Native Plant of the Month
October 2025
Ironwood
(Ostrya virginiana)
Ironwood, aka American Hophornbeam is a small understory tree found on the edges of dry woodlands. It is pyramidal with maximum height and width of 25 by 15 feet. It is unusual in that it will grow in full sun to full shade conditions usually under oak or maple overstories. It’s shape, fall color (yellow to red) are value ornamental features as are it’s toothed leaves and hop like fruits. Small mammals and birds love the seeds.
September 2025
Pagoda dogwood
(Cornus alternifolia)
This smaller understory tree is a true four season beauty. Winter accentuates the horizontal branching it is known for, spring brings beautiful white flowers the bees love. In summer an explosion of blue berries will keep the birds happy, followed by autumn color of red to purple leaf change. Prefers moist, part shade edge conditions. Maximum 20 feet tall and 20 feet wide.
August 2025
Common Ninebarrk
(Physocarpus opulifolius)
This rangy beauty is perfect for your sunny buffer zone. Vase-like when young with arching branches, lovely foliage and spirea- like white blooms. Asks for little besides sun, space and well drained soil. Almost never needs pruning. The species is native, with less ecological value to be had from the plethora of cultivars. Roots 2 feet deep and 2-3 feet wide help stabilize slopes. A favorite of bees and butterflies. Can quickly attain 5-8 feet tall and wide under best conditions.