Sumac - Fragrant
The Fragrant Sumac, Rhus aromatica, is a small shrub, most commonly encountered on limestone uplands, occasionally on acidic sites. It occasionally reaches tree size. Fragrant sumac is a pioneer species, establishing rapidly from seed after heavy disturbance, particularly fire. Like other sumacs, it forms clonal clumps, but not as extensively as the other species. Fragrant sumac is a short-lived pioneer, which reproduces from seed or clonally via root suckers. Seed production is moderately abundant, and seeds are dispersed by birds. Lifespan is about 20-30 years, though clones can live substantially longer. Fruit is important as winter bird food. This is an Important deer browse species. The fruits, steeped in cool water, yield a refreshing drink, like lemonade. Native Americans used the bark of all sumacs as an astringent, and leaves and bark can be used for tanning leather, due to the high tannin content. ... additional info
Butterfly Bush - White The White Butterfly bush, Buddleia davidii 'Alba', is easily grown in average, medium wet, well-drained soil in full sun. This deciduous bush becomes weedy and sparse with diminished flowering performance if not grown in full sun. Does poorly in wet conditions. In USDA Zones 5 and 6, this plant will often die to the ground in winter and therefore is often grown in the manner of an herbaceous perennial. Even if plants do not die to the ground in winter, they usually grow more vigorously, produce superior flowers and maintain a better shape if cut to the ground in late winter each year. Removal of spent flower spikes during the growing season will encourage additional bloom, but consider leaving final blooms in place to facilitate reseeding.
