Improvement of Conservation trees and shrubs

Abies balsamea(L.) Mill.

Balsam fir

Origin

Native to Southern boreal forest.

Genetic Improvement and Evaluation

One accession (E5243) originating from a plantation at the Shelterbelt centre has been tested at one site in northeast Saskatchewan. Performance was rated as good at this site. Species has not been improved. Four additional sources have been obtained for testing.

Description

Large tree 15 to 20 meters. Prefers well drained loam to clay loam soils. Competitive ability is low. Lifespan is 60 to 70 years. Fully hardy (zone 1b).

Recommendation

Adapted to the aspen parkland and boreal transition ecoregions. Potential for use in forestbelts and Christmas tree plantations.

Acer ginnala Maxim

Amur maple, Ginnala maple

Origin

Introduced, native to Siberia and Northeast China.

Genetic Improvement and Evaluation

One accession (E5109) originating at the Shelterbelt Centre has been tested at 14 sites in Manitoba and Saskatchewan. One cultivar with outstanding autumn foliage colour has been selected.

Description

A small tree growing 5 to 6 meters. Prefers moist, well drained soils, but performs adequately on a wide variety of sites. Multi-stemmed with branches at or near the ground. Competitive ability is moderate. Lifespan is 40 to 50 years. Fully hardy (zone 1b).

Recommendations

Adapted to the moist mixed grassland, aspen parkland and boreal transition ecoregions. Use for farmstead and roadside shelterbelts and wildlife plantings (perching and cover).

Cultivar could be released as a clone for the ornamental trade or a seed-propagated cultivar for use in conservation plantings.

Acer negundo L.

Manitoba maple, Boxelder

Origin

Native, found in river valleys, streams, ravines and wooded valleys of the prairies.

Genetic Improvement and Evaluation

One accession (E5242) has been tested at 7 sites in Saskatchewan and Manitoba. Performance after 25 years was good at all sites. Species has not been improved.

Description

A medium size tree growing 6 to 8 meters. Prefers deep, moist soils. Can withstand some flooding. Growth rate is reduced but will tolerate drought. Generally multi-branched with 3 to 4 main stems. Competitive ability is moderate. Lifespan is 60 to 70 years. Fully hardy (zone 1a).

Recommendations

Adapted to the moist mixed grassland, aspen parkland and boreal transition ecoregions. Recommended for use in farmstead shelterbelts, forestbelts and wildlife plantings (provides cover, nesting and seeds may be eaten by birds). May be used for the production of maple syrup. Burls are used for wood-turning.

Alnus incana (L.) Moench.
Speckled alder

Origin

Native, found along streams, river valleys and moist habitats in the boreal forest and northern parklands.

Genetic Improvement and Evaluation

Accessions are being collected from native populations. The species has not been tested.

Description

A tall shrub growing 5 to 7 meters. Prefers moist sites, will not withstand drought; can tolerate periodic flooding. Grows well on a wide range of soil textures. Low shade tolerance. Fixes atmospheric nitrogen. Medium to long lifespan. Competitive ability and lifespan is unknown. Fully hardy (zone 1a).

Recommendations

Species has potential for riparian and wildlife plantings on well drained moist sites in the aspen parkland and boreal transition ecoregions. More testing is required before general recommendations can be made.

Betula pendula Roth

White birch

Origin

Introduced, native to Siberia. Native habitat is the steppes of south-central Siberia.

Genetic Improvement and Evaluation

One accession (E4553) was collected from a superior Siberian stand in 1987. The accession is currently being evaluated at test sites in Saskatchewan and Manitoba. These plantings will be used to determine soil and climatic adaptation in the prairies.

Description

A medium sized, dense tree growing 8 to 10 meters. Prefers moist, well-drained sites; cannot tolerate sustained flooding. May be multi-stemmed. Foliage is not pendular or weeping. Competitive ability is moderate. Longevity is not known. Appears to be fully hardy (zone 1b).

Recommendations

The species is widely used for multi-row field shelterbelts in Siberia. Depending on susceptibility to insects (bronze birch borer) it has potential for use in farmstead and field shelterbelts, wildlife, riparian and forestbelt plantings in the aspen parkland and boreal transition ecoregions.

The accession could be released as a seed-propagated cultivar for use in conservation or ornamental plantings.

Caragana arborescens Lam.

Caragana, Siberian peashrub

Origin

Introduced, native to Siberia. Native habitat is steppe and forest steppe of Siberia.

Genetic Improvement and Evaluation

Original hedges planted at the Shelterbelt Centre in early 1900's are still healthy. Seedlings that have originated from these hedges (E5085) have been tested extensively in all regions of the prairies and perform exceptionally well.

Description

A multi-stemmed shrub growing 6 to 7 meters. Prefers well drained sites and full sunlight. Tolerates poor, dry soils. Will not tolerate prolonged flooding. Fixes atmospheric nitrogen. Competitive ability is high. Lifespan is 60 to 70 years. Fully hardy (zone 1a).

Recommendations

Adapted to the mixed and moist mixed grasslands, aspen parkland and boreal transition ecoregions. Caragana is a valuable species for field farmstead and roadside shelterbelts and wildlife plantings. It provides excellent wind erosion control, traps snow and gives good cover for wildlife. Valued species for wood-turning.

Celtis occidentalis L.

Hackberry

Origin

Native, found along the south shore of Lake Manitoba near Delta. Native habitat is moist woods or sandy soils with high water table.

Genetic Improvement and Evaluation

The Shelterbelt Centre is testing 23 seed sources collected from native hackberry stands in Manitoba, North Dakota and South Dakota. These tests are designed to determine which sources are best adapted to the prairies. Open-pollinated seed collected from the best trees in these tests will be designated as a breeder seed source and used to grow seedlings for conservation plantings.

Description

A medium to large tree growing 9 to 11 meters on favourable soils. Grows well on moist soils or sandy soils with high water tables; tolerates high pH. Medium to long-lived. Competitive ability is moderate. Lifespan is 50 to 60 years. Fully hardy (zone 2b).

Recommendation

Adapted to the aspen parkland ecoregion of southern Manitoba. Potential for use in farmstead and field shelterbelts and wildlife habitat plantings (provides cover and fruit is eaten by songbirds).

Cornus stolonifera Michx.

Red-osier dogwood

Origin

Native, commonly found in woodlands and coulees throughout the grassland, parkland and boreal forest.

Genetic Improvement and Evaluation

One accession (E5094) has been tested at 11 sites in Manitoba and Saskatchewan. Overall performance of this accession was ranged from poor to good. Seed collection from native populations in Manitoba and Saskatchewan is under way. Superior plants selected on the basis of growth, density, disease resistance and ability to grow in open sun will be propagated.

Description

Multi-stemmed shrub growing 1 to 2 meters. Tolerates a wide range of soils; does well on moderately wet soils and tolerates some flooding. Slightly shade tolerant, prefers open sites. Withstands browsing with little loss of vigour. Competitive ability is moderate. Lifespan is 20 to 30 years. Fully hardy (zone 1a) if using regional seed sources.

Recommendations

Adapted to the moist mixed grassland, aspen parkland and boreal transition ecoregions. Use for riparian plantings (bank stabilization along streams) and wildlife habitat (cover, fruit eaten by ruffed and sharptail grouse, foliage is browsed by deer). No seed-propagated cultivars are available. Use local or regional seed for propagation as seed from non-prairie sources are not hardy.

Corylus cornuta Marsh.

Beaked hazelnut

Origin

Native, commonly found in woodlands and moist hillsides throughout the parkland and southern boreal forest.

Genetic Improvement and Evaluation

Seed collection from native stands in Manitoba and Saskatchewan is under way. Plants will be selected for propagation of genetically superior plants. This species has not been evaluated for conservation plantings in the prairies.

Description

Multi-stemmed shrub growing 3 to 5 meters. Prefers moist well-drained loam to clay loam soils, will tolerate limited flooding. Spreads by suckering. Slightly shade tolerant, prefers open sunny sites. Competitive ability and longevity are not known. Fully hardy (zone 1a).

Recommendations

Adapted to moist sites in the aspen parkland and boreal transition ecoregions. Use for agroforestry (nuts referred to as "filberts" may have commercial value), and wildlife habitat plantings (provides cover and nuts are readily eaten by squirrels, deer, grouse and pheasant). Has limited ornamental value.

No seed-propagated cultivars have been developed. Use local or regional seed sources.

Cotoneaster integerrimus Medikus

European cotoneaster

Origin

Introduced, native to Eurasia.

Genetic Improvement and Evaluation

One accession (E5129) originating from a hedge at the Shelterbelt Centre has been evaluated at 13 sites in Manitoba and Saskatchewan. Performance of the accession was good at a majority of the sites.

Description

Dense shrub 2 to 3 meters tall. Prefers deep, fine to moderately fine textured, well-drained soils, will tolerate poor soils. Moderately resistant to fire blight. Competitive ability is high. Lifespan is 30 to 40 years. Fully hardy (zone 2a).

Recommendations

Adapted to the moist mixed grassland, aspen parkland and boreal transition ecoregions. Potential use in wildlife habitat plantings (dense growth habit provides excellent cover for birds and mammals, fruit is utilized by many wildlife species).

Crataegus arnoldiana Sarge.

Arnold hawthorn

Origin

Native to eastern Canada, introduced to the Shelterbelt Centre in the 1950's.

Genetic Improvement and Evaluation

One accession (E5089) originating from a hedge at the Shelterbelt Centre has been evaluated at six sites in Manitoba and Saskatchewan. Performance of the accession was excellent at all sites. The best trees from these plantings will be vegetatively propagated and planted in a seed orchard.

Description

A tall multi-stemmed shrub growing 5 to 6 meters tall. Prefers deep loam to clay loam soils, will tolerate poor soils. Prefers open sun, tolerates some shade. Competitive ability is high. Lifespan is 40 to 50 years. Fully hardy (zone 2a).

Recommendations

Adapted to the moist mixed grassland, aspen parkland and boreal transition ecoregions. Recommended for use in farmstead and roadside belts and wildlife habitat plantings (provides excellent cover for birds and mammals, fruit is utilized by many species).

Recommend release as a seed-propagated cultivar for use in conservation plantings.

Crataegus rotundifolia Moench

Round-leaved hawthorn

Origin

Native, found in coulees, streambanks and open woods throughout the prairies.

Genetic Improvement and Evaluation

Seed collection from native stands in Manitoba and Saskatchewan is under way. To date 66 accessions have been collected. Seedlings from these accessions will be planted at various locations to determine adaptability to soil and climatic conditions. Superior plants will be selected for production of seed-propagated cultivars.

Description

A round topped shrub 1 to 3 meters tall with stout thorns on the stems and branches. Produces large quantities of berry-like fruit. Prefers loam to clay loam soils, will tolerate poor soils. Prefers open sun, tolerates some shade. Competitive ability and lifespan are not known. Fully hardy (zone 1b).

Recommendations

Adapted to the mixed and moist mixed grasslands, aspen parkland and boreal transition ecoregions. Potential for use in wildlife habitat plantings (provides dense cover and food for many species). Use local or regional seed sources.

Elaeagnus angustifolia L.

Russian olive

Origin

Introduced, native to Eurasia.

Genetic Improvement and Evaluation

One accession originating from a hedge at the Shelterbelt Centre has been evaluated at 23 sites in Manitoba and Saskatchewan. Performance at these sites showed a steady decline after 10 years.

Description

A small tree growing 5 to 6 meters. Grows in a wide range of soils, tolerates poor, dry alkaline or saline soils. Prefers a well drained site with high water table. Grows best in full sun. Fixes atmospheric nitrogen. Competitive ability is high. Lifespan is 20 to 30 years. Fully hardy (zone 2b).

Recommendations

Recommended for reclamation and wildlife habitat plantings (provides cover and fruit is eaten by many species of birds). Valued for wood-turning. Naturalization has been a problem in some areas where seeds are spread by birds. Hardiness and dieback limit the usefulness of this species. Adapted to the mixed and moist mixed grasslands and aspen parkland. ecoregions.

Elaeagnus commutata Bernh.

Wolf-willow, Silverberry

Origin

Native, found throughout grasslands and parkland.

No accessions have been evaluated. Native seed collected from local stands are used for propagation. Seed collection from native populations is under way.

Description

Thicket forming shrub growing 2 to 5 meters. Grows in a wide range of soils, prefers moist, well-drained, light textured soils. Will tolerate drought. Moderate salinity tolerance. Fixes atmospheric nitrogen. Prefers open sun, does not tolerate shade. Competitive ability is moderate. Lifespan is 30 to 40 years. Fully hardy (zone 1b).

Recommendations

Adapted to the mixed and moist mixed grassland and aspen parkland ecoregions. Recommended for reclamation (erosion control) and wildlife habitat planting (cover, limited food value).

Euonymus bungeanus Maxim.

Winterberry euonymus

Origin

Introduced, native to grasslands of Northeast China.

Genetic Improvement and Evaluation

One accession (E4684) was collected in 1990 from several plants growing in sand hills near Hailar, Inner Mongolia. The accession is being propagated for evaluation under prairie conditions.

Description

Deciduous shrub with a mature height of 3 to 4 meters. Usually multi-stemmed at or near the base. Grows in a wide range of soils, prefers light textured soils with high water table. Fruit persists well into winter. Hardiness unknown (probably zone 2).

Recommendations

Potential for use in wildlife plantings on sandy sites. May be adapted to the mixed and moist mixed grassland and aspen parkland ecoregions. More information is required before the accession can be released.

Fraxinus pennsylvanica Marsh.

Green ash

Origin

Native, found in river valleys, streams, ravines and woodlands of the parklands.

Genetic Improvement and Evaluation

One accession (E5081) has been evaluated at 11 locations in Manitoba and Saskatchewan. A total of 119 seed sources have been collected from native stands in Manitoba, Saskatchewan, North Dakota and South Dakota. A grafted seed orchard of superior green ash trees was established in 1987. Seed will be available from this orchard beginning 1996 or 1997.

Description

A medium sized tree, growing 10 to 12 meters on favourable soils. Prefers deep, moist, medium to fine-textured soils; growth is reduced on light-textured soils or dry site; tolerates limited flooding. Grows best in full sun, does not tolerate shade. Some dieback is possible following wet growing seasons. Competitive ability is moderate. Lifespan is 60 to 70 years. Fully hardy (zone 1b).

Recommendations

Adapted to the mixed and moist mixed grassland (heavy textured soils), aspen parkland and boreal transition ecoregions. Used for farmstead, field and roadside shelterbelts, forestbelt and wildlife plantings (cover and perching). Valued for hardwood lumber production.

Superior seed sources have been identified for drought tolerance and growth.

Halimodendron halodendron (Pall.) Voss

Siberian salt tree

Origin

Introduced, native to saline plains of Siberia.

Genetic Improvement and Evaluation

Two accessions (E4453 and E4563) obtained from the Alberta Special Crops and Horticultural Centre at Brooks, Alberta are being propagated for testing on the prairies.

Description

Shrub growing to 2 meters. Will grow in dry, saline soils. A member of the legume family it can fix atmospheric nitrogen. Shrub suckers profusely limiting its usefulness as an ornamental. Competitive ability is high. Hardiness has not been determined (probably zone 2a).

Recommendations

Potential for use in wildlife and reclamation plantings especially on saline sites. May be adapted to the mixed and moist mixed grassland and aspen parkland ecoregions. Intense suckering nature of root system may affect suitability for farmsteads. More information is required before the accession can be released.

Hippophae rhamnoides L.

Sea-buckthorn

Origin

Introduced, native to steppes of Eurasia.

Genetic Improvement and Evaluation

One accession (E5098) originating from a hedge at the Shelterbelt Centre has been evaluated at 14 sites in Manitoba and Saskatchewan. Performance of the accession was good at a majority of the sites. Accessions obtained from native trees in Inner Mongolia and Russia are being propagated for evaluation. Fifthteen superior fruiting clones have been selected from shelterbelts and are being vegetatively propagated. Six German clones are being tested for hardiness and fruit production under prairie conditions.

Description

Thorny shrub growing to 4 meters. Will grow in dry, poor soils. Fixes atmospheric nitrogen. Prefers deep light to medium textured soils, can tolerate some salinity. The flowers are dioecious, require male and female plants for fruit production. Plants have a tendency to sucker. Fruit persists all winter. Competitive ability is moderate. Lifespan is 30 to 40 years. Fully hardy (zone 1b).

Recommendations

Recommended for farmstead, reclamation and wildlife habitat plantings. The species provides valuable cover and the fruit is eaten by winter birds (ie. chickadees). Selected cultivars have potential for fruit production. Adapted to the mixed and moist mixed grassland, parkland and boreal transition ecoregions.

Larix decidua Mill.

European larch

Origin

Introduced, native to forest regions of Europe.

Genetic Improvement and Evaluation

One accession (E5115), originating from a 1908 plantation at the Shelterbelt Centre, has been evaluated at one site near Carrot River, Saskatchewan. Performance of European larch was acceptable but inferior to Siberian larch.

Description

A tree growing 12 to 14 meters. Similar to Siberian larch except needles are retained until late fall. Prefers moist, deep medium textured soils. Competitive ability is low. Lifespan is 60 to 70 years. Fully hardy (zone 2b).

Recommendations

Siberian larch is preferred for most sites. May have potential for ornamental plantings where later defoliation is important.

Larix gmelinii (Rupr.) Rupr. ex Kuzen

Dahurian larch

Origin

Introduced, native to eastern Siberia and northeast China.

Genetic Improvement and Evaluation

Three accessions were collected from native stands in 1990. The accessions are being evaluated in southern Manitoba. Early results indicate performance of Dahurian larch is inferior to Siberian larch.

Description

A tree growing 12 to 15 meters. Crown is more slender than Siberian larch and needles are retained until late fall. Prefers moist, light to medium textured soils. Competitive ability is low. Lifespan is not known. Fully hardy (zone 2a).

Recommendations

Potential for use in forest belt plantings. May be adapted to the aspen parkland and boreal transition ecoregions. More information is required.

Larix sibirica Ledeb.

Siberian larch

Origin

Introduced, native to forest steppe regions of central and eastern Siberia.

Genetic Improvement and Evaluation

Seedlings originating from the Ural mountains were planted at the Shelterbelt Centre in 1908. Progeny from this plantation have been evaluated in shelterbelts for 25 years. Performance of this tree has been fair to good. Twenty-nine superior trees have been selected from shelterbelts at the Shelterbelt Centre. Seed from these trees have been bulked and tested as accession No. E5100. Performance of these trees has been excellent. Over 50 seed sources collected in 1985 are being evaluated.

Description

A tree growing to 15 meters. Prefers deep, moist, medium textured soils with high water tables. Will not tolerate dry, light textured soils. Tap root system can utilize ground water under suitable soil conditions. Needles appear in early spring but defoliate one to two weeks earlier than other larch species. Competitive ability is low to moderate. Lifespan is 60 to 70 years. Fully hardy (zone 1b).

Recommendations

Adapted to aspen parkland boreal transition ecoregions. Used for farmstead and field shelterbelts and forest belts. One seed-propagated cultivar 'Lindquist' (E5100) has been developed for release.

Lonicera maackii (Rupr.) Maxim.

Amur honeysuckle

Origin

Introduced, native to northern China.

Genetic Improvement and Evaluation

Two accessions are being evaluated; one is a seed-propagated cultivar from Bismarck (E4564), the other was collected from native shrubs in northeast china (E4685). Both accessions are being propagated for evaluation under prairie conditions.

Description

A multi-stemmed shrub growing 3 to 4 meters. Grows well on a variety of soils, tolerates somewhat poorly drained soils. Requires full sun or partial shade. Moderately resistant to honeysuckle aphid. Competitive ability is moderate. Lifespan is 30 to 40 years. Fully hardy (zone 2b).

Recommendations

Potential for use in farmstead shelterbelts and wildlife habitat plantings. Fruit is eaten by many birds; dense foliage is used as cover by animals. May be adapted to the aspen parkland ecoregion. More information is required before species can be recommended.

Lonicera tatarica L.

Tatarian honeysuckle

Origin

Introduced, native to southern Russia.

Genetic Improvement and Evaluation

One accession (E5102) originating from hedges growing at the Shelterbelt Centre has been tested at 17 sites in Manitoba and Saskatchewan. Early performance was rated good. After twenty years most plants had survived but had poor form and were infested with the honeysuckle aphid.

Description

A multi-stemmed shrub growing 2 to 3 meters. Grows well on many soils. Will tolerate partial shade. Highly susceptible to honeysuckle aphid. Competitive ability is moderate to high. Lifespan is 15 to 20 years. Fully hardy (zone 1b).

Recommendations

Not recommended for planting due to susceptibility to honeysuckle aphid.

Malus baccata (L.) Borkh.

Siberian crabapple

Origin

Introduced, native to eastern Siberia.

Genetic Improvement and Development

One accession (E5078) originating from Shelterbelt Centre hedges has been evaluated at three test sites in Saskatchewan. Overall survival was poor at all sites, however remaining trees were in good condition. One vegetatively propagated cultivar has been selected for release.

Description

A multi-stemmed small tree growing to 6 meters. Adapted to a wide range of soil types. Prefers full sun. Susceptible to iron chlorosis on high pH, heavy textured soils. Susceptible to fire blight. Fruit hangs on well into winter. Competitive ability is moderate. Lifespan is 30 to 40 years. Fully hardy (zone 2a).

Recommendations

Adapted to the moist mixed grassland, aspen parkland and boreal transition ecoregions. Recommended for use in field shelterbelt and wildlife habitat plantings (cover, fruit eaten by winter birds). No seed-propagated cultivars have been released.

Malus baccata var. Mandshurica (Maxim.) Schneid.

Manchurian crabapple

Origin

Introduced, native to northeast China.

Genetic Improvement and Development

One accession (E5137) has been tested at 8 sites in Manitoba and Saskatchewan. This accession originates from trees located at the Shelterbelt Centre. Performance of the trees has been excellent, especially at the Manitoba sites. The best trees from these plantings will be vegetatively propagated and planted in a seed orchard for the production of select seed.

Description

A medium sized, multi-stemmed tree growing 6 to 7 meters after 25 years. Variety differs from Siberian crab in leaf shape, fruit size and is slightly less susceptible to fire blight. Adapted to a wide range of soil types, prefers deep, moist, medium textured soils. Best growth occurs on open, sunny sites. Susceptible to iron chlorosis on heavy textured, high pH soils. Fruit persists throughout winter months. Competitive ability is moderate. Lifespan is 40 to 50 years. Fully hardy (zone 2a).

Recommendations

Adapted to the moist mixed grassland aspen parkland and boreal transition ecoregions. Recommended for use in field shelterbelts and wildlife habitat plantings (provides cover and fruit is utilized by winter birds. Recommend release as a seed-propagated cultivar for use in conservation plantings.

Malus pumila var. Niedzwetzkyana Dieck.

Niedzwetzkyana crabapple

Origin

Introduced, native southern Eurasia.

Genetic Improvement and Development

One accession (E5171) has been tested at 11 sites in Saskatchewan over the past 30 years. Performance has been below average at a majority of sites.

Description

A small multi-stemmed tree growing to 5 meters after 25 years. Prefers deep, moist, medium textured soils in full sunlight. Leaves have dark red veins. Susceptible to fire blight.

Recommendations

Not recommended for planting, inferior performance when compared to Manchurian and Siberian crabapple.

Pinus ponderosa Dougl.

Ponderosa pine

Origin

Native, found in southern Rocky mountains (Alberta) and central Great Plains of United States.

Genetic Improvement and Development

A range wide provenance test was established at Indian Head in 1969. Results indicated that trees originating from Valentine and Ainsworth, Nebraska and Rosebud, South Dakota were well adapted to the Canadian prairies. Progeny testing of selected trees from these sources is underway. Several outstanding individual trees with superior growth and minimal winter browning have been selected.

Description

A coniferous tree growing to 10 meters after 25 years. Adapted to a wide range of soil types, can tolerate dry, light textured soils. Needles 6 to 9 cm long in clusters of two or three. Slower growing and more difficult to establish than Scots pine. Moderately susceptible to winter browning. Competitive ability is low. Lifespan is 30 to 40 years. Fully hardy (zone 2b).

Recommendations

Adapted to the moist mixed grassland and aspen parkland ecoregions. Potential for use in farmstead shelterbelts, agroforestry and wildlife habitat planting (provides thermal cover and food for birds and mammals). Use seed originating from the Indian Head seed orchard.

Pinus sibirica Du Tour

Siberian pine

Origin

Introduced, native to central and eastern Siberia.

Genetic Improvement and Development

Eight accessions have been obtained from native stands in Siberia. Evaluation was initiated in 1991. Early results indicate the species is much slower growing than Scots pine.

Description

A slow growing conifer growing to 15 meters. Prefers moist, medium textured soils, will not tolerate dry conditions. Needles are in clusters of five. Competitive ability is low. Lifespan is 60 to 70 years. Hardiness and adaptability to prairie conditions has not been determined, however suspect the species is fully hardy to zone 2a.

Recommendations

Because of slow growth it has limited potential for shelterbelts, may have some use in agroforestry as it produces large edible seeds (nuts). The seeds have a good flavour and are commonly eaten in Siberia. Adaptation to prairie ecoregions has not been determined.

Pinus resinosa Ait.

Red pine

Origin

Native, found in southeastern boreal forest of Manitoba.

Genetic Improvement and Evaluation

Three accessions have been obtained for testing. Species has had limited evaluation under prairie conditions.

Description

A coniferous tree growing to 20 meters on favourable sites. Prefers well-drained, moist, light textured soils. Does not tolerate prolonged drought. Competitive ability is low. Lifespan is 50 to 60 years. Fully hardy (zone 2b).

Recommendations

Adaptation to prairie ecoregions has not been determined. Potential for use in farmstead and field shelterbelts and wildlife habitat plantings in southern Manitoba.

Pinus sylvestris L.

Scots pine

Origin

Introduced, native to Europe and Asia.

Genetic Improvement and Evaluation

Provenance tests of Russian seed sources were planted in 1962. Selections made from this population have been used in a breeding program to develop, hardy, fast growing trees with minimal winter drop and good needle retention. Progeny from these trees have proven to be superior and better adapted to prairie conditions than previous sources. These trees have been planted in a grafted seed orchard. A superior vegetatively propagated cultivar Wintergreen has been selected for release as an ornamental.

Description

A tall tree growing 25 to 30 meters on favourable sites. Prefers well drained, moist sites; best growth occurs on light to medium textured soils. Improved source is moderately resistant to winter browning and has superior needle retention (three years or more). Competitive ability is low. Lifespan 60-70 years. Fully hardy (zone 1b).

Recommendations

Adapted to the mixed and moist mixed grassland, aspen parkland and boreal transition ecoregions. Recommended for farmstead, field and forestbelts, and wildlife habitat plantings (thermal cover and perching). Scots pine is a valuable Christmas tree species. Recommend release as a seed-propagated cultivar for conservation planting.

Pinus sylvestris L. var. Mongolica

Mongolian pine

Origin

Introduced, native to forests and sand dunes of northeast China and Inner Mongolia.

Genetic Improvement and Evaluation

Thirty-nine accessions of Mongolia pine are being propagated for evaluation on the Canadian plains. The accessions were collected from native stands of Mongolian pine in Heilongjiang province and Inner Mongolia, China. Several of the sources originate from dry steppe regions.

Description

A tall tree growing to 20 meters on favourable sites. Similar to Scots pine except has a broader crown and yellow green foliage colour. Grows well on light textured soils especially in areas with high water table. Can withstand sustained periods of drought. Competitive ability is low. Lifespan 60 to 70 years. Fully hardy (zone 1b).

Recommendations

Adaptation to prairie ecoregions has not been determined. Potential for use in farmstead and field shelterbelts (especially in drought prone areas) forest belts and wildlife habitat planting (thermal cover and perching).

Populus x deltoides Bartr. 'Assiniboine'

Assiniboine poplar

Origin

Native, river valleys and sandhills

Genetic Improvement and Evaluation

Open-pollinated seedlings collected from Walker poplar trees at the Shelterbelt Centre were grown in a hedge. In 1982 a single tree was selected from this hedge on the basis of rapid growth, insect and disease resistance and narrow crown form. This clone had been tested throughout the prairies and has proven to well adapted to this region. Assiniboine poplar was released for distribution in 1989.

Description

A tall male tree growing 13 meters after 20 years. It has a narrow upright crown with branches angled sharply upwards. Best growth occurs on moist, medium-textured soils. Flushes in mid to late April and defoliates late in mid September. Lifespan is 30 to 40 years. Assiniboine poplar has shown good resistance to poplar bud gall mite and canker disease. Competitive ability is moderate. Fully hardy (zone 1b).

Recommendations

Adapted to the mixed and moist mixed grassland, aspen parkland and boreal transition ecoregions. Recommended for planting in forestbelts and farmstead shelterbelts. May have potential for fuelwood, pulp and/or oriented strand board (OSB) production.

Populus x deltoides Bartr. 'Manitou'

Manitou poplar

Origin

Native, river valleys and sandhills

Genetic Improvement and Evaluation

Open pollinated seedlings collected from Walker poplar trees at the Shelterbelt Centre were grown in a hedge. In 1982 a single tree was selected from this hedge on the basis of rapid growth, insect and disease resistance and broad crown development. This clone had been tested throughout the prairies and has proven to be well adapted to this region. Manitou poplar was released in 1992.

Description

A tall male tree growing 13 meters after 20 years. It has a broad crown and is heavily branched. Best growth occurs on moist, medium-textured soils. Flushes in mid to late April and defoliates late in mid September. Lifespan is 30 to 40 years. Manitou poplar has shown good resistance to poplar bud gall mite and canker disease. Competitive ability is moderate. Medium lifespan, fully hardy (zone 1b).

Recommendations

Adapted to the mixed and moist mixed grassland, aspen parkland and boreal transition ecoregions. Recommended for planting in forestbelts and farmstead shelterbelts. Suitable for park and amenity plantings.

Populus x deltoides Bartr. 'Walker'

Walker poplar

Origin

Native, river valleys and sandhills

Genetic Improvement and Evaluation

Open pollinated seedlings collected from cottonwood trees at the Shelterbelt Centre were grown in a hedge. In 1944 a single tree was selected from this hedge on the basis of rapid growth, and narrow crown form. This clone had been extensively tested throughout the prairies and has proven to one of the best poplars for this region. Walker poplar has been widely used for shelterbelt plantings in the prairies since 1963.

Description

A tall female tree growing 15 to 20 meters. It has a narrow upright crown with branches angled sharply upwards. Best growth occurs on moist, medium-textured soils. Flushes in late spring and defoliates late in autumn. Lifespan is 30 to 40 years. Competitive ability is moderate. Fully hardy (zone 2a).

Recommendations

Adapted to the mixed and moist mixed grassland, aspen parkland and boreal transition ecoregions. Recommended for planting in forestbelts and farmstead shelterbelts. May have potential for fuelwood, pulp and/or oriented strand board (OSB) production.

Prinsepia sinensis D.Oliver ex Bean

Prinsepian cherry

Origin

Introduced, native to northeast China.

Genetic Improvement and Evaluation

One accession (E5131) originating from a hedge at the Shelterbelt Centre has been evaluated at 10 sites in Manitoba and Saskatchewan. Survival and performance was average at a majority of the sites.

Description

A medium, spiny shrub growing 1.5 to 2 meters. Adapted to a wide range of soils, prefers deep, moist medium-textured sites. Not a good competitor, needs to be kept weed-free. Leaves emerge early spring. Competitive ability is low. Lifespan is 30 to 40 years. Fully hardy (zone 2a).

Recommendations

Adapted to the aspen parkland and boreal transition ecoregion. Potential for use in wildlife habitat plantings (cover and food). Intensive weed control requirements limits use of the species in conservation plantings.

Prunus americana Marsh.

American plum

Origin

Native, found in moist woods and along riverbanks in the southeastern parklands and boreal forest (Manitoba).

Genetic Improvement and Evaluation

One accession (E5125) has been tested at 13 sites in Manitoba and Saskatchewan. Survival and plant condition was good at the Manitoba sites after 25 years. The best of these trees have been selected for seed collection and potential release as a seed-propagated cultivar. Seed collection from native populations is under way.

Description

A small tree or shrub growing 2 to 8 meters. Prefers deep, moist soils. Fruit is 2.0 to 2.5 cm in diameter and edible. Competitive ability is moderate. Lifespan is 30 to 40 years. Fully hardy (zone 2b).

Recommendations

Adapted to the aspen parkland ecoregion. Potential for use in wildlife habitat plantings (cover and food). Could be released as a seed-propagated cultivar for conservation planting.

Prunus besseyi L. H. Bailey.

Western sand cherry

Origin

Native, found in southern Manitoba and southeast Saskatchewan.

Genetic Improvement and Evaluation

One accession (E5172) has been evaluated at Aberdeen, Saskatchewan. Survival and performance was poor. Seed collections from native populations is under way.

Description

A small shrub growing to 1 meter. Prefers deep, moist soils; will tolerate some drought. Grows best in full sun. Competitive ability is low. Lifespan is 20 to 30 years. Fully hardy (zone 2b).

Recommendations

May be adapted to the aspen parkland ecoregion. Potential for use in wildlife habitat plantings (cover and food). More information is required before specific recommendations can be made.

Prunus fruticosa Pallas

Mongolian cherry

Origin

Introduced, native to Siberia and Mongolia.

Genetic Improvement and Evaluation

One accession (E5126) has been evaluated at four sites in Saskatchewan. Survival was poor at all of the sites. Several accessions with superior fruiting characteristics have been obtained for testing.

Description

A small, strongly suckering shrub growing to 1.5 meters. Adapted to a wide range of soils. Prefers full sun. Capable of producing quantities of edible fruit. Competitive ability is low. Lifespan is 20 to 30 years. Fully hardy (zone 2b).

Recommendations

May be adapted to the moist mixed grassland and aspen parkland ecoregions. Potential for use in wildlife habitat plantings (cover and food), forest belts and fruit orchards. Suckers profusely which limits its usefulness as an ornamental.

Prunus maackii Rupr.

Amur cherry

Origin

Introduced, native to northeast China.

Genetic Improvement and Evaluation

One accession (E5138) has been evaluated at five sites in Manitoba and Saskatchewan. Survival was poor at all sites, however remaining trees were generally in good condition. The best of the these trees have been selected for seed collection and potential release as a seed-propagated cultivar.

Description

A small tree growing 8 meters after 25 years. Grows on a wide range of soils but is susceptible to iron chlorosis on heavy-textured high pH soils. Susceptible to shoestring fungus (Armellaria meallia) which can significantly reduce its lifespan. Competitive ability is moderate. Lifespan is 30 to 40 years. Fully hardy (zone 2b).

Recommendations

Adapted to the aspen parkland ecoregion. Potential for use in farmstead, forestbelts and wildlife habitat plantings (cover, perching and food). Could be released as a seed-propagated cultivar for use in conservation and/or ornamental plantings.

Prunus nigra Ait.

Canada plum

Origin

Native, found in woodlands and bluffs in the parklands and boreal forest of Manitoba and southeast Saskatchewan.

Genetic Improvement and Evaluation

This species has not been tested for conservation plantings. Collections from native populations are under way.

Description

A medium shrub growing to 6 meters after 25 years. Prefers moist, medium to heavy-textured soils. Fruit is 2 to 2.5 cm in diameter and edible. Competitive ability is low. Lifespan is 30 to 40 years. Fully hardy (zone 2b).

Recommendations

Adaptation not yet determined, may be suited to the aspen parkland ecoregion. Potential for use in wildlife habitat plantings (cover and food). More information is required before specific recommendations can be made.

Prunus padus L. var. commutata Dipp.

Mayday

Origin

Introduced, native to eastern Asia.

Genetic Improvement and Evaluation

One accession (E5110) has been evaluated at 14 sites in Manitoba and Saskatchewan. Survival was poor at all sites and remaining trees were severely infected with black knot fungus. Collections from native trees in Northeast China were made in 1990.

Description

A tall, multi-stemmed shrub growing 4 to 5 meters. Prefers moist, medium-textured soils. Very susceptible to black knot fungus. Competitive ability is moderate. Lifespan is 20 to 30 years. Fully hardy (zone 2a).

Recommendations

Because of susceptibility to black knot species is not recommended.

Prunus pensylvanica L.f.

Pin cherry

Origin

Native, found in bluffs, open woods and ravines in the parklands of Manitoba and Saskatchewan.

Genetic Improvement and Evaluation

This species has not been evaluated for conservation planting. Seed collection from native populations is under way.

Description

A large shrub growing 2 to 6 meters. Prefers moist, medium to heavy-textured soils. Does not tolerate drought. Best growth occurs in full sun. Competitive ability is low. Lifespan is 40 to 50 years. Fully hardy (zone 1b).

Recommendations

Adapted to the aspen parkland and boreal transition ecoregions. Potential for use in forestbelts and wildlife habitat plants (cover and food). More information is required before specific recommendations can be made.

Prunus tomentosa Thunb.

Nanking cherry

Origin

Introduced, native to eastern Asia.

Genetic Improvement and Evaluation

One accession (E5106) has been evaluated at 18 sites in Manitoba and Saskatchewan. Survival and performance has been poor at a majority of the test sites.

Description

A small shrub growing to 2 meters. Requires moist, medium-textured soils. Best growth occurs in full sun. Competitive ability is low. Lifespan is 15 to 25 years. Fully hardy (zone 3a).

Recommendations

Not recommended for conservation plantings. Potential for use in fruit orchards. Fruit is eaten by numerous birds.

Prunus virginiana L. var. Melanocarpa (A. Nels.)

Black-fruited choke cherry

Origin

Native, commonly found in bluffs, ravines, sand hills and open woodlands throughout the prairies.

Genetic Improvement and Evaluation

One accession (E5087) has been tested at 21 sites in Manitoba and Saskatchewan. Survival and performance of accession has been excellent at a majority of the sites. In 1993 and 1994, seed was collected from 160 native populations (many of the accessions were identified as having superior fruit characteristics). The accessions will be evaluated at locations in Manitoba and Saskatchewan. These populations will serve as a gene pool for selection of superior choke cherry. Superior fruiting choke cherries selections are being micropropagated for potential release as cultivars.

Description

A medium to tall shrub growing 5 to 6 meters tall. Prefers moderately well drained sites. Grows well on a wide range of soil textures. Slightly shade tolerant, prefers open sites. Plants will sucker. Competitive ability is high Lifespan is 50 to 60 years. Fully hardy (zone 1b).

Recommendations

Adapted to the mixed and moist mixed grassland, aspen parkland and boreal transition ecoregions. Recommended for shelterbelts, forestbelt, riparian and wildlife habitat plantings.

Pyrus ussuriensis Maxim.

Ussurian pear

Origin

Introduced, native to northeast China and eastern Siberia.

Genetic Improvement and Evaluation

One accession (E5709) has been tested at three sites in Saskatchewan. Survival and performance was good at all sites. The accession originated from several trees growing at the Shelterbelt Centre. The original seed was obtained from Harbin, China via the Morden Research Station. The original trees at the Centre could potentially be used as a source of breeder seed.

Description

A small to medium-sized tree growing 6 to 7 meters. Grows in a wide range of soils but prefers deep, moist medium-textured soils. On heavy-textured, high ph soils it is very susceptible to iron chlorosis. Competitive ability is moderate. Lifespan is 40 to 50 years. Fully hardy (zone 2a).

Recommendations

Adapted to the aspen parkland and boreal transition ecoregions. Recommended for use in wildlife habitat plantings (provides perching, cover and food for birds and mammals). Potential for use in farmstead and field shelterbelts and forestbelts.

Recommend release as a seed-propagated cultivar for use in conservation plantings.

Quercus macrocarpa Michx.

Bur oak

Origin

Native, commonly found throughout the parklands of Manitoba, in Saskatchewan found in the Qu'Apelle Valley (east of Crooked Lake) and tributaries of the Assiniboine River.

Genetic Improvement and Evaluation

One accession has been tested at four sites in Saskatchewan. Performance of this accession was poor at all sites. A total of 60 seed sources have been collected from native stands in Manitoba, Saskatchewan and the northern United States. These sources are being tested to determine which are best adapted to the soil and climatic conditions of the prairies.

Description

A medium-sized tree growing 10 to 15 meters on favourable soils. Grows on dry uplands as well as moist floodplains. Best growth occurs on deep, moist, medium-textured soils. Strong taproot which can access ground water in favourable soils. Competitive ability is moderate. Lifespan is 60 to 70 years. Fully hardy (zone 2a).

Recommendations

Adapted to the aspen parkland ecoregion. Potential for use in farmstead and field shelterbelts, forestbelt and wildlife habitat plantings (cover, perching, acorns eaten by deer, blue jays, grouse, wild turkey and wood ducks).

Quercus mongolica Fisch. ex Turcz.

Mongolian oak

Origin

Introduced, native to forests of northeast China and Inner Mongolia.

Genetic Improvement and Evaluation

Four accessions were collected from native populations in forests near Zalantun, Inner Mongolia and Hailar, Heilongjiang province in 1990. The Zalantun sources were small trees growing on dry southern slopes, whereas the Hailar sources were large trees growing in a forest environment. The accessions are being propagated for evaluation under prairie conditions.

Description

A small to medium-sized tree growing 6 to 12 meters depending on source and growing conditions. Grows on a wide range of soils but prefers deep medium-textured soils. Some sources have exceptional drought tolerance. Lifespan is 50 to 60 years. Hardiness has not been assessed (probably zone 3).

Recommendations

Potential for use in farmstead and field shelterbelts, forest belts and wildlife habitat plantings. Mongolian oak is an important component of the silk industry in China (leaves are a food source for tussah moth larvae). More information is required before specific recommendations can be made.

Ribes aureum Pursh

Golden currant

Origin

Native, found on southern slopes of the Cypress Hills.

Genetic Improvement and Evaluation

One accession (E4562) was collected from hedges near Volgograd in 1987. This accession has been tested at Indian head and Portage La Prairie. Performance at both sites has been excellent.

Description

A medium-sized shrub growing 2 to 3 meters. Tolerates a wide range of soil conditions and has excellent drought tolerance. Competitive ability is moderate. Appears to be fully hardy (zone 2a).

Recommendations

This species is used extensively in multi-row shelterbelts in Russia. The fruit is edible and widely used by Russian farmers. Potential for use in farmstead shelterbelts, agroforestry and wildlife habitat plantings in the mixed and moist mixed grassland and aspen parkland ecoregions. Drought tolerance of the species and fruit production are valuable assets of the species.

Rosa spp.

Hedge rose

Origin

Origin is unknown.

Genetic Improvement and Evaluation

One accession (E5080) selected and developed at the Shelterbelt Centre has been tested at 15 sites in Saskatchewan and Manitoba. Survival and performance after 25 years has been good at a majority of the sites. The location of the original hedge is not known, however there are hedges consisting of F1 progeny at the Shelterbelt Centre.

Description

A medium shrub growing 1.5 to 2.5 meters. Adapted to a wide variety of soils. Will grow on dry to mesic sites. Has deep, woody roots with many suckers. Competitive ability is high. Lifespan is 30 to 40 years. Fully hardy (zone 2a).

Recommendations

Adapted to the mixed and moist mixed grassland, aspen parkland and boreal transition ecoregions. Recommended for use in reclamation and wildlife habitat plantings (cover and fruit is eaten by many animals and birds).

Recommend release as a seed-propagated cultivar for use in conservation plantings.

Rosa acicularis Lindl.

Prickly rose

Origin

Native, commonly found in bluffs, around woods, in fields, and along roadsides throughout the prairies.

Genetic Improvement and Evaluation

No accessions have been tested. Seed collection from native stands in Manitoba and Saskatchewan is under way. To date, 31 accessions have been collected. Seedlings from these and additional accessions will be planted at various locations to determine adaptability to soil and climatic conditions.

Description

A small shrub growing 0.3 to 1.2 meters. Adapted to a wide range of soils. Grows in mesic to dry, shady sites. Has deep, woody roots with many suckers. Stems are densely covered with straight weak bristles. Competitive ability is high. Lifespan is 30 to 40 years. Fully hardy (zone 1b).

Recommendations

Adapted to the mixed and moist mixed grassland, aspen parkland and boreal transition ecoregions. Potential for use in reclamation and wildlife habitat plantings (cover and food for animals and birds).

Rosa woodsii Lindl.

Wood's rose

Origin

Native, found on moist prairie, sandhills, bluffs, coulees, thickets and ravines.

Genetic Improvement and Evaluation

No accessions have been tested. Seed collection from native populations in Manitoba and Saskatchewan is under way. To date, 168 accessions have been collected. Seedlings from these accessions will be planted at various locations to determine adaptability to soil and climatic conditions. Superior plants will be selected for production of seed-propagated cultivars.

Description

A medium shrub growing 0.5 to 2.0 meters. Prefers moist, light-textured soils. Grows in mesic to moist conditions. Prefers open sites but will grow under light shade. Has a deep, woody, widely branched root system. Spreads by suckers. Competitive ability is high. Lifespan is 30 to 40 years. Fully hardy (zone 1b).

Recommendations

Adapted to the mixed and moist mixed grassland, aspen parkland and boreal transition ecoregions. Potential for use in reclamation and wildlife habitat plantings (cover and food for animals and birds).

Sambucus racemosa L.

Red elder, Elderberry

Origin

Native, found in moist open woods in eastern parklands.

Genetic Improvement and Evaluation

One accession (E5093) originating from a hedge at the Shelterbelt Centre has been tested at 20 sites in Manitoba and Saskatchewan. Performance ranged from poor to average with annual dieback the major problem.

Description

A medium shrub growing 2 to 4 meters. Prefers rich, moist soils. Annual dieback is common, however regrowth is rapid and lush. Produces large clusters of berry-like fruit. Competitive ability is high. Fully hardy (zone 1b).

Recommendations

Adapted to the aspen parkland and boreal transition ecoregions. Recommended for use in wildlife habitat plantings (provides cover and fruit is eaten by birds, squirrels and other rodents).

Shepherdia argentea Nutt.

Silver buffaloberry

Origin

Native, commonly found around sloughs, in coulees and on light soils throughout the grassland ecoregion.

Genetic Improvement and Evaluation

One accession (E5241) of unknown origin has been evaluated at 10 sites in Manitoba and Saskatchewan. Performance was excellent at all sites. The trees at these sites will be designated as a breeder seed source. Seed collection from native populations is under way. To date, 35 accessions have been collected. Seedlings from these accessions will be planted at various locations to determine adaptability to soil and climatic conditions.

Description

A thorny shrub growing 3 to 5 meters. Produces large quantities of berry-like fruit. Grows well on dry, well drained or moist sites, will tolerate moderately saline soils. Grows best in full sun, will tolerate partial shade. Fixes atmospheric nitrogen. Competitive ability is moderate. Lifespan is 40 to 50 years. Fully hardy (zone 1b).

Recommendations

Adapted to the mixed and moist mixed grassland, aspen parkland and boreal transition ecoregions. Recommended for use in field, farmstead and roadside shelterbelts, reclamation and wildlife habitat plantings (provides cover and fruit is eaten by birds and animals).

Sorbus decora (Sarg.) Schneid.

Showy mountain ash

Origin

Native, found in moist habitats the Manitoba parklands.

Genetic Improvement and Evaluation

One accession has been evaluated at 13 sites in Manitoba and Saskatchewan. Performance was excellent at a majority of the test sites.

Description

A small tree growing 5 to 7 meters in 25 years. Adapted to a wide range of soil types, prefers deep medium-textured soils. Competitive ability is high. Lifespan is 40 to 50 years. Fully hardy (zone 1b).

Recommendations

Adapted to the aspen parkland boreal transition ecoregions. Potential for use in farmstead and field shelterbelts, forestbelts and wildlife habitat plantings (cover, perching and winter food source for birds and animals). Valued for wood-turning.

Symphoricarpus occidentalis Hook.

Western snowberry, Buckbrush

Origin

Native, found in dense stands on the open prairie, in coulees, ravines and woodlands throughout the prairie provinces.

Genetic Improvement and Evaluation

No accessions have been evaluated. Seed collection from native populations in Manitoba and Saskatchewan is under way. To date 50 accessions have been collected. Seedlings from these collections will be planted at various locations to determine adaptability to soil and climatic conditions.

Description

A small, spreading shrub growing to 1.5 meters. Prefers well-drained, light-textured soils. Will tolerate dry to mesic sites. Grows best in full sun, tolerates some shade. Moderately tolerant of saline soils. The root system is deep, rhizomatous and deeply branched. Snowberry spreads freely often forming extensive stands. Competitive ability is high. Lifespan is 30 to 40 years. Fully hardy (zone 1a).

Recommendations

Adapted to the mixed and moist mixed grassland, aspen parkland and boreal transition ecoregions. Recommended for use in wildlife habitat plantings (cover and food for animals and birds). Potential for use in reclamation (erosion control).

Syringa villosa Vahl.

Villosa lilac, Late lilac

Origin

Introduced, native to northern China.

Genetic Improvement and Evaluation

One accession (E5103) of unknown origin has been evaluated at 13 sites in Manitoba and Saskatchewan. Performance after 25 years was excellent at a majority of the sites. The best trees will be used to supply breeder seed.

Description

A medium shrub growing 3 to 4 meters. Best growth occurs on moist medium textured soils, will tolerate dry sites. Requires full sunlight. Competitive ability is high. Lifespan is 40 to 50 years. Fully hardy (zone 1b).

Recommendations

Adapted to the mixed and moist mixed grassland, aspen parkland and boreal transition ecoregions. Recommended for use in farmstead, field and roadside shelterbelts and wildlife habitat plantings (good density provides cover for many birds and animals).

Recommend release as a seed-propagated cultivar for use in conservation plantings.

Ulmus davidiana Planch. var. Japonica (Rehd)

Japanese elm

Origin

Introduced, native to Northeast China.

Genetic Improvement and Evaluation

One accession (E5090) originating from a tree located at the Shelterbelt Centre has been evaluated at two sites in Saskatchewan. Performance was good at both sites. One tree located at the Shelterbelt Centre with superior form was selected and released as the vegetatively propagated cultivar 'Thompson'.

Description

A tall tree growing to 15 meters at maturity. Prefers deep, medium-textured soils, will tolerate mesic sites. Grows best in full sun. Growth rate is slower than American or Siberian elm. Longevity and form is superior to Siberian elm. Appears to be resistant to Dutch Elm Disease. Competitive ability is moderate. Lifespan is 50 to 60 years. Fully hardy (zone 2a).

Recommendations

Adapted to the aspen parkland and boreal transition ecoregions. Recommended for use in farmstead and field shelterbelts.

Ulmus pumila L.

Siberian elm

Origin

Introduced, native to Northeast China.

Genetic Improvement and Evaluation

One accession (E5099) has been evaluated at nine sites in Manitoba and Saskatchewan. Performance has ranged from poor to good. A shelterbelt planted at the Shelterbelt Centre originating from Harbin China has superior form and longevity when compared to other Siberian elm shelterbelts at the Centre. Progeny from this planting are being evaluated.

Description

A fast-growing, medium-size tree growing 9 to 10 meters. Adapted to a wide range of soils but prefers medium to heavy-textured soils. Longevity is reduced by drought, insects, winter injury and herbicide drift. Competitive ability is high. Lifespan is 20 to 30 years. Fully hardy (zone 2a).

Recommendations

Adapted to the mixed and moist mixed grassland and aspen parkland ecoregions. Recommended for farmstead and field shelterbelts. Value of species is limited by short life span. Valued for wood-turning.

Viburnum trilobum Marsh.

Highbush cranberry

Origin

Native, common in woodlands throughout the parkland and southern boreal forest.

Genetic Improvement and Evaluation

One accession (E5134) originating from a hedge at the Shelterbelt Centre has been evaluated at nine sites in Manitoba and Saskatchewan. Performance ranged from poor to good at most of the sites. Poor performance was the result of competition from herbaceous and grassy vegetation. Seed collection from native populations is under way. To date 38 accessions have been collected. Seedlings from these accessions will be planted at various locations to determine adaptability to soil and climatic conditions.

Description

A medium-size shrub growing 1 to 4 meters. Best growth on well drained, moist soils; will not tolerate dry soils. Will grow in shady locations. Competitive ability is low. Lifespan is 30 to 40 years. Fully hardy (zone 1b).

Recommendations

Adapted to the aspen parkland and boreal transition ecoregions. Potential for use in forestbelt and wildlife habitat plantings (cover and fruit eaten by birds).

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