Recommended Native Plants

General North American Examples

These are a few of my favorite native North American plants. There are species of these plants that are appropriate across most of the continent. Some prefer dry conditions, others wetter places. They have adapted to the different environs on this huge continent – and the birds and insects have evolved with them. So choosing the most locally-appropriate species is likely to be both more beneficial for wildlife and successful in your garden.

Having said that, experiment! As the climate changes, you may find some plants which come from nearby regions that thrive in your area as well.

Many of these plants have been Plant of the Week at one point or another. Click the links to learn more!

“Did you know that a native oak tree can support the caterpillars over 500 species of butterflies and moths? Those caterpillars are a critical food source for over 96 percent of the songbirds. For example, a pair of Carolina chickadees requires between 6,000 and 9,000 caterpillars to successfully raise just one brood of young. That’s the power and importance of planting native plants when it comes to supporting wildlife.”

— National Wildlife Federation

Pollinator-Friendly Perennials