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Alnus incana

Gray Alder is a small, flood-tolerant, deciduous tree. It is monoecious (separate male and female flowers bloom on the same plant). Both flowers are purple-red catkins; the female flower is followed by a woody, cone-like structure containing the seeds. Birds, such as redpolls, siskins, chickadees, and goldfinches, feed on the seeds. This tree grows fast, but is short-lived, usually not lasting beyond 40 years. It prefers moist to wet soils and is flood-tolerant. Alder is a nitrogen-fixing species, adding nutrients to the soil. For these reasons, Gray Alder is planted as a pioneer species for revegetating disturbed areas along streams or ponds. It can also be massed for a windbreak or used for erosion control.

Acer spicatum

Mountain Maple is a small, multi-trunked, understory tree that thrives at high elevations. Small, yellowish-green flowers bloom in clusters on upright stems in early summer. Its leaves turn shades of yellow, orange, and red in the fall. Use as a specimen tree or in shady areas. Good choice for preventing erosion on steep slopes and stream banks. Mountain Maple may be difficult to find commercially. Tell your local garden center or nursery about your interest in this tree.

Acer pensylvanicum

Striped Maple is a shrubby deciduous tree. Small, greenish-yellow flowers bloom April-May. The leaves turn bright yellow in the fall. The distinctive, striped bark provides ornamental interest, particularly in winter. One of its common names, Whistlewood, originates from the traditional practice of carving whistles from its branches. Use in woodland gardens or shady areas of the yard.

Abelia x grandiflora

Glossy Abelia is a semi-deciduous, multi-stemmed shrub with graceful, arching branches. Fragrant, bell-shaped, white or pink flowers bloom May-September. The dark green leaves turn an attractive dark purple in the fall. Use this plant as a specimen or in mass plantings. It can also be used as a screen or hedge, and is effective for erosion control on steep slopes. Glossy Abelia is susceptible to stem damage during harsh winters, so consider planting it in protected locations.