Shrubs

Based on current stock, seedings and orders, we anticipate having the following shrub species available in the 2025 season.

We strive to offer the greatest diversity possible and may have additional species for the upcoming growing season.

Stock may be available as plugs, 1 gal, 2 gal &/or larger pots.

Contact maya@naturalthemes.com to confirm availability.

2025 Catalogue of Species

Shrubs

wdt_ID	Species (Botanical)	Common Name(s)	Family	Avg. Height	Blooming Time	Colour	Amount of Sunlight	Moisture Pref.	Drought Tolerance	Wildlife Associations	Soil Pref\'s	Remarks	Observed Range (iNaturalist)
2	Alnus incana spp. rugosa	Speckled Alder/Gray Alder	Betulaceae	5 m	early to mid spring	catkins	full sun	moist, wet, tolerate seasonal flooding	No	Provides food and cover for birds and mammals. Seeds are eaten by waterfowl, and dense thickets offer nesting sites.	sandy, loamy, silty, clay, rich, moist	Speckled Alder is native to eastern and central Canada including Ontario and across the Great Lakes region. It grows in wetlands, streambanks, swamps, bogs, and marshes. It spreads by rhizomes and can form dense thickets stabilizing soil and preventing er
3	Amelanchier alnifolia	Saskatoon Serviceberry	Rosaceae	3 m	spring	white	full sun, part-shade	moist moderate/mesic, dry, well-drained	Yes	It is insect pollinated, flowers support nectar feeders and the birds eat the fruit.	sandy, loamy, rocky, preference for slightly acidic soils	A widespread distribution across Canada from Ontario to BC. More commonly associated with central to western Canada (prairies and Boreal Forests) species but its distribution does come Into Ontario, including our Great Lakes region. It sends up suckers an
4	Amelanchier canadensis	Shadblow Serviceberry	Rosaceae	4.5 m	spring	white	full sun, part shade	well-drained	Yes, once established.	The flowers provide early nectar for pollinators such as bees, while the berries serve as a food source for birds and mammals.	sandy, loamy, prefers slightly acidic but can tolerate a range of pH	Known for its early spring flowers. It is found naturally in Eastern Canada including Ontario (and the southern Great Lakes region), Quebec and the Atlantic provinces. It grows in wooded areas ,along streambanks, edges of meadows and open mixed woodlands.
5	Amorpha canescens	Leadplant - NA in 2025	Leguminosae	up to 1 m	early to mid summer	purple	Full Sun/Part Shade	Dry, well-drained	YES	The plant provides important habitat for pollinators like bees and butterflies. The seeds are also a food source for some wildlife species. It is also a larval host plant to butterflies and moths.	sandy, loamy, gravelly, rocky	A showy shrub-like plant in the pea family. It naturally occurs in central North America, primarily central U.S. into the southwestern region of Ontario. Grows in open woodlands, prairies, and meadow-like habitats.
6	Amorpha fruticosa	False Indigo Bush	Leguminosae	3 m	summer	purple	Full Sun/Part Shade	moderate/mesic, dry, well-drained	Yes	Supports nectar feeders and is a larval host plant to several butterflies and moths.	sandy or loamy soils, clay loam	A showy legume that is able to grow on difficult soils. Its native habitats include stream and pond edges, open woods, and roadsides across central to Eastern North America with isolated populations extending into southwestern Ontario. It is monoecious, m
7	Arctostaphylos uva-ursi	Bearberry	Ericaceae	10 cm	late spring/early summer	white	full sun, part-shade	dry, well-drained	yes	The berries are consumed by bears (hence the name), birds, and other animals. Provides shelter for small ground-nesting birds and insects. A larval host plant for Elfin bufferflies.	poor, sandy, rocky, acidic, well-drained	Found particularly in the Canadian Shield region and occurs sporadically in southern Ontario, typically in specialized habitats such as sandy, open areas or rocky barrens. It is present in Great Lakes-St. Lawrence forests and extends into boreal regions.
8	Aronia melanocarpa	Black Chokeberry	Rosaceae	1.5 m	late spring	white	part shade	moist, wet, moderate/mesic, dry	moderately, once established	The nectar-rich flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. Fruits are a food source for birds. Provides shelter for small mammals and ground-nesting birds.	sandy, loamy, clay, rocky	Grows in wetlands, bogs, forest edges, and open fields. Grows in eastern North America, including southern and central Ontario. Glossy, dark green leaves that turn vibrant red, orange, or purple in fall. It sends up suckers and will form thickets.
9	Ceanothus americanus	New Jersey Tea	Rhamnaceae	< 1m	summer	white	full sun, part-shade	dry, moderate/mesic, well-drained	yes	Fragrant flowers attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. Provides habitat and shelter for small wildlife. New Jersey Tea (Ceanothus americanus) is a larval host plant for the endangered Mottled Duskywing butterfly (Erynnis martialis). The caterpillars of this skipper‑family butterfly feed on the leaves of New Jersey Tea (and its relative Prairie Redroot), making the shrub important for the butterfly’s life cycle in Ontario and parts of its range. The Mottled Duskywing is listed as endangered under the provincial Endangered Species Act, and its continued presence depends on suitable habitat that includes healthy stands of New Jersey Tea for larval feeding and egg‑laying.	sandy, loamy, gravelly, poor, dry	Found in dry, sandy soils, prairies, and open woodlands, and common in the Great Lakes region. A low-growing shrub with attractive flower heads and a round, bushy shape. Small, clustered, creamy white to pale pink flowers
10	Cephalanthus occidentalis	Buttonbush	Rubiaceae	2 m	summer	white	full sun, part-shade	Wet, moist, can tolerate flooding	no	The flowers attract a variety of pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Birds and small mammals consume the seeds, while the dense foliage offers shelter and nesting sites. Waterfowl like ducks and shorebirds may also use the plant’s structure in wetland areas.	sandy, loamy, clay, as long as they retain moisture. Can tolerate alkaline but prefers acidic to neutral conditions.	Naturally found in our Ontario wetland habitats, including areas like marshes, swamps, and along stream banks. It is known for its unique, spherical flower clusters and its adaptability to wet conditions, making it a great choice for wetland restoration a
11	Cornus alternifolia	Pagoda Dogwood/Alternate-leaved Dogwood	Cornaceae	5 m	late spring	creamy-white	part shade,shade	moist, well-drained - can tolerate some dry conditions but flourishes in consistently moist like in a woodland	yes	A nectar source for pollinators. The berries are eaten by birds and small mammals. Foliage is browsed by deer and rabbits. It is a larval host plant for Spring Azure.	loamy, clay, silty, rich/organic	Pagoda Dogwood is found in the southern and eastern parts of Ontario. It grows in the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence and mixedwood plains regions of the province. Commonly found in moist, well-drained woodlands, particularly in shaded areas and forest edges.
12	Cornus amomum; Cornus obliqua	Silky Dogwood	Cornaceae	3 m	early summer	creamy-white	full sun, part shade	moist, drained	no	A nectar source for pollinators. It produced blue berries that are eaten by birds and small mammals. Its dense, bushy form provides cover for wildlife, particularly for birds and small mammals.	loamy, clay, silty	Silky Dogwood is found in southern Ontario, particularly in the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence forest and Carolinian zone. It can grow as part of a thicket, along ditches, marshes or streams, floodplains, riparian zones, wet meadows and swamps.
13	Cornus canadensis	Bunchberry	Cornaceae	< 20 cm	spring	creamy-white	part-shade, shade	mesic, moist, wet (but not waterlogged)	no	The berries are eaten by birds and small mammals and are important for wildlife. The small flowers attract bees, flies, and ants for pollination.	sandy-loam, loamy, rich, organic	Bunchberry is found across Ontario, northern and eastern regions. It grows in the boreal forests and the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence forest zones. It's a small low growing perennial plant. It is an attractive groundcover and spreads by rhizomes.
15	Cornus racemosa, Cornus foemina	Gray Dogwood	Cornaceae	2 m	early summer	creamy-white	full sun, part-shade	moist, mesic, well-drained	Yes	It is a nectar source for pollinators. The white berries are eaten by birds and small mammals. It is a larval host plant for Spring Azure butterfly.	sandy, loamy, clay, gravelly	Often planted in wildlife gardens, wetland restorations, or riparian plantings. Thicket forming. White berries are borne on brilliant red stalks. Works well in hedgerows or as a privacy screen due to its dense growth habit.
16	Cornus sericea	Red Osier Dogwood	Cornaceae	2.5 m	early summer	white	full sun, part-shade	moderate, moist, wet, can tolerate periodic flooding	Moderately drought tolerant once established	Provides shelter and food for birds, small mammals, and pollinators. Flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. A larval host plant for several species of moths and butterflies including Spring Azure.	sandy, loamy, silty, clay, rich	It is a versatile and hardy plant commonly found in wetlands, stream banks, and forest edges. It is an attractive, red-stemmed shrub that spreads into colonies. It provides striking colour in winter landscapes. It is a versatile and hardy plant.
17	Corylus americana	American Hazelnut	Betulaceae	2 m	early spring	catkins	full sun, part shade	drained	Yes	The nuts are eaten by mammals and birds.	sandy, loamy, clay-loam	In Ontario, American Hazelnut is primarily found naturally growing in the southern and southeastern parts of the province. It suckers from the roots and will form colonies. The female flower is inconspicuous. It is monoecious.
18	Corylus cornuta	Beaked Hazelnut	Betulaceae	2 m	early spring	catkins	full sun, part-shade, shade	moist, mesic, well-drained	yes	The nuts are eaten by mammals and birds.	sandy, loamy, rich/fertile	Beaked Hazelnut is found throughout most of Ontario, particularly in the southern and central parts of the province. It suckers from the roots and will form colonies. Beaked Hazelnut thrives in dry woodlands and forest edges.
19	Diervilla lonicera	Bush Honeysuckle	Caprifoliaceae	< 1 m	early summer	yellow-orange-red	full sun, part-shade, shade	dry, moderate/mesic, moist, drained	Yes, once established.	The flowers are attractive to bees, hummingbirds, and other pollinators. The fruit is a small, dark brown to red capsule, containing seeds that are eaten by birds.	sandy, loamy, clay, rocky	In Ontario, it is found naturally growing in wooded areas, forest edges, and along stream banks. The fruit is a slender capsule and flowers are adapted for pollination by bumblebees and hawkmoths. It spreads by stolons (runners).
20	Dirca palustris - NA in 2025	Leatherwood	Thymelaeaceae	1.5 m	early spring	pale yellow	part shade,shade	moist well-drained, moderate/mesic.	no	early nectar source for insects	rich	Grows in Ontario woodlands and thrives in moist, well-drained soils and is found in forests. The shrub produces small, fragrant yellow flowers in early spring before the leaves emerge. The twigs are very flexible. Monoecious, producing bisexual flowers.
21	Euonymus obovatus	Running Strawberry-bush	Celastraceae	trailing	late spring, summer	greenish-purple	part shade, shade	drained	YES	food source for pollinators, birds and mammals	loamy, rocky	This plant is naturally found in Ontario from southwestern Ontario to Toronto. Running Strawberry Bush prefers partial sun to medium shade, moist to slightly dry conditions, and loamy or rocky soils. It is found in upland rocky woodlands, wooded slopes.
23	Gaultheria procumbens	Wintergreen	Ericaceae	10-15 cm	early summer	white	part shade,shade	moist, moderate, moderate-dry, well-drained	yes	Berries are consumed by small mammals, birds, and some larger animals, particularly in winter when food is scarce. The plant’s leaves are a source of food for certain insects.	gravelly, sandy, favours acidic soils	A low-growing, evergreen shrub that spreads by rhizomes. Found naturally growing in deciduous and mixed woodlands in the southern and eastern regions of the Ontario. Favours acidic soil.
24	Hamamelis virginiana	Witch Hazel	Hamamelidaceae	3.5 m	fall	yellow	full sun, part-shade	moist, moderate, well-drained	yes	The flowers provide nectar for late-season pollinators like bees. It is a larval host plant to spring azure butterfly. The seeds are eaten by small mammals and birds.	sandy-loam, loamy, silty	Witch Hazel is native to eastern North America, including southern Ontario, parts of Quebec, and the eastern United States. In southern Ontario it naturally grows in areas like forest edges, wooded hillsides, and stream banks. It is a late blooming shrub
26	Hypericum prolificum	Shrubby St. John'swort	Hypericaceae	1 m	summer	yellow	full sun, part-shade	moderate/mesic	yes	Attracts pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and beetles. Provides seeds for birds and small mammals.	sandy, loamy, rocky, well-drained	Native to eastern and central North America, including southern Ontario. It is a great and hardy option for pollinator gardens and rock gardens. Naturally occurs in dry upland sites.
27	Ilex verticillata	Winterberry	Aquifoliaceae	3.5 m	spring	greenish to yellowish-white	full sun, part-shade	wet, moist, can tolerate flooding	no	Berries feed birds in winter. Dense shrubs provide shelter for small animals.	sandy, loamy, peaty soils, moist, acidic soils	Found in southern and eastern regions of Ontario. It thrives in wet areas like swamps, bogs, and along waterways and in floodplains. Adds winter interest with its bright red berries.
30	Lindera benzoin	Spicebush	Lauraceae	3 m	early spring	yellow	shade, part-shade, can grow in full sun with consistent moisture but well-drained	moist, moderate/mesic	no	Spicebush is an important early-spring nectar source for bees and other pollinators. It is also a host plant for swallowtail butterflies, primarily the Spicebush Swallowtail. It supports nectar feeders. The berries are consumed by birds, such as thrushes, waxwings, and sparrows, and small mammals. The foliage provides cover for various animals, and the aromatic leaves help repel herbivores.	loamy, rich, moist, well-drained	Spicebush is found naturally in woodlands, forest edges, and riparian zones across eastern North America and into southwestern Ontario with some isolated wild populations in Eastern Ontario.
31	Mitchella repens	Partridgeberry	Rubiaceae	ground cover	early summer	white	Full shade, part-shade	Mesic/moderate	Yes	Attracts pollinators such as bees. The berries are edible and consumed by various birds and small mammals, particularly in winter when food is scarce.	sandy, loamy, clay (well-drained), rich, slightly acidic, well-drained	A small, evergreen ground cover widespread in North America and naturally found in woodlands, forests, and forest edges across southern, eastern and central Ontario. It is known for its trailing habit, fragrant white flowers, and red berries.
32	Myrica gale	Sweet Gale/Bog Myrtle	Myricaceae	1 m	early spring	catkins	full sun, part-shade	wet, moist (often growing in standing water)	no	attracts birds and provides protection to shoreline creatures	wet, moist, acidic, poorly-drained, sandy, loamy, rich soil	Naturally growing in Ontario's wetlands, bogs and swampy areas. It is known for its fragrant leaves, wetlands habitat, and tolerance of a wide range of growing conditions. Sweet gale is often found in bogs, marshes, and other wetland areas. It prefers wet
33	Physocarpus opulifolius	Ninebark	Rosaceae	2.5 m	late spring/early summer	white	full sun, part-shade	moist, moderate/mesic, dry	moderately, once established.	Flowers are highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. The fruits and branches provide food and shelter for birds and small mammals.	sandy, loamy, clay (but not waterlogged)	Native to eastern North America, and through the Great Lakes, region. Naturally found in southern Ontario, particularly along riverbanks, wetlands, and in disturbed areas. It grows well on poor soils and along shorelines.
34	Potentilla (Dasifora) fruticosa	Shrubby Cinquefoil	Rosaceae	1 m	summer	yellow	full sun, part shade	dry, moderate, moist, can tolerate seasonal flooding	yes	Attracts bees, butterflies, and other insects due to its long blooming season. Provides cover for small mammals and birds.	sandy, loamy, rocky	Compact, mounding, spreading shrub, grows in meadows, wetlands, rocky slopes, and along streams. Widespread across Ontario, and more widely across Canada and the northern U.S. Its extensive root system helps stabilize soils in rocky or sandy sites.
36	Prunus virginiana	Chokecherry	Rosaceae	4-9 m	mid to late spring	white	full sun, part-shade	dry, moderate, moist, well-drained	Yes	Flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. Fruits are an important food source for birds, bears, and small mammals. Dense thickets provide shelter for wildlife. Larval host for several butterfly and moth species, including the tiger swallowtail.	sandy, loamy, clay	Widespread natural range across Canada and throughout Ontario and thrives in forest edges, woodlands, prairies, riverbanks, and disturbed areas. Can be a multi-stemmed shrub or a small tree, often forming thickets by suckering roots and can form thickets
37	Rhus aromatica	Fragrant Sumac	Anacardiaceae	1.5 m	mid to late spring	yellow	full sun, part-shade	dry, moderate, well-drained	Yes	Flowers provide nectar and pollen for bees, butterflies, and other insects. Fruits are a food source for birds and small mammals. Dense thickets offer shelter and nesting sites.	sandy, loamy, does well in rocky and shallow soils	A low-growing, spreading shrub found across the southern Ontario region. It is prized for its adaptability, pleasant fragrance, and vibrant fall foliage (turns orange to red in the fall). Naturally grows in dry woodlands, prairies, rocky slopes, and open
38	Rhus typhina	Staghorn Sumac	Anacardiaceae	6 m	late spring, summer	greenish-yellow	full sun, part shade	dry, moderate/mesic, well-drained	Yes	It is pollinated by bees, wasps & flies. The fruit is eaten by birds and small mammals. The leaves and bark are browsed by deer and rabbits.	sandy, loamy, rocky, tolerates poor-nutrient deficient soils	Grows throughout southern and central Ontario in open areas and along roadsides and is widespread across the Great Lakes region, and southeastern Canada. It naturally grows in fields, roadsides, forest edges, rocky slopes, and disturbed areas.
40	Ribes cynosbati	Prickly Gooseberry	Grossulariaceae	1 m	late spring	greenish-yellow	part sun	dry, mesic, moderately moist (but not waterlogged)	Yes	Small, inconspicuous, greenish-yellow flowers bloom in early spring. They hang in clusters and attract pollinators, especially bees. Berries are a food source for birds, small mammals, and some larger wildlife. The thorny branches offer protection and shelter for various animals.	sandy, loamy, rocky	It is found in a variety of habitats, often in dry, wooded, or rocky areas, and is recognized for its spiny branches and tart berries. A low-growing shrub that can spread through suckering and often forms dense thickets. The branches are spiny or prickl
41	Rosa blanda	Smooth Wild Rose	Rosaceae	>1 m	summer	pink	full sun, part shade	moist, mesic, dry, well-drained	yes	Flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. Hips provide food for birds and mammals, while thickets offer shelter for small animals.	sandy, loamy, clay-loam, rocky	It’s common across Ontario and much of North America, thriving in a variety of habitats. It spreads by rhizomes and can create thickets. It is a low growing shrub naturally growing in in meadows, prairies, forest edges, rocky slopes, and along roadsides.
42	Rosa carolina	Pasture Rose	Rosaceae	>1 m	summer	pink	full sun, part shade	dry, mesic, moist	yes	The flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. The hips provide food for birds, small mammals, and some larger wildlife. The dense thickets offer shelter and cover for wildlife.	sandy loam, loam, gravelly	Widespread across much of eastern and central North America. Found throughout Ontario and naturally grows in open woodlands, meadows, pastures, roadsides, and disturbed areas. It can also grow in wet soils along stream beds, swamps and low grassy areas.
43	Rosa palustris	Swamp Rose	Rosaceae	>1 m	summer	pink	full sun, part shade	moist, wet, tolerates seasonal flooding	No	The flowers provide nectar and pollen for bees, butterflies, and other insects. Dense thickets offer cover for birds and small mammals, while the hips are an important winter food source.	loam, clay-loam, sandy soils with high organic matter, rich, acidic	Found in wetlands, marshes, swamps, and along stream banks. A native deciduous shrub that thrives in wetland habitats across Ontario and eastern North America. It spreads by rhizomes and is known for its delicate pink flowers and tolerance of wet conditio
44	Rubus allegheniensis	Alleghany Blackberry	Rosaceae	2 m	late spring, summer	white	full sun, part shade	mesic, well-drained	No	Fruits are a food source for birds, mammals, and insects. Flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.	sandy loam, loam, or silty soils, acidic	A perennial shrub known for its tasty, dark purple-edible black fruits. It is native to North America and widely distributed across Ontario and much of the continent. Found in open, sunny areas such as forest edges, fields, roadsides, and disturbed sites.
46	Rubus occidentalis	Black Raspberry	Rosaceae	2 m	late spring, summer	white	full sun, part shade	mesic, dry, well-drained	yes	Berries are highly attractive to birds and small mammals. The flowers support bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. Thickets provide excellent cover for wildlife.	sandy, loamy	Common in southern and central Ontario, primarily in southern regions. It thrives in well-drained soils along woodland margins, in meadows, and on hillsides. It prefers areas with full sun to partial shade. Often called blackcap raspberry.
47	Rubus odoratus	Purple Flowering Raspberry	Rosaceae	1.5 m	summer	pink-purple	full sun to shade	moist, mesic, dry, well-drained	Moderately drought tolerant	The berries are an important food source for birds, and the plant provides shelter for small animals. The large flowers are a great early-season nectar source for bees and other pollinators.	sandy, loamy	It is found in Ontario (primarily in the southern parts of the province) and across eastern Ontario and into Quebec It naturally grows in moist, wooded habitats and along woodland edges.
48	Salix discolor	Pussy Willow	Salicaceae	4 m	early to mid spring	catkins	full sun, part shade	moist	NO	It is a larval host plant for Mourning Cloak and Viceroy. It is browsed by rodents. Catkins are a vital early-season food source for bees and other pollinators. Male catkins are especially valuable for their pollen. Provides shelter and browse for birds and small mammals.	sandy, loamy, clay	The most common of the willow species in North America. This shrub or small tree is well-known for its soft, silvery catkins that appear in early spring, often before the leaves emerge. It grows best in wet areas and along shorelines. It is dioecious.
49	Sambucus canadensis	Black Elderberry	Caprifoliaceae	3 m	early summer	white	full sun, part shade	moist, well-drained, tolerates flooding	No (but can tolerate short periods of drought)	Provides nectar for pollinators and berries for over 50 bird species. Also supports mammals.	sandy, cloamy, clay	Found throughout southern and central Ontario. It naturally grows along forest edges, streambanks, in wet meadows and swamps and lowland areas. This plant spreads by root suckers. Monoecious = male and female reproductive parts occur on the same plant.
50	Sambucus racemosa	Red Elderberry	Caprifoliaceae	3 m	mid to late spring	white	full sun, part shade	mesic, moist, well-drained	No	supports birds and pollinators	sandy, loamy, clay, rich, well-drained	It grows across Ontario and much of northeastern to central North American. Grows in forest edges, moist woodlands, and streambanks. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial to full sun but tolerates a variety of conditions. It is monoecious.
51	Spiraea alba	Narrow- leaved Meadowsweet	Rosaceae	1 m	summer	white	full sun, part shade	mesic, moist, wet	moderately, once established.	nectar source for bees, beetles & butterflies	sandy, loamy, clay	Generally grows along water but also on higher ground, spreads by suckering. Known for its showy clusters of white flowers. Dry, small seed capsules develop after flowering. Monoecious = male and female reproductive parts occur on the same plant.
52	Spiraea tomentosa	Steeplebush	Rosaceae	1 m	summer	pinkish-purple	full sun, part shade	moist	no	Attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators with its nectar-rich flowers.	sandy, loamy, or clay soils as long as there is sufficient moisture, prefers acidic	A native deciduous shrub known for its beautiful spiky pink/purplish flower clusters. Pink to purplish flower clusters appear in summer, forming dense, steeple-like spikes. Generally grows along water but also on higher ground. Monoecious.
54	Vaccinium macrocarpon	Cranberry	Ericaceae	trailing	early summer	white-pink	full sun, part shade	wet, boggy	No	A nectar source for insects and fruit is eaten by birds and mammals.	peaty, sandy, acidic	A low-growing, evergreen shrub native to northern North America, including parts of southern Ontario. It naturally grows in sphagnum bogs, wetlands, and acidic, sandy soils, and cool, moist environments. It produces large fruit used as food by animals.
56	Viburnum dentatum	Arrowwood	Adoxaceae	3 m	late spring	creamy-white	full sun, part shade	mesic	NO	nectar source for insects, fruit is eaten by birds and mammals, larval host plant of Spring Azure	tolerant	Native to eastern North America, it occurs in southern and eastern Ontario, typically along forest edges, wet meadows, stream margins, and thickets. Forms dense, multi-stemmed shrubs. It is monoecious.
57	Vibernum lentago	Nannyberry	Adoxaceae	4 m	late spring	creamy-white	full sun, part shade	moist, mesic	moderately, once established	A nectar source for insects, fruit is eaten by birds and mammals. It is a larval host plant of Spring Azure.	sandy, loamy, clay, well-drained	A deciduous shrub native to eastern and central North America, including southern Ontario. It thrives in wooded areas, forest edges, and along streambanks, typically in moist, well-drained soils. It is known for its attractive clusters of white flowers,
58	Viburnum trilobum	American Highbush Cranberry	Adoxaceae	4 m	late spring	white	full sun, part shade	moist, well-drained	No	A nectar source for insects and a larval host plant for the Spring Azure. The fruit is a food source for birds and small mammals.	sandy-loam, loamy, clay-loam, clay	Grows in southern Ontario and much of northern North American. Found in wetlands, along streams, in swamps and at forest edges. The attractive red fruit often persists well into the winter and is a food source for birds and mammals when more favoured frui
59	Symphoricarpos albus	Common Snowberry	Caprifoliaceae	1 m	early summer	pink	full sun to part shade	moist, mesic, dry, well-drained	yes	food source for birds, mammals	sandy, loamy, clay, well-drained	A lower growing deciduous shrub native to North America, including southern Ontario. It can found in woodlands, forest edges, and along streambanks. It is known for its white berries that persist through winter. Berries are toxic. Plant is monoecious.
60	Cornus florida	Flowering Dogwood	Cornaceae	6 m	mid-spring	white	full sun, part-shade	moderate/mesic, moist, drained (not waterlogged	moderately, once established.	A nectar source for pollinators. Bright red berries mature in late summer and persist into winter. These berries are a vital food source for birds and other wildlife. Larval host plant to Spring Azure butterfly.	sandy, loamy, clay, rich, drained	Found naturally in the Carolinian Zone of southern Ontario, grows in woodland edges, forest clearings, riparian areas, and hill slopes. Produces small, greenish-yellow flowers surrounded by four large, showy bracts (often mistaken for flower petals).
61	Hypericum kalmianum	Kalm's St. John's wort	Hypericaceae	1 m	summer	yellow	full sun, part-shade	dry, moderate/mesic, moderately moist	yes	Attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies. It also provides seeds for birds.	sandy, loamy, rocky, well-drained, Can tolerate calcareous sites and limestone soils and is relatively hardy in rocky or shallow soils.	Kalm's St. John's Wort is native to eastern North America and the Great Lakes Region, particularly Georgian Bay and shores of Lake Erie. Naturally grows in prairies, dunes, and along shorelines.
62	Lonicera canadensis	Fly Honeysuckle	Caprifoliaceae	1-2 m	spring	cream	shade, part-shade	moist, moderate/mesic, well-drained	moderately, once established	Attracts pollinators, hummingbirds, and birds that feed on the berries.	sandy, loamy, rich, well-drained, prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH	It is a beautiful, low-maintenance option for landscaping, particularly in naturalized or woodland gardens. It naturally grows in local forest edges, riparian zones, and other moist areas, where the soil remains damp but not overly saturated.
63	Prunus pumila	Sand Cherry	Rosaceae	2 m	spring	white	Full sun	dry. moderate, wet	Yes	Flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other insects. Fruits are eaten by birds, bears, and small mammals, while the dense thickets provide cover and nesting sites.	sandy, loamy, rocky, can thrive in nutrient poor conditions	It is a low-growing, hardy shrub native to North America, valued for its adaptability, showy flowers, and edible fruit. It is often found in sandy or rocky habitats and is used in landscaping for erosion control and ornamental purposes.
64	Ribes americanum	Wild Black Currant	Ribes	3-5 m	spring	white, green	shade, part shade	moist, moderate/mesic	no	supports pollinators and birds and other wildlife that feed on the berries	Grows in sedge meadows; open woods, streambanks, swamps, wet meadows, ravines	It is widespread in much of Canada including our Great Lakes region and south eastern Ontario. They turn red and gold in the fall. The fruit is a smooth rounded black berry. There are no spines on the plant. The plant may form thickets.
65	Rubus idaeus	Wild Red Raspberry	Rosaceae	1 m	spring, summer	white	full sun, part shade	mesic, dry, well-drained	yes	Flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. Berries are eaten by birds, deer, and small mammals.	sandy-loam, loamy, silty-loam, rich well-drained	A deciduous shrub that is widely distributed across Ontario, from the southern regions up into the boreal forest zones. It thrives in open or semi-open habitats, such as forest edges, clearings, roadsides, and disturbed areas.
66	Salix interior	Sandbar Willow	Salicaceae	5 m	spring	yellow-green	full sun	prefers moist but tolerant	No	The male flowers provide pollen for bees. It's a larval host several butterflies including mourning cloak and tiger swallowtail. Dense thickets provide cover to many wildlife species and birds. Leave and twigs may be browsed on by wildlife.	Does well in moist sites and survives severe flooding. Not drought tolerant.	Sandbar willow is found naturally in southern and central Ontario regions where conditions are suitable and is widely spread across North America. It naturally grows on riverbanks and streamsides, wetlands and marsh edges, floodplains and lakeshores.
67	Staphylea trifolia	Bladdernut	Staphyleaceae	6 m	spring, summer	white, yellow	shade, part shade	moist, well-drained	no	The fragrant flowers attract pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. The bladder-like fruit pods provide food for birds and small mammals, particularly in the winter when other food sources may be scarce.	sandy, loamy, clay-loam, rich	Native to eastern North America, including southern Ontario and found along streambanks, wooded slopes, mesic upland forests in ravines. Known for its distinctive bladder-like fruits and attractive flowers. The flowers appear in loose, drooping clusters a
68	Viburnum acerifolium	Maple-leaved Viburnum	Adoxaceae	1-2 m	spring	white	shade, part shade	dry, mesic, well-drained	moderately once established	Supports butterflies, bees and birds. Berries are eaten by birds and mammals.	loamy, sandy-loam, or rocky soils, well-drained	Grows to our local woodlands, forest edges and shady slopes across southern Ontario and much of eastern North America. It's a great option for dry, shady locations. It is monoecious.
69	Viburnum cassinoides	Witherod/Wild Raisin	Adoxaceae	3 m	spring, summer	white	full sun, part shade	moist, mesic, dry, well-drained	moderately once established	Fruit attracts birds and mammals.	sandy-loam, loamy, clay	It is native to eastern Canada, including southern and central Ontario and thrives in wet meadows, swamps, along stream banks, and at the edges of forests. It is a monoecious.
70	Xanthoxylum americanum	Prickly Ash	Rutaceae	8 m	spring	yellow, green	full sun, part shade	dry, moderate/mesic, well-drained	Yes, once established.	Larval food source for the giant swallowtail. Birds and small mammals feed on the seeds.	sandy, loamy, rocky, well-drained	Native to eastern North America, including southern Ontario and much of eastern Canada. It grows in open woods, thickets, forest edges, fencerows, disturbed areas and rocky slopes. The flowers are dioecious, male and female flowers on separate plants.
71	Viburnum rafinesquianum	Downy Arrowwood	Viburnum	5-8 feet	Spring	White	Part shade	Dry, Medium, Moist	Yes, once established.	Berries support wildlife and flowers support pollinators. Host plant to numerous butterflies and moths.	Clay, Loam, Sand	Native to southern Ontario, where it grows in open woodlands thickets, forest edges and rocky slopes. It is monoecious, meaning each shrub contain both male (stamens) and female (pistils) reproductive parts and so it can self-pollinate, though it usual
72	Acer spicatum	Mountain Maple	Sapindaceae	5 m	late spring, early summer	white, yellow	full sun, part-shade, shade	moist, normal, well-drained	no, requires consistently moist conditions	Produces small keys that are eaten by deer in the spring.	sandy-loam, loamy ,silty-loam, rocky, does well in slightly acidic	A small, shrubby deciduous tree native to eastern Canada, including the Great Lakes region. growing in mixed forests, streambanks, rocky slopes and shady understories. Its extensive root system stabilizes soil on slopes and streambanks. It can be planted
73	Aralia spinosa	Devil's Walking Stick	Araliaceae	5 m	late summer	creamy-white	full sun, part-shade	moist to mesic	yes	Cross pollinated by bees. Berries are eaten by birds and mammals.	well-drained soil and tolerant of various soil types and wide pH tolerance	Native to south of Lake Erie but hardy to this zone, Grows in woodlands, fields and pastures, woodland edges and along streams in moist woods. Late summer flowers followed by black fruit. It has spiny stems and interesting compound foliage.
74	Chimaphila umbellata	Pipsissewa	Ericaceae	15 cm	early summer	white	shade, part-shade	moderate/mesic, moist as long as it is well-drained	no	The flowers are often pollinated by bees, moths, and other insects.	prefers acidic sandy soil	It thrives in wooded areas, particularly in acidic, nutrient-poor soils. Found in sandy habitats and well-drained and mesic habitats/woodlands. Tolerant of acidic soil and shade. Has a creeping, mat-like growth habit.
75	Cornus rugosa	Round-leaved Dogwood	Cornaceae	3 m	early summer	white	shade, part-shade	moist, moderate, moderate-dry, well-drained	Moderately drought tolerant once established	The berries are a critical food source for birds and small mammals in late summer and fall. Attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators to its flowers. Larval host plant for the Spring Azure butterfly.	sandy, loamy, clay, well-drained	It's a woodland understory shrub found in Ontario wooded areas, streambanks, moist slopes and upland forests. It prefers dappled sunlight and woodland edges. Ideal for naturalized plantings, hedgerows, or wildlife gardens.
76	Juniperus communis	Common Juniper/Ground Juniper	Cupressaceae	1.5 m	early spring	small cones	full sun	dry, moderate/mesic, well-drained	yes	The berries are an important food source for birds and mammals, such as waxwings, grouse, and deer. The dense foliage provides shelter and nesting sites for small animals and birds.	sandy, loamy, rocky. tolerant of poor-nutrient soils, well-drained	Widespread native range across Canada. It is an extremely hardy shrub, it is cold tolerant as well as heat and humidity tolerant. Common in rocky hillsides, open woodlands, forest edges, and grasslands.
77	Morella/Myrica pensylvanica	Northern Bayberry	Myricaceae	2-3 m	spring	non-showy male and female catkins on separate shrubs	full sun, part-shade	wet-moderate, moderate/mesic, dry-moderate, can tolerate temporary flooding	moderately, once established.	The small flowers are pollinated by insects. The waxy berries are consumed by birds, including birds and small mammals.	sandy, loamy, clay. Will tolerate poor soil. Salt-tolerant.	A hardy, deciduous shrub native to northeastern North America - including the Great Lakes region (southern Ontario - though rare). It is known for its aromatic leaves, waxy berries, and its ability to thrive in coastal and disturbed environments.
78	Juniperus horizontalis	Creeping Juniper	Cupressaceae	45 cm	early spring	small, inconspicuous flowers	full sun	dry, well-drained	yes	Berry-like cones provide food for animals.	sandy, gravelly, well-drained. Prefers open sites that are sandy and/or rocky. Intolerant of poor drainage.	Creeping juniper is native to northeastern North America, including Canada (such as Ontario and Quebec). A blue-green foliage. Can make a nice groundcover for a tough-to-grow site. It has a ground-hugging, spread.
79	Spiraea alba var. latifolia	Broad-leaved Meadowsweet	Rosaceae	1.5 m	summer	white	full sun, part-shade	normal, moist, wet	no	Flowers provide nectar and pollen for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.	sandy, loamy, clay	This shrub is quite adaptable from dry sandy woods to swamps and lakeshores. Roots help stabilize soil in wetland areas. Ideal for rain gardens, naturalized plantings, and wetland restoration. A subgroup of spirea alba, with slightly wider leaves.
80	Shepherdia canadensis	Canada Soapberry/Canada Buffalo-berry	Elaeagnaceae (Oleaster)	2 m	spring	green-yellow	full sun, part-shade	normal, dry, moderately moist	moderately	Berries provide food for birds, bears, and other wildlife. The shrub offers shelter for small animals.	sandy, rocky, acidic to slightly alkaline	A hardy, deciduous shrub found across Ontario. Thrives in sandy, gravelly, rocky, or lean soils. Tolerates poor fertility; dislikes heavy, wet clay. Dioecious — male and female plants are separate.
81	Ceanothus herbaceus	Prairie Redroot, Jersey Tea	Rhamnaceae	30-90 cm	mid to late summer	White	full sun, part shade	Dry	Yes	Attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects. The seeds are eaten by birds and small mammals. Prairie Redroot is a larval host plant for the endangered Mottled Duskywing butterfly (Erynnis martialis). The caterpillars of this skipper‑family butterfly feed on the leaves making the shrub important for the butterfly’s life cycle in Ontario and parts of its range. The Mottled Duskywing is listed as endangered under the provincial Endangered Species Act, and its continued presence depends on suitable habitat that includes healthy stands of New Jersey Tea and Prairie Redroot for larval feeding and egg‑laying.	sandy, rocky, well-drained	In Ontario, Prairie Redroot is mainly found in southern and central regions, especially in prairie remnants, oak savannas, and dry sandy areas. It is well-adapted to Ontario's dry, open landscapes. Prairie Redroot is nitrogen-fixing.
82	Comptonia peregrina	Sweet Fern	Myricaceae	60-90 cm	Spring	catkins, inconspicuous	full sun, part shade	Dry to medium	yes	Host plant for several moth species, leaves are aromatic deterring deer, provides ground cover and habitat for small animals.	sandy, rocky, acidic, dry, poor, infertile well drained sites	Not a true fern and is in the Bayberry family. The crushed leaves release a sweet, spicy fragrance. It spreads via rhizomes forming colonies. Exceptionally drought tolerant once established. Nitrogen fixing, improves soil health over time. Common in dry,
83	Rosa acicularis	Prickly Wild Rose	Rosaceae	1-3 m	late spring to early summer	pink	full sun, part-shade	dry, mesic, well-drained to moderately drained	yes	Red hips that persist into fall and winter, providing excellent wildlife value.	loamy, sandy-loam, tolerates gravelly or rocky sites, clay tolerant	Its native habitats include thickets, stream banks, rocky bluffs, and wooded hillsides with a widespread range across canada including our southeastern Ontario region.
	Species (Botanical)	Common Name(s)	Family	Avg. Height	Blooming Time	Colour	Amount of Sunlight	Moisture Pref.	Drought Tolerance	Wildlife Associations	Soil Pref\'s	Remarks	Observed Range (iNaturalist)

: Winterberry

: Nannyberry

: Witch Hazel

: Saskatoon Serviceberry

: Chokeberry

: Eastern Redbud

: American Mountain-ash

: Kalm’s St John’s Wort

: Ninebark

: Buttonbush

: Red Elderberry

: Red Osier Dogwood

: Wild Rose

: Pagoda Dogwood

: Smooth Arrowwood

: Sweet Gale

: Purple Flowering Raspberry

: Black Elderberry

: Fragrant Sumac (fall foliage)

: Canada Plum

: Indigo Bush

: Bladdernut

: Chokecherry

: Glaucous Honeysuckle

: Meadowsweet

: Chokeberry

: Fragrant Sumac

: Red Elderberry

: Buffaloberry

: Common Juniper

: Creeping Juniper

: Downy Arrowwood

: Gloucous Honeysuckle

: Eastern Redbud

: Sweet Gale

: Maple-leaved Viburnum

: Downy Arrowwood

SHRUBS, Planned for 2025 – Being overwintered and/or seeded

Mountain Maple – Acer spicatum

Speckled Alder – Alnus rugosa

Saskatoon – Amelanchier alnifolia

Shadblow Serviceberry – Amelanchier canadensis

Leadplant – Amorpha canescens

False Indigo Bush – Amorpha fruticosa

Devil’s Walking Stick – Aralia spinosa

Bearberry – Arctostaphylos uva-ursi

Chokeberry – Aronia melanocarpa

New Jersey Tea – Ceanothus americanus

Buttonbush – Cephalanthus occidentalis

Spotted Pipsissewa/Striped Wintergreen – Chimaphila maculata

Pagoda Dogwood – Cornus alternifolia

Silky Dogwood – Cornus amomum; Cornus obliqua

Bunchberry – Cornus canadensis

Flowering Dogwood – Cornus florida

Gray Dogwood – Cornus racemosa; Cornus foemina

Round-leaved Dogwood – Cornus rugosa

Red Osier Dogwood – Cornus stolonifera; Cornus sericea

American Hazelnut – Corylus americana

Beaked Hazelnut – Corylus cornuta

Bush Honeysuckle – Diervilla lonicera

Leatherwood – Dirca palustris

Running Strawberry-bush – Euonymus obovatus

Wintergreen – Gaultheria procumbens

Witch Hazel – Hamamelis virginiana

Kalm’s St. John’s Wort – Hypericum kalmianum

Shrubby St. John’s Wort – Hypericum prolificum

Winterberry – Ilex verticillata

Common Juniper/Ground Juniper – Juniperus communis

Creeping Juniper – Juniperus horizontalis

Spicebush – Lindera benzoin

Fly Honeysuckle – Lonicera canadensis

Partridge Berry – Mitchella repens

Sweet Gale – Myrica gale

Bayberry – Myrica pensylvanica

Ninebark – Physocarpus opulifolius

Shrubby Cinquefoil – Potentilla (Dasifora) fruticosa

Sand Cherry – Prunus pumila

Chokecherry – Prunus virginiana

Fragrant Sumac – Rhus aromatica

Staghorn Sumac – Rhus typhina

Wild Black Currant – Ribes americanum

Prickly Gooseberry – Ribes cynosbati

Smooth Wild Rose – Rosa blanda

Pasture Rose – Rosa carolina

Swamp Rose – Rosa palustris

Common Blackberry – Rubus allegheniensis

Wild Red Raspberry – Rubus idaeus

Black Raspberry – Rubus occidentalis

Purple Flowering Raspberry – Rubus odoratus

Pussy Willow – Salix discolor

Sandbar Willow – Salix exigua

Black Elderberry – Sambucus canadensis

Red Elderberry – Sambucus racemosa

Canada Soapberry/Canada Buffaloberry – Shepherdia canadensis

Narrow-leaved Meadowsweet – Spiraea alba

Broad-leaved Meadowsweet – Spiraea latifolia

Steeplebush – Spiraea tomentosa

Bladdernut – Staphylea trifolia

Common Snowberry – Symphoricarpos albus

Cranberry – Vaccinium macrocarpon

Arrowwood – Viburnum dentatum

Nannyberry – Viburnum lentago

Maple-leaved Viburnum – Viburnum acerifolium

Witherod/Wild Raisin – Viburnum cassinoides

Downy Arrowwood – Viburnum rafinesquianum

American Highbush Cranberry – Viburnum trilobum

Prickly Ash – Xanthoxylum americanum