Native Plants

Native plants, encompassing a variety of flowers and grasses like Blue Eyed Grass, Canadian Wild Ginger, Creeping Juniper, Creeping Thyme, Prairie Dropseed, White Clover, and Wild Strawberry, are invaluable additions to any garden. These plants are inherently adapted to local climate and soil conditions, making them resilient and low-maintenance choices for sustainable landscaping. Their natural water efficiency reduces the need for irrigation, conserving precious water resources. Moreover, native plants provide critical habitats and food sources for local wildlife, including pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and birds, enhancing biodiversity and ecosystem health. Their deep root systems help prevent soil erosion, improve soil structure, and facilitate carbon sequestration. By incorporating native plants into your garden, you support a balanced and thriving ecosystem while creating a beautiful, sustainable, and environmentally-friendly landscape.

Native Flowers

  • Black Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta)

    Vibrant Summer Blooms

    Black-Eyed Susan is a classic summer flower known for its bright yellow petals and distinctive dark center, adding a splash of cheerful color to gardens and landscapes. Its blooms are long-lasting and provide visual interest throughout the summer months.

    ​Pollinator and Wildlife Magnet

    The vibrant blooms of Black-Eyed Susan attract a variety of pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and birds. These pollinators play a crucial role in ecosystem health and contribute to the overall biodiversity of the garden.

    ​Low Maintenance and Versatility

    Black-Eyed Susan is a hardy and versatile perennial that thrives in a range of soil types and environmental conditions. It is relatively low maintenance, requiring minimal watering and care once established. Its ability to tolerate heat, drought, and pests makes it a resilient and popular choice for gardeners seeking an easy-to-grow plant with striking visual appeal.

  • Blazing Stars (Liatris)

    Tall and Spiky Appearance

    Blazing Star is characterized by its tall, spiky flower spikes that add vertical interest to gardens and landscapes. The spikes are adorned with purple or pink flowers, creating a striking visual display.

    ​Butterfly and Bee Attraction

    The vibrant flowers of Blazing Star are highly attractive to butterflies and bees, including bumblebees. These pollinators are drawn to the nectar-rich blooms, making Blazing Star a valuable plant for pollinator gardens.

    ​Long Blooming Period

    Blazing Star has a long blooming period, often extending from mid-summer to early fall. This extended flowering season provides a sustained nectar source for pollinators, contributing to garden biodiversity and supporting pollinator populations.

  • Blue Flag Iris (Iris versicolor)

    Striking Blue-Purple Flowers

    Blue Flag Iris is known for its stunning blue-purple flowers, which stand out in gardens and wetland landscapes. The vibrant colors and intricate patterns of the blooms make it a visually appealing plant.

    ​Native Wetland Plant

    Blue Flag Iris is a native wetland plant, thriving in moist soil conditions such as marshes, ponds, and stream edges. Its ability to tolerate wet environments makes it a valuable addition to water gardens and riparian areas.

    ​Pollinator Attraction

    The flowers of Blue Flag Iris are attractive to bees and butterflies, especially when planted near water features. The nectar-rich blooms provide a food source for pollinators, supporting biodiversity and ecosystem health in wetland habitats.

  • Butterfly Weed (Asclepias tuberosa)

    Pollinator Magnet

    Butterfly Milkweed is renowned for its ability to attract pollinators, especially butterflies like monarchs. Its vibrant orange flowers rich in nectar make it a valuable addition to pollinator gardens, supporting biodiversity and ecosystem health.

    Native Plant Benefits

    As a native species, Butterfly Milkweed plays a crucial role in supporting local ecosystems. It provides food and habitat for native insects, birds, and wildlife, contributing to overall biodiversity and environmental sustainability.

    Low Maintenance and Drought Tolerance

    Once established, Butterfly Milkweed is relatively low maintenance and drought-tolerant. It requires minimal watering and chemical inputs, making it an eco-friendly choice for sustainable landscapes that conserve water and reduce chemical usage.

  • Canada Columbine (Aquilegia canadensis)

    Unique Red and Yellow Flowers

    Wild Columbine is known for its distinctive red and yellow flowers, which feature elongated spurs that give them a unique and eye-catching appearance. The combination of colors and shape makes it a standout plant in gardens and landscapes.

    ​Hummingbird Attraction

    The tubular-shaped flowers of Wild Columbine are particularly attractive to hummingbirds. These tiny birds are drawn to the nectar-rich blooms, making Wild Columbine a favorite plant for hummingbird gardens.

    ​Pollinator Magnet

    In addition to hummingbirds, Wild Columbine also attracts bees and butterflies with its nectar-producing flowers. These pollinators play a vital role in plant reproduction and ecosystem health, making Wild Columbine a beneficial addition to pollinator-friendly landscapes.

  • Common Milkweed (Asclepias syriaca)

    Monarch Butterfly Host Plant

    Common Milkweed is a vital host plant for Monarch butterflies. Female Monarchs lay their eggs exclusively on milkweed plants, and the larvae (caterpillars) feed on milkweed leaves. Protecting and planting Common Milkweed helps sustain Monarch butterfly populations.

    Pollinator Attraction

    Common Milkweed produces clusters of pinkish-purple flowers that are highly attractive to a variety of pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects. Its nectar-rich blooms support pollinator populations and contribute to garden biodiversity.

    Ecosystem Support

    Common Milkweed plays a crucial role in supporting local ecosystems. In addition to providing food for Monarch caterpillars and nectar for pollinators, it also serves as habitat for insects, birds, and other wildlife, enhancing overall ecosystem health and resilience.

  • Culvers Root (Veronicastrum virginicum)

    Spikes of White or Pale Purple Flowers

    Culver's Root is known for its tall spikes of white or pale purple flowers, creating a stunning vertical display in gardens and landscapes. The elegant blooms add a touch of grace and beauty to the natural environment.

    ​Native Perennial

    Culver's Root is a native perennial plant, well-adapted to local growing conditions. It thrives in a variety of soil types and is a valuable addition to pollinator gardens and naturalized areas.

    Pollinator Magnet

    The flowers of Culver's Root act as a magnet for bees and butterflies. These pollinators are attracted to the nectar-rich blooms, making Culver's Root a beneficial plant for supporting pollinator populations and promoting garden biodiversity.

  • Joe Pye Weed (Eutrochium purpureum)

    Butterfly Magnet

    Joe Pye Weed is a tall perennial plant with fluffy pinkish-purple flower heads that are highly attractive to butterflies, including swallowtails and monarchs. Its nectar-rich blooms serve as a valuable food source for these pollinators, making it a favorite addition to butterfly gardens.

    ​Native Plant and Ecological Value

    Joe Pye Weed is a native North American plant with significant ecological value. It supports biodiversity by attracting a variety of pollinators, including bees and beneficial insects. Its robust growth also provides habitat and shelter for wildlife.

    ​Low Maintenance and Versatility

    Despite its tall stature, Joe Pye Weed is relatively low maintenance once established. It tolerates a range of soil types, including moist and clay soils, making it adaptable to various garden conditions. Its drought tolerance and resistance to pests and diseases add to its appeal for gardeners seeking an easy-to-grow native plant.

  • New England Aster (Symphyotrichum novae-angliae)

    Late Summer and Fall Blooms

    New England Aster is a native aster species known for producing masses of purple or pinkish flowers in late summer and fall. Its profuse blooms add vibrant color to gardens and landscapes during the cooler months, making it a standout plant for seasonal interest.

    ​Pollinator Support

    The flowers of New England Aster are rich in nectar, making them highly attractive to butterflies and bees. These pollinators rely on the nectar as a food source, especially as other flowering plants may become scarce later in the season. Planting New England Aster helps support pollinator populations.

    ​Native Plant Benefits

    As a native plant species, New England Aster provides ecological benefits beyond pollinator support. It supports local ecosystems by providing habitat and food for insects, birds, and other wildlife. Its resilience to local climate conditions also makes it a sustainable choice for gardeners seeking native plants.

  • Purple Cone Flower (Echinacea)

    Medicinal and Herbal use

    Purple Coneflower has a long history of medicinal use, particularly in traditional herbal medicine. Its roots, flowers, and leaves are believed to have immune-boosting properties and are commonly used in herbal remedies and supplements.

    ​Pollinator Attraction

    Similar to Butterfly Milkweed, Purple Coneflower is a favorite among pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Its striking purple-pink flowers with prominent cone-shaped centers provide a rich source of nectar and pollen, making it a valuable plant for supporting pollinator populations.

    ​Adaptability and Low Maintenance

    Purple Coneflower is a hardy and adaptable perennial that thrives in a variety of soil types and environmental conditions. Once established, it is relatively low maintenance, requiring minimal watering and care. Its drought tolerance and ability to withstand pests and diseases make it a resilient choice for gardens.

  • goldenrods (Solidago)

    Late-Season Nectar Source

    Goldenrod is an excellent late-season nectar source for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. Its bright yellow clusters of flowers provide a vital food source during late summer and early fall when other nectar-producing plants may be scarce.

    ​Pollinator Support

    Despite its undeserved reputation for causing allergies (often mistaken for ragweed), Goldenrod is a valuable plant for supporting pollinators. Bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects rely on its nectar and pollen, making it a beneficial addition to pollinator-friendly gardens.

    ​Native Plant Benefits

    Goldenrod is a native plant species in many regions, making it well-adapted to local climate conditions and soil types. As a native plant, it supports biodiversity by providing habitat and food for native insects and wildlife, contributing to overall ecosystem health.

  • Wild Bergamot (Monarda fistulosa)

    Attractive to Pollinators

    Wild Bergamot produces clusters of pink to lavender flowers that are highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Its nectar-rich blooms serve as a valuable food source for pollinators, making it a favorite addition to pollinator gardens.

    ​Aromatic and Medicinal Qualities

    Wild Bergamot is not only visually appealing but also carries a pleasant aroma, especially when its leaves are crushed. Additionally, it has a history of medicinal use, with Native American tribes utilizing it for various herbal remedies.

    ​Drought Tolerance and Adaptability

    Wild Bergamot is a hardy and adaptable perennial that thrives in various soil types, including well-drained and dry soils. Its drought tolerance makes it suitable for xeriscaping and water-wise gardening practices, while its ability to attract pollinators adds ecological value to landscapes.

Native Grass Replacements

  • Blue Eyed Grass (Sisyrinchium)

    Delicate Beauty

    Blue Eyed Grass, despite its name, is a charming perennial with small, star-shaped blue flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. Its grass-like foliage adds a delicate, fine texture to garden landscapes.

    Pollinator Appeal

    The dainty blooms of Blue Eyed Grass attract a variety of pollinators, particularly bees, making it a valuable addition to pollinator gardens and contributing to the health and diversity of the ecosystem.

    Easy to Grow

    Blue Eyed Grass is a resilient plant that adapts well to different soil types and light conditions, from full sun to partial shade. It requires minimal care, making it an excellent choice for low-maintenance gardens.

  • Canadian Wild Ginger

    Unique Foliage

    Canadian Wild Ginger features heart-shaped leaves that create a lush ground cover in shaded areas. Its unique, hidden brownish-purple flowers bloom close to the ground in spring.

    Habitat Enhancement

    The dense foliage of Canadian Wild Ginger provides excellent cover for small wildlife and beneficial insects, contributing to the ecological health of the garden.

    Shade Tolerant

    Thriving in full to partial shade, Canadian Wild Ginger is ideal for woodland gardens or shaded borders. It is low maintenance and helps suppress weeds, making it a practical and attractive ground cover option.

  • Creeping Juniper

    Evergreen Ground Cover

    Creeping Juniper is a hardy, low-growing evergreen shrub with attractive, needle-like foliage that ranges in color from blue-green to silver. It adds year-round interest to the landscape.

    Erosion Control

    With its extensive root system, Creeping Juniper is excellent for stabilizing slopes and preventing soil erosion. Its dense growth habit also helps suppress weeds, reducing maintenance needs.

    Drought Tolerant

    Once established, Creeping Juniper is highly drought-tolerant and thrives in well-drained soils. It requires minimal watering and care, making it an ideal choice for xeriscaping and low-water gardens.

  • Creeping Thyme

    Fragrant Ground Cover

    Creeping Thyme is a versatile herb with small, aromatic leaves and tiny purple or pink flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. It forms a fragrant, mat-like ground cover.

    Pollinator Friendly

    The tiny flowers of Creeping Thyme attract bees and other pollinators, enhancing the biodiversity and health of your garden.

    Versatile and Low Maintenance

    Creeping Thyme thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. It is drought-tolerant and can be used in a variety of settings, including rock gardens, pathways, and as a lawn alternative, requiring minimal maintenance.

  • Prairie Dropseed

    Graceful Ornamental Grass

    Prairie Dropseed is a native ornamental grass known for its fine-textured, arching green blades and airy, pink-tinted flower panicles that appear in late summer.

    Wildlife Support

    The seeds of Prairie Dropseed provide food for birds and its dense foliage offers shelter for small wildlife, enhancing garden biodiversity.

    Tough and Adaptable

    Prairie Dropseed is highly adaptable to various soil types and conditions, including drought and poor soils. It is a low-maintenance grass that adds graceful movement and texture to any landscape.

  • White Clover

    Beneficial Ground Cover

    White Clover is a low-growing perennial with trifoliate leaves and white flower clusters that bloom from late spring through summer. It is often used as a ground cover or lawn alternative.

    Soil Enrichment

    White Clover enriches the soil by fixing nitrogen, improving soil fertility and benefiting surrounding plants. It also attracts pollinators, supporting garden biodiversity.

    Resilient and Low Maintenance

    White Clover is hardy and resilient, tolerating a range of soil conditions and requiring minimal care. It is drought-tolerant once established and provides a lush, green ground cover that reduces the need for mowing and watering.

  • Wild Strawberry Clover

    Edible Beauty

    Wild Strawberry is a charming ground cover with trifoliate leaves, white flowers, and small, sweet red berries that ripen in early summer. It adds both visual interest and a tasty treat to gardens.

    Pollinator and Wildlife Attraction

    The flowers of Wild Strawberry attract pollinators, while the berries provide food for birds and small mammals, supporting garden biodiversity and ecosystem health.

    Easy to Grow

    Wild Strawberry thrives in well-drained soils and full sun to partial shade. It spreads easily by runners, creating a dense, low-maintenance ground cover that helps suppress weeds and stabilize soil.