Bergamot (commonly known as Bee Balm or Monarda) is known for its distinct, "shredded" crown-like blooms and aromatic foliage. This hardy perennial is a member of the mint family and does well in all but the wettest of soils. It’s fragrant flowers are a popular nectar source for butterflies, bees and hummingbirds.
Sun Exposure Full Sun to Partial Shade
Water Needs Moderate; prefers consistent moisture but is drought-tolerant once established.
Soil Type Tolerates Muck, Clay, Loam and Sand, and poor soils.
Mature Height 4 - 5 feet
Deer Resistance High
Bloom Time July – September
Bloom Color Lavendar
Plant Spacing 2 - 3 feet
The leaves release a minty or oregano-like scent when crushed.
Its unique flower shape has tube-like blossom structures.
Naturally resistant to many pests, making it an easy-care choice of plants.
Bergamot is one of the few plants that consistently draws hummingbirds, butterflies, and native bees simultaneously.
Serves as a host plant for several species of the Hermit Sphinx and the Raspberry Pyrausta moths.
Fun Fact: For generations, Bergamot was valued by Indigenous communities and early settlers as a healing plant, commonly brewed as a tea or used in simple remedies.
A staple of the American landscape, these iconic wildflowers feature bright daisy-like petals surrounding a deep chocolate-brown central cone. Black-Eyed Susans are extraordinarily hardy, heat-tolerant, and capable of thriving in conditions where more delicate flowers might falter. They are the perfect choice for gardeners who want high-impact color with minimal effort.
Sun Exposure Full Sun (Preferred) to Partial Shade
Water Needs Low to Moderate; very drought-tolerant once established
Soil Type Needed Adaptable; can thrive in Muck, Clay, Loam or Sandy soils.
Mature Height 2 – 3 feet
Deer Resistance Moderate
Bloom Time June – October
Bloom Color Yellow
Plant Spacing 10 – 12 inches
One of the longest bloom periods of any summer perennial, often lasting from early summer right through the first frost.
The plant is biennial that blooms and completes in life cycle in it’s seconds year. They are self-seeders, so they will appear in your garden for years to come but can succumb to longer-lived perennials in later years after planting.
Highly resistant to heat, humidity, and drought, making them ideal for "problem spots" in the yard.
Pollinator Favorite: The wide, flat blooms act as perfect landing pads for a variety of butterflies, including Monarchs, the Wavy-Lined Emerald and the Silvery Checkerspot.
Bee Support: A primary nectar source for honeybees and several species of native solitary bees.
Birds: If you delay your garden cleanup until spring, the sturdy seed heads provide essential winter forage for goldfinches and other small songbirds.
This award-winning native perennial is famous for its flat-topped clusters of brilliant, neon-orange flowers that practically glow in the garden. Unlike other milkweeds, Butterfly Weed is compact and well-behaved, making it a perfect fit for both formal flower beds and wilder meadow designs.
One of its best features for the home gardener is its extreme durability. Because it develops a deep, sturdy taproot, it is incredibly drought-tolerant once established and thrives in the kind of poor, sandy soil where other plants might struggle. It is a true "plant it and forget it" beauty that rewards you with weeks of intense color from mid-to-late summer.
Sun Exposure Full Sun
Water Needs Low to Medium; very drought-tolerant
Soil Type Well-drained Sand or Loam soil
Mature Height 1.5 - 2 feet
Deer Resistance High
Bloom Time June – August
Bloom Color Orange
Plant Spacing 1 to 3 feet
Vivid Blooms: The intense orange hue is rare in the native plant world and provides a high-contrast focal point.
Low Maintenance: Highly resistant to pests and diseases; it actually prefers "neglect" over heavy fertilizing or overwatering.
Late Emerger: Don't worry if you don't see it in early spring! It is one of the last perennials to wake up, usually waiting until the soil is truly warm.
Monarch Host Plant: As a member of the milkweed family, it is an essential host plant where Monarch butterflies lay their eggs and their caterpillars feed.
Pollinator Magnet: Its nectar is highly accessible, attracting a massive variety of butterflies, native bees, and even hummingbirds.
Pro Tip: Because of its long taproot, Butterfly Weed does not like to be moved once it is planted. Choose its "forever home" carefully! To get the best blooms, plant it in your sunniest, driest spot and avoid heavy mulching right against the crown, as it loves to stay dry and warm.
Just like the goldenrod, this plant is a "bridge" species—but while the goldenrod bridges the seasons, the Evening Primrose bridges day and night! While most flowers wake up with the sun, this native waits for the twilight. It features bowl-shaped yellow blossoms that unfurl in late afternoon and evening.
Sun Exposure Full Sun to Partial Shade
Water Needs Low to Medium; very drought-tolerant
Soil Type Adaptable; prefers Sandy, Rocky, or Lean soil
Mature Height 4 – 6 feet
Deer Resistance Low - Moderate
Bloom Time July – October
Bloom Color Yellow
Plant Spacing 1 – 2 feet
Long Bloom Time: It is one of the last natives blooming into late fall.
Hardy & Resilient: It thrives in "neglected" areas where other plants struggle. It is highly resistant to pests and can handle poor, dry soils with ease.
Polinators: Although labeled as a weed by some, it is a very important native plant with a long bloom time. It benefits many different kinds of bees, nectaring moths, butterfiles, and caterpillars.
The "Night Shift": The flowers attract sphinx moths (hawk moths), which are nocturnal.
Hummingbirds: Though they open late, the flowers stay open long enough for hummingbirds to visit them for a breakfast snack in the early morning.
Garden Note: Common Evening Primrose is a prolific self-seeder. Because it is a biennial, it relies on dropping seeds to ensure a new generation blooms every year. If you want to limit its spread, simply snip off the seed pods after the flowering season is finished!
This towering native perennial is famous for its deeply lobed, sandpaper-like leaves that traditionally orient themselves North and South to avoid the intense midday sun—giving the plant its iconic name.Rising on sturdy, sap-filled stalks, its cheerful, sunflower-like yellow blooms provide a vertical element that can be seen from across the yard.
It is a slow-growing "anchor" species that invests its early years into developing a massive taproot that can reach up to 15 feet deep. This incredible root system makes it virtually bulletproof against drought and extreme heat, allowing it to remain lush and vibrant even when the rest of the garden is parched.
Sun Exposure Full Sun to Partial Shade
Water Needs Low to Medium; exceptionally drought-tolerant
Soil Type Loam, Sand
Mature Height 5 – 8 feet
Deer Resistance High
Bloom Time June – September
Bloom Color Yellow
Plant Spacing 3 – 5 feet
Height: Given rich soil, compass plants can reach upwards of 8 feet in height.
Living Compass: The large basal leaves align with the Earth’s magnetic poles to maximize water use in the leaves and increase CO2 gain.
Centuries-Long Life: This is a "legacy plant." Once established, a single Compass Plant can live for up to 100 years, becoming a permanent fixture of your home's ecosystem.
Pollinators: The resin-rich flowers are a favorite of bees, and butterflies.
Birds: Seeds are a high-energy food source for goldfinches and other songbirds throughout the fall and a favorite perching spot.
Pro Tip: Patience is a virtue with the Compass Plant! Because it spends its first few seasons focused on growing that legendary 15-foot taproot, it may only produce a small cluster of leaves at first. Don't be fooled—it is building the foundation for a lifetime of beauty. Due to this taproot, it is very difficult to move once planted, so choose its "forever home" in a sunny spot with plenty of vertical room to grow.
If you’re searching for a low-growing, rugged shrub that provides multi-season interest without the invasive headache of other honeysuckles, consider Dwarf Bush Honeysuckle. This is a mounding, woody perennial that is great for dry, difficult shady areas. In early summer, it produces delicate, lemon-yellow trumpet flowers that are a magnet for the tiniest of garden visitors. It starts with dark green foliage that turns yellow-orange, then into vibrant shades of red and purple in the fall.
Sun Exposure Partial Shade to Shade
Water Needs Low to Medium; highly drought-tolerant once established
Soil Type Adaptable; thrives in Dry Sand, Rocky soil, or dry Clay
Mature Height 2 – 3 feet
Deer Resistance Moderate
Bloom Time June – August
Bloom Color Yellow
Plant Spacing 2 – 3 feet
Three Seasons of Color: Bronze spring buds, yellow summer flowers ending with beautiful red autumn foliage.
Somewhat Aggressive Spreader: Spready by rhizomes and can overwhelm small landscapes. Keep this in mind when choosing your planting location
Will spread to form thickets over time, making it a good choice for shrub borders or hedgerows.
Bumblebees: The small yellow blossoms are perfectly designed for bumblebees and other long-tongued native bees to crawl inside.
Hummingbirds: Though the flowers are small, their nectar is high-energy and often visited by hummingbirds patrolling the garden.
Host Plant to the Laurel Sphinx moth and the Snowberry Clearwing.
Pro Tip: Dwarf Bush Honeysuckle is incredibly forgiving when it comes to pruning. If it ever begins to look a bit unruly or "leggy" after a few years, you can cut it back nearly to the ground in late winter or early spring. It will roar back with fresh, colorful new growth and a tighter, more compact shape. It’s one of the few shrubs that actually enjoys a "fresh start" every now and then!
While most goldenrods wait for the cool air of fall to arrive, this eager native begins lighting up the landscape in mid-to-late summer. It features elegant, arching wands of tiny, nectar-rich yellow flowers that look like a burst of sunshine caught on a stem.
Unlike some of its taller, more aggressive relatives that can take over a space, this species stays at a moderate, manageable height and forms tidy clumps. It is the perfect choice for adding a "layered" look to your garden beds, filling the gap between your mid-summer blooms and the late-season asters.
Sun Exposure Full Sun to Partial Shade
Water Needs Low to Medium; very drought-tolerant
Soil Type Well-drained Sand, Loam, or Rocky soil
Mature Height 2 – 4 feet
Deer Resistance High
Bloom Time July – September
Bloom Color Yellow
Plant Spacing 1 – 3 feet
First to Bloom: As the name suggests, it is one of the earliest goldenrods to flower, providing a critical "bridge" of color between summer and fall.
Pollinator Powerhouse: The brilliant yellow plumes are a primary nectar source for a huge array of beneficial insects during the peak of summer heat.
Aggressing Spreader: Spreads by rhizomes. Keep this in mind when selecting your planting site, may not be suitable for small landscapes.
Thinning every few years is recommended.
Butterfly Fuel: It is a favorite stop for Monarchs, Viceroys, and hairstreaks as they begin their late-season activities.
Native Bee Support: It provides high-quality pollen for specialized native bees that rely on goldenrods to feed their young.
Songbird Food: In the winter, the dried seed heads offer a tiny but nutritious feast for chickadees and goldfinches.
*Don’t believe the myths—Goldenrod does not cause hay fever! Its pollen is heavy and sticky (designed to be carried by bees, not the wind). The real culprit for itchy eyes is usually Ragweed, which blooms at the same time but has inconspicuous green flowers. You can plant Early Goldenrod with confidence, knowing it brings beauty and health to your garden without the sneezing!
Also called Brickellbush, this tough-as-nails native is prized for its fine-textured foliage and creamy, vanilla-colored flowers. It provides a soft, neutral "break" for the eye in gardens filled with bright yellows and deep purples, making every other color look more vibrant. Though not very showy, it is an excellent nectar plant for butterflies and moths.
Sun Exposure Full Sun to Partial Shade
Water Needs Low; highly drought-tolerant (Xeric)
Soil Type Well-drained Sand, Loam, or Rocky/Gravelly soil
Mature Height 2 – 3 feet
Deer Resistance High
Bloom Time August – September
Bloom Color Cream
Plant Spacing 1 – 2 feet
Deep-Rooted: Like the False Indigo, it possesses a deep taproot that allows it to stay lush and green even during the most punishing summer droughts. Roots can grow up to 17 feet deep!
Tidy & Upright: It forms a clean, bushy mound of narrow, serrated leaves. It does not flop or lean, making it an excellent "structural" plant for the middle of your garden layer.
Nectar Late-Seater: It blooms alongside late-season asters, providing a critical fuel source for the very last of the season's butterflies and migrating Monarchs.
Moth Host: It is a high-value host plant for several species of flower moths, adding to the nighttime biodiversity of your garden.
Pollinator Variety: Because the flowers are small and grouped in clusters, they are accessible to a wide range of beneficial insects.
Pro tip: Try planting it directly between Early Goldenrod and False Blue Indigo. The creamy white flowers of the Boneset act as a "color buffer," preventing the bright yellow and deep blue from clashing and creating a more harmonized garden look.
Blooming from May-June, Hairy Beardtongue attracts several types of bees, hummingbirds and butterflies. It is one of the more shade-tolerant Penstemons, making it a versatile choice for those tricky "transition" spots in your landscape. If you’re a fan of the "polite" nature of the Foxglove Beardtongue but want something a bit shorter and more textured for the front of your garden, Hairy Beardtongue is a perfect choice.
Sun Exposure Full Sun, Partial Shade, Shade
Water Needs Low to Medium; very drought-tolerant once established
Soil Type Well-drained Sand, Loam, or Rocky soil
Mature Height 18 inches
Deer Resistance Moderate - High
Bloom Time May – June
Bloom Color Lavendar, Pink
Plant Spacing 10 - 12 inches
Low-Profile: Reaching only about 1–2 feet, it is significantly shorter than its Foxglove cousin, making it an ideal "front-of-the-border" plant.
Blooms: The trumpet-shaped flowers range in color from lavenders and pink to white. The long, thin blooms have five petals with a “hairy” protruding lip.
Rock Garden Champion: Because it thrives in well-drained, rocky, or even poor soils, it is a great choice for rock gardens or edges where other plants might struggle with the heat.
Early Pollinator Resource: It blooms in late spring, providing a critical early-season nectar source for native bees and butterflies before the summer begins.
Hummingbirds: Just like its taller relatives, the tubular flowers are a magnet for Ruby-throated Hummingbirds.
Unlike most goldenrods that branch out into arching plumes, this species grows in a distinct, upright spike, making it a fantastic structural choice for tight spaces or the middle of a layered bed. A distinctive and well-behaved goldenrod easily identified by its fuzzy, silver-haired stems and its unique upright growth habit. Rather than wide-spreading plumes, its flowers hug the stem in a dense, golden column, creating a "wand-like" appearance.
Sun Exposure Full Sun to Partial Shade
Water Needs Low to Medium; exceptionally drought-tolerant
Soil Type Well-drained Sand, Rocky, or Lean/Poor soil
Mature Height 1.5 – 3 feet
Deer Resistance High
Bloom Time August – October
Bloom Color Yellow
Plant Spacing 12 – 18 inches
Color: Its most striking feature is the dense coating of fine white hairs on the stem and leaves, giving the plant a soft, grayish-green cast even when it’s not in bloom. The yellow flowers are relatively large compared to other goldenrods, up to ¼ inch tall and face out from the branches.
Non-Aggressive Habit: Unlike its "runaway" relatives, Hairy Goldenrod is a clump-forming species. It stays in a tidy, vertical bunch, making it one of the best goldenrods for small landscapes or rock gardens.
Perfect for open dry woods, rocky outcrops, dunes.
Pollinators: The nectar-rich golden cylinders are a favorite for a variety of native bees, beneficial wasps, and butterflies.
Critical Fall Fuel: Because it blooms into October, it provides late season energy before the first hard frost.
*Don’t believe the myths—Goldenrod does not cause hay fever! Its pollen is heavy and sticky (designed to be carried by bees, not the wind). The real culprit for itchy eyes is usually Ragweed, which blooms at the same time but has inconspicuous green flowers. You can plant Hairy Goldenrod with confidence, knowing it brings beauty and health to your garden without the sneezing!
Harebell looks incredibly delicate with its wiry stems and nodding bells, but don’t let the looks fool you—this is a rugged survivor that can grow in the toughest of conditions. Known for its paper-thin, violet-blue bells that seem to float in the air, the Harebell is a versatile perennial that adds a touch of "fairytale" charm to the garden. It is famously long-blooming, often starting in early summer and continuing until the first hard frost.
Sun Exposure Full Sun to Partial Shade
Water Needs Low to Medium; very drought-tolerant once established
Soil Type Well-drained Loam, Sand, Rocky, or Gravelly soil
Mature Height 12 inches
Deer Resistance Moderate
Bloom Time June – September
Bloom Color Purple
Plant Spacing 6 – 8 inches
Unique Foliage: Its species name, rotundifolia, refers to its round basal leaves that appear in early spring. However, as the flower stalks rise, those leaves wither, leaving only very thin, grass-like foliage that makes the flowers look like they are hovering.
Resilient: Despite their "hair-like" stems, Harebells are remarkably wind-resistant and can handle harsh, exposed sites. They are the perfect choice for a rock garden or a stony edge.
Does well in dry sand, rocky crevices and gravelly soils.
Bloom Time: While many natives have a short window, the Harebell will often keep producing new bells for several months, especially if the spent blossoms are dead-headed.
Polinators: It is a favorite of small native bees..
Hummingbirds: Though small, hummingbirds are often seen investigating the blue bells during their mid-summer rounds.
A standout for its narrow, upright spires of lavender-purple flowers that bloom from the bottom up, Hoary Vervain adds a formal "candelabra" look to the landscape. It is remarkably drought-tolerant and maintains its silver-green foliage even during the most punishing summer heat.
Sun Exposure Full Sun to Partial Shade
Water Needs Low; very drought-tolerant
Soil Type Well-drained Sand, Loam, or Rocky/Gravelly soil
Mature Height 2 feet
Deer Resistance High
Bloom Time June – September
Bloom Color Purple, Blue
Plant Spacing 10 – 12 inches
Blooms: The flowers are arranged on long, slender spikes that bloom from the bottom to the top. This results in a very long flowering season as the rings of purple slowly "climb" the stem.
Silvery Texture: The leaves are thick, serrated, and covered in soft white hairs, which protect the plant from water loss and give the foliage a unique frosted look.
Non-Aggressive: While it can self-seed in open soil, it grows in a neat, strictly vertical clump, making it a "polite" neighbor that won't flop over or crowd out other plants.
Butterflies: It is a high-priority nectar source for many butterflies, including the Common Buckeye, Silver-spotted Skipper, and various Hairstreaks.
Specialist Bee Support: It is a vital plant for the Verbena Bee (Calliopsis nebraskensis), which specializes in collecting pollen from this specific genus.
Host Plant: It serves as the larval host for the Common Buckeye butterfly.
An extraordinary native perennial known for its stunning, multi-tiered flower spikes. Each "floor" of the spike features a ring of creamy, purple-spotted blossoms sitting atop showy, leaf-like bracts that blush a beautiful shade of lavender or pink. It’s usually found in sand prairies, hill prairies and oak savannas.
Sun Exposure Full Sun to Partial Shade
Water Needs Low; highly drought-tolerant
Soil Type Well-drained Sand, Loam, or Rocky soil
Mature Height 1 – 2 feet
Deer Resistance High
Bloom Time July – September
Bloom Color Lavendar, Pink
Plant Spacing 8 – 12 inches
Blooms: The flowers grow in distinct "tiers" or whorls around the stem. Even after the color of the bracts fades, the dried structures remain upright and add a geometric interest to the garden.
Aromatic Foliage: The leaves contain high levels of thymol (the same antiseptic oil found in Thyme and Oregano). When you brush against the plant, it releases a spicy, pleasant fragrance. This scent also deters animal browsing.
Sandy Soil Specialist: While it can grow in loam, it absolutely thrives in sandy or gravelly spots where other plants might wilt from the heat.
Biennial plant that self-seeds but is not aggressive.
Pollinators: The high nectar content attracts a constant parade of honeybees, bumblebees, and many butterflies including the Karner Blue butterfly.
It is a primary nectar source for the Great Black Wasp and other beneficial predatory wasps that are gentle to humans but great for natural pest control in the garden.
Host Plant: It is a host plant for the specialized Hermit Sphinx Moth and the Raspberry Pyrausta butterfly.
Pro Tip: Plant with Wild Lupine for optimal Karner Blue support.
A bright, sunny perennial known for its abundance of daisy-like, yellow flowers with jagged-edged petals. It is exceptionally hardy and is often one of the first "prairie" plants to bloom, providing a long-lasting splash of color in early summer. It is one of the most popular and easiest-to-grow natives, bridging the gap between your late-spring bloomers.
Sun Exposure Full Sun
Water Needs Low; very drought-tolerant
Soil Type Well-drained Clay, Loam, Sand, Rocky, or Lean/Poor soil
Mature Height 2 feet
Deer Resistance Moderate - High
Bloom Time May – August
Bloom Color Yellow
Plant Spacing 10 – 16 inches
The "Sand Tickseed": Its nickname comes from its ability to thrive in poor, sandy, or gravelly soils where other plants might struggle. It actually prefers "lean" soil—if the soil is too rich, it may grow too quickly and flop over. Many think the seeds look like ticks.
Self-Seeding Beauty: While it is a perennial, it is also a prolific self-seeder. It will fill in gaps in your garden beds naturally, creating a lush, meadow-like appearance over time.
Promptly dead-head spent blossoms to prolong the blooming period.
Pollinators: The flat, open faces of the flowers make it easy for a wide variety of butterflies, and native bees to seen regularly. As many as 22 native bee species rely on Coreopsis plants.
Songbird Seeds: As the name "Tickseed" implies, the small, dark seeds resemble ticks. These seeds are a favorite snack for goldfinches and other small birds in the late summer
A unique perennial known for its stunning lead-colored (silvery-gray) foliage. In mid-summer, it produces dense, upright spikes of tiny, iridescent purple flowers, each topped with a bright orange-gold stamen. Taproots can reach up to 15’ deep, making it extremely drought tolerant and long-lived.
Sun Exposure Full Sun (will tolerate partial shade)
Water Needs Low; exceptionally drought-tolerant once established
Soil Type Well-drained Sand, Loam, or Rocky/Gravelly soil
Mature Height 2 – 3 feet
Deer Resistance High once established
Bloom Time June – July
Bloom Color Purple
Plant Spacing 1 – 2 feet
Deep-Rooted: Leadplant is famous for its massive taproot, which can extend up to 15 feet underground! This makes it one of the most drought-resistant plants in existence, though it also means it does not like to be moved once planted.
Leadplant is a woody shrub and can take several years to fully mature, during which time it should not be cut back.
Silvery Texture: The leaves are covered in fine, lead-colored hairs that give the plant a soft, "frosted" appearance. This silver foliage provides a beautiful contrast to the deep greens of other garden plants.
Nitrogen Fixer: As a member of the legume family, Leadplant works with soil bacteria to "fix" nitrogen, naturally enriching the soil for its neighbors.
Deer Resistant: Mature plants are typically deer resistant, but it will be best to protect your young plants with mesh or a cage. Rabbits and others will browse young Leadplants while they are getting established.
Pollinators: It is a high-value nectar source for several types of bees, beetles and other beneficial insects.
Butterfly Favorite: Its unique purple spikes are a magnet for various butterflies, including the Dogface Sulphur and various Hairstreaks.
Host Plant: It serves as a host for several moth and butterfly species.
If you’re looking for a plant that bridges the gap between a flowering shrub and a perennial, New Jersey Tea (Ceanothus americanus) is a fascinating choice. It’s a compact shrub with a deep history—its leaves were actually used as a caffeine-free tea substitute during the American Revolution! A sturdy, low-growing deciduous shrub that produces clusters of tiny, fragrant white flowers on long stalks. It is one of the few shrubs that stays small enough to fit perfectly in a perennial border, offering a unique texture and a massive draw for pollinators.
Sun Exposure Full Sun to Partial Shade
Water Needs Low to Medium; exceptionally drought-tolerant once established
Soil Type Well-drained Sand, Loam, or Rocky/Gravelly soil
Mature Height 2 – 3 feet
Deer Resistance Moderate (deer and rabbits will browse this plant, especially when young)
Bloom Time June – August
Bloom Color White
Plant Spacing 2 – 3 feet
Deep Taproot: New Jersey Tea grows a massive, woody red root system that can go very deep. This makes it incredibly drought-proof but also means it hates being transplanted once it’s in the ground.
Nitrogen Fixer: It has a symbiotic relationship with soil bacteria that allows it to "fix" nitrogen, improving the soil quality for all the plants around it.
Blooms: The white flowers appear in dense, cylindrical clusters that look like pom poms from a distance, adding a soft, airy texture to the mid-summer garden.
Foliage: glossy leaves and a mounding shape that keeps it’s rich, green color throughout the growing season but loses it’s leaves in the winter.
If desired, pruning should be done in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. It typically takes about 3 years to reach maturity. Mature shrubs can be cut to the ground in the spring to encourage more rapid growth.
Pollinators: It is legendary for the sheer variety of insects it attracts, including bees, specialized wasps, butterflies and hummingbirds.
Host Plant: It is a critical larval host for the Mottled Duskywing butterfly and the Spring Azure butterfly.
Seed Source: Ripe seeds are eaten by wild turkeys and quail, and other large birds.
Pro Tip: Plant with Butterfly Weed, Coreopsis, Spiderwort or Prairie Dropseed.
Often found in rocky openings and sandy savannas, this species is prized for its large, shaggy flower heads. Unlike other Blazing Stars with dense, tight spikes, Liatris scariosa has distinct, rounded thistle-like flower clusters that give it a more textured and "wild" appearance. Unlike it’s damp loving cousin Marsh Blazing Star, Northern Blazing Star prefers dry conditions.
Sun Exposure Full Sun to Partial Shade
Water Needs Low; highly drought-tolerant
Soil Type Well-drained Loam, Sand, Rocky, or Gravelly soil
Mature Height 2 - 3 feet
Deer Resistance Low, this Blazing Star is commonly browsed on by deer and rabbits
Bloom Time August – September
Bloom Color Purple
Plant Spacing 10 – 12 inches
Flowers: The flower heads are wider and more separated than other Liatris species, looking thistle-like and are about 1” across. Flowers can extend up to 18” of the overall plant stem.
Top-Down Bloomer: Like its relatives, it begins blooming at the top of the spike and works its way down, providing a long-lasting nectar source throughout the late summer.
Because of the top-heavy weight, plants may require staking to hold them upright.
Dry Specialist: This is one of the best Blazing Stars for "difficult" dry spots. It thrives in poor, thin soils where other plants might struggle to find nutrients.
Monarchs and Other Butterflies: This flower is loved by Monarchs and many other butterflies. The wide flower heads provide an easy platform for them to rest and refuel.
Bees: It attracts a wide variety of bees, especially bumblebees, who are attracted to the deep nectar wells.
A classic prairie native, this species is prized for its early bloom time and its daisy-like flowers. Its pale pink-to-lavender petals hang gracefully around a tall, copper-colored central cone. Pale Purple Coneflower should be planted in well-drained soil and prefers full sunlight.
Sun Exposure Full Sun (preferred) to Partial Shade
Water Needs Low; highly drought-tolerant once established
Soil Type Well-drained Sand, Loam, or Rocky/Gravelly soil
Mature Height 2 – 3 feet
Deer Resistance High
Bloom Time June – July
Bloom Color Pink, Lavendar
Plant Spacing 10 – 18 inches
Blooms: Unlike the horizontal petals of the Purple Coneflower (E. purpurea), the petals of the Pale Purple Coneflower are very thin and droop dramatically downward, giving the flower a unique, elegant silhouette.
Deep Taproot: It possesses an incredibly deep taproot making it one of the most drought-resistant perennials for a sunny garden, but it should not be moved once established.
Early Starter: This species typically blooms 2–3 weeks earlier than other coneflowers, making it the perfect "bridge" between spring flowers and the heat of mid-summer.
Pollinators: It blooms in early summer when only a few other plants are in bloom, providing a massive amount of nectar for hummingbirds and butterflies. The leaves provide food for the Ottoe-skipper larva.
Goldfinch Favorite: In late summer and fall, the cones turn dark and fill with oil-rich seeds. You will often see Goldfinches perched directly on the cones, plucking out the seeds.
A mound-forming perennial prized for its decorative, curley-edged foliage with quite hairy undersides. In late spring, it sends up slender, leafless wands, often reaching 2-3 feet tall, topped with tiny, bell-shaped flowers that are a subtle blend of green, cream, and reddish-brown. The exserted stamens stick out like orange tongues from under the upper petal’s lip.
Sun Exposure Full Sun to Partial Shade
Water Needs Low to Medium
Soil Type Well-drained Loam or Sand or Gravely soil
Mature Height 1 – 2 feet (Foliage stays low; flower spikes reach higher)
Deer Resistance High
Bloom Time May – July
Bloom Color Pale Green or Cream
Plant Spacing 8 – 12 inches
Soil Moisture: It is tolerant of a wide range of soil moisture, but prefers areas with sand, gravel or other materials that allow moisture to easily drain from the planting site.
Roots: The roots are relatively shallow and may benefit from having winter mulch applied..
Early Pollinators: The tiny, bell-shaped flowers are specifically shaped for small native bees and flies that emerge in the late spring.
Hummingbirds and Butterflies: A variety of butterflies and hummingbirds are attracted to the bell-shaped blossoms.
A long-lived and dependable perennial that forms tidy, upright clumps. In mid-summer it boasts bright yellow flowers for 3-4 weeks. Blooms are about 1-2 inches across and has deeply textured palmate leaves. While many other Coreopsis species can look a bit "wild" or floppy, Prairie Coreopsis is known for its stiff stems and unique, architectural foliage that stays attractive even when the plant isn't in bloom.
Sun Exposure Full Sun to Partial Shade
Water Needs Low to Medium; very drought-tolerant
Soil Type Sand, Loam, or Rocky soil (avoid overly rich or wet soils)
Mature Height 1.5 – 2 feet
Deer Resistance High
Bloom Time June – July
Bloom Color Yellow
Plant Spacing 12 – 18 inches
Unique Foliage: The leaves are deeply divided into three narrow lobes, resembling a bird's foot or a palm. This provides a distinct, "feathery" texture that contrasts beautifully with broad-leafed plants.
Upright Stems: Unlike some cousins that sprawl, this species stays strictly upright. Its stems are very sturdy, meaning it rarely needs staking and handles wind exceptionally well.
Rhizomatous Spreader: It spreads slowly via rhizomes and can potentially overwhelm small landscapes. Please be mindful when planting.
The rhizomes slowly form an underground mat that is excellent for stabilizing dry, sunny slopes and even sand dunes.
Pollinator Variety: The bright yellow, 1- 2 inch wide flowers are a magnet for various butterflies and skippers.
Bee Support: It is a high-value plant for many native bees and is considered a good species by Beekeepers.
Fall Seed Source: Like the "Tickseeds," it produces small, dark seeds that are a favorite for goldfinches and other small songbirds.
A distinctive and hardy ground-covering perennial. It’s a low-growing charmer that transforms after it blooms, turning from nodding pink bells into feathery, smoky pink seed heads.
Sun Exposure Full Sun to Partial Shade
Water Needs Low; prefers well-drained conditions
Soil Type Well-drained Loam, Sand, Rocky, or Gravelly soil
Mature Height 8 inches
Deer Resistance High
Bloom Time April – June
Bloom Color Pink/Red
Plant Spacing 6 – 8 inches
Nodding Bells: Before the "smoke" appears, each stem holds three small, reddish-pink bells that hang downward.
The "Smoke" Effect: After the nodding pink flowers are pollinated, the styles elongate into 2-inch long, feathery pink plumes. In a mass planting, these look like a low-lying pink cloud or "smoke" hovering over the ground.
Fern-like Foliage: The leaves are deeply serrated, soft, and resemble tiny fern fronds.
Slow Spreading: Prairie Smoke will slowly spread by rhizome in well-drained soils to form a ground cover and work well in in dry rock gardens.
Early Season Nectar: It is one of the earliest sources of food for a variety of bees and other pollinators.
A low-growing, spreading cactus that features flat, fleshy green pads covered in clusters of spines. In early summer, it produces large, waxy, bright yellow flowers (often with a red center) that are absolute magnets for bees. It is a master of adaptation, shriveling up and looking almost "dead" in the winter to survive the freeze, only to puff back up and produce some of the most stunning 3” bright yellow flowers by early summer.
Sun Exposure Full Sun
Water Needs Very Low; extremely drought-tolerant
Soil Type Well-drained Loam, Sand, Gravel, or Rocky/Thin soil
Mature Height 6 – 12 inches
Deer Resistance High
Bloom Time June – July
Bloom Color Yellow
Plant Spacing 6 – 8 inches
Hot & Dry: Prefers full sun and sandy, dry conditions. Good for the driest parts of your native garden.
The "Winter Shrivel": Don't be alarmed if your cactus looks wrinkled and flat in January! It pushes water out of its cells to prevent them from bursting in the cold. It "rehydrates" and stands back up as soon as the ground thaws.
Edible Fruits: After the flowers fade, the plant produces beautiful bright reddish-purple fruits. While they are edible, they are also covered in tiny, hair-like prickles (glochids), so they require careful handling.
Spines & Glochids: It has two types of defenses: the large, obvious needles and the tiny, barbed "fuzz" (glochids) that are actually harder to remove from your skin. A good, thick pair of gloves is a needed for anyone handling this plant.
Pollinators: The wide, bowl-shaped flowers are filled with nectar and pollen. A large variety of bees, butterflies and beetles are highly attracted to this flower
A member of the Aster family, Pussytoes is named for its soft, fuzzy flower heads that resemble a kitten’s paw. This plant is a rugged specialist for the difficult, dry spots in a landscape where other plants might struggle to take hold, such as in a rock garden. This plant is usually grown for it’s velvety leaves, not it’s white flower.
Sun Exposure Full Sun to Partial Shade
Water Needs Low; highly drought-tolerant
Soil Type Needed Well-drained Sand, Gravel, Rocky, or Lean/Poor soil
Mature Height 1–4 inches (foliage); up to 12 inches (flowers)
Deer Resistance High (parts of the plant are poisonous to deer and rabbits)
Bloom Time April – June
Bloom Color White
Plant Spacing 6 – 12 inches
Ground Cover: This plant spreads via stolons (above-ground runners) to create a tight, weed-suppressing carpet. It is an excellent native alternative to non-native groundcovers.
Silver Foliage: The leaves grow at ground level and are covered in tiny white hairs, giving the plant a soft, silvery-gray appearance.
Early Season "Paws": In mid-spring, fuzzy white-to-pinkish flower clusters rise above the foliage on slender stalks. Their unique texture is one of the earliest signs of life in a native rock garden.
Drought tolerant: Pussytoes thrives in "poor" soil. In fact, if the soil is too rich or heavily fertilized, the plant may become leggy or lose its tight, mat-forming habit. It loves the neglected corners of the yard.
Host Plant: Pussytoes is a critical host plant for the American Lady butterfly (Vanessa virginiensis).
No results match your search. Try removing a few filters.
