If you’re looking to add some native plants to your garden, there are a number of different species to choose from. Native plants are typically well-adapted to the local climate and soil conditions. More importantly, native plant gardens play an important role in restoring the earth’s ecosystem. When designing the landscape of your garden, be sure that the plant species are fit for the local environment.
Native Plant Species for Native Plant Gardens
Some of the most popular plant species for gardening in Missouri include the following:
Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia Hirta)
Black-eyed Susan is a native plant that is perfect for your gardens. This plant is very easy to grow and deer resistant. Black-eyed Susan will bloom from June until the first frost in October.
The species perform well in full sun but will tolerate some shade. It is drought tolerant once it has been established. Black-eyed Susan can grow up to 9 feet tall. The flowers are 2-3 inches wide and have yellow petals with a brown or black center.
Deadheading spent flowers will encourage more blooming. This plant is a great choice for bouquets, cut flowers, and dried arrangements. Plant in mass for a stunning display of color in your garden!
Blanketflower (Gaillardia Pinnatifada)
Blanketflower is a long-blooming, drought-tolerant perennial that is perfect for native plant gardens. It gets its common name from the showy, daisy-like flowers that bloom in various colors, including yellow, orange, red, and brown.
Blanketflower is a sunflower family member and is native to the western side of the U.S. The plant grows best in full sun and sandy, well-drained soil. Blanketflower is an excellent choice for xeriscaping and attracts butterflies and hummingbirds.
Butterfly Milkweed (Asclepias Tuberosa)
Butterfly Milkweed is a beautiful native plant perfect for native plant gardens. This milkweed is not only attractive to butterflies, but it is also an excellent source of nectar for them.
The flowers are a deep orange color, and they bloom from June to August. Butterfly Milkweed does well in full sun and well-drained soil. It is drought tolerant once established.
Columbine (Aquilegia Canadensis)
Columbine is a beautiful native plant that flowers in early summer. It has long been associated with Native American culture and is used to symbolize friendship. The flowers are also an important nectar source for bees and other pollinators. Columbine is a perfect addition to native plant gardens!
Native Plant Garden Landscaping Tips
Native plants are low maintenance. Native plants are generally very easy to take care of because they are accustomed to the local climate. They require little to no watering, fertilizing, or other types of pampering.
Native plants attract local wildlife. By planting native species, you can attract birds, bees, and butterflies to your garden. Not only are you doing your part to help the environment, but you’re also creating a beautiful and lively space.
Native plants are drought tolerant. If you live in an area with low rainfall, native plants are a great choice for your garden. They have deep root systems that allow them to access water that other plants may not be able to reach. That attribute makes them more resistant to drought.
Native plants are great for erosion control. Native plants have strong root systems that help hold the soil in place. That is especially beneficial on slopes or hillsides where erosion is a concern.
Native plants add interest and beauty to your garden. Native plants come in a wide variety of colors, shapes, and sizes. That means that you can create a truly unique and beautiful garden using only native species.
Help Restore the Earth Ecosystem with Your Native Plant Garden
Native plants are known to be the best agents of environmental conservation. Taking a step toward designing or redesigning the native plant gardens adds beauty and value to the natural ecosystem.