concolor [White Fir] Similar to Picea pungens f. glauca in color and general form, but less positive, and so easier to use in a variety of situations. Better adapted to hot, dry summers than most other firs.
Tree Acer griseum [Paperbark Maple] Slow growth (6-12" per year) is compensated for by longevity and freedom from maintenance. The cinnamon-brown, curly bark is outstanding. Habit is open enough to display bark interest year-round.
Tree Acer miyabei [Miyabe Maple] Attractive bark is grayish with long, vertical scales and fissures in maturity. Some difficulty in both vegetative and seed propagation.
Shrub Aronia arbutifolia 'Brilliantissima' [Brilliant Red Chokeberry] The Brilliant Red Chokeberry has dark green leaves that turn a stunning deep red in the fall. 'Brilliant' produces larger and more abundant flowers and a greater number of red berries than the species type. Because birds find the fruits unappealing, the berries are allowed to persist well into the winter months. This plant tends to sucker and create colonies.
Shrub InvasiveThis plant is considered invasive Berberis thunbergii var. atropurpurea [Purple Japanese Barberry] This variety has purple to red summer foliage, turning a rich red to red-violet in the fall. It is an adaptable plant that does well in an urban environment. Place in a high light location for best foliage coloration. Can be coppiced, with the resulting new growth developing better summer color. Can be pruned to ground every 5 to 7 years. Relatively trouble-free.
Shrub InvasiveThis plant is considered invasive Berberis thunbergii var. atropurpurea 'Crimson Pygmy' [Red Dwarf Japanese Barberry] The Red Dwarf Japanese Barberry is exceedingly popular due to its dense, low growing form, brilliant foliage, and tolerance to tough urban conditions. For the best leaf coloration, place in full sun. This plant tolerates dry soils, but will suffer in wet, poorly drained soils.
Tree Betula albosinensis [Chinese Paper Birch] Betula albosinensis is a common tree in Europe but not often found here in the United States. It is considered by many to have the most handsome bark of any of the birches. The bark peels off in layers that have been likened to tissue paper. The straight species has bark that is pinkish-copper to orange-red to orange-brown with a white bloom.
Tree Indiana Native Betula alleghaniensis [Yellow Birch] Graceful tree, interesting for its shining bark beginning yellowish or bronze and exfoliating in thin shreds, becoming reddish brown until finally forming blackish-brown plates. Especially well adapted to wet soils. Does not do well in dry situations. Less subject to the borer troubles of B. papyrifera in the Midwest.
Tree Indiana Native Betula nigra [River Birch] Graceful tree, interesting for its curling bark, and especially well adapted to wet soils. Immune to the bronze birch borer, which is a serious problem for the native Betula papyrifera in the Midwest. This species prefers full sun and is quite heat tolerant, but does not have tolerance for drought. If pruning is required, prune in summer or during the dormant season.