Zone 5B, slightly alkaline soil, I lost it the first winter. Don't count on them being evergreen, even if they do survive.

They should hardy and adaptable in your area and to your soil, if you water them regularly the first year or two and establish a good root system. I would also suggest you mulch them to help retain some moisture.

Tim, have you noticed any significant differences among the inkberry cultivars in terms of hardiness and adaptability, or have they been selected mainly for foliage quality and compactness? What about the newer cultivars Gem Box and Strongbox?