GreatPlants Gardener 2004 Plant Descriptions

Trees for western Nebraska—Large, Small, Evergreen, Shrubs and Untested
Trees for eastern Nebraska—Large, Small, Evergreen, Shrubs and Untested

Recommended Hardy Perennials for Rock Gardens
Perennials for Dry, Moist and Part Shade and for Wet Sites
Ornamental Grasses

Sun Loving Perennials
· The following list of sun-loving perennial plants are hardy to at least -30 degrees or hardiness zone 4 and many perform there best when grown in full sun and well-drained soils. Avoid planting in heavy clay soils as poor winter drainage can cause root rots. Heavy urban soils need to be raised above grade with organic matter or topsoil amendments. Many are drought tolerant and dislike consistently moist soils.
Agastache or Hummingbird Mint-gray-green scented foliage and tubular dark pink to sunset orange flowers in late summer to fall; best in open, hot sunny areas; dislikes excess water
Amsonia or Bluestar- easy to grow with light blue star-like flowers atop thin stems in spring; bluestar (A. tabernaemontana) tolerates wet sites, has willow-like leaf; shining bluestar (A. illustris) tolerates drought, has glossy leaf; threadleaf bluestar (A. ciliata)threadlike leaf turns yellow in fall.
Artemisia- soft, gray foliage a must for the hot, sunny border; must have a well drained site to perform best ; Fringed is an 18” native similar to Silver Mound; Sea Foam gives a frothy appearance; Silver Brocade forms a dense ground hugging mat; all benefit from a summer or late winter pruning.
Aster- easy to grow for the fall garden; combine well with grasses;‘Bluebird’ and prairie asters prefer drier soils; pinch stems in early summer for compact habit; A. dumosus ‘Woods’ excellent performance.
Bachelor Button, Perennial- Centaurea sp.- prefers full sun and good drainage; 18-24” tall; knapweed (C. dealbata) has deeply fringed lavender flowers and mountain bluet (C. montana) has deep blue flowers; blooms in late spring to early summer; shear after blooming for new flush of growth, to remove seed.
Basket-of-Gold(Aurinia saxitillis)- nice gray-green mounds of foliage to 15”; clusters of bright yellow flowers in early spring; requires full sun and good drainage; shear back by ½ after flowering.
Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia species)showy yellow daisy-like flowers with black center cones in summer; native R. hirta is a 2’ annual that will reseed itself; ‘Goldstrum’ forms colonies and prefers moist soils; R. maximaandR. subtomentosa strong 3-6’ highvertical perennials; R. missouriensisis a 18” high perennial with fuzzy leaves, most drought tolerant; all easy to grow and very adaptable.
Baptisia or Indigo- gray-green usually 3-parted leaves with spikes of pea-like flowers in spring; 3-4’ high; blue false indigo has rich blue flowers; prairie baptisia has white flowers; full sun, deep soils; slow to establish.
Boltonia- blue-green bushy plants with top half covered with white daisy-like flowers in early fall; ‘Snowbank’ an excellent 4’ selection; ‘Pink Beauty’ has pink flowers; full sun and deep, organic soils are best; easy to grow and combine well with Russian sage and Autumn Joy sedum.
Butterfly Plant (Buddleja davidii) shrubby plants with long panicles of fragrant lavender-blue, white, pink, or purple flowers in summer; cut woody stems to the ground in spring; late to break dormancy in spring.
*Coneflower, Prairie (Echinacea angustifolia) narrow, rough textured foliage; pink to creamy white flowers with drooping petals in late spring; blooms 2-3 weeks earlier than ‘Magnus’; drought tolerant
*Coneflower, Purple (Echinacea purpurea) SE U.S. native; broad, dark green foliage; ‘Magnus’ selected for outward flower petals, ‘Alba’ for white flowers; reseeds readily in moist soils.
Coneflower, Yellow (Echinacea paradoxa) Ozark native with striking yellow drooping petals and large chocolate brown disk; 2-4’ high; drought tolerant and an excellent cut flower.
Candytuft (Iberis sempervirens)- attractive dark green, needle-like leaves evergreen; nice ground cover to 15” with profusion of white flowers in spring; prune in spring and after flowering for new growth.
Compass Plant (Silphium laciniatum) large, deeply cut leaves to 15” long resemble oak leaf; upright stalks to 6’ with many yellow sunflower-like flowers in late summer; bold, long lived prairie native.
Clematis, Bush- Bush (C. integrifolia) is a shrub clematis with nodding flowers; cut back after bloom for flush of new growth and to prevent flopping; C. hexapetala has fragrant 1” flowers; Tube (C. heracleifolia) attractive deep green leaves, blue recurved flowers; all prefer full sun; drought tolerant
Coreopsis- easy to grow, hardy perennials for hot, sunny border; grows best in well-drained soil; ‘Sunray’ has golden daisy-like flowers; ‘Zagreb’ has fernlike leaves, golden flowers; ‘Moonbeam’ has pale yellow; blooms early to late summer; drought tolerant; stiff coreopsis (C. palmata) is a NE native.
Dianthus- compact, sun-loving plants; easy to grow when provided great drainage; ‘Prairie Pink’ a Dale Lindgren selection; ‘First Love’ has rose, pink and white flowers; ‘Cheyenne’ is a double pink.
Flax, Blue (Linum perenne)- wiry stems and needle-like leaves with many nodding azure blue flowers in spring; prune back after flowering; will not return next year if winter drainage is poor; 18” h.
Gas Plant- (Dictamnus albus)- attractive foliage and lovely erect spikes of unique white or pink flowers in June; slow to mature but worth the wait; prefers full sun and rich, organic soils.
Gaura or Apple Blossom Grass- loose sprays of airy white or pink flowers held above the foliage; blooms in late summer, profusely with cool nights of autumn; rich, well-drained soils.
Gayfeather or Liatris- ‘Kobold’ and ‘Floristan Violet’ selections prefer consistent moisture; all have showy purple flower spikes in summer to fall; grows from 18” to 3’ tall; chlorotic in heavy soils.
Geranium, Hardy-dependable workhorse massed as groundcover or as accent; wet or dry soils and full sun to part shade; shear back by ½ after flowering to promote new flush of growth.‘Biokovo’ has delicate pink flowers; Bevan’s has deep magenta; ‘Johnson’s Blue’ or ‘Album’ with snow white flowers.
Goldenrod(Solidago species)- showy golden-yellow plumes in late summer to fall; many compact hybrids available on these easy to grow perennials; botanically cannot cause hay fever; combine with grasses.
Iris- divide bearded iris every three years and limit watering after flowering; try dwarf ‘nana’ hybrids for early spring and spuria for later spring; Siberian has excellent vertical
Lamb’s Ear (Stachys byzantina) mats of velvety white, woolly leaves can spread aggressively; fuzzy flower spikes with small pink flowers in late spring can be removed as they develop; trouble-free.
*Leadplant (Amorpha canescens)- native shrubby plant with small gray-white leaves forming bushy plants; topped with rich blue-purple flower spikes in early summer; very drought tolerant to 4’ tall; prune hard in early spring.
Mallow (Malva alcea ‘Fastigiata’)- attractive 5-parted leaves and bright 2” shell pink flowers in summer; enjoys full sun and well-drained soils; upright plants to 3’ high; biennial but self sows readily.
*Milkweed, Butterfly (Asclepias tuberosa) vibrant orange flowers top 2’ tall plants in late spring; ornamental seed pods; plant in late spring and water sparingly to establish; needs good drainage
Mountain Mint (Pycnanthemum virginianum) fragrant minty foliage forms bushy 3’ high plants topped with whitish flowers in summer; easy to grow and does not spread by runners; pinch for compact habit.
Mullein or Verbascum- large leaves form basal rosettes of dark green or silvery, woolly leaves; upright stalks from 2-6’ tall in summer with 1” yellow flowers; blooms second year then dies, allow reseed.
New Jersey Tea (Ceanothos americanus)- Handsome, durable shrub with clean foliage and abundant clusters of white flowers in late spring; slow to establish but worth the wait; limit competition from aggressive plants; dried leaves make an excellent prairie tea.
Nepeta or Catmint–tough, easy to grow; prefers hot, sunny site; tolerates drought; shear back by ½ after flowering; ‘Blue Wonder’ & ‘Walker’s Low’ have blue spikes on 12” plants, excellent ground cover.
Onion, Ornamental (Allium species)- forms clumps of grasslike leaves topped by rounded or nodding flower heads; bloom in early to late spring, summer and fall; best in full sun, any well-drained garden soil; ‘Forescate’ chives attractive deep pink balls in spring; ‘Cowlick’ has muave flowers in fall.
Pasque Flower (Pulsatilla species) western native with silky hairy leaves;delicate cup-shaped flowers in early spring followed by feathery seed heads; native has lavender flowers; ‘Alba’, ‘Heller Hybrids’, ‘Papa Geno’ and ‘Rubra’ selections from European Pulsatilla vulgaris; all need well-drained, dry soils.
*Penstemon- beautiful summer blooming perennials with erect flower spikes; tubular flowers and showy seed heads; allow to reseed to perpetuate in the garden; needs sunny well-drained, dry soils.
Phlox, Garden- plant mildew resistant selections like ‘Alpha’, bright rose flowers, ‘David’ has snow white flower heads; avoid top watering plants during hot, humid months; deadhead after flowering for repeat.
*Primrose, Missouri (Oenothera macrocarpa)-lance-shaped silvery leaves on sprawling plants to 2’ wide; large light yellow flowers in summer; large, winged seed capsules; tough, carefree plant.
Poppy Mallow, Purple (Callirhoe involucrata)- low growing cut-leaf native to 12” tall and 4’ wide; dies back to crown each year; bright purple cup-shaped flowers all summer; easy to grow and drought tolerant.
*Prairie Clover, Purple (Dalea purpurea) erect prairie plant with bright purple cylindrical heads atop thin, stiff stems in summer; fernlike foliage; ‘Stephanie’ nice compact selection.
Rattlesnake Master (Eryngium yuccafolium)- impressive gray-green, yucca-like foliage to 2’; flower stalks to 3’, topped with honey-scented 1/2” white balls in summer; best with grasses.
Russian Sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia)- silver foliage, 4’ spikes of lavender-blue flowers in mid-summer; tough, dependable plants and drought tolerant; pinch back in spring for more compact blooming habit.
Sage, Pitcher (Salvia azurea) slender stalks reach 4’ in late summer; topped with clusters of azure-blue flowers; pinch in late spring to early summer for compact habit; very drought tolerant but rather lanky.
Salvia- variety of showy perennials with tubular dark purple flowers whorled along stems in spring to early summer; ‘May Night’ and ‘Purple Rain’ highly rated for the border, 2’ high; ‘Rose Queen’ has pink flowers; shear all back hard after flowering for new flush.
Scabiosa or Pincushion Flower- showy fringed flowers set above basal tuft of foliage; ‘Butterfly Blue’ and ‘Pink Mist’ compact 12” plants; ‘Mongolian Mist’ robust 18” stems topped with dark blue flowers.
Sea Lavender (Limonium latifolium)- leathery 10” leaves in spring form 18” mounds; slender branches give rise to masses of tiny sky blue flowers in late summer to 3’ high; easy to grow.
Sedum, Tall- succulent, fleshy leaves; 2’ stems topped with large flower heads in fall; ‘Autumn Joy’ rosy-salmon, ‘Neon’ purplish pink, ‘Indian Chief’ coppery red flowers; drought tolerant; pinch for compact.
*Skullcap (Scutellaria species)- the native prairie skullcap ‘Smoky Hills’ has mouse-eared leaves and deep purple flowers on 10” plants; ‘Mongolian Skies’ has shiny leaves and bluish-purple flower spikes in early summer; shear back by ½ after flowering for new flush; very drought tolerant.
Snow in Summer (Cerastium tomentosum)- small silvery leaves form a dense 8” carpet covered with white flowers in late spring; shear after flowering; needs full sun and excellent drainage.
Soapwort (Saponaria ocymoides)-ground cover with dark green 1” leaves and masses of small bright pink flowers in late spring; ‘Snow Tips’ nice white selection; shear back by ½ after flowering.
Spiderwort (Tradescantia species)clumps of dull green linear foliage topped with 1-3” diameter flowers; plant in full sun and well-drained soils; cut back hard after flowering for new flush; dependable; many colorful hybrids available that perform best in moist soils; Ohio spiderwort (T. ohioensis) and Western spiderwort (T. occidentalis) are more drought tolerant and have lavender-blue flowers.
Spirea, Blue-Mist (Caryopteris x clandonensis) attractive narrow gray-green foliage on woody, shrub-like plants that often die back to the ground in winter; cut back hard in spring to new growth; 1-2” blue flower clusters line along the upper stems in late summer to fall; a favorite of bees; easy to grow.
Stoke’s Aster (Stokesia laevis)-dark green 6” long leaves with white midrib form 12” clumps; showy blue, purple or white 4” flowers top plants in summer; needs well-drained soil and consistent moisture.
Veronica- excellent perennial selections available as mat-forming ground covers or sturdy plants to 2’ tall; they all need well-drained, sunny sites for best growth; moderately drought tolerant.
Yarrow (Achillea species)- Low to tall plants with feathery leaves and flat-topped flowers in late spring and summer; easily cultivated in any garden soil; drought tolerant, dependable. Fernleaf yarrow (Achillea millefolium) has fine-textured foliage; ‘Moonshine’ has gray-green foliage; ‘Gold Plate’ and ‘Coronation’ gold are 4’ tall.
Yucca- erect, spiny leaves shaped liked a bayonet form handsome clumps to 30” wide; leafless flower stalks rise to 5’ in late spring with many creamy-white nodding flowers; ‘Bright Edge’ and ‘Variegata’ are beautiful yellow and white variegated leaf forms; tough, drought tolerant plants.

Hardy Ornamental Grasses
Ornamental grasses come in a variety of soft and subtle colors, from forest green to lime and from gray-green to powder blue to light yellow, all complementing brightly colored perennial flowers. Grasses provide movement in the garden, dancing in the slightest summer breeze. As they move, the stems and leaves rustle together to add sound to the garden. The flowers and foliage of grasses are highly translucent and are often at their best when back-lit or side-lit by the sun. The long linear leaves and fine stems of large grasses provide a soft, fine-textured backdrop and shorter grasses compliment broad-leaf perennials in front. Ornamental grasses are easy to grow when provided a well-drained soil and sunny conditions.

Buestem, Big (Andropogon gerardii) impressive native of the tall grass prairie; rich, green leaves to 2’ by the end of June; flowering stalks in August up to 6’ high; seed heads resemble turkey’s foot; reliable fall color in copper, rich orange, with maroon tones; may grow floppy if shaded; wet or dry soils.
*Bluestem, Little (Schizachrium scoparium) dependable native bunch grass with fine-textured bright green or light blue leaves to 2’ tall in summer; the late summer flowers dry in fall, becoming silvery and remain attractive through winter; avoid highly fertile soils or excessive moisture, heavy mulching.
Bottlebrush Grass (Hystrix patula) cool season bunch grass with shiny, green foliage to 2’ topped by bottle-brush like seed heads in June to 3’; self sows but easily managed when allowed to weave between perennials; grows well in dry shade too; best in informal settings.
Carex or Sedge-forms dense clumps of grass-like foliage; prairie sedges native to dryland and wetland soils; combine with warm season grasses for early spring color and weed competition; many exciting yellow and white variegated forms selected from plants native to Japan and China.
Cordgrass, Variegated (Spartina pectinata) aggressive spreader best used for erosion control or confined space; attractive comb-like seed heads top plants in late summer; foliage turns yellow in fall; sharp foliage hard to cut back in spring; ‘Aureomarginata’ selection has leaves with white stripe.
*Dropseed, Prairie (Sporobolus heterolepis) native bunch grass with thin, ribbon-like leaves form 2’ mounds; delicate seed heads appear in late summer and remain attractive through fall; attractive when back lit and scented; foliage turns deep orange to light copper; likes it dry and never needs dividing.
Fesque, Dwarf Blue (Festuca species) tufted plants with attractive silvery-blue foliage; dainty seed heads held above foliage on thin stems; cool season native to Europe; often sulks in hot, humid summers.
Grama, Blue (Bouteloua gracilis)native to dry prairies; tufted with thin, wiry leaves to 8”; 1” eyelash-like seed heads top thin stems to 18” in late June; nice decorator plant or mass for prairie style lawn.
Grama, Sideoats (Bouteloua curtipendula) mounds of gray-green foliage; numerous narrow flower stalks with oatlike seed heads held on one side of the stems, to 3’ h; bronze-orange fall color; straw in winter.
Hairgrass, Tufted (Deschampsia caespitosa) look like tufts of long, thin hair topped by masses of loose, airy seed heads in late spring; consistent moisture for best performance; full sun to part shade; 15-18” high and wide; native to Europe.
*Indiangrass (Sorghastrum nutans) clump former with blue-green leaves and golden, feathery seed heads held above leafs in fall to 6’ high; provide moisture retentive soils for best results; they will reseed.
Junegrass, Prairie (Koeleria pyramidata) dryland native, cool season bunch grass with gray-green leaves; blooms early June with narrow, erect inflorescence; needs well-drained, dry soils; short-lived but will reseed making them ideal for naturalizing.
Lovegrass, Sand (Eragrostis tricoides) native to sandy soils with leafy upright flowering stems to 4’ h; masses of airy, fine-textured seed heads in August; self sows manageably in loam and readily in sand but easily managed; early spring green appreciated; will be floppy in shady conditions or excess water
Lyme Grass, Blue (Leymus arenarius) native to European coastal sand dunes; impressive bright bluish foliage to 2’; spreads very aggressive in loose soils; best contained; tolerates wet or dry soils.
Miscanthus- showy grasses of many shapes and sizes, ranging from 3 to 12’ tall; feathery plumes top plants in fall with new cultivars providing colorful foliage and better flowers; cut back to ground in spring; prefers full sun and will topple if planted in too shady of conditions.
Moor Grass, Autumn (Molina caerulea)- graceful grass tufts with upright leave blades to 18”; stiff flower stalks have airy appearance to 5’; requires consistent moisture to perform its best; rich, organic soils.
Oatgrass, Blue (Helictotrichon sempervirens) a western Mediterranean native; clump-forming grass with intense blue leaves to 2’; delicate flower stalks appear in late spring; suffers in poorly drained soils.
Pennisetum, Chinese (Pennisetum alopecuroides) narrow-leaved bunch grass with foxtail-like silvery-white plumes in late summer; typically 2-3’ high; stunning in groups or masses; native to China.
Ravennae Grass (Saccharum ravennae) native to the Mediterranean region; clumping grass forming 4’ wide gray-green mounds of foliage by August; large plumy flower heads are produced in late August on stalks up to 12’ tall; excess moisture or fertility encourages lax growth; cut to ground in spring.
Reed Grass, Feather (Calamagrostis x acutiflora) deep green, lustrous foliage with loosely feathered flowering stalks in early summer; they constrict to narrow buff-colored plumes by fall and remain attractive all winter; easy to grow in most soils, but best in well-drained fertile soils; native to Europe.
Reed Grass, Korean (Calamagrostis brachytricha) native to woodland edge in Asia; glossy green foliage and red tinted feathery flower heads in September create strong vertical plant; prefers consistent moisture but is easy to grow in most soils; excellent in containers; 3-4’ high.
Ribbon Grass (Phalaris arundinacea var. picta) a popular favorite for years with creamy-white stripes on leaves to 18” high; cool season aggressive spreader; plant in confined space and part shade.
Sea Oats, Northern (Chasmanthium latifolium) upright bunchgrass to 3-4’ high with flattened spikelets topping the plants in summer; they start green then fade to a handsome bronze in winter; tendency to reseed heavily so plant in a confined space or scratch young seedlings out in the spring with a hoe; easy to grow in full sun or partial shade and tolerates dry shade.
Sedge (Carex species)many different grass-like plants in wide variety of color, form, and size for wet or dry soils, sun or shade; there is a Carex for any garden situation; too little known and too little used!
Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum)- native tall grass 5-7’ high with loose, airy flower stalks in late summer to fall; leaves turn golden yellow in fall; plant in full sun for sturdy flower stalks; ‘Prairie Sky’ and ‘Heavy Metal’ has gray foliage; ‘Shenandoah’ with red leaf tones and 4’. ‘Trailblazer’ a sod former.
Wildrye (Elymus canadensis) attractive nodding seed heads resemble cultivated rye, remaining attractive well into winter;a fast growing but somewhat short lived cool season prairie grass; self sows, making it desirable for naturalizing but a nuisance in small gardens; 3-4’ high.

Plants for Dry Shade
· These perennials tolerate dry shady conditions but still perform best with consistent moisture. They compete well with roots of trees for moisture and will also grow well in part shade. Provide a humus-rich soil by working copious amounts of organic matter into the soil.

Anemone, Meadow (Anemone canadensis) attracitve broad leaves forms dense 18” carpet of leaves topped by singular white flowers in late spring; vigorous spreader and needs to be contained; great between large shrubs.
Barren Strawberry (Waldsteinia ternata) native to Siberia; glossy dark green strawberry-like leaves form 8” mounds of foliage in early spring; yellow flowers in loose clusters in April to May; tough, dependable; nice combined with bleeding hearts.
Bergenia, Heartleaf (Bergenia cordifolia) large, glossy dark green leaves with clusters of showy rosy-pink flowers in early spring to 15”; foliage has reddish tones in fall; rich, organic soils.
Bishops Weed (Aegopodium podagraria) dense foliaged ground cover that spreads aggressively; best confined to restrict growth; beautiful creamy-white variegation on leaves; flat-topped white flowers in summer not significant; foliage burns in hot summer months is not provided some shade; 18” h.
Comfrey (Symphytum grandiflorum) hairy stems and oval leaves form 15” clumps topped with tubular blue flowers in spring; ‘Variegata’ has cream and green foliage; ‘Hidcote Blue’ rich blue selection.
Corydalis lutea- blue-green, fernlike foliage and abundant golden yellow flowers in spring; reliable easy plant for moist or dry shade; will happily reseed in moist gardens; 12-15” high.
Epimedium or Barrenwort- attractive delicate foliage and interesting red or yellow flowers in spring; slow to establish but worth the wait; consistent moisture for best growth.
English Ivy (Hedera helix) rich dark green leaves with prominent veins; spreads to form ground cover or climbing vine; can be aggressive in rich, moist soils; plant hardy, drought tolerant selections.
Euonymus, Winter Creeper (Euonymus fortunei) classic evergreen ground cover that spreads rapidly; dark green, green & white or green & gold leaves; bright accent for shade; 18” high.
Hosta- tough, lovely plants with blue-green, dark green, variegated or gold leaves that are narrow, broad, wavy or twisted; dwarf forms or giant 3’ plants; nice flower spires in summer to early fall.
Lily-of-the-Valley (Convallaria majalis)- nice old-fashioned ground cover with lush 8” leaves and arching, one-sided flower stalks with white fragrant blossoms in early spring; aggressive to plant in a confined space or keep the site dry to deter spreading.
Phlox, Woodland (Phlox divaricata)- showy 2-3” clusters of lilac blue to white flowers in spring on 12” plants; early summer dormancy after scattering seeds; excellent weaver between hostas.
Solomon’s Seal (Polygonatum species)- attractive woodland native forms colonies with dark green leaves arranged along arching stems and small, pendulous white flowers hang below the 2-4’ stems in spring; variegated forms from Japan are showy and brighten a shady corner of the garden; tolerates wet or dry.
Toadlily (Tricyrtis hirta) forms patches with arching stems and soft, hairy pointed leaves clasp stems; small orchid-like spotted flowers open in fall; moist fertile soil is ideal, but they tolerate dry shade.
Variegated Bishop’s Weed (Aegopodium)- lovely variegated leaves bear white flat-topped flowers in summer; an aggressive groundcover but dry soil will help keep it at bay; great filler between large shrubs; 18” h.
Vinca (Vinca minor) glossy, evergreen leaves are dark green, variegated white or gold forming dense ground cover; blue, white or purple flowers in early spring; aggressive so plant in confined space.
Yellow Archangel (Lamiastrum galeobdolon ‘Herman’s Pride’) handsome foliage with dapples of silver on dark green leaves forms 10” upright clumps; small yellow flowers whorled around the stems in spring; shear back by ½ after flowering.

Plants for Moist Shade
· These perennials perform best with consistent moisture and well-drained, organic soils. Plants suffer in heavy, waterlogged soils. Most will tolerate dry soils but not extreme drought conditions and many can also be planted in partial shade when provided moisture.

Ajuga- dense mats of dark purple to silver-green and white foliage; best on moist, fertile soil, protected from winter winds; 8” purple flower spikes in spring. Combines well with sweet woodruff.
Arum (Arum italicum)Stemless, showy arrow-shaped leaves blotched with cream in spring; dormant in mid-June, resumes growth in early fall; columns of vivid red fruits later in fall; the 12” leaves best in fall into early winter; excellent combined with bergenia or coral bells.
Astilbe-excellent for shady, moist locations; plume-like flowers in spring to midsummer, complimented by fernlike foliage; wide range of plant habit and flower colors (white to purple)
Baneberry or Doll’s Eye’s- native woodland perennial with coarse, dark green leaves; topped with pearl white berries on red stalks in fall; easy to grow in rich, organic soils.
Bleeding Heart (Dicentra species) old fashioned bleeding heart as lovely dissected leaves and heart-shaped flowers in rosy red or white in spring; goes dormant in heat of summer; fern-leaf bleeding heart only 12” high with rosy pink blooms and persistent foliage.
Bluebells, Virginia (Mertensia virginica)- blue-green mouse-ear shaped leaves emerge early spring; tubular blue flower clusters in spring; plant disappears in early summer to reappear next spring; 12” h.
Bloodroot (Sanguinaria canadensis)- wavy, deeply lobed leaves are bluish green topped with solitary white flowers in spring; dormant by early to midsummer; best in rich, organic soils.
Brunnera- sky blue flowers in spring and handsome lush 1’ foliage all season; best in rich, moist, well drained soil; does well around shaded water features in the garden.
Celandine Poppy (Stylophorum diphyllum) light green deeply lobed leaves emerge in early spring to 20”; bright yellow 2” flowers in April; excellent woodland wildflower from Missouri; can reseed.
Fern- attractive, soft tropical looking woodland perennials; cultivate in a humus-rich soil, out of the wind, mulched with leaf mold for the best results; excellent in full or dappled shade.
Hosta- tough, lovely plants with blue-green, dark green, variegated or gold leaves that are narrow, broad, wavy or twisted; dwarf forms or giant 3’ plants; nice flower spires in summer to early fall.
Lamium- beautiful leaves with bright silvery-white leaves and bright pink or white flowers in spring; prune back by ½ after flowering for new growth; if plants repeatedly dry out, bare patches appear.
Lenten Rose (Helleborus orientalis) leathery, evergreen foliage; nodding white, cream, pink to purple, cup-shaped flowers in spring; easy to grow and long lived; 18” high and wide; tolerates wet or dry.
Lobelia, Great Blue (Lobelia siphilitica) stiffly, erect plant to 3’ high with lance-shaped leaves; bright blue flowers in late summer; hardy, undemanding native woodland plant that grows along streams.
Lungwort (Pulmonaria longifolia)- long lance-shaped dark green leaves with silvery spotting to 12” h; clusters of blue tubular flowers top plants in spring; nice combined with spring bulbs.
Jack-in-the-Pulpit (Arisaema triphyllum)- a 2-3’ high woodland native with large 3-part leaves and unique green flower with brown stripes in spring; needs rich, organic soil and consistent moisture to perform best; beautiful red-orange seed heads in fall resemble a mini corn cob.
Pachysandra- leathery, toothed leaves; valuable semi-evergreen ground cover forming dense stands; flowers not significant; performs best with consistent moisture but tolerates some drought; 8” h.
Rodgersia- attractive large basal leaves with up to seven 10” long leaflets making up one big leaf; astilbe-like pink flower stalk in summer to 5’ h; best in rich, organic soil and consistent moisture.
Shooting Star (Dodecatheon meadia) delicate white, cascading flowers with yellow tips set above rosette of leaves; flowers in early spring and goes dormant by May; rich, organic soils.
Sweet Woodruff (Galium odoratum) dark green whorled leaves give rise to loose clusters of fragrant white flowers in spring; crushed leaves scented; nice with Ajuga or Solomon’s seal.
Wild Ginger (Asarum canadense) woodland 6-8” native with heart-shaped leaves for attractive ground cover; rich, organic soils for best growth.

Plants best in Part Shade (1/2 day sun)
· These perennials perform best when provided shade during the hottest part of the day. Most grow well in full sun with additional water or full shade but with less bloom and more open habit.
Anemone, Japanese (Anemone hybrids)- a diverse group of plants; Japanese anemone bloom in fall with pink flowers; snowdrop (Anemone sylvestris) has pure white nodding flowers in spring; best in rich, evenly moist soils.
Astilbe-excellent for shady, moist locations; plume-like flowers in spring to midsummer, complimented by fernlike foliage; wide range of plant habit and flower colors (white to purple)
Bellflower (Campanula sp) easy to grow provided rich, well-drained soils and shade from afternoon heat; ‘Blue Clips’ and ‘White Clips’ are the most popular, to 12”; clustered bellflower has rich purple flowers, best sheared after bloom for regrowth; harebell (C. rotundifolia) an excellent choice for the front of a shady border.
Blackberry Lily (Belamcanda chinensis) narrow iris-like foliage; 2” orange flowers in summer followed by seed heads that resemble blackberries; well-drained, organic soils; ‘Hello Yellow’ a dwarf with abundant clear yellow flowers.
Bleeding Heart (Dicentra species) old fashioned bleeding heart as lovely dissected leaves and heart-shaped flowers in rosy red or white in spring; goes dormant in heat of summer; fern-leaf bleeding heart only 12” high with rosy pink blooms and persistent foliage.
Columbine- bright green deeply lobed leaves; beautiful “spurred” flowers in all colors in late spring; best in rich, well-drained soil; many excellent cultivars and hybrids available.
Coral Bells (Heuchera species) mostly evergreen leaves form basal mounds of foliage to 12”; naked stalks topped with cherry red to pale pink flowers in spring; many new and exciting selections; purple leaf selections prefer 2/3 shade and green leaf forms prefer 2/3 sun.
Delphinium- plant dwarf varieties to prevent wind from toppling plants; ‘Summer Skies’, ‘Summer Blues’ and ‘Summer Nights’ are 12”-30” tall; rich soil; allow to reseed.
Foxglove (Digitalis species)biennial or perennial; basal foliage first year, flowering 2nd year with pendulous flowers; allow to reseed to perpetuate in the garden; needs consistent moisture;
Goat’s Beard (Aruncus dioicus)- handsome feathery foliage resembles astilbe or fern; showy plumes of white flowers top plants in early summer; best in moist, organic soils; 4’ high, 2’ wide.
Lady’s Mantle- gray-green 18” mat forming foliage covered with tiny yellow-green flowers in spring; shear back after flowering for a new flush of growth; best in rich, moist soils but tolerates dry soils.
Meadow Rue (Thalictrum species) fern-like foliage reminiscent of columbine; 2’ foliage topped with flowering stalks to 3’+; puffs of airy flowers in summer; ‘Hewitt’s Double’ is a popular selection.
Monkshood or Aconitum- attractive dark green glossy leaves; hooded purple flowers top 3-4’ high stems in autumn; best in semi-shaded, moist and fertile soil; avoid windy, exposed sites.
Plumbago or Leadwort (Ceratostigma plumbaginoides) dark green summer foliage turns bronzy-red in fall with gentian blue flowers to frost; emerges late in spring; best in well-drained soils; excellent groundcover, spreading slowly but surely.

Rock Garden Plants
· These hardy perennials are a great start to a successful rock garden-Great Plains style. Most are native to dry, rocky soils at lower elevations or dry upland prairies making them a perfect choice for the Great Plains gardener. Xeric or dryland plants like to grow in infertile soil and will perform best when provided with a raised planting bed from 1-3’ high. Mix equal parts topsoil, sharp sand and gravel and also work this mix into the existing soil to provide the well-drained soil they require. Once established water only during drought conditions-every three weeks if no rainfall. All need full sun.

Alyssum, Hardy- small silvery leaves on 8” mounds; bright yellow flowers cover plants in May; plant in full sun with a well-drained soil; excellent for the rock garden and cascading over stone walls.
Artemisia -soft, gray foliage a must for the hot, sunny border; must have a well drained site to perform best ; Fringed is an 18” native similar to Silver Mound; Sea Foam gives a frothy appearance; Silver Brocade forms a dense ground hugging mat; all benefit from a summer or late winter pruning.
*Aster ‘My Antonia’- pure white flowers with yellow centers in fall on 12” plants with glossy dark green leaves; pinch in late spring to encourage compact habit and more flowers; tough as nails.
Aster, Aromatic-(Aster oblongifolius) mounded form with narrow leafs covered with sky blue flowers in fall; native to dry, upland prairies; great combined with little bluestem and goldenrods; spreads by rhizomes; 2’ high; pinch in early summer to prevent flopping; ‘October Skies’ is nice.
Basket-of-Gold (Aurinia saxitillis)- nice gray-green mounds of foliage to 15”; clusters of sulpher yellow flowers in early spring; requires full sun and excellent drainage; shear back after flowering.
Bladder Pod (Alyssoides utriculata) western plant with showy yellow flower clusters topping the 12” plants in spring; very drought tolerant; interesting seed pods are used in arrangements.
Blanket Flower (Gaillardia x grandiflora)- coarsely toothed, gray-green leaves; 3-4” solitary flowers of yellow and maroon; nice dwarf selections; can be short lived, allow to reseed.
*Bluestem, Little (Schizachrium scoparium) dependable native bunch grass with fine-textured bright green or light blue leaves to 2’ tall in summer; the late summer flowers dry in fall, becoming silvery and remain attractive through winter; avoid highly fertile soils or excessive moisture, heavy mulching.
Grama, Blue (Bouteloua gracilis) native to dry prairies; tufted with thin, wiry leaves to 8”; 1” eyelash-like seed heads top thin stems to 18” in late June; nice decorator plant or mass for prairie style lawn.
Broomflower, Winged (Genista sagittalis) mat forming plant with dark green, winged stems to 8” tall and 2’ wide; golden-yellow flowers in tips of stems in summer; slow growing but worth the wait.
Bush Morninglory (Ipomoea leptophylla) bush-like 2-4’ wide plant covered with pink morninglory-like flowers in summer; must have excellent drainage and best in pure sand; incredibly drought tolerant.
Candytuft (Iberis sempervirens)-attractive dark green, needle-like leaves evergreen; nice ground cover to 15” with profusion of white flowers in spring; prune in spring and after flowering for new growth.
Catchfly, Royal (Silene regia) upright stems to 3’ high with brilliant scarlet flowers in summer; flowers have fringed tips; needs well-drained, sunny location for best growth; allow to reseed to perpetuate.
*Clematis, Fremont’s (Clematis fremontii) non-vining or bush type clematis quickly emerging to 15” in early spring; urn-shaped nodding flowers appear in late April followed by silky seedheads; needs dry, well-drained site and several years to reach maturity; long lived if planted where it’s happy.
Dianthus- compact, sun-loving plants; easy to grow when provided great drainage; ‘Prairie Pink’ a Dale Lindgren selection; ‘First Love’ has rose, pink and white flowers; ‘Cheyenne’ is a double pink.
False Indigo, Fragrant (Amorpha nana)-tiny grayish leaves forms a bushy 2’ plant; attractive pinkish flower spikes with honey fragrance; tough and drought tolerant native; a gem for the rockery.
Fleabane (Erigeron species)- daisy-like flowers of white, blue or pink; many excellent ground covers with silvery leaves, finely hairy; ‘Alpine Snow’ sparkling white; needs sharp drainage and full sun.
Gayfeather or Liatris-L punctata or dotted gayfeather has lavender spikes, blooms in September; L. aspera or rough gayfeather has lavender buttons along stems; drought tolerant and well-drained soils.
Globemallow, Desert (Sphaeralcea coccinea) low growing western native ground cover to 12” high; gray-green foliage and showy coral red flower clusters in spring; very drought tolerant.
Ground Plum (Astragalus crassicarpos)- attractive gray-green leaves form 2-3’ mats; raspberry to purple pea flower clusters in early spring followed by red, plum-like pods; needs full sun and good drainage; often dormant in summer so combine with short grasses.
Ice Plant, Hardy (Delosperma species) form mats of succulent foliage and masses of brilliant purple to salmon-pink flowers; ‘John Proffitt’ and ‘Kelaidis’ are two of the best; must have sharp drainage for winter survival; mulch with gravel to keep crowns dry.
Knautia (Knautia macedonica) many tiny, dark purple to red scabiosa-like flowers in July and August; short lived in heavy, wet soils; pinch in spring to promote compact growth; 2-3’ high.
Pearly Everlasting (Anaphalis) silver white yellow centered flowers highlight the linear silver-gray foliage; drought tolerant for hot, sunny well-drained site; fine for dried arrangements.
Phlox- Creeping, Prairie- popular creeping phlox comes in variety of colors, shear back by ½ after flowering; prairie phlox has fragrant pink clusters in spring on 15” plants, ‘Ozarkiana’ excellent.
*Poppy Mallow ‘Logan Calhoun’ (Callirhoe alcaeoides) sparkling white wine cups on 12” high plants to 4’ wide; shear back after late spring flower for new flush of growth; avoid overwatering.
*Dropseed, Prairie (Sporobolus heterolepis) native bunch grass with thin, ribbon-like leaves form 2’ mounds; delicate seed heads appear in late summer and remain attractive through fall; attractive when back lit and scented; foliage turns deep orange to light copper; likes it dry and never needs dividing.
Prince’s Plume (Stanleya pinnata) stately yellow plumes above delicate foliage in early summer on 2-4’ tall plants; native to the dry short grass prairies; must have excellent drainage for longevity.
Pussytoes (Antennaria sp.)- attractive 3” high silver-white carpet; thin, wiry stalks topped by a cluster of whitish flowers resembling a cat’s paw; drought tolerant; well-drained soils and full sun.
Rock Cress (Arabis caucasia)- dwarf compact 6” plants with dense masses of snow white flowers in early spring; excellent combined with spring bulbs; best in full sun and well-drained soil.
Rock Rose (Talinum calycinum) succulent thin leaves resemble moss rose to 1’ high; purplish-pink flowers open in the afternoon; reseeds to form colony of plants; native to the Nebraska sandhills.
Saltbush (Atriplex canescens)- western Great Plains shrub to 2’ with silvery gray foliage, insignificant flowers, conspicuous four winged seed pods. Drought resistant plant; needs sharp drainage.
Sedum- many ground hugging perennials with fleshy dark green to blue-gray leaves; attractive flower clusters of red, pink or yellow top plants; durable groundcover or rock garden plant.
*Skullcap (Scutellaria species)- the native prairie skullcap ‘Smoky Hills’ has mouse-eared leaves and deep purple flowers on 10” plants; ‘Mongolian Skies’ has shiny leaves and bluish-purple flower spikes in early summer; shear back by ½ after flowering for new flush; very drought tolerant.
Snow in Summer (Cerastium tomentosum)- small silvery leaves form a dense 8” carpet covered with white flowers in late spring; shear after flowering; needs full sun and excellent drainage.
Soapwort (Saponaria ocymoides)- ground cover with dark green 1” leaves and masses of small bright pink flowers in late spring; ‘Snow Tips’ nice white selection; shear back by ½ after flowering.
*Spiderwort, Dwarf (Tradescantia tharpii) narrow, hairy leaves emerge early spring to 12”; pastel flowers of deep pink to purple cover plants in May; early summer dormancy to reappear in fall.
Sulphur Flower (Eriogonum umbellatum)- long flowering 10” alpine plant with gray-green foliage, rounded yellow flowers in early summer; best in well-drained soil, full sun; long lived plant & combines well with snow-in-summer and dianthus; also called buckwheat.
Sunray Flower(Inula ensifolia) golden yellow daisy-like flowers in summer on compact 16” plants with sword-like leaves; profusion of 1” solitary flowers lasts for over a month.
Thyme (Thymus species)- attractive ground covers or cushion plants for the rockery or herb garden; ‘Wooly’ and ‘Mother of Thyme’ are best suited as ground cover; excellent drainage or raised beds are essential for survival; English and French thyme are the hardiest for the Midwest provided drainage.
Tansy, Snowy (Tanacetum niveum) fragrant, lacy gray leaves to 18” high; covered with ½” white daisies in late spring; short lived so allow reseeding; very drought tolerant.
Thrift, Sea (Armeria maritima)- forms grass-like tufts of linear leaves to 8”; pink or white ball shaped flowers on wiry stems in spring; for well-drained site and prefers some shade from nearby plants.
Veronica- excellent mat forming species with dark purple flower spikes in spring; ‘Crystal River’ has true blue; ‘Waterberry Blue’ has pale blue, Wooly veronica has white, fuzzy leaves.
Yarrow, Wooly (Achillea tomentosa) lacy, silvery-gray carpet of foliage; golden-yellow flat-topped flowers on 12” stems, rise above the leaves in spring; needs excellent drainage.

Plants for wet sites
· These perennials perform best with consistent moisture, in boggy soils or shallow water.
Aster, New England (Aster- novae angliae)excellent for the fall garden; combine well with grasses; selections like ‘Purple Dome’ (compact, purple) and ‘Alma Potschke’ (rose-pink, tall). 18” to 4’ tall.
Beebalm (Mondarda didyma)-attractive dark green, fragrant foliage and topped with red, lavender or pink flowers in summer; tolerate any garden soil; grow mildew resistance varieties; spreads by rhizomes.
Bugbane or Black Snakeroot (Cimicifuga racemosa)- deeply cut leaves give airy appearance; tall, white spires in early summer to 6’ tall; best in rich, organic soils; full sun if soil is moist.
Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis)- 3-4” long dark green foliage; forms 3’ spikes topped with brilliant red flowers in August; best in rich, organic soils and consistent moisture to boggy soils.
Carex or Sedge- forms dense clumps of grass-like foliage; excellent for pond edge or boggy soils; many species do well in normal garden sites; palm sedge and gray’s sedge popular.
Cordgrass, Variegated (Spartina pectinata) aggressive spreader best used for erosion control or planted in pots; attractive comb-like seed heads top plants in late summer; foliage turns yellow in fall; sharp foliage hard to cut back in spring; ‘Aureomarginata’ selection has leaves with white stripe.
Culver’s Root (Veronicastrum virginicum)lance-shaped leaves whorl around upright stems to 4’ tall; pinkish-white flower spikes in summer; needs full sun and consistent moisture for best growth but tolerates moderate drought; pinch in spring for compact habit; native to the Great Plains
Feather Reed Grass (Calamagrostis species) clump forming grass grows quickly in the spring; feathery seed heads rise above foliage to 5’ in early summer; ‘Karl Foerster’ has fluffier seed heads, ‘Overdam’ has variegated foliage; Korean reed grass (C. brachytricha) has beautiful plumes in the fall.
Gentian, Bottle (Gentiana andrewsii)- easiest to grow provided consistent moisture, rich, organic soils; beautiful deep blue flowers clustered on tips of 18” plants; tubular flowers never open; blooms fall.
Helen’s Flower or Sneezeweed (Helenium autumnale) –serrated, lance-shaped leaves; abundant yellow or red & gold flowers in late summer; pinch in late spring for more compact habit; full sun.
Hibiscus, Hardy or Rose Mallow- giant saucer-like flowers in white, red, or pink in August on plants to 5’ tall; late to break dormancy in spring, usually around Memorial Day; tolerates wet or dry.
Houttuynia ‘Chameleon’- bright pink, white and green leaved plant can spread aggressively; nice ground cover to 15”; tolerates sun or shade; easy to grow and dependable for pond edge.
Iris-native blue flag iris (Iris shrevei) and Iris versicolor have attractive, narrow foliage and thin flower petals; yellow flag (I. pseudacorus) has butter yellow blooms, aggressive; Japanese iris look like butterflies on top of vertical plants; easy to grow in dry to very wet soils.
Joe-Pye Plant (Eupatorium purpureum)- attractive leaves in whorls topped with large clusters (up to 12”) of mauve to purple in early fall; favorite of butterflies; ‘Gateway’ more compact to 5’; ‘Chocolate’ a selection of white snakeroot (E. rugosum) with purple foliage to 4’.
Loosestrife, Garden (Lysimachia punctata) – whorled leaves around stems to 3’ tall; lemon-yellow flowers in summer; ‘Alexander’ a nice variegated selection; full sun with consistent moisture or bog
Loosestrife, Gooseneck (Lysimachia clethroides) attractive foliage and pure white arching flower spikes in summer; spreads by rhizomes, best confined; foliage turns red in fall.
Marsh Marigold (Caltha palustris) bright yellow flowers on this wetland native to 2’ that goes dormant in mid-late summer; handsome glossy leaves; best in boggy soil or shallow water.
Milkweed, Swamp (Asclepias incarnata) 3-6” linear leaves on bushy plants to 4’ tall; topped with rosy-pink flower clusters in summer; interesting seed heads follow; dependable, easy to grow.
Monkey Flower (Mimulus ringens)- upright plants to 2’ h with shiny, lance-shaped leaves; lavender blue flower spikes in summer; easy to grow in moist soil or water to 6” deep.
Moor Grass, Autumn (Molina caerulea)- graceful grass tufts with upright leave blades to 18”; stiff flower stalks have airy appearance to 5’; requires consistent moisture to perform its best; rich, organic soils.
Obedience Plant (Physostegia virginiana)- upright plants; tubular flowers lined along the top 12” in late summer; large clumps form and can spread vigorously, best confined; ‘Vivid’ is vibrant pink, compact; ‘Summer Snow’ has pure white flowers; very adaptable to wet or dry soils and heavy clay; native.
Persicaria or Polygonum- dark green oval leaves and thin, cylindrical flower spikes in late summer; ‘Rosea’ has pink flowers, 4’ h; ‘Painter’s Palette’ leaves splashed with white, 2’ h and thin red flowers.
Pickerel Rush (Pontederia cordata) shiny heart shaped leaves on stems to 2’ high; lavender-blue flower spikes in summer; one of the easiest and finest perennials for the water’s edge or up to 6” of water.
Queen of the Meadow (Filipendula ulmaria)- handsome dark green foliage with creamy white flowers resembling cotton candy held above the foliage in summer; honey scented; 3-4’ h.
Rush (Juncus species)corkscrew rush has green corkscrew-like leaves to 1’; Torrey’s rush is fine-textured native topped with attractive seed heads to 18”; great for bog or shallow water containers.
Sweetflag- (Acorus calamus) long swordlike leaves resemble iris; strong rooted plant spreads by rhizomes; ‘Variegata’ is a variegated selection well suited for the water garden or moist soil.
Turtlehead (Chelone species) smooth, dark green leaves remain attractive all season with clusters of white to pink flowers crowded towards the tips in early fall; the interesting flowers resemble a turtles head; tolerates full sun if moisture is present or grows well in up to 2/3 shade; ‘Hot Lips’ is a popular selection with deep rose flowers.

Trees for eastern Nebraska--Large, Small, Evergreen, Shrubs and Untested
Large Deciduous Trees (over 25' tall)
Alder, Common - Alnus glutinosa - handsome dark green foliage; fast grower in youth; develops interesting small cones and 2-4" catkins that persist all winter; plant on difficult, moist sites only.
Ash, Black - Fraxinus nigra -native to wet sites from Iowa to Canada; very cold tolerant; 'Fall Gold' selected from native stand in Manitoba, seedless, holds yellow fall color late. 'Northern Gem' is a hybrid with broad oval shape and excellent hardiness.
Ash, Green - Fraxinus pennsylvanica -Native, amazingly adaptable; often over planted; 'Cimmaron' rated one of the best by commercial growers; 'Prairie Spire' is an upright selection and 'Patmore' selected from Alberta has oval shape.
Ash, Manchurian- Fraxinus mandshurica- 'Mancana' is a seedless selection from Manitoba; native to northeast China; dense oval crown; transplants easily; tolerates drought and excess moisture; clear yellow fall color; reported resistance to leaf curling aphid and ash borer; narrow leaf gives this tree a fine texture; young trees planted west of Memorial Stadium in Lincoln.
Ash, White - Fraxinus americana -Native to Eastern NE; good reddish-purple fall color; avoid planting in stressed sites; 'Autumn Applause, 'Autumn Blaze' from MN tree, 'Windy City' from Illinois; All highly prone to borers and frost cracks.
Baldcypress- Taxodium distichum- fine, feathery foliage sage green in summer turns cinnamon color in fall with interesting cones; nice central leader, bark and horizontal branches for winter interest; tolerates wet or dry soils; avoid stressful sites.
Birch, River - Betula nigra -a beautiful tree with exfoliating cinnamon brown bark; avoid high pH soils; 'Heritage' has lighter bark and 'Little King' is a nice dwarf form; native to wet areas as far west as Iowa; performs well on upland soils as well.
Birch - Betula spp. - the Asian white birch selection 'Whitespire' considered resistant to bronze birch borer; the native paper birch is highly desirable when properly sited; avoid planting in heavy clay and stressed sites.
Buckeye, Ohio - Aesculus glabra- very adaptable Midwest native; distinctive rounded tree with dense foliage; interesting greenish-yellow flower panicles in spring followed by prickly seed pods.
Buckeye, Yellow - Aesculus flava - more upright and taller than Ohio Buckeye; dense, dark green summer leaves; handsome, trouble free tree with greenish-yellow flowers in spring; smooth fruit capsule.)
Catalpa, northern - Catalpa speciosa -interesting character tree with large tropical foliage; very tough native tree with picturesque winter habit; beautiful white flower clusters in late June followed by long bean pods that persist all winter.
Chestnut, American - Castanea dentata - seldom seen; great specimens at Arbor Lodge; when planted outside its native eastern range trees escape blight disease; consider Chinese chestnut and chestnut hybrids as replacements; can be a magnificent tree.
Coffeetree, Kentucky - Gymnocladus dioicus -amazingly adaptable native; beautiful winter outline with rugged branches; interesting ridged bark on older trees; rich bluish green foliage turns yellow in fall; female trees produce leathery seed pods.
Corktree, Amur - Phellodendron amurense - unusual tree; corky bark and picturesque habit; very tough; dark green leaves.
Filbert, Turkish - Corylus colurna -also called Turkish tree hazel; handsome, broadly pyramidal tree that thrives in poor soil; ornamental catkins in early spring; lustrous dark green leaves and beautiful brown bark; looks like a winner.
Ginkgo - Ginkgo biloba - very interesting fan-shaped leaf that turns golden yellow in fall; with age becomes a imposing, beautiful specimen; very adaptable to soil extremes; has existed, unchanged for some 150 million years.
Hackberry - Celtis occidentalis -great old Great Plains tree with legendary tolerance; irregular habit when young but matures to stately rounded crown; interesting corky knobbed bark; 'Prairie Pride' resistant to nibble gall and witches broom.
Hickory, Bitternut - Carya cordiformis - our most common native hickory; does not transplant easily so plant when young; beautiful tree with large, compound leaves that turn golden yellow in fall; smooth bark.
Hickory, Shagbark - Carya ovata - great shaggy bark; difficult to transplant - plant a small tree or the nut; beautiful tree with large, compound leaves that turn golden yellow in fall; plant in deep, rich well-drained soils for best growth; slow but worth it.
Honeylocust - Gleditsia triacanthos - a very tough, adaptable tree that thrives on neglect; many great seedless and thornless forms available, including 'Shademaster', 'Skyline' and 'Sunburst'; graceful habit and rich golden yellow fall color.
Larch, Common - Larix decidua - deciduous conifer with small bright green needles that turn yellow before dropping in fall; nice specimens in Nebraska; prefers moist sites; native to Europe.
Linden, American - Tilia americana - also known as basswood; develops nice oval-rounded crown with age; large, lustrous leaves turn yellow in fall; fragrant flower clusters in June; give it room to grow; a very adaptable tree native to the Great Plains.
Linden, Littleleaf - Tilia cordata -very pyramidal shape; good yard tree that tolerates wet or dry soils; densely branched and leaves turn a reasonable yellow in fall; 'Greenspire', 'Glenleven', 'Legend' and 'Chancellor' are excellent selections.
Linden, Silver - Tilia tomentosa - nice silvery undersides of leaves; tough, drought tolerant; 'Green Mountain' and 'Satin Shadow' are improved selections.
Locust, Black - Robinia pseudoacacia -thorny native of E. Nebraska with fragrant flowers in May and June; great choice for sandy, infertile soils; confine to limit any suckering; nice deeply furrowed bark; 'Frisia' offers golden yellow leaves.
Magnolia, Cucumbertree - Magnolia acuminata - unusual shade tree with large tropical leaves; yellow-green flowers followed by cucumber-shaped pink fruit; pyramidal when young; this North American native prefers deep, rich soils; worth a look.
Maple, Bigtooth - Acer grandidentatum - native to Rocky Mountains; similar to sugar maple but more tolerant of dry, alkaline soils; slow-growing but worth the wait; dark green leaves turn from yellow to red orange in fall.
Maple, Black - Acer nigrum - large, droopy leaves, similar to sugar maple; butter yellow in fall; 'Green Column' selected from native tree in Iowa.
Maple, Freeman - Acer x freemanii (a fast growing hybrid between red and silver maples; good on tough sites; 'Autumn Blaze' has nice central leader, fall color; 'Celebration' for upright habit and 'Marmo' selected from Morton Arboretum near Chicago.
Maple, Norway - Acer platanoides - over planted but still good on many sites; 'Crimson King', 'Emerald Lustre', 'Emerald Queen', 'Deborah', and 'Superform' are all improved selections for branch habit and cold hardiness.
Maple, Sugar - Acer saccharum - beautiful tree; choose proven cultivars such as 'Legacy', 'Green Mountain', 'Caddo', 'Commemoration', 'Fall Fiesta'; prefers deep, rich soil and avoid planting in stressed landscape sites; look for 'Table Rock' selection in the future from mature trees growing in Table Rock, NE, having consistent fall color, drought & heat tolerant.
Maple, Red- Acer rubrum - nice specimen tree with beautiful fall color; will not tolerate polluted or stressful sites and best planted in deep, organic soils, avoiding heavy clay and high pH; 'Red Sunset', 'October Glory', 'Sun Valley' all highly rated.
Oak, Bur - Quercus macrocarpa - one of the best native trees! Large, lustrous deep green leaves; grayish, flaky bark develops into rugged ridged trunks; tolerates drought, wind, extreme cold and heavy soils; interesting mossy capped acorns
Oak, Black - Quercus velutina - tough native similar to red oak but native to more upland forests; handsome glossy leaf and great orange-red fall color; excessive taproot, transplant young; needs full sun; tolerates variety of soil types.
Oak, Chestnut - Quercus prinus -native to eastern U.S.; dark green, lustrous leaves turn yellow to orange-yellow in fall; will show chlorosis (yellow leaves) on high pH soil; good for wet sites; pretty, rich dark brown acorns.
Oak, Chinkapin - Quercus muehlenbergii -very well adapted to alkaline soils.; chestnut like leaves turn yellow in fall; nice bright bark and picturesque branching for winter interest; a tough, adaptable tree that should be planted more; native to NE
Oak, English - Quercus robur - good across Nebraska; many forms)
Oak, Northern Pin or Hill's Oak - Quercus ellipsoidalis - very similar to pin oak in leaf shape and strong central leader; one of the first oaks to color in the fall, deep russet red; but more tolerant of high pH soil and no inherent clorosis problems; tough.
Oak, Pin - Quercus palustris - over planted in the past; can be a good tree on low pH soils or as an acreage tree; nice ballerina effect with descending branches; beautiful russet fall color; very drought tolerant and dependable in many situations.
Oak, Red - Quercus rubra - a very reliable native oak with large lustrous leaves and beautiful fall color from russet to bright red in fall; try to locate trees that came from seeds collected in the Midwest for reliable performance and fall color.
Oak, Sawtooth - Quercus acutissima - fast growing oak with sawtooth-edged leaves; long lustrous leafs look like a chestnut and have nice yellow fall color; avoid high pH soils i.e. heavy clay; appears to thrive in our climate and is drought tolerant.
Oak, Scarlet - Quercus coccinea - rich glossy leaves turn a beautiful scarlet color in fall; avoid high pH soils; more rounded outline when mature; drought tolerant but prefers a protected site; native as far west as Missouri and Minnesota.
Oak, Shingle - Quercus imbricaria - interesting narrow leaves held through winter; rich, glossy green in summer and turn bronze in fall; drought tolerant and grows well in heavy cleay; native as far west as Kansas.
Oak, Shumard - Quercus shumardii - little known; similar to red oak but from a more southern origin; avoid high pH soil; very drought tolerant; native from eastern Kansas across Missouri.
Oak, Swamp White- Quercus bicolor- lustrous dark green leaves with bronze-yellow fall color; flaky grayish brown bark and round topped crown; tolerates drought or wet; 45-50' h.
Oak, White - Quercus alba - native to Southeastern Nebraska; great majestic tree; good rich red to wine fall color; a durable long lived tree; somewhat slow growing but worth the wait.
Osage Orange - Maclura pomifera - new thornless, fruitless cultivars available including 'White Shield' and 'Wichita'; display vigorous growth with lustrous, dark green leaves; a very durable, extremely drought tolerant tree.
Pecan - Carya illinoensis - can be a nice yard tree with attractive dark green foliage that turns yellow in fall; good drought tolerance and many selections recommended from research at UNL's Northern Pecan Research Project; specimens in Burt county
Sweetgum - Liquidambar styraciflua - 'Moraine' is the only selection to show any fall color in the northern plains and has a nice oval habit; grows best on moist, fertile soils; avoid high pH soils; beautiful star-like leaves turn red-burgundy in fall.
Tulip Tree - Liriodendron tulipifera - nice large shade tree with large, flag-like leaves that turn a beautiful yellow in fall; prefers deep, well drained soil, but rather adaptable; avoid planting in stressful sites such as street trees or parking fringe.
Walnut, Black - Juglans nigra-(the old standard; tough and reliabl; yes you can grow plants under walnuts, including the full palette of shade lovers- viburnum yews, hosta, vinca, etc.
Willow, White - Salix alba - good for wet sites but will tolerate rather droughty conditions; nice weeping habit can be inspirational; 'Sericea' is a nice silver leaf selection.
Zelkova - Zelkova serrata - similar to American elm but not as hardy; some die-back in severe winters)

Small Deciduous Trees (under 25' tall)
Aspen, Quaking - Populus tremuloides - good in groups; any single stem not long lived; 'Prairie Gold' is a nice selection discovered growing in Platte County, Nebraska; tolerant of the problems that plague more western sources.
Birch, Water - Betula occidentalis - native to Pine Ridge in western Nebraska; small tree with nice cherry-like bark; keep root zone cool/moist for best growth; good yellow fall color.
Buckeye, Red- Aesculus pavia- leaves are dark, lustrous and early to emerge in spring; nice flowers clusters of carmine red in late spring; good, rich soil for best results; from full sun to almost heavy shade; drops leaves early in fall without any coloring.
Cherry, Black - Prunus serotina - great native forest tree with smooth glossy leaves; attractive flowers spikes in spring followed by clusters of tiny black cherries attractive to wildlife.
Cherry, Sargent - Prunus sargentii - one of the best ornamental cherries for Nebraska; nice pink flower and attractive bark.
Chestnut, Chinese - Castanea mollissima - similar to American Chestnut but much smaller; lustrous, toothed leaves.
*Chokecherry - Prunus virginiana - tough reliable native; suckers to form thickets; easily kept confined with mowing; 'Canada Red' and 'Shubert' are purple-leaf forms of this; )
Crabapple - Malus spp. (dozens of cultivars available; consider disease resistant cultivars with persistent fruit: 'Adams', 'Cardinal', 'Prairiefire', 'Don Wyman', 'Harvest Gold', 'Red Jewel', 'Pink Spires' are all highly rated.
Dogwood, Pagoda - Cornus alternifolia - beautiful layered small tree; white flowers in spring followed by black fruit clusters.
Euonymus, Winterberry - Euonymus bungeanus- seldom seen; can be striking with red fall fruit capsules; attractive bark
Evodia, Korean - Evodia daniellii -seldom seen; nice elderberry like fruit; great bark; seen at Arbor Lodge.
Goldenrain Tree - Koelreuteria paniculata - beautiful in flower and fruit set; tough, adaptable tree; very drought tolerant.
Hawthorn - Crataegus spp. - good, tough small tree; nice fruit effect in fall. Some of the better types worth trying include Cockspur Hawthorn, 'Winter King' Hawthorn, Russian Hawthorn and Washington Hawthorn
Hophornbeam - Ostrya virginiana - good, tough native tree; slow growing but worth the wait; resistant to ice storm breakage; interesting hoplike fruits in summer; yellow fall color; also known as Ironwood.
Hornbeam, American - Carpinus caroliniana - also called musclewood; wonderful, sinewy bark; tolerates shady conditions; nice slow growing tree grown as a clump or single stem.
Lilac, Japanese Tree - Syringa reticulata - great ornamental with fragrant white flower clusters in late spring; beautiful cherry-like bark; Pekin Lilac is very similar only hardier.
Maackia, Amur - Maackia amurensis - seldom seen small tree with white flowers in July; shiny brown bark; prefers moist soils.
Magnolia, Saucer - Magnolia soulangiana - most cold hardy large flowered magnolia; look for 'Merrill' with white flowers.
Maple, Amur - Acer ginnala - small ornamental with crimson fall color; several nice selections including 'Flame', 'Embers'.
Maple, Tatarian - Acer tataricum- is very similar to Amur maple; tough, drought tolerant; will not develop severe chlorosis; showy bright red fruits or samaras on 'Red Wings' an outstanding selection from Bailey Nursery.
Maple, Hedge - Acer campestre - nice yellow fall color; tough, drought tolerant maple with shrubby habit; seldom used.
Maple, Miyabe- Acer miyabe - excellent small patio maple with orange-red fall color; 'State Street' is a nice selection
Maple, Shantung - Acer truncatum - great ornamental from Asia; small star-shaped leaves turn yellow in fall; drought tolerant.
Mountainash - Sorbus spp. -beautiful flower and fruit but watch for fire-blight disease; Korean Mountainash S. alnifolia and Oakleaf Mountainash S.hybrida are considered less disease prone and have performed well in Nebraska.
Oak, Dwarf Chinkapin - Quercus prinoides - great small native tree; shiny, leathery leaves; excellent for small spaces.
Pagodatree, Japanese - Sophora japonica - late summer flowers add extra beauty to this mid-size tree.
Pawpaw- Asimina triloba- large, dark green tropical foliage in summer to golden yellow in fall; interesting dark brown flowers in early spring and large edible fruit in fall that tastes like custard-banana; tolerates wet or dry soils and up to ¾ shade.
Pear, Callery - Pyrus calleryana - excellent cultivars of ornamental pear include 'Aristocrat', 'Autumn Blaze', 'Chanticleer'.
Pear, Ussurian - Pyrus ussuriensis -similar to Callery Pear types but hardier; nice fall color; good flower and 1" fruits; 'Prairie Gem' is a selection from North Dakota and 'Mountain Frost' a vigorous upright selection from Bailey Nursery in Minnesota.
Persimmon - Diospyros virginiana - nice corky bark; attractive glossy, dark green leaves; interesting fruit great for wildlife.
Redbud - Cercis canadensis - great native ornamental prefers growing in some shade; select from northern seed source.
Serviceberry - Amelanchier spp. - native; great 4 season tree - flower, leaf & fruit, bark and branching habit. 'Autumn Brilliance', 'Forest Prince', 'Robin Hill' are all excellent selections.
Smoketree - Cotinus spp. - nice orange-red fall color on this rare tree; some European types have purple foliage
Yellowwood - Cladrastis kentukea - medium size tree with panicled flowers and seed; great tree with smooth bark.

Evergreen Trees
Arborvitae, American - Thuja occidentalis - interesting vertically layered foliage
Douglasfir - Pseudotsuga menziesii - great tree that should be planted more
Falsecypress, Sawara - Chamaecyparis pisifera - an elegant evergreen; somewhat like Arborvitae
Fir, Balsam - Abies balsamea - nice fragrance; 'Canaan' is a variety that should be tried more; Fraser Fir- Abies fraseri is very similar to balsam fir but not quite as hardy; needs consistent moisture
Fir, Concolor - Abies concolor - one of the most beautiful evergreens; should be planted more
Hemlock, Eastern - Tsuga Canadensis - refined evergreen for protected, partially shaded spot
Juniper, Chinese - Juniperus chinensis - 'Keteleer' is a great cultivar
Juniper, Rocky Mountain - Juniperus scopulorum -wide range of cultivars; prefers well drained, drier soils
Pine, Austrian - Pinus nigra- the old standby but very disease prone on older, more mature trees.
Pine, Bristlecone - Pinus aristata - for well-drained soils only; great looking foliage; very drought tolerant
Pine, Bosnian - Pinus heldreichii var. leucodermis - similar to Austrian pine; worth a look.
Pine, Eastern White - Pinus strobus - tolerates wetter conditions than most pines; nice soft needles.
Pine, Jack - Pinus banksiana - extremely cold hardy; gnarly growth habit.
Pine, Lacebark - Pinus bungeana - beautiful mottled bark; avoid windy, exposed sites.
Pine, Limber - Pinus flexilis - native to southwestern corner; very flexible branches; for well-drained, dry soils only.
Pine, Lodgepole - Pinus contorta- similar to Ponderosa Pine but with needles in twos and more twisted.
Pine, Mugo - Pinus mugo - be careful of planting it in too tight of spaces.
Pine, Pinyon - Pinus cembroides var. edulis - for well-drained soils only; nice edible nut.
Pine, Ponderosa - Pinus ponderosa- nice native for well-drained soils only; avoided overwatering.
Pine, Red - Pinus resinosa - attractive reddish bark; very cold hardy and drought tolerant.
Pine, Scotch - Pinus sylvestris (beautiful bark; somewhat over planted; susceptible to Pine Wilt disease.
Pine, Swiss Stone - Pinus cembra - seldom seen here; edible nut; soft foliage.
Redcedar, Eastern - Juniperus virginiana - 'Canaerti' is a great cultivar with tufted foliage and 'Taylor' for upright habit.
Spruce, Black Hills - Picea glauca var. densata - nice alternative to blue spruce; tolerates tough sites and conditions.
Spruce, Colorado - Picea pungens - the old standby; many cultivars with wide color and habit range; somewhat overplanted.
Spruce, Norway - Picea abies - beautiful weeping habit and attractive long cones on this durable tree from Europe.
Spruce, Serbian - Picea omorika -arching, ballerina effect on branches; deep green with white undersides; adaptable.

Trees for the Collector
(untested trees and/or trees that require special siting or cultural conditions)
Ash, Blue- Fraxinus quadrangulata- upland species with attractive dark green foliage that turns yellow in fall; drought & alkaline tolerant; nice platy bark on mature trees; nice specimens in Lincoln and Nebraska City; 40-50' h.
Beech, American - Fagus grandiflora - seldom seen; choose northern seed source; long lived in E. US; big trees at Arbor Lodge
Beech, European - Fagus sylvatica - many cultivars available including purple leaf and bi-color forms; 30' specimens in Lincoln
Black Gum - Nyssa sylvatica - seldom seen; needs moist site or protection and part-shade; not for high pH soils; good fall color
Butternut - Juglans cinerea - very similar to walnut; native to upper Midwest; look for hardy seed source; nice, healthy trees in Lincoln and North Platte
Dogwood, Flowering - Cornus florida - needs extra protection; very few good examples in Nebraska
Dogwood, Kousa - Cornus kousa - beautiful small tree; great flowers; needs to be tested more
Fir, Korean - Abies koreana - beautiful blue cones; needs to be tested more; nice trees near Ft. Calhoun, NE
Fir, Nikko - Abies homolepis - handsome tree with glossy foliage; 30-50' high; growing well near Ft. Calhoun
Holly, American - Ilex opaca - needs extra protection; interesting evergreen; nice 20'+ specimens in Lincoln.
Katsuratree - Cercidiphyllum japonicum -great yellow fall color; branches low and can be grown as multi-stem; heart-shaped leaves similar to red bud; best in protected site, part-shade and rich soils; nice trees in Glenwood, IA and Lincoln, NE.
Maple, Manchustriped - Acer tegmentosum - interesting snake-like bark; newer introduction from Asia
Maple, Japanese - Acer palmatum - very delicate; only for protected sites; many cultivars to choose from
Maple, Paperbark - Acer griseum - small tree; great for the winter landscape - cinnamon red exfoliating bark
Maple, Purplebloom - Acer pseudosieboldianum - newer selection from Asia; hardier than Japanese maple
Maple, Three-flower - Acer triflorum - newer selection from Asia, great papery bark; nice trees in Bellevue
Maple, Trident - Acer buergerianum - great scaly bark; brilliant wine red in fall; growing well in Lincoln, Ft. Calhoun
Oak, Blackjack - Quercus marilandica --seldom seen native of southeast Nebraska; very gnarly growth habit and unusual foliage; tough tree for well-drained soils; very drought tolerant.
Oak, Overcup - Quercus lyrata - refined appearance; tolerates wet or dry soils; avoid high pH soils; 40'+ trees in Auburn, NE
Oak, Post - Quercus stellata -rounded, tough tree; native to OK and KS; seldom seen but there are some nice ones in Nebraska
Oak, swamp chestnut, Quercus michauxii- toothed leaves similar to chestnut oak but more leathery; scaly bark; tolerates wet or dry soils; native to lowlands as far west as Missouri.
Parrotia - Parrotia persica - leaves have great summer and fall color; similar to witchhazel
Pine, Himalayan White - Pinus wallichiana -elegant; delicate, soft looking needles; worth a look
Pine, Japanese Red - Pinus densiflora - nice specimens in eastern Nebraska; attractive bark and open habit.
Pine, Korean - Pinus koraiensis - needs more study in Nebraska; looks like a winner
Pondcypress- Taxodium ascendens-similar to baldcypress but very columnar; full sun and extremely wind firm; tolerates wet or dry soils; leaves bright green changing to orange-brown in fall; prefers deep, rich soils for best growth; 60' h, 20' w.
Sassafras - Sassafras albidum - handsome mitten like leaves with great fall color; growing well in Ft. Calhoun & Cedar Bluffs
Silverbell, Mountain - Halesia tetraptera - beautiful in flower; seldom seen; redbud like; nice large specimen in older Omaha
Stewartia - Stewartia spp. - slow growing understory tree with beautiful mottled bark; needs protection
Sugarberry - Celtis laevigata - very similar to hackberry but with smooth bark

Trees with Strong Drought Tolerance: Ohio Buckeye, Amur Corktree, Elm, Honeylocust, Juniper, Black Locust, Amur Maple, Boxelder Maple, Tatarian Maple, Bur Oak, Chinkapin Oak, Gambel Oak, Dwarf Chinkapin Oak, Austrian Pine, Bristlecone Pine, Limber Pine, Mugo Pine: Pinyon Pine, Ponderosa Pine, Scotch Pine, Red Pine, Blue Spruce, Black Hills Spruce.

Trees for Consistently Moist (Wet) Soils: Alder, Ash, Baldcypress, Birch, Kentucky Coffeetree, Cottonwood, Elm, Larch, Boxelder Maple, Freeman Maple, Red Maple, Red Mulberry, Swamp White Oak, London Planetree, Sycamore, Black Walnut, Willow.

Shrubs Size Key: Small under 5' tall/wide -- Medium 5 to 10' tall/wide -- Large over 10' tall/wide
Allspice, Carolina - Calycanthus floridus - medium; interesting red flowers; spicy scented foliage; yellow fall color.
Barberry - Berberis spp.- small; overused foundation plant; thorny; purple and yellow forms are common.
Bluebeard - Caryopteris x cladonensis- beautiful gray-green foliage with azure blue flowers in late summer; moderately drought tolerant, sun loving; 'Blue Mist' and 'Dark Knight' are popular selections; excellent bee and butterfly plant.
Boxwood, Littleleaf - Buxus microphylla- 'Green Velvet' and 'Green Mountain' are excellent hardy selections suited for the eastern Great Plains; fertile, well-drained soils and protect from winter sun and wind.
Buckeye, Bottlebrush - Aesculus parviflora - large; 12" white flower spikes in summer; tropical leaves; needs part shade.
Buckthorn, Fernleaf- Rhamnus asplenifolia - large; fine-textured willow-like leaves turn yellow in fall; upright habit; tough.
Buffaloberry, Silver - Shepherdia argentea -large; overlooked native with silvery leaves and clusters of orange-red berries in fall; for windy, tough sites; conservation plantings; an excellent food source for wildlife; plant several to assure good fruit set.
Burning Bush (Winged Euonymus) - Euonymus alatus-(medium/large; four-angled stems; fiery red fall color
Butterflybush - Buddleia alternifolia -medium; plant this one for the showy flowers/butterflies
Buttonbush - Cephalanthus occidentalis -large; native; grows in moist or dry sites; interesting white flower balls in summer a favorite of bees and butterflies; glossy green leaves; prune in spring to return to summer condition.
Cherry, Nanking - Prunus tomentosa -large; early white, fragrant flowers; tart, showy cherries in early summer; 'Bionca' is a nice white fruited form from Siberia; exfoliating bark; can be short lived.
Chokeberry, Black - Aronia melanocarpa -medium; upright; nice, black fruit clusters can persist all winter; glossy green leaves have nice wine red fall color; tough, adaptable plant; 'Viking' for large fruit, 'Elata' for glossy leaves, 'Autumn Magic' fall color.
Chokeberry, Red - Aronia arbutifolia -medium; nice fall color and red fruit clusters; prefers consistent moisture.
Chokecherry - Prunus virginiana- large; old reliable native; suckering shrub easily confined with a mower; nice white flowers in spring followed by red to black fruit; a favorite of song birds; tough as nails; nice yellow fruited selection rare, but worth seeking.
Clethra, Summersweet- fragrant summer flowers, attractive foliage; prefers consistent moisture, rich organic soils; part shade.
Coralberry - Symphoricarpos orbiculatus -small; native suckering shrub good for massing, tough sites and shady areas; great red-purple fruit through winter; 'Chenault' is a nice low-growing cultivar
Cotoneaster - Cotoneaster spp. -small-large; many types; very hardy and reliable; glossy leaves; good fruit
Currant - Ribes spp. -small/medium; several species and types adaptable to Nebraska; good for massing, wildlife and tough sites; 'Red Lake' gooseberry, 'Crandall' clove currant, alpine currant are all thorn less varieties suited for the landscape.
Dogwood, Corneliancherry - Cornus mas -large; very hardy; sulfur yellow flowers in early spring; clean summer foliage; nice winter habit; 'Golden Glory' is a nice small tree form; tolerates drought and full sun to part shade; red fruit in fall for wildlife.
Dogwood, Gray - Cornus racemosa- large; native; good fall color; sometimes grown as small tree; Silky Dogwood, (C. amomum) and Roughleaf Dogwood, (Cornus drummondii) are similar natives with purple or white fruit clusters in fall.
Dogwood, Redstem - Cornus sericea -medium/large; wonderful red stems on this dependable suckering shrub.
Elderberry - Sambucus canadensis -large; prefers moist areas; suckers; great for jams and wine
Firethorn - Pyracantha coccinea - medium/large; thorny, semi-evergreen with bright orange-red fruit in fall;
Forsythia - Forsythia spp. (medium/large; showy golden flowers herald spring; 'Meadowlark' and 'Northern Sun' are common cultivars; 'Bronx' is an adaptable dwarf cultivar about 2' tall.
Fringetree, American - Chionanthus virginicus - unusual, fragrant white flowers; beautiful large shrub; prefers protected site.
Hazelnut, American - Corylus americana - medium; great native shrub with edible nut; attractive leaves with nice fall color.
Hibiscus (Rose-of-Sharon) - Hibiscus spp. - medium; large flowers in late summer; choose suitable cultivar.
Holly, Meserve Hybrids - Ilex x meserveae - medium; hybrid hollies that have proven adaptable to eastern Nebraska; Blue Boy/Blue Girl, China Boy/China Girl are common types; need male and female for fruit; needs rich, organic soils, part shade.
Holly, Winterberry - Ilex verticillata. - need male and female for striking fruit set after leaves drop in fall; prefers moist soils.
Honeysuckle - Lonicera spp.- several species and cultivars adaptable to Nebraska - many have aphid problems; 'Emerald Mound' is a nice dwarf cultivar and L. maximowiczii and L. tatarica are better choices.
Honeysuckle, Southern Bush - Diervilla sessifolia- medium; dependable tolerates wide range of soil; drought tolerant; glossy green leaves; tubular yellow flowers in early summer; for erosion control or tough sites.
Hydrangea, Oakleaf - Hydrangea quercifolia - medium; large, coarse oak-like leaves with velvety white undersides; deep green leaves turn burgundy in fall; great 12" white flower clusters; exfoliating bark; best sited in rich soil and up to ¾ shade.
Hydrangea, Smooth - Hydrangea arborescens - small; big, snowball flowers on long stems; 'Annabelle' is a common type.
Juniper - Juniperus spp. - small to large; many species and types to choose from very low mat forming types including the highly rated 'Broadmoor', 'Blue chip' and 'Buffalo'; along with larger 4-6' high spreaders such as 'Sea Green' and 'Mint Julep'.
Lilac - Syringa spp. - small/medium/large; many species and types to choose from; Dwarf Korean and 'Miss Kim' are shorter types from 3-5' tall, very fragrant; late lilac (Syringa villosa) avoids late spring frosts; also look for the 'Superba' littleleaf lilac.
Magnolia, Star - Magnolia stellata - large; one of the hardiest magnolias; nice star-shaped white flowers; attractive leaves.
Mahonia - Mahonia repens - small; interesting native broadleaf evergreen with holly-like leaves; yellow flower clusters in spring
Mockorange - Philadelphus spp. (medium/large; intensely fragrant flowers; 'Minnesota Snowflake' and 'Blizzard' highly rated.
Ninebark, Common - Physocarpus opulifolious - medium; interesting exfoliating bark; upright habit; exciting new selections.
Oak, Dwarf Chinkapin - Quercus prinoides - large; can be grown as small tree; glossy, toothed leaves; tough, drought tolerant.
Plum, American - Prunus americana -great native; should be used in the home landscape more; confine suckering with mowed edge; profusion of white flowers in early spring; loads of attractive fruit in fall and nice orange-red fall leaf color.
Privet - Ligustrum spp. - medium/large; several species common in hedges and as screens; fragrant flowers, dark green leaves.
Quince, Flowering- Chaenomeles speciosa- small-large; tough as nails; lustrous foliage; early spring flowers in clusters.
Rhododendron - Rhododendron spp. - small/medium; broadleaf evergreens for shade and part shade; several hardy cultivars have been developed - 'PJM' most common; acid-loving soils a must. Azalea- northern lights series is the most cold hardy.
Rose - Rosa spp. - small/medium; very tough, reliably cold hardy roses; lots of species and cultivars to choose from; R. rugosa types are very hardy; 'Nearly Wild' with light pink, Knockout with cherry-red and 'Sea Foam' with white flowers.
Seven-Son Flower- Heptacodium miconoides- large; attractive foliage and white flowers in late summer followed by maroon sepals into November; exfoliating gray-brown bark like giant cinnamon stick; best in organic soils, moderate drought tolerance.
Serviceberry - Amelanchier spp. - small to large; several species and types worth trying; Saskatoon Serviceberry (A. alnifolia) 'Regent' is a 3-4' h selection with large sweet fruit; Shadblow (A. Canadensis) early snowy white flowers and pumpkin in fall.
Smoketree, Common - Cotinus coggygria -large; showy, smoke-like flowers; purple leaf forms available
Snowberry - Symphoricarpos alba -small; suckering spreader similar to coralberry but with white fruit in fall; blue green leaves.
Spicebush- Lindera benzoin- medium; handsome foliage golden yellow in fall; best in part shade; spicy foliage when bruised.
Spirea - Spiraea spp.-many species and cultivars to choose from; wide size range; Vanhoutte Spirea is the large, old fashioned, - fountain type; 'Froebel' is a common pink flowers form; 'Little Princess' is a common dwarf type.
Spirea, Korean - Spiraea fritschiana -small; great flat-topped white flowers; larger leaves; very reliable
St. Johnswort - Hypericum spp. -small; great yellow flowers; good substitute for potentilla; several species/types to consider including H. kalmianum, H. prolificum, and H. frondosum
Sumac, Aromatic - Rhus aromatica -small/medium; native 8-10' high plant good for tough sites and green backdrop; 'Gro-Low' is a nice, 2-5' high form; a very tough plant for challenging growing conditions.
Sumac, Smooth - Rhus glabra -large; good fall color; can spread aggressively in the landscape; confine with a mowed edge.
Sumac, Staghorn - Rhus typhina -large; similar to smooth sumac but with furry branch tips; nice fruit set
Viburnum, Alleghany - Viburnum x rhytidophylloides - large; wonderfully large, leathery leaves; semi-evergreen
Viburnum, American Cranberrybush - Viburnum trilobum -large; nice flower, red fruit clusters and fall color; 'Wentworth' for large fruit; 'Alfredo' for fall color and compact growth to 6'.
Viburnum, Arrowwood - Viburnum dentatum -medium; clean, shiny, upright foliage; good late summer blue fruit; 'Blue Muffin', 'Cardinal', 'Deamii', 'Chicago Lustre', 'Moonglo', 'Red Feather' all good selections; not for stressful, droughty sites.
Viburnum, Blackhaw - Viburnum prunifolium - large; excellent yellow-orange-red fall color; blue-black fruit; can be grown as a small tree; dependable tough shrub for large area; 'Summer Magic' noted for upright habit and new growth of red leaves.
Viburnum, Burkwood - Viburnum x burkwoodii -medium; good fragrance; open habit; nice dark green, glossy leaves with orange-red fall color; tough and dependable; 'Mohawk' and 'Chenaulti' are nice compact selections
Viburnum, Doublefile - Viburnum plicatum var. tomentosum -medium; nice layered foliage; great flowers; marginally hardy; 'Mariesii' and 'Shasta' are common cultivars; best sited with some afternoon shade and consistent moisture.
Viburnum, European Cranberrybush - Viburnum opulus -small to large; great flower and fruit; wide size range; 'Notcutt' a 10' selection with large red fruit and 'Jewell Box' is a 2'x2' selection worth looking for.
Viburnum, Fragrant - Viburnum carlcephalum -large; wonderfully fragrant snowball flowers; 'Nana' a 2-3' compact gem.
Viburnum, Linden - Viburnum dilitatum - a useful viburnum for its attractive fruit display; upright vase shaped shrub that grows best in part shade and rich, organic soils; 'Cardinal Candy' for its abundant shiny red fruit, 'Catskill' for compact habit; 'Erie' for its abundant flowers and handsome foliage and 'Iroquois' for dark green leaves and large glossy red fruit.
Viburnum, Judd - Viburnum x juddii -small/medium; very fragrant 2" pink-white clusters; similar to Koreanspice viburnum
Viburnum, Koreanspice- Viburnum carlesii -small/medium; good foliage and spicy, clove fragrance; 'Aurora' with intense red flower buds and 'Cayuga' for its compact habit and large waxy flower clusters.
Viburnum, Manchurian- Viburnum burejaeticum- fragrant 4" clusters of white flowers followed by red fruit which eventually turn black; very productive fruiting when planted in groups; soft velvet leaves; very drought tolerant. 6-8'
Viburnum, Nannyberry - Viburnum lentago - large; overlooked native, good fall color; 'Deep Green' has larger, thicker foliage.
Viburnum, Prague - Viburnum x pragense - large; dark green waxy leaves are elliptical; flat creamy white flowers in spring.
Viburnum, Rusty Blackhaw - Viburnum rufidulum - large; lustrous dark green foliage; 'Royal Guard' a nice upright selection.
Viburnum, Sargent - Viburnum sargentii -large; similar to cranberrybush; 'Onondoga' has new leaves emerge maroon.
Viburnum, Siebold - Viburnum sieboldii -large; lustrous, tough, leathery leaves; can grow to 20'+; nice red fruit clusters in fall.
Viburnum, Wayfaringtree - Viburnum lantana -medium/large; very tough and adaptable; 'Aureus' selection with green and gold foliage; 'Mohican' dependable heavy textured foliage, red to black fruit; 'Emerald Triumph' with glossy leaves.
Wafer-ash (Hop Tree) - Ptelea trifoliata -large; unusual shrub with compound leaf and interesting wafer fruit; tolerates shade.
Wahoo, Eastern - Euonymus atropurpureus -large; native shrub with good rose red fruit capsules and orange-red fall color.
Weigela - Weigela florida - small/medium; common foundation plant with showy lavender flowers.
Witchhazel, Common - Hamamelis virginiana - large; native; late fall flowers; handsome foliage, good yellow/orange fall color.
Witchhazel, Vernal - Hamamelis vernalis - medium; early, fragrant spring flowers; excellent butter yellow fall color; part shade.
Woadwaxen- Genista tinctoria -small; tough, compact shrub with dark green, linear leaves and green stems; covered in yellow pea-like flowers in summer; excellent in hot, dry sites; prune in early spring to tidy up.
Yellowhorn- Xanthocerus sorbifolium- large; featherlike compound leaves turn yellow in fall; exciting egg-shaped flowers in clusters of white with yellow blotch changing to red; prefers deep, rich soils but very adaptable and moderately drought tolerant.
Yew - Taxus x spp. - several yew species and types worth considering for shade and part shade areas.

Trees for Western Nebraska
Large Deciduous Trees (over 25' tall at maturity)
Alder, Common - Alnus glutinosa - handsome dark green foliage; fast grower in youth; develops interesting small cones that persist all winter along with 2-4" catkins; plant on moist sites only.
Ash, Black - Fraxinus nigra -native to wet sites from Iowa to Canada; very cold tolerant; 'Fall Gold' selected from native stand in Manitoba, seedless, holds yellow fall color late. 'Northern Gem' is a hybrid with broad oval shape and excellent hardiness.
Ash, Green - Fraxinus pennsylvanica -Native, amazingly adaptable; often over planted; 'Cimmaron' rated one of the best by commercial growers; 'Prairie Spire' is an upright selection and 'Patmore' selected from Alberta has oval shape.
Ash, Manchurian- Fraxinus mandshurica- 'Mancana' is a seedless selection from Manitoba; native to northeast China; dense oval crown; transplants easily; tolerates drought and excess moisture; clear yellow fall color.
* Buckeye, Ohio - Aesculus glabra- very adaptable Midwest native; distinctive rounded tree with dense foliage; interesting greenish-yellow flower panicles in spring followed by prickly seed pods.
Catalpa, northern - Catalpa speciosa -interesting character tree with large tropical foliage; very tough native tree with picturesque winter habit; beautiful white flower clusters in late June followed by long bean pods that persist all winter.
* Coffeetree, Kentucky - Gymnocladus dioicus -amazingly adaptable native; beautiful winter outline with rugged branches; interesting ridged bark on older trees; rich bluish green foliage turns yellow in fall; female trees produce leathery seed pods.
Corktree, Amur - Phellodendron amurense - unusual tree; corky bark and picturesque habit; very tough; dark green leaves.
Cottonwood, Lanceleaf - Populus x acuminata -upright hybrid native; good on wet sites; 'Highland' an excellent selection with disease and pest resistance.
Cottonwood, Narrowleaf - Populus angustifolia -distinctive long, narrow leaves somewhat like a willow; native to Pine Ridge along streams; good on wet sites; suckers to form groves.
Cottonwood, Plains - Populus sargentii - large native with large spreading crown; good on wet sites
*Elm, American - Ulmus americana - many disease resistant cultivars coming onto the market.
Elm - Ulmus spp. -several species and cultivars worth trying - check with nurseries.
* Hackberry - Celtis occidentalis -great old Great Plains tree with legendary tolerance; irregular habit when young but matures to stately rounded crown; interesting corky knobbed bark; 'Prairie Pride' resistant to nibble gall and witches broom.
* Honeylocust - Gleditsia triacanthos - a very tough, adaptable tree that thrives on neglect; many great seedless and thornless forms available, including 'Shademaster', 'Skyline' and 'Sunburst'; graceful habit and rich golden yellow fall color.
Larch, Common - Larix decidua - deciduous conifer with small bright green needles that turn yellow before dropping in fall; nice specimens in Nebraska; prefers moist sites; native to Europe.
*Linden, American - Tilia americana - also known as basswood; develops nice oval-rounded crown with age; large, lustrous leaves turn yellow in fall; fragrant flower clusters in June; give it room to grow; a very adaptable tree native to the Great Plains.
Linden, Littleleaf - Tilia cordata -very pyramidal shape; good yard tree that tolerates wet or dry soils; densely branched and leaves turn a reasonable yellow in fall; 'Greenspire', 'Glenleven', 'Legend' and 'Chancellor' are excellent selections.
*Locust, Black - Robinia pseudoacacia - thorny native of E. Nebraska with fragrant flowers; good on poor soils
*Maple, Bigtooth - Acer grandidentatum - native to Rocky Mtns; western version of sugar maple with yellow-orange fall color; slower growing but worth the wait; tolerates dry and alkaline soils.
*Maple, Boxelder - Acer negundo- tough but forgotten native; tolerates alkaline soils; 'Sensation' has orange-red fall color.
*Oak, Bur - Quercus macrocarpa- a great, wonderful, fantastic, large native tree - the best!
Oak, Chinkapin - Quercus muehlenbergii- native to limestone soils in e. Neb.; tolerates drought and high pH soils.
*Poplar, Silver - Populus alba- large, spreading tree with white bark and silvery leaves; good on tough sites
*Walnut, Black - Juglans nigra -several nice specimens in Panhandle

Small/Ornamental Deciduous Trees for western Nebraska (under 25' tall at maturity)
Alder, Thinleaf - Alnus tenuifolia -interesting cones; plant on moist sites only; group in groves like aspens.
*Apricot - Prunus armeniaca- great fall color; great looking trees at Cheyenne Station; Siberian and Manchurian.
Aspen, Quaking - Populus tremuloides - good in groups; any single stem not long lived; 'Prairie Gold' is a nice selection discovered growing in Platte County, Nebraska; tolerant of the problems that plague more western sources.
Birch, Water - Betula occidentalis - native to Pine Ridge in western Nebraska; small tree with nice cherry-like bark; keep root zone cool/moist for best growth; good yellow fall color.
Birdcherry - Prunus padus -very hardy; likes to sucker; white flower clusters bloom in early May.
* Buffaloberry, Silver - Shepherdia argentea -large; overlooked native with silvery leaves and clusters of orange-red berries in fall; for windy, tough sites; conservation plantings; an excellent food source for wildlife; plant several to assure good fruit set.
Cherry, Black - Prunus serotina -great forest tree of eastern NE;
*Chokecherry - Prunus virginiana - tough reliable native; suckers to form thickets; easily kept confined with mowing; 'Canada Red' and 'Shubert' are purple-leaf forms of this; )
Crabapple - Malus spp. -dozens of cultivars available; consider disease resistant cultivars with persistent fruit: 'Adams', 'Cardinal', 'Prairiefire', 'Don Wyman', 'Harvest Gold', 'Red Jewel', 'Pink Spires' are all highly rated.
Chokecherry, Amur - Prunus maackii -beautiful shiny red bark makes this a tree worth trying
Dogwood, Corneliancherry - Cornus mas -yellow flowers in early spring; can be a small tree or large shrub). Dogwood, Gray - Cornus racemosa -large shrub/small tree; good fall color; Roughleaf Dogwood is similar)
* Euonymus, Winterberry - Euonymus bungeanus- seldom seen; can be striking with red fall fruit capsules; attractive bark
* Hackberry, Netleaf - Celtis reticulata -drought tolerant; native to arid southwest into Frontier County; crooked branches.
Hawthorn, Cockspur - Crataegus crusgalli -great small tree; thornless variety available; avoid high pH soil.
Hawthorn - Crataegus spp -several others worth growing include the eastern NE native Downy Hawthorne, the highly rated Russian Hawthorne and 'Toba', a hybrid developed in Manitoba, Canada.
Hophornbeam - Ostrya virginiana - good, tough native tree; slow growing but worth the wait; resistant to ice storm breakage; interesting hoplike fruits in summer; yellow fall color; also known as Ironwood.
Lilac, Japanese Tree - Syringa reticulata - great ornamental with fragrant white flower clusters in late spring; beautiful cherry-like bark; Pekin Tree Lilac is very similar only hardier and may be a better choice for the panhandle.
* Mountain Mahogany, Curl-leaf- Cercocarpus ledifolius -semi-evergreen; lance-shaped leathery leaves; attractive, curled, fuzzy "seed tails" provide fall interest; tough, drought tolerant; can be grown as small tree
Maple, Amur - Acer ginnala - good fall color; best as multi-stem; avoid high pH soil.
Maple, Rocky Mountain - Acer glabrum - native in Pine Ridge along streams; can be grown as large shrub or small tree.
Maple, Tatarian - Acer tataricum- is very similar to Amur maple; tough, drought tolerant; more tolerant of Panhandle soils than Amur maple; showy bright red fruits or samaras on 'Red Wings' an outstanding selection from Bailey Nursery.
Maple, Shantung - Acer truncatum - great ornamental from Asia; small star-shaped leaves turn yellow in fall; drought tolerant.
Mountainash - Sorbus spp. - beautiful flower and fruit but susceptible to fireblight; the selection 'Hybrida' from the Cheyenne Research Station has handsome oak-like leaves; cherry-red fruit in fall; tolerates alkaline soils
*Oak, Gambel - Quercus gambelii - native to Rocky Mountains; prefers well-drained soils; tolerates extreme drought, high pH; deeply lobed, leathery leaves; abundant crop of acorns for wildlife.
Oak, Dwarf Chinkapin - Quercus prinoides - great small native tree; shiny, leathery leaves; excellent for small spaces; native to SE Nebraska; abundant acorns attractive to wildlife; National Champion tree in Richardson County, NE is 25' tall.
Pear, Ussurian - Pyrus ussuriensis -similar to Callery Pear types but hardier; nice fall color; good flower and 1" fruits; 'Prairie Gem' is a selection from North Dakota and 'Mountain Frost' a vigorous upright selection from Bailey Nursery in Minnesota; tolerates high pH.
*Privet, New Mexican - Forestiera neo-mexicana - attractive, smooth blond bark on this native to s. Rocky Mountains; small yellow flowers in early spring; dark blue fruit on female plants; prune to create a small tree.
Wafer-ash (Hop Tree) - Ptelea trifoliata -large; unusual shrub with compound leaf and interesting wafer fruit; tolerates shade.
Wahoo, Eastern - Euonymus atropurpureus -large; native shrub with good rose red fruit capsules and orange-red fall color.
Serviceberry - Amelanchier spp. - native; great 4 season tree - flower, leaf & fruit, bark and branching habit. 'Autumn Brilliance', 'Forest Prince', 'Robin Hill' are all excellent selections; nice pumpkin color in fall.
*Sumac, Staghorn - Rhus typhina (nice fall color; similar to smooth sumac; great character plant; can spread aggressively in the landscape; confine with a mowed edge; easily pruned to form a small tree.
Viburnum, Nannyberry - Viburnum lentago - large; overlooked native, good fall color; 'Deep Green' has larger, thicker foliage.
* Viburnum, Wayfaringtree - Viburnum lantana -medium/large; very tough and adaptable; 'Aureus' selection with green and gold foliage; 'Mohican' dependable heavy textured foliage, red to black fruit; 'Emerald Triumph' with glossy leaves.

Evergreen Trees for western Nebraska
Douglasfir - Pseudotsuga menziesii -not as drought tolerant as spruce; give some protection
*Fir, Concolor - Abies concolor -one of the most beautiful evergreens; should be planted more
*Juniper, Chinese - Juniperus chinensis -'Keteleer' is a great cultivar
*Juniper, Rocky Mountain - Juniperus scopulorum -wide range of cultivars; prefers well drained soils
Pine, Bosnian - Pinus heldreichii var. leucodermis -similar to Austrian pine; worth a try
*Pine, Bristlecone - Pinus aristata -for well drained soils only; slow grower; great looking foliage
*Pine, Jack - Pinus banksiana -extremely cold hardy; gnarly growth habit
Pine, Korean - Pinus koraiensis -needs more study in Nebraska; looks like a winner
*Pine, Limber - Pinus flexilis -native to Kimball County; very flexible branches; for well-drained soils
Pine, Lodgepole - Pinus contorta var. latifolia -Rocky Mountain native; seldom seen in Nebraska; plant more
*Pine, Mugo - Pinus mugo -many forms from dwarf to larger types
*Pine, Pinyon - Pinus cembroides var. edulis -for well drained soils; nice edible nut
*Pine, Ponderosa - Pinus ponderosa --reliable native; for well-drained dry soils; avoid overwatering
Pine, Red - Pinus resinosa -very cold hardy; attractive reddish bark.
Pine, Swiss Stone - Pinus cembra -seldom seen here; supposedly edible nut; worth a try
*Redcedar, Eastern - Juniperus virginiana -Canaerti is a great cultivar with tufted foliage; 'Taylor' for upright habit.
*Spruce, Black Hills - Picea glauca var. densata -nice alternative to blue spruce; watch out for spider mites
*Spruce, Colorado - Picea pungens -the old standby; many cultivars with wide color and habit range
Spruce, Norway - Picea abies - beautiful weeping habit and attractive long cones on this durable tree from Europe.
Spruce, Serbian - Picea omorika - arching, ballerina effect on branches; deep green with white undersides; adaptable.

Large Shrubs for western Nebraska (over 7' tall at maturity)
Buckthorn, Smith's- Rhamnus smithii- native to central Colorado; handsome, glossy leaves and black fruits over 1" long; golden yellow fall color; fernleaf buckthorn is a large narrow leaved form with a very fin texture and handsome bark.
*Buffaloberry, Silver - Shepherdia argentea -large; overlooked native with silvery leaves and clusters of orange-red berries in fall; for windy, tough sites; conservation plantings; an excellent food source for wildlife; plant several to assure good fruit set.
*Chokecherry - Prunus virginiana- large; old reliable native; suckering shrub easily confined with a mower; nice white flowers in spring followed by red to black fruit; a favorite of song birds; tough as nails; nice yellow fruited selection rare, but worth seeking.
Cotoneaster - Cotoneaster spp. -small-large; many types; very hardy and reliable; glossy leaves; good fruit
Dogwood, Corneliancherry - Cornus mas -large; very hardy; sulfur yellow flowers in early spring; clean summer foliage; nice winter habit; 'Golden Glory' is a nice small tree form; tolerates drought and full sun to part shade; red fruit in fall for wildlife.
Dogwood, Gray - Cornus racemosa- large; native; good fall color; sometimes grown as small tree; Silky Dogwood, (C. amomum) and Roughleaf Dogwood, Cornus drummondii are similar natives with purple or white fruit clusters in fall.
Dogwood, Redstem - Cornus sericea -medium/large; wonderful red stems on this dependable suckering shrub.
Elderberry - Sambucus canadensis -prefers moist areas; suckers; great for jams and wine
Honeysuckle - Lonicera spp. -choose forms that are not prone to aphid damage; Amur Honeysuckle can be pruned to a small tree, lots of red fruit; Blue Velvet (L. korolkowii) is a highly rated species with gray-green foliage and pale pink flowers.
Indigo, False - Amorpha fruticosa -native; good on wet or dry sites; purple blooms; legume
*Juniper - Juniperus spp. -many different types with lots of size ranges to choose from
*Lilac - Syringa spp. -lots of species and types to choose from; try to choose later flowering types
*Locust, New Mexico - Robinia neomexicana (purple/pink flowers; thicket forming
Mockorange - Philadelphus spp. -fragrant flowers on upright plants; P. lewisii 'Cheyenne' is exceptionally hardy and littleleaf mockorange a Colorado native with compact habit.
*Peashrub - Caragana spp.- 'Sutherland' from Cheyenne Station upright, extremely hardy and C. frutex are better choices
*Plum, American - Prunus americana -great native; should be used in the home landscape more; confine suckering with mowed edge; profusion of white flowers in early spring; loads of attractive fruit in fall and nice orange-red fall leaf color.
Privet, Cheyenne - Ligustrum vulgare - proven at Cheyenne Station; nice dark green foliage; used as hedge
*Sumac, Smooth - Rhus glabra -large; good fall color; can spread aggressively in the landscape; confine with a mowed edge.
*Sumac, Staghorn - Rhus typhina -large; similar to smooth sumac but with furry branch tips; nice fruit set
Viburnum, American Cranberrybush - Viburnum trilobum -'Wentworth' has great flower and fruit set
Viburnum, European Cranberrybush - Viburnum opulus -very similar to American type
Viburnum, Nannyberry - Viburnum lentago -nice, large native shrub; good fall color
* Viburnum, Wayfaringtree - Viburnum lantana -medium/large; very tough and adaptable; 'Aureus' selection with green and gold foliage; 'Mohican' dependable heavy textured foliage, red to black fruit; 'Emerald Triumph' with glossy leaves.
Wahoo, Eastern - Euonymus atropurpureus -large; native shrub with good rose red fruit capsules and orange-red fall color.

Small/Medium Shrubs for western Nebraska (under 5' tall at maturity)
*Apache Plume - Fallugia paradoxa -attractive western native; white spring flowers; smoky seed plumes all season.
*Bitterbrush, Antelope - Purshia tridentat -Colorado native; should be tough as nails.
Buttonbush - Cephalanthus occidentalis -large; native; grows in moist or dry sites; interesting white flower balls in summer a favorite of bees and butterflies; glossy green leaves; prune in spring to return to summer condition.
Cherry, Nanking - Prunus tomentosa -large; early white, fragrant flowers; tart, showy cherries in early summer; 'Bionca' is a nice white fruited form from Siberia; exfoliating bark; can be short lived.
Chokeberry, Black - Aronia melanocarpa -medium; upright; nice, black fruit clusters can persist all winter; glossy green leaves have nice wine red fall color; tough, adaptable plant; 'Viking' for large fruit, 'Elata' for glossy leaves, 'Autumn Magic' fall color.
*Coralberry - Symphoricarpos orbiculatus -small; native suckering shrub good for massing, tough sites and shady areas; great red-purple fruit through winter; 'Chenault' is a nice low-growing cultivar
*Cotoneaster - Cotoneaster spp. -nice glossy leaves; several types to choose from
*Currant - Ribes spp. -small/medium; several species and types adaptable to Nebraska; good for massing, wildlife and tough sites; 'Red Lake' gooseberry, 'Crandall' clove currant, alpine currant are all thorn less varieties suited for the landscape.
Hazelnut, American - Corylus americana -native medium sized shrub; very interesting shrub; worth a try
*Juniper - Juniperus spp. -lots of different junipers with lots of size ranges to choose from. Juniperus communis -great native; can tolerate some shade
*Leadplant - Amorpha canescens -native sub-shrub; should be pruned to ground occasionally; irregular form
Lilac - Syringa spp. -Syringa x 'Miss Kim' and Syringa meyeri are good, compact, late flowering forms
*Mountain Mahogany, True Leaf - Cercocarpus montanus -upright native with great fuzzy twisted seed tails.
Mahonia, Creeping - Mahonia repens -native to Pine Ridge; understory evergreen; holly-like leaves
Ninebark - Physocarpus opulifolius -native; nice papery bark; arrow-shaped leaves
*Potentilla - Potentilla fruticosa -very tough, small shrub; wide color range
*Rabbitbrush - Chrysothamnus nauseosus -tough native with great late summer yellow flowers; silvery-green leaves; tolerates poor soils; do not overwater!
Rose - Rosa spp. -'Explorer' and 'Parkland' series and R. rugosa types hold the most promise
*Sage - Artemisia spp. -nice silvery foliage; native; silver sage (A. incana) 2-4' h and western sage (A. tridentate) 3-6' h.
*Saltbush- Atriplex sp.- western Nebraska native with gray-green foliage; tough, all extremely drought tolerant; four wing saltbush has interesting fruit; shadscale has rounded thick leaves and spiny saltbush has fleshy leaves.
*Sandcherry, Western- Prunus besseyi - silver-green leaves; masses of tiny white flowers in spring; ¾" black fruit in summer; prefers dry, hot sites; 'Pawnee Buttes' a low, creeping form; 'Sioux' selected for fruiting.
Serviceberry - Amelanchier spp. - 'Regent' is a 3-4' h selection with large sweet fruit; pendulous white flowers in spring.
*Snowberry - Symphoricarpos alba -small; suckering spreader similar to coralberry but with white fruit in fall.
Spirea, Korean - Spiraea fritschiana -small; great flat-topped white flowers; larger leaves; very reliable
Sumac, Aromatic - Rhus aromatica -small/medium; native 8-10' high plant good for tough sites and green backdrop; 'Gro-Low' is a nice, 2-5' high form; a very tough plant for challenging growing conditions
*Sumac, Skunkbush - Rhus trilobata -very tough native to W. Nebraska; similar to fragrant sumac
Viburnum, Compact American Cranberrybush - Viburnum trilobum var. compactum (great flower and fruit)
*Winterfat- Krascheninnikovia lanata- 2' western shrub has leaves covered with a whitish wool; needs it dry.
*Yucca (Soapweed) - Yucca glauca -tough native with arching evergreen leaves; interesting flower spikes)

Untested Trees and Shrubs for western Nebraska
Arborvitae, Eastern - Thuja occidentalis (interesting vertically layered foliage; protect from wind)
Ash, White - Fraxinus americana (several cultivars; good fall color; needs consistent moisture & protection)
Filbert, Turkish - Corylus colurna (beautiful rounded specimen near North Platte; needs further testing in W. Nebraska)
Fir, Balsam - Abies balsamea (nice fragrance; Canaan Fir is a type that should be tried more)
Fringetree, White - Chionanthus virginicus (large shrub or small tree; very unusual, fragrant flowers)
Maackia, Amur - Maackia amurensis (seldom seen legume; worth a closer look)
Maple, Black - Acer nigrum (native to Iowa; large leaves; more drought tolerant than sugar maple)
Maple, Hedge - Acer campestre (native to Eurasia; nice yellow fall color; seldom used)
Maple, Miyabe - Acer miyabei (similar to hedge maple but reported to be more cold and drought tolerant)
Maple, Purplebloom - Acer pseudosieboldianum (similar to but hardier than Japanese maple)
Maple, Shantung - Acer truncatum (great ornamental from Asia; one doing well in Kimball)
*Maple, Three-flower - Acer triflorum (newer selection from Asia, great papery bark; needs testing)
*Oak, English - Quercus robur (avoid high pH soils; many forms including very upright and narrow types)
Hill's Oak- Quercus ellipisoidalis- glossy bright green leaves turn scarlet red; very tolerant of alkaline soils)
Oak, Red - Quercus rubra (native to e. Nebraska; reliable fall color)
*Oak, Wavyleaf - Quercus undulata (small, semi-evergreen oak from southern Rocky Mountains)
Oak, White - Quercus alba (possibly native; great majestic tree; good fall color)
Pagodatree, Japanese - Sophora japonica (one of the latest trees to flower; nice cream color flowers)
Pine, Himalayan White - Pinus wallichiana (five needle pine; little known in N. America)
Pine, Japanese Red - Pinus densiflora (uncommon but worth a try)
Pine, Eastern White - Pinus strobus (what a nice, soft foliaged tree)
Pistache, Chinese - Pistacia chinensis (doing well in arid areas of Utah; deserves a look)
Redbud - Cercis canadensis (great spring flower; select from native or northern seed sources only)
Smoketree - Cotinus spp. (nice fall color; some types have purple foliage)
Sycamore - Platanus occidentalis (majestic Midwest native; great white mottled bark; good on moist sites)
Viburnum, Alleghany - Viburnum x rhytidophylloides (wonderfully large, leathery leaves; semi-evergreen)
Viburnum, Arrowwood - Viburnum dentatum (nice glossy leaves)
Viburnum, Blackhaw - Viburnum prunifolium (great fall color)
Viburnum, Burkwood - Viburnum x burkwoodii (great fragrance, open and arching shrub)
Viburnum, Judd - Viburnum x juddii (wonderfully fragrant blooms on a 4-5' plant)
Viburnum, Koreanspice - Viburnum carlesii (similar to Judd Viburnum)
Viburnum, Manchurian- Viburnum burejaeticum- fragrant 4" clusters of white flowers followed by red fruit which eventually turn black; very productive fruiting when planted in groups; soft velvet leaves; very drought tolerant. 6-8' h.
Viburnum, Sargent - Viburnum sargentii (similar to V. trilobum; Onondaga a good cultivar)
Yellowwood - Cladrastis kentukea - medium size tree with panicled flowers and seed; great tree with smooth bark.