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Amelanchier laevis (Allegheny Shadblow or Serviceberry)
$45.00Amelanchier laevis, commonly known as Smooth Serviceberry, is a native plant species that thrives in the state of Illinois. This small deciduous tree or multi-stemmed shrub belongs to the Rosaceae family and is celebrated for its striking appearance, ecological significance, and its adaptability to a variety of environments. Here’s a detailed description of Amelanchier laevis in the Illinois landscape:
1. **Appearance**: Smooth Serviceberry typically grows to heights ranging from 10 to 20 feet (3 to 6 meters) but can occasionally reach up to 30 feet (9 meters). It is characterized by a graceful, upright form with a dense canopy. The smooth, grayish-brown bark adds to its aesthetic appeal.
2. **Leaves**: The leaves of Amelanchier laevis are alternate, simple, and oval-shaped with finely serrated edges. They emerge as bronze or reddish in spring, transition to a deep green in summer, and transform into beautiful shades of orange, red, or purple in the fall, adding vibrant colors to the Illinois landscape.
3. **Flowers**: In early spring, Smooth Serviceberry produces showy clusters of delicate, white or pale pink, five-petaled flowers. These blossoms are an early source of nectar for pollinators, including bees and butterflies, making the plant a valuable addition to Illinois gardens.
4. **Fruits**: One of the most distinctive features of Amelanchier laevis is its edible berries, which ripen in late spring to early summer. These berries are initially red or purple and eventually mature into dark blue-black fruits that resemble small cherries. They are not only visually appealing but also a sought-after food source for birds and wildlife.
5. **Ecological Importance**: Smooth Serviceberry plays a vital role in the Illinois ecosystem. Its flowers attract pollinators, and its fruits are eagerly consumed by various bird species, including cedar waxwings and robins. It also provides habitat and shelter for a variety of wildlife.
6. **Environmental Adaptability**: This native plant is highly adaptable and can thrive in a range of soil types, from well-drained sandy soils to heavier clay soils. It is often found in woodlands, open forests, and along stream banks.
7. **Cultural and Landscaping Uses**: Smooth Serviceberry is an excellent choice for native plant enthusiasts, wildlife gardeners, and those seeking ornamental plants for their landscapes. It can be used as a specimen tree, in mixed borders, or as a naturalistic planting in more natural landscapes.
8. **Historical and Cultural Significance**: Native American tribes historically utilized Amelanchier species for medicinal purposes and as a source of food. The berries were consumed fresh or dried for later use.
Amelanchier laevis offers year-round interest with its attractive flowers, colorful foliage, and edible berries. Its ecological importance, adaptability, and historical significance make it a valuable addition to the Illinois landscape, providing both aesthetic and environmental benefits.
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Amorpha fruiticosa Indigo Bush
$40.00Found in nature in wet swamp soils. Best fruit production in full sun. White flowers, dark purple berries. Associates: Zizia aurea (Golden Alexander), Aster novae-angliae (New England Aster), Silphium perfoliatum (Cup Plant)
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Aronia prunifolia (Chokeberry)
$40.00 Add to cart -
Corylus americana (American Filbert (Hazelnut))
$40.00Nut is edible and attractive to wildlife. Likes at least half day of sun and good garden soil. A harbinger of spring when male catkins elongate 2-3 inches and release puffs of pollen. Excellent red, yellow, and orange fall color. Better chance of producing nuts if you have 3-5 plants. Best grown in moist, well-drained soil.
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Dasiphora fruticosa (Shrubby Cinquefoil)
$40.00A dense, bushy shrub with upright, slender branches and bright yellow flowers. The beautiful flowers bloom throughout most of the growing season. This is a wonderful shrub to place under a window that gets a lot of viewing. Attracts large numbers of native bees. Grows best in loamy soil that is well drained but can be watered regularly. Tolerates occasional drought.
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Rhus aromatica (Fragrant Sumac)
$40.00Easily grown in dry to medium, well-drained soil in full sun to part shade. Part of the black oak savanna complex. Fall color is an excellent reddish-orange with bright red fruit that is attractive to wildlife. A great companion plant for upright or vertical plants because of its layering habit; for this reason it also provides great habitat. Deer resistant.
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Rhus typhina (Staghorn Sumac)
$45.00The common name “staghorn” is derived from hairy stems that look like bucks’ antlers. Requires full sun and good drainage. Nice red-orange fall color. Fruit is attractive to birds and wildlife. This small tree spreads aggressively by root suckers.