What Are Native Plants?

A miniscule percentage of the plants or seed sold in the state are from Michigan sources. Plant material that is sold may be called native and be found naturally in Michigan, but the source is usually out of state. By native we mean those plants that were here before Europeans settled in Michigan in the 1700’s.

White Trillium

Why Use Native Plants?

Native plants have evolved here over thousands of years and are well suited to our climate and site, resistant to disease and pests and require little or no special treatment. By using them we provide food and habitat for our native animals. When using native plants it is best to use those from your local area.

Unfortunately many introduced alien plants can become problems in the Michigan landscape. Often these plants are recommended because of their hardiness and tolerance of harsh conditions. These same traits allow some alien plants to crowd out many of our increasingly rare native plant species.

In every case there are native species which could be substituted without the same risk to our environment. Native plants are the safest and most beneficial to use in the long run.

Jack In The Pulpit

Columbine

Your Local Conservation District
Has What You Need!

The Michigan Conservation Districts have a strong interest in promoting the use of Michigan’s native plants, whether it be for home landscaping, enhancing wildlife habitat, streamside restoration, or re-vegetation following construction. Using the right selection of native plants for any given soil, climate and water conditions practically ensures maintenance or re-creation of Michigan’s ecosystems. Find out what your Conservation District can offer you in District Products.

Interested In Learning More About
Michigan Native Plants?

One of the best ways to learn the plants is by visiting a natural area or a native plant demonstration garden. Be sure to take your wildflower guide and a camera along. More and more Native Plant Demonstration Sites are being created throughout the state, so check in periodically for new areas.

Canada Mayflower

Butterfly Weed

A Picture Is Worth...

Of course, it is always handy to have a picture in hand when choosing the right native plant for your landscape. To get you started, we have included a few photos for some of Michigan’s special habitats in our Native Plant Photo Gallery.

And there is a lot of native plant information available on the Internet. Our Links page is a collection of web references from the Conservation District Offices.

Adders Tongue