Meadow & Forest District

Chionanthus virginicus, commonly known as fringe tree or old man’s beard, is a graceful small native tree valued for its clouds of fragrant, fringe-like white flowers that appear in late spring just as the leaves emerge. Native to the eastern United States, it naturally occurs in rich woodlands, streambanks, and moist slopes. Its delicate blooms attract pollinators, while the dark blue fruits produced on female plants provide food for birds and other wildlife. Chionanthus virginicus is dioecious, meaning male and female flowers occur on separate plants. Its compact size, adaptability, and resistance to pests and diseases also make it a strong choice for urban gardens and smaller landscape settings. It also has reliable yellow fall foliage.   

Zizia aurea, commonly known as golden alexanders, is a cheerful native perennial valued for its clusters of bright yellow flowers that bloom in spring above attractive parsley-like foliage. Native to eastern North America, it naturally occurs in moist meadows, open woodlands, and along streambanks. As an early-season nectar source, it supports a wide range of pollinators and serves as a host plant for black swallowtail butterflies. Its adaptability, low-maintenance nature, and ability to naturalize make it an excellent choice for pollinator gardens, rain gardens, and naturalistic landscapes.

Wild cranesbill has delicate pale to deep pink flowers that bloom in early to mid-spring. It has a deeply cut leaf and grows best in a woodland setting in moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil. Forming loose 2 foot mounds in shade, this native geranium will also grow as a groundcover in sun. Hardy to zone 4, wild cranesbill is native to all counties of Pennsylvania.

Cornus alternifolia, commonly known as pagoda dogwood, is a graceful native small tree or large shrub admired for its layered horizontal branching. Unlike most dogwoods, its leaves are arranged alternately along the stems, a trait reflected in the species name alternifolia. Native to eastern North America, it grows naturally along woodland edges and streambanks. Creamy white spring flowers attract pollinators, while dark blue-black fruits feed birds and wildlife. Its red-purple fall color, shade tolerance, and elegant form make it an excellent choice for woodland and naturalistic landscapes.