Author Archives: rdolan

As the leaves fall, it is easy to see the large fruits of several trees in our area that have reportedly lost their primary seed dispersers.  When you look at fruits from hedge-apple, honey-locust and Kentucky coffee tree, you might … Continue reading →

This has been a great year for some fall color.  Burning bush (Euonymous alatus) has been particularly spectacular.  I’ve seen some beautiful hedges as I’ve driven around town.  One near the Governor’s Mansion caught my eye this week.  Warning though … Continue reading →

As part of the construction of Butler University’s new Schrott Center for the Arts, the Clowes Hall parking lot was reconfigured. The new building followed building standards for LEED certification.  Among other “green features”, the parking lot has permeable pavement … Continue reading →

Everywhere I look this fall is golden yellow with goldenrod. All through fields alongside the interstate, in the Butler Prairie and in my home garden.  The most common goldenrod in our area is tall or Canada goldenrod, Solidago canadensis. This … Continue reading →

Oakleaf hydrangea (Hydrangea quercifolia [Quercus is the oak genus]) is native to the southeastern US, but was not found in Indiana in presettlement times.  It is well-suited to the Hoosier lifestyle, however.  Its leaves are shaped like oak leaves, and … Continue reading →

This time of year is a good time for noting individual trees in the landscape.  Their shape and growth form helps you know the history of a site.  Trees that grow in forests tend to have few outward extending lateral … Continue reading →

Traditionally the 3rd week in October is peek color time for fall foliage in our area.  Despite the unusual weather extremes this summer it seems to be true this year, too.  This is the best time of year to distinguish … Continue reading →