Tonkadale is proud to partner with local grower Wilson's Nursery to bring you custom order large specimen trees! A special thanks to Connie Kratzke for providing her in depth knowledge of the best trees to plant in Minnesota yards.

Custom order trees are available for the 2024 growing season!

Maples should be protected from sunscald and frost crack injuries by placing white (or light-colored) wraps or guards on their trunks, October - April. This also protects against deer and rodent damage.

Autumn Blaze® Freeman Maple                               

Acer x freemanii ‘Jeffersred’

Zone: 3

Size: 50’ H x 40’ W                           

This fast-growing, adaptable tree is well known for its superior, bright maroon fall color.  It seldom produces helicopters (virtually seedless), so it works well for shading decks and patios. While ‘Autumn Blaze’ thrives in neutral soils with consistent moisture, it also tolerates heavy clay and dry conditions. Due to its silver maple genetics, this tree has a substantial root system and that should be kept in mind when choosing planting locations. All Freeman Maples are crosses between Acer rubrum (Red Maple) and Acer saccharinum (Silver Maple). 

Sienna Glen® Freeman Maple

Acer x freemanii ‘Sienna Glen®’

Zone: 3

Size: 50’ H x 35’ W                           

Some consider this the best of the Freeman Maple cultivars, due to its excellent form. Dense, even branching and a tidy, pyramidal shape result in the perfect shade tree.  ‘Sienna Glen’ is a fast grower, but it puts on crown density and trunk diameter faster than height. Its fall color generally ranges from gold and orange to burgundy.  Color change is progressive, changing throughout the season. Virtually seedless, it offers hues similar to sugar maples without the mess. Its leaves are smaller than most of the Freeman cultivars, making it more like its Red Maple parent. Adaptable and hardy, ‘Sienna Glen’ really is a reliable performer. Due to genetics, its root system should be given ample room.           

Armstrong Freeman Maple

Acer x freemanii ‘Armstrong’

Zone: 3

Size: 45’ H x 15’ W                           

Don’t have the space for a stately shade tree?  ‘Armstrong’ is a great option! It grows just as fast as its rellies without occupying such a large footprint. Plenty of industry people have debated whether it is a straight Red Maple or Freeman hybrid. Many growers feel that it behaves more like a Freeman because it grows quickly and adapts well to less than ideal conditions. Fall color sets in a little late and is slightly variable, typically displaying oranges and reds. Heavy seed production does not seem to be an issue with this tree. Few are willing to commit to calling these hybrids totally seedless, since they are not male trees and can cross pollinate in the landscape. However, generally speaking, they are tidier options than Red and Sugar Maples.

Fall Fiesta® Sugar Maple                                                                                          

Acer saccharum ‘Bailsta’

Zone: 3B

Size: 60’ H x 60’ W                           

‘Fall Fiesta®’ has been a crowd favorite for quite some time. It’s hard to argue with stunning fall color and thick, glossy foliage. Leaves turn lovely shades of gold, orange and red. Reds appear at the top where the sun hits most directly. This tree holds up in hot, windy weather better than the straight species. While it would love to be in consistently moist, loam soil with a slightly acidic pH, it adapts well to most soils. Avoid soggy clay substrates with high alkalinity. This tree is not seedless, but its seeds provide food for wildlife.

In Minnesota, Oaks should only be pruned during the dormant season (Nov. - Mar.) to avoid increasing their susceptibility to Oak Wilt, which tends to be more of an issue for Red and Pin Oaks. DNR guidelines are more lenient, stating that it’s best to avoid pruning between April and July, but the more restrictive guidelines are safer.

Kindred Spirit® Oak

Quercus robur x bicolor ‘Nadler’ PP17,604

Zone: 3

Size: 30’ H x 6’ W

Kindred Spirit®’ Oak is an English/Swamp White Oak cross, resulting in a tightly columnar tree that can fit just about anywhere. The dimensions given are roughly the 30-year size of the parent plant. Branched low, ‘Kindred Spirit®’ makes a great screen for all who prefer a different look than Arborvitaes can offer. Shiny, dark green leaves turn shades of orange to maroon in the fall. Excellent powdery mildew resistance is another of its claims to fame. This tree sells well and performs beautifully in most soils and environments with minimum maintenance.

Heritage® Oak

Quercus macdanielii ‘Clemons’ PP11,431

Zone: 4

Size: 60-80’ H x 40-50’ W

This tree caught growers’ attention right when it first came out because of its superior form. A straight trunk supports a pyramidal crown of densely packed, shiny foliage that resists mildew. The Crown will round-out with maturity. In the fall, yellow and tan tones appear. So far, Bur Oak Blight and Bullet Gall do not seem to be issues for this tree. That’s a huge plus, since they have been causing major issues for straight-species Bur Oaks. ‘Heritage®’ is a tough, adaptable, low-maintenance tree that has great longevity in the landscape. 

Swamp White Oak

Quercus bicolor

Zone: 4

Size: 50-60’ H x 40-50’ W

A native to Minnesota, Swamp White Oak is a solid recommendation for the heavy, wet soils that dominate a large portion of the West Metro and outlying area. This tree develops a broad, pyramidal crown of shiny, densely-packed leaves. Like most oaks, it retains its foliage well into winter. The term for that is “marcescense”. Tan, ruffled foliage and shaggy, exfoliating bark contribute a ton of textural interest to the dormant landscape. The Swamp White Oak is well suited to our area and generally quite resistant to pest and disease issues. Because of its fairly high iron requirement, you may see some signs of chlorosis in high pH soils. That said, it’s a valuable tree for wildlife that tolerates some road salt and urban conditions. 

Northern Catalpa                                                                                                        

Catalpa speciosa

Zone: 4

Size: 50-60’ H x 25-40’ W

A Native to Minnesota, Northern Catalpa has an exotic look to it that doesn’t feel native, despite the fact that its native range starts nearby in Illinois and Indiana.  Enormous, heart-shaped leaves set the background for clusters of showy, Azalea-like flowers that bloom in June. These flowers have deep purple and dark gold speckles and patches inside their throats.  Blooms become long, green bean-shaped pods in late summer. These pods persist into winter, which helps make litter more manageable. Arguably, this tree’s best asset is its adaptability. The Catalpa can handle high pH soils and extreme fluctuations in soil moisture.  Excessive heat and road salt are also well tolerated. While it can achieve some pretty awesome size, you don’t typically see huge examples in our region, despite the rapid growth rate. The Catalpa does benefit from some structural management to help develop stronger branch angles and reduce breakage susceptibility. 

True North™ Coffeetree

Gymnocladus dioicus ‘UMNSynergy’

Zone: 4

Size: 60’ H x 25’ W

‘True North™’ is a native cultivar and the product of the University of Minnesota’s breeding program. Selected in 1972 by a couple of industry celebs, it wasn’t actually introduced until 2015. Tested by time and evaluated by professionals, this is truly an exceptional cultivar. Reliably seedless, it will not produce any of the pods that deter some folks from planting the species. Like all Coffeetrees, ‘True North™’ produces bi-pinnately compound leaves. In other words, each leaf is comprised of a central stalk, with smaller stalks of opposite leaflets growing along it. As the tree grows, these leaves do too; eventually reaching over 2’ in length. For that reason, Coffees look pretty naked after leaf drop.‘True North™’ has a better form than its predecessors. Tolerant of cold, heat, drought and alkalinity; it stands up tall in the urban landscape. Observation would indicate moderate tolerance of periodic flooding as well.

Jefferson Elm

Ulmus americana ‘Jefferson’

Zone: 3

Size: 70’ H x 60’ W

‘'Jefferson’ Elm is a native cultivar and was selected by the National Park Service because it stood out from 599 competitors in the National Mall. Superior Dutch Elm Disease tolerance and outstanding horticultural characteristics helped set it apart.  High adaptability, characteristic of the species, helps it tolerate a wide variety of soil conditions and pH levels. An excellent option for urban areas, this tree can handle ice, salt and pollution. Provide ample room for its extensive root system by planting it at least ten feet away from buildings. ‘Jefferson’ demonstrates the characteristic form that Elm lovers everywhere can easily identify.  Rapid growth is another plus.

*Please note that Dutch Elm Disease resistance is often misunderstood.  Resistant Elms can still get the disease. They are simply able to tolerate and compartmentalize infections and continue growing. Since Dutch Elm Disease is vectored by beetles and spread by root grafts, it is advisable not to create the perfect storm by planting new trees in areas where existing trees are dying. 

Princeton Sentry® Ginkgo     

Ginkgo biloba ‘Princeton Sentry®’

Zone: 4

Size: 60’ H x 30’ W

‘Princeton Sentry®’ is a seedless, male Ginkgo with a nicely shaped, pyramidal crown. A cultivar of a species that’s been around since the dinosaurs, it has superb pest and disease resistance. The species is native to China, but it has been in America since 1764. This cultivar was introduced in 1967. Extremely slow-growing, compact and adaptable; ‘Princeton Sentry®’ makes a stellar boulevard tree. As if that’s not enough reasons to plant it, deer resistance and salt tolerance sweeten the deal. Superb, gold fall color lasts quite a while, since leaves have good substance. This display also ends quite suddenly, as leaves drop all at once for easy clean-up. 

Common Hackberry

Celtis occidentalis

Zone: 2

Size: 50’ H x 45’ W

The Common Hackberry is a native to Minnesota and simply does not get enough good publicity. Best known as an American Elm replacement, it hasn’t garnered enough credit for its own, great characteristics. As an ecosystem member, Hackberry is extremely valuable. Birds and small mammals relish its small, dark fruits which are mostly pits. These fruits taste similar to raisins, but you would need a ton of them to make a meal. Since they are both persistent and delicious, they produce no significant mess. The Hackberry tree is also a larval host for a variety of butterflies.  Extremely adaptable to a wide array of soil and environmental conditions, the Hackberry is truly a tree for the future. 

Northern Acclaim® Honeylocust

Gleditsia triacanthos ‘Harve’

Zone: 3B

Size: 45’ H x 35’ W

Introduced by N.D.S.U., this native cultivar and rugged beauty offers superior cold hardiness without the thorns. Good canker resistance is an even better reason to plant it. While you may see a pod here and there, ‘Northern Acclaim®’ is virtually seedless. This tree’s tidy, pyramidal crown of bi-pinnately compound leaves forms the perfect lacy canopy for shading decks and patios. After displaying lovely gold shades in fall, tiny leaflets nearly disappear without a trace. ‘Northern Acclaim®’ produces strong, hard wood; despite its rapid growth. Tolerant of drought and alkalinity, it’s the perfect tree for the Great Plains.  Both its characteristics and tolerances also make it a great lawn tree. Salt spray tolerant, ‘Northern Acclaim®’ can be safely planted in areas where passing vehicles may distribute some salt.

Harvest Gold Linden 

Tilia cordata x mongolica ‘Harvest Gold’

Zone: 3, 2 according to some sources

Size: 20-30’ H x 20-30’ W

This Linden has a superior form that sets it apart. Maintaining a central leader with ease, ‘Harvest Gold’s’ symmetrical branching creates a tidy, teardrop-shaped canopy. Denser than American Lindens and stronger than Littleleaf Lindens, this open-pollinated hybrid is superior. Medium-sized, heart-shaped leaves are deep green in summer and bright gold in autumn. Bark exfoliates with age, adding another dimension of interest. This scaly armor seems to resist sunscald as well.  Tiny, chartreuse flowers produce a sweet perfume in early summer that is very appealing to bees. Firm, persistent fruits (drupes) are green to tan in color and are seldom a bother. ‘Harvest Gold’ is a tough, reliable shade tree that performs best with average moisture and full sunlight. 

Blue Beech (American Hornbeam) 

Carpinus caroliniana

Zone: 3

Size: 20'-30’ H x 20'-30’ W

‘This moderately-sized, Minnesota native tree is easy to incorporate into small yards.  Due to its shade tolerance, the Blue Beech also makes an excellent understory tree for more spacious settings.  An adaptable hardwood, it will thrive almost anywhere.  While this Hornbeam prefers moist, acidic soils; it will tolerate dry, alkaline substrates.  Even wet, heavy conditions are accepted.  While the Blue Beech doesn’t produce showy flowers; chartreuse, hop-like fruits contrast beautifully with rough, serrated foliage.  Leaves are bronze as they unfurl, turning deep green in summer.  In the fall, they take on vibrant, fiery hues.  Also known as a Musclewood, the Blue Beech has very interesting branches and bark that resemble both of these common names.  Even its buds and catkins contribute appealing colors and textures.  As if that’s not enough, this little tree serves as a valuable food source for various birds and small mammals!

Dakota Pinnacle® Birch

Betula platyphylla ‘Fargo’

Zone: 3

Size: 35’ H x 15’ W

‘Dakota Pinnacle®’ has earned a great deal of respect for its cold hardiness and pest resistance. While a narrow crown is its claim to fame, densely-packed foliage generates plenty of shade. This is an excellent tree for tight, urban spaces.  In rural settings, ‘Dakota Pinnacle®’ is a great option for groupings and windbreaks.  Foliage is lustrous green during summer and glittering gold in autumn. Creamy white bark provides highlights year-round. As a young tree, ‘Dakota Pinnacle®’ tends to retain foliage all winter; adding warm, cinnamon tones to the landscape.  While this is a tough, adaptable cultivar it will perform best with organic mulch and regular water. Minimizing stress is the key to maximizing any tree’s assets.

Whitespire Birch

Betula populifolia ‘Whitespire’

Zone: 4

Size: 30’-40' H x 20'-25' W

‘While its bark isn’t as bright and shaggy as native Paper Birches, this reliable cultivar has excellent Bronze Birch Borer resistance.  Japanese Beetles also tend to avoid it.  ‘Whitespire’ is extremely adaptable.  While it prefers cool, moist soils; it acclimates to less desirable conditions once established.  Available with a single trunk or multiple stems, this tree can perform a variety of roles in the landscape.  Whether generating privacy for the patio or contributing ambiance to the front yard, ‘Whitespire’ will draw your attention. Smooth, white bark and yellow fall foliage are two of its best assets. 

River Birch     

Betula nigra

Zone: 4

Size: 50'-75'' H x 35'-50' W

‘With shaggy, multi-hued bark and stunning, gold fall color the River Birch is a welcome addition to spacious yards.  Bonus, its a Minnesota Native! This species will quickly grow into an impressive specimen when provided with ample moisture.  That said, it tolerates dry, sandy soils as well as damp, compacted ones once established. High pH soils are its only kryptonite. Bronze Birch Borers generally ignore it completely.  The River Birch has better heat tolerance than white-barked birches.  Therefore, it makes a much better focal point for open settings.  The big, beautiful River Birch contributes soothing, graceful movement to the landscape.  Choose a clump form or single stem to achieve the look and function of your choice.  Mourning Cloak butterfly larvae feed on shimmering leaves and a variety of songbirds relish its seeds. 

Red Barron Crabapple

Malus ‘Red Barron’

Zone: 4

Size: 15-18’ H x 6-8’ W

This tightly columnar Crabapple has good, overall disease resistance and considerable ornamental appeal. Deep red buds open into magenta flowers.  Leaves are purple as they unfurl, turning bronze-green at maturity.  In autumn, bright orange and red tones often appear. Maroon fruits are about a half inch in diameter. Ascending branches make ‘Red Barron’ an easy tree to mow around.  Also, a great option for planting near power lines, it has earned UtiliTrees™ status.  This is a tough, adaptable Crabapple with a utilitarian form that fits almost anywhere. Fruits are not persistent, so plant this tree where some litter is acceptable.

Pink Sparkles® Crabapple

Malus ‘Malusquest’ PP12,482

Zone: 4

Size: 12-15’ H x 10-12’ W

Crabapples have come a long way in recent years and this tree is proof of what good breeding can accomplish. A cross between ‘Prairifire’ and ‘Red Jewel’, it delivers the “WOW” factor in a tidy package. ‘Pink Sparkles®’ boasts a symmetrical, pyramidal crown of clean, disease resistant foliage. Deep rose buds open into light pink flowers with rich mauve undersides. Flowers are large and fragrant. Their overall effect makes you pause and take notice. Tiny, ruby-red fruits persist from fall until spring; deepening in color as they age. When leaves turn gold in fall, the little gems stand out dramatically.  ‘Pink Sparkles®’ is a showpiece that attracts birds, pollinators and admirers in droves.

Royal Raindrops® Crabapple

Malus ‘JFS-KW5’

Zone: 4

Size: 20’ H x 15’ W

‘Royal Raindrops®’ is the Crab that has it all! Bright pink blossoms profusely cover its pyramidal crown in spring. Branching is even and water sprouts are few.  Flowers are replaced with dissected, purple foliage that resembles that of Japanese Maples. Leaves are very resistant to disease, so they stay attractive all season. In autumn, purple shades are replaced with appealing oranges and reds.  Burgundy fruits are small, firm and persistent. Birds relish them during cold months when food is scarce. Royal Raindrops’ makes a great substitute for Royal Red Maple and is much more reliable in the landscape. This extremely adaptable tree makes a substantial statement. Large and dense enough to provide privacy, it’s a nice option for shading and screening summer hot spots. 

Starlite® Crabapple

Malus x ‘Jeflite’

Zone: 2

Size: 25’ H x 15’ W

Large, white, fragrant flowers perfume the air when ‘Starlite®’ explodes into bloom. Unlike its fruitless predecessor ‘Spring Snow’, this Crabapple resists scab; holding its leaves all summer. Fall foliage turns into lovely gold and small, shiny, red fruits contrast beautifully with their backdrop. Birds clean them up quickly after a good chill softens and sweetens them. Dense, upright, and easy to work around, ‘Starlite®’ is an easy tree to incorporate. Superior cold hardiness makes it a great option for up at the cabin. Tolerance of varying pH levels, soil types and urban conditions helps it fit in almost anywhere!

Firebird® Crabapple

Malus sargentii ‘Select A’

Zone: 4

Size: 8’ H x 10’ W

For a small tree, ‘Firebird®’ makes a big impact! Dramatic red buds open to reveal snow white flowers. Branching is quite lateral; resulting in a broad, rounded crown. Excellent disease resistance across the board results in pleasing foliage all summer. Fall brings yellow tones. Heavy crops of persistent, red, mid-sized fruits provide considerable winter interest. ‘Firebird®’ makes the perfect focal point for smaller spaces. Horizontal branching gives it a whimsical feel that adds a little magic to areas it occupies. While Crabapple flowers are fleeting, this cultivar is full of character year-round. 

Limelight Hydrangea Tree

Hydrangea paniculata ‘Limelight’

Zone: 3

Size: 8’ H x 8’ W

‘Limelight’ is likely the most well-known of the tree-form Hydrangeas. People love it for its namesake, light lime flowers. Mid-summer blooms are abundant and gigantic! They contrast nicely with their dark green canvas. As the season progresses, flowers fade and take on a light blush. Pink tones are less pronounced in this variety than many others. Like all Hydrangeas, ‘Limelight’ is salt-tolerant and adaptable. Since Panicle Hydrangeas bloom on new wood, they should be pruned in early spring before growth begins. Give this tree a decent amount of space. While ‘Limelight’ is one of the most compact tree options for our area, it grows vigorously. Cheating space limitations will lead to disappointment.

Berry White® Hydrangea Tree

Hydrangea paniculata ‘Renba’ PP28,509

Zone: 4

Size: 6-7’ H x 4-5’ W

If you are looking for a real showstopper that you can plant close to the house, this is it!  ‘Berry White®’ has a couple of features that really make it stand out from the competition. Huge, conical panicles of fluffy white florets are held stiffly upright by strong branches. These flowers won’t flop! As summer progresses, they turn deep, raspberry pink. Cut a few for the dining room table while the color is most intense! The evolving display lasts from July into fall when dry flowers continue to contribute interest. ‘Berry White®’ is a salt tolerant plant that can be used next to sidewalks and patios without concern. 

Quick Fire® Hydrangea Tree

Hydrangea paniculata ‘Bulk’

Zone: 3

Size: 8’ H x 8’ W

This nice little tree likes to get a jump on things, typically blooming before the Fourth of July. ‘Quick Fire’s’ panicles have larger individual florets and more sterile flowers than most other tree-form varieties. This gives it quite a distinct look.  Hydrangeas with this flower form are called lacecap types and they are appealing to pollinators. Flowers bloom white, gradually blushing from bright pink to rich rose. They are perfect for cutting. Don’t be afraid to take too many. Plants benefit from a good pruning annually in early spring. Burgundy fall color with gold accents is ‘Quick Fire’s®’ end of season hurrah. 

Vanilla Strawberry™ Hydrangea Tree

Hydrangea paniculata ‘Renhy’ PP20,670

Zone: 3

Size: 8’ H x 8’ W

‘Vanilla Strawberry™’ is a very well-named plant. Delicious looking white cones appear mid-summer, gradually getting their vibrant strawberry color as they mature. Branches also display red tones, accenting the flowers. Blooms are never compromised by harsh winters because they are born on new wood.  ‘Vanilla Strawberry™’ does tend to bow under the weight of its flowers a bit, but that gives it a very graceful appearance. Give it adequate space so its spreading form can be appreciated without a hassle. This tree is a lovely option for gardens and courtyards in need of a focal point. 

Dwarf Korean Lilac Tree

Syringa meyeri ‘Palibin’

Zone: 4

Size: 5-10’ H x 5-7’ W

Grafted to a Japanese Lilac trunk (or standard), this lollipop tree is really a shrub on a stick. Therefore, its height can vary slightly by supplier. The Dwarf Korean Lilac is a vigorous grower that benefits from a bit of shaping after initial bloom in May. Known for good Powdery Mildew resistance, it holds up well in the landscape.  Clean foliage emerges with a hint of bronze that reappears in autumn. Abundant, pale lavender flowers are deliciously fragrant! Butterflies and Hummingbirds flock to this little powerhouse when it’s in full production. While Dwarf Korean will periodically re-bloom, don’t expect heavy flushes. A whiff of perfume here and there is the benefit. Tolerant of drought and moderate salt accumulation, this tree appreciates moist, well-drained sites with lots of sun and good air movement.

Snowcap™ Lilac Tree

Syringa reticulata ‘Elliott’

Zone: 3

Size: 5-20’ H x 12-15’ W

‘Snowcap™’ is a heavy-blooming, compact Japanese Tree Lilac. Fragrant, fluffy panicles of cream-colored flowers capture the attention of countless admirers in June. Butterflies take notice, but deer typically don’t! Lilacs are one of the tidiest ornamental options for our area, bearing no squishy fruits. For that reason, ‘Snowcap™’ is an excellent option near decks, patios, driveways, and sidewalks.  Salt tolerance helps it thrive in the aforementioned areas. Not particular about soil make-up, pH or moisture; ‘Snowcap™’ adapts well to most locations.  Wet soil and shady conditions are its only strong dislikes.

Northern Redbud

Cercis canadensis

Zone: 4

Size: 20’ H x 30’ W

The Northern Redbud is an interesting option for ample spaces where focal points are needed. Dainty fuschia flowers set branches aglow in early spring, often preceding the Crabapples. Whether grown with single or multiple stems, Redbud forms demonstrate strength and grace. Neon blooms seem to highlight appealing, horizontal structure. Heart-shaped, deep green leaves take over the show as blossoms drop. In autumn, foliage turns a lovely yellow. This legume is a pod producer, but fruits persist and wildlife consumes them. Tolerant of partial shade, it’s a decent choice for the understory layer of yards with high canopy shade trees. However, it may be short-lived in areas of low light and high competition. Bright spots with even moisture and good drainage are where it thrives.  Some shelter is also beneficial. Locations with salt spray or accumulation should be avoided.

Royal Star Magnolia

Magnolia stellata ‘Royal Star’

Zone: 4

Size: 8-15’ H x 8-10’ W

Large, luscious, star-like flowers appear early. ‘Royal Star’ erupts in snow white blooms not long after the snow melts, signaling the arrival of warmer times.  Flowers produce an intoxicating aroma. This is ‘Royal Star’s’ “wow” period, so it should be sited with that in mind. Some evergreen companions and summer-blooming sidekicks are beneficial. During the rest of the season, foliage plays a minor role in the landscape. Subtle, bronze tones appear in fall and seed pods provide textural interest. ‘Royal Star’ can be grown as a clump or standard, yielding different effects. Best in rich soils with even moisture, it will adapt to less ideal conditions once established. Provide some protection from winter winds and late frosts for best results.

Autumn Brilliance Serviceberry

Amelanchier x grandiflora ‘Autumn Brilliance’

Zone: 4

Size: 20-25’ H x 15’ W

'Autmn Brilliance' is a cross between two native serviceberries. Available with multiple trunks or as a single specimen, it can behave like a small tree or large shrub. Clusters of bright white, five-petaled flowers bloom shortly after Forsythias. Tasty berries follow, earning this plant the common name "Juneberry". Birds, mammals, and humans relish these blueberry-like fruits, so drop is seldom an issue. Brilliant orange and red leaf pigments steal the show in the fall. Tolerant of shade, it works well along groves and borders. In tree form, 'Autumn Brilliance' is airy, permitting view through and beyond. As a clump, it is dense enough to function as a screen. Suckering may occur in clumping forms which can be a mark against form and function. 

Nannyberry Viburnum

Viburnum lentago

Zone: 2

Size: 15-20’ H x 8-10’ W

Nannyberry Viburnum is a large shrub; native to a good chunk of the northern U.S. ,including Minnesota. Trained into tree form, this plant is able to play a more focal role in the landscape. Extremely versatile, Nannyberry can handle periods of drought as well as periodic flooding. Damp, alkaline soils won’t deter it.  This species also tolerates significant shade quite well. As a Buckthorn replacement, it shows real promise. Since deer aren’t particularly fond of it, the Nannyberry makes great filler for the understory. Tightly-packed clusters of cream-colored flowers form in mid-spring. Shiny, rich green leaves form an appealing backdrop. Fleshy fruits start out green, turning red, then nearly black as they ripen. All of these colors are often displayed at once, since the drupes seldom ripen simultaneously.  Birds enjoy the berries, minimizing mess. As fall approaches, foliage turns a rich, tawny red. This functional native is actually quite pollution tolerant, making it an excellent option for naturalizing urban areas. 

SnowSweet® Apple

Malus ‘Wildung’  PP19,446

Zone: 4

Size: 12-15’ H x 10-14’ W

This delicious University of Minnesota introduction is best known for its fruits’ namesake, snow white flesh. Slow to oxidize, ‘SnowSweet®’ stays pristine when sliced for salads and hors d'oeuvres. Deliciously flavored apples are sweet, rich, and satisfying with a hint of tartness for balance. A fine texture also makes them a good option for sauces. ‘Sharon’ and ‘Connell Red’ are ‘SnowSweet’s’ parents, and their reputation precedes them. This tree is resistant to Apple Scab and Fire Blight. Blooming annually during the middle of the season, it makes a suitable partner for ‘Honeycrisp’. Bronze-red fruits cling tightly to their branches until mid-October and keep for up to two months in cold storage. 

Honeycrisp Apple

Malus ‘Honeycrisp’

Zone: 4

Size: 12-15’ H x 10-14’ W

This celebrated University of Minnesota variety is well-known all over the world. In Europe, it is referred to as ‘Honeycrunch®’. Explosively crisp and juicy with the perfect sweet/tart balance, ‘Honeycrisp’ apples bring a premium price. That has been a huge asset for local farmers and our state’s apple industry. Flowers are mid to late season bloomers, yielding fruits between mid-September and early October. These good-sized, red-streaked, gold apples keep for over seven months!  ‘Honeycrisp’ has great resistance to Apple Scab. Choose a location with good air-flow and water well when conditions are dry to reduce susceptibility to other issues. ‘Haralred’ and ‘SnowSweet’ both make good pollinators. 

KinderKrisp Apple

Malus ‘KinderKrisp’ PP25,453

Zone: 3

Size: 12-15’ H x 10-14’ W

This celebrated University of Minnesota variety is well-known all over the world. In Europe, it is referred to as ‘Honeycrunch®’. Explosively crisp and juicy with the perfect sweet/tart balance, ‘Honeycrisp’ apples bring a premium price. That has been a huge asset for local farmers and our state’s apple industry. Flowers are mid to late season bloomers, yielding fruits between mid-September and early October. These good-sized, red-streaked, gold apples keep for over seven months!  ‘Honeycrisp’ has great resistance to Apple Scab. Choose a location with good air-flow and water well when conditions are dry to reduce susceptibility to other issues. ‘Haralred’ and ‘SnowSweet’ both make good pollinators. 

Zestar!® Apple

Malus ‘Minnewashta’ PP11,367

Zone: 3

Size: 12-15’ H x 10-14’ W

This U of M release is a ‘State Fair’ cross. The result is a well-balanced, sweet/tart apple that’s described as having a “hint of brown sugar.” ‘Zestar’s’ texture is light, crisp and full of juice.  Versatile enough to eat fresh or cooked, large fruits keep for a couple of months in the fridge. This tree blooms very early!  Appealing, red-blushed fruits are ready for harvest by late August. Fruit drop typically isn’t a problem, allowing for two harvests. ‘Zestar!®’ has good Fire Blight resistance, but can get some Scab. Make sure to locate it in a sunny spot with good airflow. Pair it with ‘KinderKrisp’ for a dynamic duo.

Haralred® Apple

Malus ‘Haralred’

Zone: 3B

Size: 12-15’ H x 10-14’ W

‘Haralred®’ is a red-fruited mutation of ‘Harlason’ that was discovered at an orchard in LaCrescent, MN. ‘Honeycrisp’ works well as a pollinator, but ‘Haralson’ should be avoided. ‘Haralred®’ blooms late, typically around mid-May. Rich, red, round fruits mature in early October. Tart fruits are delicious fresh, cooked or baked, making especially beautiful pies. They work less well for sauces, holding their shapes a bit too well ‘Haralred®’ has good Fire Blight resistance. This hardy variety appeals to wildlife, making it a good choice for up at the cabin.

BlackIce® Plum

Prunus ‘Lydecker’ PP16,621

Zone: 3B

Size: 8-12’ H x 10-12’ W

This hardy plum originated at the University of Wisconsin, River Falls.  ‘BlackIce®’ is a cross between a cherry plum and a Japanese dessert plum.  This hardy hybrid produces large fruits early in the season.  Two-inch, black spheres are delicious and juicy fresh off the tree!  They are appealing to wildlife and beneficial insects as well.  Plums do have some disease susceptibility and like all fruit trees, they are best pruned annually while dormant.  Position ‘BlackIce® in a bright location with well-drained soil for best results.  ‘Toka’ makes the perfect pollinator for this self-sterile tree. 

Toka Plum

Prunus salicina ‘Toka’

Zone: 3B

Size: 15-20’ H x 15-20’ W

This superior tree was released by the South Dakota Experiment Station in 1911.  ‘Toka’ flowers very heavily, producing a ton of pollen.  For this reason, it is widely viewed as the best pollinator for our area. ‘Toka’ blooms around late April.  Large, red fruits with juicy, golden flesh ripen in late summer.  Some sources list this tree as self-fruitful, but it should be partnered with ‘BlackIce’ or another hardy plum for best results.  Abundant white flowers and an upright, vase-shape provide significant, ornamental appeal.  Blossoms are fragrant, contributing another layer of interest.