Native plants are uniquely beautiful, creating a distinctive "sense of place" and a WOW factor in the garden. New England Wild Flower Society displays 1,500 kinds of native plants at Garden in the Woods daily, and sells more than 600 species for sun or shade, moist or dry conditions, at our nurseries.  Many of these plants are very easy to grow, like the umbrella-shaped mayapple that spreads freely in the shade. Or try hardy native lady-slipper orchids with long periods of spectacular bloom. Be sure to purchase nursery propagated and grown plants; never remove plants from the wild.

Can growing native plants help me be more GREEN?

Using native plants is the ultimate environmentally-friendly garden practice. Wildflowers use fewer resources because they are adapted to tolerate normal regional conditions like drought and severe cold, and, when properly sited and planted, don’t require as much intervention with pesticides and fertilizers. By using native plants, we can avoid invasive plant species like barberries, burning bush, and Norway maples that harm natural areas. Native plants are essential for supporting some local wildlife like butterflies and birds.

Are there native plants I can put in my garden for summer and fall interest?

Try some of the sun-loving meadow plants. How about some tall beauties such as switch grasses, Culvers root and ironweed for moist meadows? Perennial sunflowers like giant sunflower are great in the garden.  For fall interest, asters, sea-oat grass, and showy goldenrod (contrary to popular belief they do NOT stimulate hay fever) are perfect. 

How can I learn more about native plants?

Visit New England Wild Flower Society’s Garden in the Woods in Framingham and Nasami Farm in Whately, Massachusetts.  Join the Society to support plant conservation and to receive unlimited free Garden admission, publications, and discounts on nursery plant purchases.  The Society offers one of the largest native plant education programs in America, with inspiring classes in botany and horticulture for everyone from beginners through professionals, and marvelous festivals and family programs. 

“Protecting native plants since 1900."