Folks,

We live in suburban Chicago USDA zone 5a and I'm
looking to add some sort of exotic perenial to the
back yard. Likely something not native to the US.
Look strange or have edible fruit if possible.
When we lived in Los Angeles zone 9 years ago
there were plenty of subtropicals to chose from
and I planted a Buddhas Hand Citron. Wonderful
aroma from the fruit and they looked strange as
well. Doesn't seem like there are a lot of
exotics available that do well in zone 5a so I
am appealing to the experts. I know that
midsummer is likely too late so I may as well
start planning for next spring.

I looked through the archives of the group. The
FAQ file is about herbs. Check. 3 boxes with
assorted herbs are growing in boxes on the railing.
The sorrel and that stuff that smells like celery
are doing great. Time for a bush or tree or
something now. Maybe a heritage variety through
a seed purhase.

Scanning through the newsgroup archive for
mention of zone 5 it sounds like berries may be
the way to go.

Do bilberries do okay in zone 5? I'd need to find
a source for plants. I have had bilberry jam and
the stuff is to die for, maybe the best berry jam
I've had. Bilberry jam is to be found in Polish
ethnic stores so zone 5ish seems like it might work.

Do lingonberries do okay in zone 5? I'd need a
source for plants. I like lingon berry jam so
this sounds like a good option as well.

Any suggestions for a tree rather than a bush?
The tree at the corner of the house is getting redy
to go so time to think about a replacement that
gives nuts or fruit.

I think my most adventurous might be a trellis and
some hops. Great excuse to get in good with some
local home brewers.

Thanks in advance for any advice,
Doug Freyburger