What is a Native Plant?

The term native refers to plants growing in North America before European settlement, and includes woody plants (trees, shrubs, and vines) and non-woody herbaceous plants (flowering perennials, ferns, grasses). The term wildflower also refers to native plants, sometimes only to the flowering perennials, other times to all native plants.

Why Grow Native Plants?

Native plants are the most sustainable choice for the home gardener. Beautiful, interesting, and varied, they evoke a sense of place and are essential for creating garden habitat for wildlife. The Society invites all to work together to protect the biodiversity of natural areas. Plant conservation is key and it begins right in the home landscape with choosing non-invasive plant species, and native plants are a sure bet. READ MORE

Native Plant Garden Design and Consulting Service

Do you need a native plant garden designed? Our expert horticulture staff has great experience in landscape design.  Contact Botanic Garden Director Scott LaFleur at slafleur@newenglandwild.org.