April 1, 2020
Most commonly grown as a multi-stemmed tree, Eastern Redbud is best used as a specimen or focal point tree. A native to the Great Lakes region the Redbud is easily adapted to our local soils and can be used in woodland settings or more formal gardens with the right exposure. The pea-like flowers hug the branches of the tree in a glowing lavender color in March-April. The flowers eventually begin to form the seed pods that can persist into winter. For the summer months, large heart-shaped leaves cover the tree creating a cool, shady understory. Fall color is a pale yellow. The open branching creates a stunning statement year-round and in the winter the cinnamon coloring in the bark contrasts beautifully with a fresh snow outlining the branches.
Specimen tree, woodland understory tree, naturalized areas
Vernal witch hazel is easy to grow and thrives in moist, well-drained soil.
If you’re looking for an evergreen shrub to brighten your landscape or contrast existing shrubbery, consider golden mop cypress.
Evergold is a cool-season grass and can be semi-evergreen in the Midwest climate.
Matrona sedum is hardy, drought-tolerant, and thrives in full sunlight.