Culture and Use Guide For Western Pennsylvania native Plants
Audubon Center for Native Plants
Text and Photographs© 2008 Audubon Society of Western Pennsylvania
PLEASE NOTE: All plants, native or not, require regular
watering until established. Gently loosen roots before planting.
Choose an appropriate site according to the plant's individual
requirements.
Most, but not all, of the plants on this list are available at
the Audubon Center for Native Plants on a
regular basis. Please consult the Species List posted on the
website prior to each sale regarding current and new species
availability. Unless otherwise stated, plants are perennial in
nature. Shrub and tree species are small, generally in quart size
containers, and are priced accordingly. All species offered are
native to Allegheny and/or its contiguous counties and are local
genotypes.
Click pictures to open an enlarged version in a new window.
Actaea pachypoda - Doll's Eyes
Small white flowers in May. Fruit a white berry with purplish "eye" in late summer. Bushy. Height: 1-3'. Width: 12-16". Part shade. Medium to moist, rich soil. Nice intermediate height to use between shrubs and groundcover. A good companion to Virginia Bluebells or as a focal point among lower plants. Long-lived. Easily grown. Always attractive. Deer resistant.
Allium cernuum - Nodding Onion
Dainty, with slender, grass-like leaves and nodding, purplish-pink flowers on wiry stems in July and August. Height: 12-18". Width: 1'. Sun to part sun. Average, well-drained soil. Drought tolerant. Effective when massed behind lower-growing plants, in a rock garden or a wild garden. Will grow on steep, rocky banks. Self-sows aggressively. Deadhead to prevent. Bulbs multiply. Flowers at a time when few other plants are in bloom. Hummingbird plant. Can be used in rain gardens. Carefree. Deer resistant.
Allium tricoccum - Ramps; Wild Leek.
Lily-of-the-valley-like foliage dies back in June and is followed by small, roundish heads of white bells on leafless, 6-18" stalks. Shiny, round, black seeds in dried clusters may remain through winter. Height: 6-12". Width: 8". Part shade. Rich soil, moist, especially in spring. An interesting woodland groundcover, often grown for its very strong leek-like flavor. Slowly forms colonies. Deer resistant.
Andropogon gerardii - Big Bluestem; Turkeyfoot
Clump-forming, strongly vertical grass. Purplish inflorescence in late summer followed by 3-pronged seed head. Plants turn orange-brown in fall. Height: 3-7'. Width: 3-5'. Sun. Average, well-drained soil. Keep clump free of weeds until well established. Cut back in March. Combine with Blazing Star, goldenrods, sunflowers, Joe-Pye and ironweeds in meadow and informal plantings. Rain garden plant. Deer resistant.
Anemone virginiana - Thimbleweed
Blooms greenish-white on stiff stems above leaves in early summer. Erect. Leaves widely spaced in levels along stems producing an appealing architectural effect. Ornamental, thimble-shaped seed heads last through winter. Height: 2-3'. Width: 12-16". Part shade. Medium to dry, average soil. Wood edge, or in open woods where Wild Geranium is a good companion. Self-sows freely. Deadhead to prevent.
Antennaria plantaginifolia - Plantain-leaved Pussytoes
Semi-evergreen groundcover forming ever-expanding, dense mats. White blossoms in early spring. Small, closely-clustered flower heads resemble cats' paws. Foliage dark green above, silvery below. Height: 3-6". Part sun. Average soil. Excellent drainage a must. Will not tolerate competition from other plants. Shear after flowering for neat appearance. Sections may be dug and moved in summer. Use in rock gardens, near paving stones or on banks. Deer resistant.
Aquilegia canadensis - Wild Columbine
Elegant, yellow and red, spurred blossoms on stiff stems above leaves in late spring. Height: 2'. Width: 1'. Part shade, especially in the afternoon. Average soil, moist in spring. Good drainage. Individuals may be short-lived, but plant self-sows. Use in rock gardens, massed or scattered here and there along a wood edge. Plants die back but do not disappear in summer. Cut back to basal foliage for neat appearance. Hummingbird plant.
Aralia nudicaulis - Wild Sarsaparilla
Greenish-white, round flower clusters on separate stalks held under umbrella-like leaves in late spring. Purplish-black berries follow. Height: to 15". Part shade. Average to dry soil. May be aggessive. Best for naturalizing in larger woodland gardens.
Aralia racemosa - Spikenard
Shrubby, but dies back to the ground in fall. Greenish-white flower clusters in summer. Bold-textured foliage. Dark purple berries attractive to wildlife in fall. Black stems. Large, heart-shaped leaflets. Height and spread: 3-6'. Part shade or at wood edge. Moist, rich soil.
Arisaema triphyllum - Jack-in-the-Pulpit
Green and brown or mahogany striped hood around fleshy spadix in spring. Red fruits on vigorous individuals in late summer. Height: 12-28". Width: 12-16". Part shade. Moist, rich soil. Forms colonies. Bold leaves. Nice when grown with Creeping Phlox or White Wood Aster to fill in bare spots since weaker plants disappear by midsummer. Woodland, pond or streamside gardens. If any plant develops orange rust, remove and discard. (Do not compost.) Shadier rain garden plant. Deer resistant.
Aruncus dioicus - Goat's-beard
Fine-textured, creamy white, astilbe-like plumes in June. An imposing plant. Height: 4'. Width: 3'. Part shade. Moist, rich soil. Will not do well in dry soil. Nice between shrubs, behind lower perennials, at a wood edge or massed on a slope or stream bank. Male and female individuals. Males a bit showier, but females develop attractive seed heads in fall. Clip off spent blooms to prevent self-sowing. Excellent nectar plant.
Asarum canadense - Wild Ginger
Deciduous groundcover. Bold, heart-shaped foliage. Inconspicuous, maroon, jug-shaped blooms under leaves in spring. Height: 6-8". Part shade. Moist, rich soil. Spreads moderately fast. Good stabilizer for a woodland slope or under shrubs. Nice contrasted with fine-textured foliage plants such as ferns. Carefree. Shadier rain garden plant. Deer resistant.
Asclepias exaltata - Tall or Poke Milkweed.
Elegant clusters of drooping, greenish-white flowers in summer. Blooms earlier than common milkweed. Leaves similar to those of common milkweed, but this is a clumping form and is thus better suited to suburban yards. Height: to 5'. Width: 2'. Part sun. Moist soil. Butterfly plant.
Asclepias incarnata - Pink or Swamp Milkweed
Flat clusters of rosy-pink flowers on stiff stems in July and August, followed by interesting seed pods. Height: 3-4'. Width: 2'. Sun. Medium to very moist, average soil. Clumping habit. Never needs dividing. Plant in a permanent location and allow to die back naturally. Self-sows. Deadhead to prevent. Use in a meadow, beside a pond or stream or massed in an informal garden. Butterfly plant. Rain garden plant. Deer resistant.
Asclepias syriaca - Common Milkweed
Purple and green blooms in summer followed by interesting seed pods. Height: 3-4'. Sun or part sun. Average soil. Allow for wide-spreading, running root system and permit to die back naturally. An aggressive plant best used for naturalizing in fields and meadows. Forms extensive colonies. Butterfly plant.
Asclepias tuberosa - Butterflyweed
Compact, bushy plant with brilliant orange flowers in mid-summer. Height: 2-3'. Width: 2'. Sun to bright shade. Sandy to average soil. Good drainage. Will not tolerate wet soil. Mark locations as plants break dormancy late. To avoid empty spots in early summer, plant among earlier bloomers. Long-lived. Deep taproot makes transplanting difficult. Avoid digging close to plants because roots, if damaged, are easily infected. Choose a permanent location and allow to die back naturally. Mulch to prevent frost heaving. Nice with native grasses and coreopsis species. Long-lived. Butterfly plant.
Caltha palustris - Marsh Marigold
Loose clusters of yellow-gold, 1-1½" blooms in early spring. Shiny, round leaves. Height: 1-2'. Width: 1'. Part sun. Moist to wet, rich soil. Clumping habit. Will grow in shallow water, but requires very moist soil at least in winter and spring. Mulch well. Good beside ponds or streams or in boggy spots that are shaded in summer. Older plants may go dormant after seed set, but reappear in fall. Rain garden plant.
Campanula americana - Tall Bellflower
Annual or biennial. Blue, star-shaped flowers on leafy spikes in summer and early fall. Basal rosettes appear first, followed by tall stems and blooms. Self-sows where happy. Height: 2-6'. Part sun to light shade. Average soil. Nice for naturalizing in combination with White Wood Aster or Blue, Heart-leaved Aster. Often found growing on steep banks along roadsides. Shadier rain garden plant.
Cardamine concatenata - Cut-leaf Toothwort.
Spring ephemeral. Flower clusters white tinged with pink on short spikes in early spring. Finely cut foliage. Forms colonies. Height: 3-5". Part shade. Rich, moist soil. Nice to scatter in a woodland garden, especially around plants that emerge later such as ferns. Butterfly plant. Deer resistant.
Carex pensylvanica - Pennsylvania Sedge
Inflorescence red-purple in very early spring. Appears as a tuft of grass. Height: 8-16". Width: 1-2'. Part to full shade. Spreads by underground stolons and self-sows. A grass substitute for dry, shady areas under trees. Never needs cutting unless to tidy. Spaces between tufts can be planted with bulbs such as fall or spring blooming crocus. Also nice in shady rock gardens or on rocky slopes. Deer resistant.
Caulophyllum thalictroides - Blue Cohosh
Emerging foliage deep, smoke-purple followed by greenish-yellow or purplish flowers where leaflets join stems in spring. Fully expanded leaves blue-green and airy looking. Large, blue berries in summer. Height: 2-3'. Width: 2'. Shade. Moist, rich, near-neutral soil. Dust soil occasionally with horticultural lime. Long-lived. Division possible in spring or fall, but not usually necessary. Often found in large stands on moist woodland slopes. Good in combination with Doll's Eyes. Also nice as an accent plant or as a step-down layer between shrubs and shorter plants. Deer resistant.
Celtis occidentalis - Hackberry; Sugarberry
Medium to large tree. Inconspicuous blooms in early spring. Green fruits ripen to purple berries in fall. Height: 40-60'. Similar spread. Part to full sun. Average soil. Important provider of food and shelter for birds and mammals. Attracts many butterflies. Mites may cause twig clusters to form at branch ends, but this does not kill the tree. An adaptable species and a good choice for difficult sites. Protect from deer until well-established and sizeable. Rain garden plant.
Cephalanthus occidentalis - Buttonbush
Deciduous shrub. Creamy white flower balls in summer. Large, bold foliage. Height: 3-10'. Width: 3-6'. Part to full sun. Moist to wet soil. Plant in standing water, at the very edge of a pond or stream or in soil that stays moist. Will not tolerate drought. Apply a little balanced fertilizer in spring. Cut back to 1' in winter for lower, rounded growth, pruning to one or two trunks and removing dead twigs, or allow to die back naturally for a rougher, more natural appearance. Butterfly plant.
Cercis canadensis - Eastern Redbud
Small tree for understory or wood edge. Bright pink blooms all along branches in spring before large, heart-shaped leaves emerge. Height: 12-25'. Spread: 10-20'. Part sun. Moist, average soil. Fast grower. Leaves turn yellow in fall. Nice near a patio or second story window. Rain garden plant. Deer resistant, but protect until well-established and sizeable.
Chelone glabra - White Turtlehead
Flowers white tinged with pink and clustered among top-most leaves in late summer. Height: 3'. Width: 2'. Part sun. Moist to wet, average soil. Good for somewhat shady spots, but blooms best with at least a few hours of sun. Adaptable, but cannot tolerate drought. Pinch tips in June to control height and promote bushiness. Easy to divide and transplant in spring. Foliage will remain attractive into October with enough moisture. Difficult to confine to neat clumps due to wide-ranging rhizomes, so best used for naturalizing. Cardinal Flower and Great Blue Lobelia are nice companions. Trouble free. Shadier rain garden plant. Deer resistant.
Cimicifuga racemosa - Black Cohosh
Tall, wand-like, white spikes in summer. Attractive foliage. A large, stately plant. Height: 3-5'. Width: 2-4'. Part shade. Moist but well-drained, rich soil. Long-lived. Division seldom necessary but should be done in spring. Easily transplanted. Dust soil occasionally with horticultural lime. Self-sows, but not aggressively. Deadhead to prevent. Keep free of aggressive competitors. Best used in groups of 3 or more plants. Excellent background plant for shade gardens behind ferns and groundcovers. Also effective in front of evergreens or other dark backgrounds, massed at the edge of a pond or stream or at the edge of woods. Carefree. Deer resistant.
Clematis virginiana - Virgin's Bower
Vine. Produces masses of fragrant white flowers in late summer. Seed heads are clusters of silky hairs, attractive into fall. Length: to 30'. Morning sun to bright shade. Moist, average soil. Transplant with care in early spring. Stems are brittle. One to two years required to adapt to new location. Provide support. This is an aggressive species best used for naturalizing among shrubs or to grow over a strong pergola or along a fence. Shadier rain garden plant.
Collinsia verna - Blue-eyed Mary
Annual. Height: 6-18". Part shade. Moist, near-neutral, rich soil. Dust soil occasionally with horticultural lime. Self-sows. Plants emerge in fall and stay green through winter. Lovely under deciduous trees. Deer resistant.
Coreopsis tripteris - Tall Tickseed
Blooms yellow, 2"-wide daisy-like flowers on strong stems in mid-summer. Height: 4-7'. Width: 3'. Sun to part sun. Moist to wet, average soil. A clumping plant. Divide in spring every 3-5 years. Cut back by half in early June to control height and promote bushiness. Impressive species for back of border or to mix with tall grasses and asters in a meadow. Self-sows. Deadhead to prevent. Rain garden plant.
Cornus amomum - Silky Dogwood
Deciduous, suckering shrub. Creamy white blooms in late spring. Bright blue berries in late summer. Height: 3-10'. Part sun to bright shade. Moist to wet, average soil. Forms spreading, multi-stemmed colonies. Best used for naturalizing on banks and in wetter areas. Provides food and cover for birds and small mammals. Rain garden plant. Deer resistant, but protect until well-established and sizeable.
Cornus racemosa - Gray Dogwood
Deciduous, suckering shrub. Blooms creamy white in flat-topped clusters in spring. White berries with red stems in late summer. Foliage turns deep red in fall. Height: 3-10'. Part sun to bright shade. Fairly moist to wet soil. Forms colonies and may be aggressive, so best used for naturalizing. Clumps can be rejuvenated with hard pruning. Divide when dormant by cutting back to 6" and digging sections from clump edge. Dense stands provide cover for wildlife. Berries taken by birds. Rain garden plant.
Corydalis flavula - Yellow Harlequin
Biennial. Pale yellow, tubular flowers about ¼" long in spring. Foliage pale green and finely divided. Height: 6-15". Part shade. Rich, moist soil. Self-sows here and there. A filler plant for the woodland garden, open woods or wood edge. Deer resistant.
Delphinium exaltatum - Tall Larkspur
Blooms blue-purple on tall spikes in summer. Exquisite cut foliage. Height: 3-6'. Width: 16-24". Part sun to bright shade. Moist, near-neutral, rich soil. Dust soil occasionally with horticultural lime. Takes time to develop into sizeable clump, but rugged and long-lived. Must be protected from slugs beginning late June. Move only in early spring. Division not recommended. Easily grown. Good tall accent in a border or naturalized in a meadow.
Delphinium tricorne - Dwarf Larkspur
Spring ephemeral. Showy, large purple blooms above deeply cut foliage. Height and width: 1'. Part shade. Moist but well-drained, near-neutral soil. Dust soil occasionally with horticultural lime. Plants go dormant soon after bloom. Mark site well so as not to disturb roots. Interplant with other species such as ferns, Wild Ginger or White Wood Aster to follow. May be moved in early spring, but do not divide woody crown. Lovely at wood edge, near a stream or in a rock garden.
Dicentra canadensis - Squirrel Corn
Spring ephemeral. White, heart-shaped flowers dangle on stiff stems above a mound of finely cut, blue-green foliage. Height: 5". Width: 1'. Part shade. Moist, well-drained, near-neutral, rich soil. Dust soil occasionally with horticultural lime. Bulblets may be dug and divided or moved only when plants are dormant in summer. Nectar plant for bumblebees. Deer resistant.
Dicentra cucullaria - Dutchman's Breeches
Spring ephemeral. Similar to Dicentra canadensis, above, except flowers have pointed rather than rounded lobes and plant blooms a little earlier. Culture the same. Nectar plant for bumblebees. Deer resistant.
Doellingeria umbellata - White flat-topped Aster
Flat clusters of white flowers with yellow-green centers in fall. Bushy. Needs space. Height: 3-7'. Width: 3-4'. Part sun. Moist, average soil. Cut back by half in early June to control height. Self-sows. Deadhead to prevent. Divide every 4-5 years. Good foliage. One of the earliest blooming asters. Adaptable and easy. Rain garden plant. Good fall nectar source and food plant for butterfly larva.
Dryopteris marginalis - Marginal Wood Fern
Leathery, evergreen fronds. Height: 1-2'. Width: to 2'. Part to full shade. Moist but well-drained, average soil. Use in a woodland garden, at the wood edge or on rocky, shaded slopes. A clumping form. Will self-sow aggressively. Easy and long-lived. Shadier rain garden plant. Deer resistant.
Elymus hystrix - Bottlebrush Grass
Bristle-like inflorescence in summer. Turns tan in fall. Height: 2-5'. Width: 1-1.5'. Part sun, but will tolerate quite a bit of shade. Average soil. Keep clump free of weeds until established. Cut back in March. Use in meadow gardens or open woods. Will self-sow, but not aggressively. Rain garden plant. Deer resistant.
Elymus riparius - Riverbank Wild Rye. (Grass)
Wide-leaved tufts. Short, bristle-like inflorescence in mid-summer. Turns tan in fall. Height: 4½'. Part sun. Moist soils only. Cut back in March. Best for naturalizing by a pond or stream. Self-sows. Rain garden plant. Deer resistant.
Elymus virginicus - Wild Rye
Grass. Grows in tufts. Height: 2-5'. Width: 1'. Stiff and straight. Turns from green to tan in fall. Sun to part sun. Moist, average soil. Nice near ponds and streams. Rain garden plant. Deer resistant.
Eupatoriadelphus fistulosus - Joe-Pye Weed; Trumpetweed
Blooms in flat clusters of mauve flowers in late summer. Height: 4-8'. Width: 3-4'. Part to full sun. Moist to wet, fertile soil. Emerges late in spring. Pinch plants to promote fullness, or cut back by up to half in June to control height. Use at back of border, in butterfly and wild gardens, in meadows or at edges of ponds or streams. Easy and trouble-free except for some minor foliage damage from insects. Excellent nectar plant. Rain garden plant.
Eupatoriadelphus maculatus - Spotted Joe-Pye Weed
Similar to Eupatoriadelphus fistulosus, above, but with purple or purple-spotted stems. Culture and use information the same. Excellent nectar plant. Rain garden plant.
Eupatorium perfoliatum - Boneset
Blooms in hazy, white, flat heads in late summer. Height: 2-4'. Width: 2'. Part sun. Moist to wet, average soil. Foliage interesting as stem appears to pierce leaves. Emerges late in spring. May be short-lived but self-sows. Lovely massed or used in meadows, wild gardens or at the edges of ponds or streams. Good in combination with Joe-Pye Weed and ironweeds. Lovely with cattails. Good cut or dried flower. Excellent nectar plant. Rain garden plant.
Euphorbia corollata - Flowering Spurge
Blooms baby's breath-like, dainty white flowers in summer. Height: 2-3'. Width: 1-2'. Sun to part sun. Average soil. Very adaptable. Long taproot, so do not disturb once established. Stem sap may be mildly irritating. Use in rock gardens or in dry meadows, or for a softening effect among bright flowers such as Butterflyweed or Blazing Star. Also, plant here and there among other species to unify a garden. Leaves turn colors in fall. Good cut flower. A tough, carefree species. Deer resistant.
Eurybia divaricata - White Wood Aster
White flowers with rose centers in fall. Bushy plants if they have good strong light. Height: 1-3'. Width: 1-1½'. Morning sun to bright shade. Average soil. Spreads by rhizomes and self-sows. Deadhead to prevent. A good transition plant between woodland or shrubs and lawn. An alternative for dry shade. Nice mixed with mainly foliage plants such as Coral Bells. Adaptable and easy. Good fall nectar source and food plant for butterfly larva. Deer resistant
Fragaria virginiana - Wild Strawberry
White flowers in spring followed by small, edible fruits in early summer. Spreads aggressively by runners. Height: 6-8". Sun to part sun. Moderate to dry, average soil. Loose groundcover for meadows among grasses and other meadow plants, or for open woods. Provides food for birds and small mammals.
Gentiana clausa - Bottle Gentian
Deep, blue-purple blooms in late summer. Flowers remain closed in a bottle shape, as if still in bud. Height: 14-18". Width: 2 - 2.5'. Part sun. Moist to wet, fertile soil. Clumping habit. Water very regularly throughout the first season. Do not disturb roots once established. Scatter in a border, mass or use as an edger. Pollinated by bumblebees burrowing down inside bloom. Rain garden plant.
Geranium maculatum - Wild Geranium
Blooms purplish-pink in spring. Deeply cut foliage which may turn red-purple in fall. Height: 14-18". Width: 1'. Part shade. Moderately fertile soil that stays moist, at least in spring. Readily self-sows and so is best used as a groundcover or filler in woodland gardens or at the wood edge. Smothers weeds. Spreads too quickly for a planned border. Rust may disfigure leaves but plants survive. Thimbleweed is a good companion plant as it can compete. Tough and adaptable. Easy. Shadier rain garden plant.
Helenium autumnale - Helen's Flower; Common Sneezeweed
Daisy-like yellow flowers with squared-off edges bloom on stout stems in late summer. Height: 3-5'. Sun to part sun. Moist to wet, average soil. Transplant only in spring. Pinch plants in mid-May and again in early June for more compact growth and more flowers, or cut back by half in early June. Deadheading prolongs bloom. Individuals may be short-lived but self-sows freely. Nice with other tall, late-blooming moisture lovers such as New England Aster and New York Ironweed. Rain garden plant. Deer resistant.
Helianthus decapetalus - Thin-leaved Sunflower
Yellow, 1.5-4" wide, daisy-like flowers in late summer and early fall. Height: 2-5'. Part shade. Moist, average soil. Spreads aggressively by underground rhizomes. Circle clump with a sharp spade in spring and pull out undesired stems. Best used for naturalizing, especially on moist banks. Shadier rain garden plant. Bird and butterfly plant.
Helianthus divaricatus - Woodland Sunflower
Yellow, 1.5-4" wide, daisy-like flowers in small clusters in summer. Height: 2-5'. Width: 3-6'. Moist, average to fertile soil. Part shade. Culture as for Helianthus decapetalus, above. Use for naturalizing in open woods or on moist banks. Shadier rain garden plant. Bird and butterfly plant.
Helianthus giganteus - Tall Sunflower
Yellow, 1.5-2.5" wide, daisy-like flowers from mid-summer to fall. Height: 6-10'. Width: 4-5'. Moist to wet, average to rich soil. Culture as for Helianthus decapetalus, above. Plant may be cut back by half in late June to control height and promote bushiness. Dramatic at the back of a border, or among tall grasses in a wild garden or meadow. Rain garden plant. Bird and butterfly plant.
Heliopsis helianthoides - Oxeye; False Sunflower
Yellow, 1.5-2.5" wide blooms from mid-summer to fall. Height: 3-5'. Width: 3'. Part sun. Average soil. Forms thick, non-spreading clumps. Use in the middle of a border, in a meadow with grasses, in open woods or at the wood edge. Long-blooming, easily grown and transplanted. Rain garden plant. Carefree.
Heuchera americana - Coral Bells; Alumroot
Small, green or purplish flowers held on stiff stems high above the foliage in early summer. Height: 1-2'. Width: 12-16". Part shade, especially in the afternoon. Moist, rich soil. Good drainage. Do not plant in heavy clay. Fertilize in April and May. Dust soil occasionally with horticultural lime. Crowns may heave over winter. Mulch with pine boughs for winter and press crowns gently back into soil in early spring. Mainly a foliage plant. Use at the front of a border as an edger, massed in sweeps or as a groundcover. Also nice around rocks or at the wood edge in groups. Good native substitute for Japanese pachysandra. Drought tolerant once established. Good companions are White Wood Aster and Wild Stonecrop.
Hibiscus moscheutos - Swamp Rose Mallow
Large, white or pink flowers with darker centers in late summer. Height: 4-7'. Width: 3-4'. Sun to part sun. Must have moist to wet, fairly rich soil. Plant emerges late in spring and grows very fast. Long-lived. Forms large clumps over time, so allow space. Mulch to retain moisture in summer and to protect roots in winter. Japanese beetles may be a problem. Use at pond edge, in low, wet spots or water deeply and consistently in summer. Rain garden plant.
Hieracium venosum - Rattlesnake Weed
Interesting, red-veined, hairy leaves that hug the ground, forming mats. Small, yellow flowers on stiff, mostly leafless stalks through summer. Flower height: 1-2'. Morning sun. Moist, fertile soil. Grows in moss at the base of trees in wild areas. Acts more like an annual than a perennial, with many, fast-germinating self-sows, but winter survival only by stronger plants.
Houstonia caerulea - Bluets
Dainty, light blue flowers with yellow centers in spring. Charming, diminutive plants form tight clumps only 1-4" high. Part sun, light shade or dappled light. Requires moist, but well-drained, open ground. Will not tolerate competition. Favors places where moss grows, as between shaded patio stones. Does well planted in damp sand in rock gardens. Adding a little peat moss to the soil when planting, and mulching lightly are beneficial. Plants may be short-lived but will self-sow in open soil or moss where happy.
Hydrangea arborescens - Wild Hydrangea
Deciduous suckering shrub. Blooms white in early to mid-summer. Large, bold leaves. A woodland understory species. Height: 5'. Width: 10'. Part shade. Fairly moist, fertile soil. Often grows on moist, rocky banks in wild areas. Add a bit of fertilizer when planting. Benefits from cutting to the ground each year after leaves drop in fall. Shadier rain garden plant.
Hydrophyllum canadense - Maple-leaved Waterleaf
Violet, bell-like flowers in clusters held above leaves on stiff stalks in spring. Attractive, silver-gray waterspotting on emerging, maple-like leaves, fading as foliage expands. Height and width: 10-16". Part shade. Moist, rich soil. Self sows aggressively. Deadhead to prevent. Cut back in summer when foliage deteriorates. Re-emerges in fall. Best in an informal woodland garden or in shade near ponds or streams. Shadier rain garden plant.
Hydrophyllum virginianum - Virginia Waterleaf.
Similar to Hydrophyllum canadense, above. Culture and use information the same. Shadier rain garden plant.
Hypericum prolificum - Shrubby St. John's-wort
Deciduous shrub. Yellow flowers with many stamens in summer give blooms the look of little exploding fireworks. Twiggy, with blue-green foliage. Height and width: 3-6'. Part sun. Well-drained soil. Will tolerate drought after well established. Fertilize lightly in spring. Remove ¼ of outer twigs in winter. Self-sows readily. Deadhead to prevent. Excellent nectar source. Rain garden plant. Deer resistant.
Iris versicolor - Northern Blue Flag
Blooms blue-violet to purple in late spring. Height: 2-3'. Part sun to bright shade. Moist to wet soil, even in shallow water. Will tolerate drier soils, but not extended drought. This is a robust species. Clean up all dead foliage around plants in March to discourage borers. Streaks or necrosis on leaves may indicate a virus. Remove and discard infected plants. (Do not compost.) Fertilize in spring. Divide every 3-5 years in summer. Nice beside ponds or streams or in any area that stays fairly moist. Shadier rain garden plant. Deer resistant.
Jeffersonia diphylla - Twinleaf
Blooms white, very briefly, in early spring. Mainly a foliage plant. Leaves resemble large butterfly wings. Height and width: 12-16". Part shade. Moist, near-neutral, rich soil. Dust soil occasionally with horticultural lime. Use as a taller groundcover under deciduous trees or in a woodland garden, setting plants one foot apart, or combine with finer foliage plants such as ferns for a nice texture contrast. Self-sows. Deer resistant.
Liatris spicata - Blazing Star
Bright, pink-purple blooms on tall spikes in summer. Height: 2-4'. Width: 18". Sun to part sun. Moist to wet, average soil. Good drainage. Drought tolerant after established. Do not overfertilize. May need staking. Long-lived. Takes up to two seasons to develop into a large plant. Use as a vertical accent in borders, meadows or wild gardens. Combine with sunflowers, goldenrods, silphiums and other yellow composites for nice color contrast. Seeds attract birds. Rain garden plant. Butterfly plant. Deer resistant.
Lindera benzoin - Spicebush
Multi-stemmed, deciduous, understory shrub. Subtle yellow blooms along stems in spring. Red berries on female plants in fall. Exudes spicy scent when bark is scratched or leaves are crushed. Height: 8-15'. Spread: 6-15'. Part shade. Best in moist, fertile soil, but adaptable. Rain garden plant. Butterfly plant. Deer resistant, but protect until well-established and sizeable.
Lobelia cardinalis - Cardinal Flower
Blooms red (occasionally white or salmon) on a spike from an evergreen rosette in mid-summer. Height: 2-4'. Width: 1'. Part sun. Moist, well-drained, rich soil. Protect offsets for next year's growth by keeping plants free from heavy mulch and all weeds in fall. Mulch with pine straw or other light material in winter, but pull back early in spring to prevent rot. Water during drought. Striking in borders or near a pond or stream. Not exceptionally long-lived, but reseeds where conditions are right. Rain garden plant. Hummingbird and butterfly plant.
Lobelia cardinalis x siphilitica "Beechwood Blend"
Natural cross between red and blue lobelias. Large magenta blooms on a spike from an evergreen rosette in late summer. Height: 3-4'. Width: 1'. Part sun. Moist, well-drained, rich soil. Culture same as for Lobelia cardinalis, above. This plant will only come true from its offsets, which may be divided in spring. Seed will produce parent plants. Deadhead to prevent self-sowing. Rain garden plant. Hummingbird and butterfly plant.
Lobelia siphilitica - Great Blue Lobelia
Blooms blue on a thick spike from an evergreen rosette in mid-summer to early fall. Height: 2-4'. Width: 12-16". Sun to part sun. Moist to wet, rich soil. Dust soil occasionally with horticultural lime. Easier to grow than Cardinal Flower. Nice contrasted with it, or with the yellow of goldenrod. Self-sows freely. Deadhead to prevent. Rain garden plant. Hummingbird plant.
Lilium canadense - Canada Lily.
Multiple, yellow-gold, trumpet-shaped blooms on tall stems in July. Whorled leaves. Height: 5'. Width: 18". Part sun. Consistently moist, but not wet, soil, especially during active growth period. Incorporate plenty of compost to improve water retention and drainage. Plant bulb no deeper than 6", depending on size. Best to protect from rodents with underground cage of hardware cloth or with coarse gravel mixed into surrounding soil. Top growth must be protected from rabbits and deer. Mulch to keep roots cool, or plant so roots will be shaded. Elegant near water, in a moist meadow or scattered in a border. Dig and divide bulbs after foliage declines in fall.
Lilium superbum - Turk's Cap Lily.
Similar to Lilium canadense, above, but flowers usually orange with strongly recurved petals. Height: 8'. Culture and use information the same.
Lonicera sempervirens - Trumpet Honeysuckle.
Deciduous vine. Clusters of 1-2" long, red, tubular blossoms throughout the growing season. Red berries. Paired leaves pierced by the stem. Requires strong support, but vines become thicker and woodier with age. At least part sun for longer blooming season. Rich, moist soil. Prune to several large stems and remove most suckers at the plant base in late fall. Aphids may be a problem. Use a strong spray of water to dislodge, but, in general, avoid overhead watering. Lovely along a fence. Great wildlife plant, especially for hummingbirds.
Luzula acuminata - Hairy Woodrush
Blooms white in early spring. Strappy, half-inch wide leaves which hold up well and may persist through winter. Height and width 6-12". Part shade. Moist to moderately dry, average soil. Spreads by rhizomes to form a patchy groundcover. Also self-sows, but not aggressively. Clumps may be divided in early spring. Often found on slopes in open woodlands. Use as an edger or groundcover in a woodland or shady rock garden. Also nice at pond edge or on stream banks. Shadier rain garden plant. Deer resistant.
Maianthemum canadense - Canada Mayflower
Deciduous groundcover. Resembles lily-of-the-valley. Blooms white in spring. Red berries taken by birds in fall. Height: 2-4". Spread: 1'. Part sun to full shade. Average soil. Extremely adaptable. A rapid spreader. Nice interplanted with taller species, or under trees and shrubs, but does not like competition. Deer resistant.
Smilacina racemosa - False Solomon's Seal
White flowers in clusters at the ends of arching stems in late spring. Berries which turn from white to red follow. Height: 1-3'. Moist, rich soil. Part shade. Forms colonies over time. Foliage benefits from extra water. Combines well with Wreath Goldenrod, Wild Ginger or Bloodroot.
Mertensia virginica - Virginia Bluebells
Spring ephemeral. Pink in bud, light blue in bloom in spring. Flowers bell-shaped and in clusters. Height: 14-20". Width: to 16". Part shade to shade. Moist, rich soil. Dust soil occasionally with horticultural lime. Just after bloom, leaves turn yellow and plants go dormant. Plant with other species such as ferns, Wild Ginger or White Wood Aster to follow. Will grow well under deciduous trees and shrubs. Use in shade borders, woodland gardens and for naturalizing in low areas. Easy to grow. Multiplies steadily. Long-lived. Shadier rain garden plant. Deer resistant.
Mimulus ringens - Monkey Flower
Blooms light violet in mid-summer. Height: 2-4'. Width: 1'. Part sun. Moist to wet, rich soil. Dust soil occasionally with horticultural lime. Individuals may be short-lived but plant self-sows aggressively. Site with other moisture lovers in borders, low areas or near ponds or streams. Shadier rain garden plant. Deer resistant.
Mitchella repens - Partridgeberry
Evergreen, slow-spreading groundcover. Sparse white blooms from spring into summer. Tiny, round, dark, shiny leaves. Red berries, also sparse, through winter. Height: 1-2". Spread: to 16". Part to full shade. Acidic, moisture-retentive soil. Does not like competition and resents leaf cover in winter. Slow to establish, but will in time form a thick patch. Must have adequate moisture until well- established. Use around shaded stepping stones or under acid-loving deciduous and evergreen trees and shrubs. Incorporate plenty of sphagnum peat moss into planting area and mulch with pine needles. Deer resistant.
Mitella diphylla - Mitrewort; Bishop's Cap
Spires of dainty white blooms in spring. Height: 6-12". Width: 8". Part to full shade. Moist, rich soil. Good drainage. Dust soil occasionally with horticultural lime. Keep free of accumulating leaves. Naturally grows on banks or steep slopes, often with trillium and violet species, or on mossy logs. Lovely as a groundcover under deciduous trees in a woodland garden. May be hard to establish.
Monarda clinopodia - Basil Balm
White to pinkish flowers in summer. Height: 2-4'. Width: 18". Morning sun to bright shade. Moist, fertile soil. Allow plenty of room as plants spread moderately fast by shallow rhizomes. Drier, less fertile soils will slow spread. Foliage susceptible to powdery mildew. Cut back to clean foliage and discard. (Do not compost.) Divide every 3 years. Good for naturalizing at the wood edge, in front of shrubs or in a low spot. Hummingbird and butterfly plant. Shadier rain garden plant. Deer resistant.
Monarda didyma - Bee-balm; Oswego Tea
Blooms red in summer. Height: 3-4'. Width: 18". Sun to part sun. Moist, fertile soil. See Monarda clinopodia, above, for cultural information. Combine with other Monarda species for color contrast. Hummingbird and butterfly plant. Rain garden plant. Deer resistant.
Monarda fistulosa - Wild Bergamot
Blooms violet in summer. Height: 3-4'. Width: 18". Part sun. Will tolerate drier soils than the other Monardas. See Monarda clinopodia, above, for cultural information. This species is very nice in combination with Monarda media, or with the many yellow composite species which bloom at the same time. Hummingbird and butterfly plant. Deer resistant.
Monarda media - Purple Bergamot
Blooms magenta in summer. Similar to Monarda didyma in other respects. See Monarda clinopodia, above, for cultural information. Rain garden plant. Hummingbird and butterfly plant. Deer resistant.
Nyssa sylvatica - Tupelo
Inconspicuous greenish blooms in spring attract bees. Leafs out late. Glossy, dark green foliage turns shades of deep red in early fall. Blue-black fruits on female individuals. Height: 30-60'. Spread: 20-35'. Sun. Moist soil. Fertilize lightly in spring while tree is young. Deep roots allow for underplantings of shrubs and wildflowers. Specimen or street tree. Protect from deer until well-established and sizeable. Berries attract birds. Rain garden plant.
Oclemena acuminatus - Sharp-leaved or Whorled Aster.
White or purple-tinged, daisy-like flowers to 1½" wide in fall. Leaves appear to be whorled around stems. Height: 8-36". Part shade to shade. Rich soil, average moisture. Prune tips in late spring to control height. Deadhead after flowering to prevent self-sowing. Provides fall color for the woodland garden. Good fall nectar source and food plant for butterfly larva.
Onoclea sensibilis - Sensitive Fern
. Light green fronds, usually deeply lobed. Height: 1-2'. Width: 2-3'. Part shade. Moist, fertile soil. Establishes, then spreads quickly to form large colonies. Grows continually through the season and stays looking fresh till first frost. Self-sows aggressively. Great in masses as a groundcover, at the wood edge or mixed with other aggressive ferns such as Ostrich Fern. Easy. Shadier rain garden plant. Deer resistant.
Osmorhiza longistylis - Aniseroot
Small, white flowers from spring to early summer. Leaves fern-like. Height: 1-3'. Part shade. Moist, rich soil.. A lovely filler to mix with showier woodland plants. Self-sows, but easy to control. Deer resistant.
Panicum virgatum - Switchgrass; Panic Grass
Clump-forming, with much natural color and size variation. Airy, elegant seedheads turn tan in fall. Height: 3-6' Width: 2-5'. Sun to part sun. Average soil. Divide clumps every 5 years. Use for massing or as a specimen plant in a border. Allow stems to remain up through winter to provide food and cover for birds. Cut back in March. Easy. Rain garden plant. Deer resistant.
Pedicularis canadensis - Wood Betony
Blooms yellow or reddish on short, dense spikes in spring and early summer. Deeply cut leaves. Height: 6-15". Part shade. Moist, rich soil. Parasitic on the roots of many plants. Grows well in combination with Jacob's Ladder. An attractive and interesting species to try. Shadier rain garden plant.
Penstemon digitalis - White Beardtongue
White, tubular blossoms on tall, stiff stems above the foliage in late spring and early summer. Height: 2-4'. Width: 14-18". Sun to light shade. Moist, average soil. Clumping habit. Semi-evergreen. Fertile soil encourages heavy bloom. Use in borders, open woods, meadows or on slopes. Can be an aggressive self-sower. Deadhead to prevent. A showy, yet low maintenance plant. Bowman's Root is a nice companion. Rain garden plant. Deer resistant.
Penstemon hirsutus - Hairy Beardtongue
Airy clusters of lavender and white, 1" long, tubular flowers on stiff stems above the foliage from spring into summer. Semi-evergreen. Height: 12-18". Width: 12". Sun to part sun. Well-drained, average soil. Use in mixed plantings and for naturalizing, especially on dry, rocky banks. Can be an aggressive self-sower. Deadhead to prevent. Easy. Deer resistant.
Phlox divaricata - Wild Blue Phlox
Lavender blue flowers in spring. Evergreen foliage. Height and width: 12-16". Part shade. Moist but well-drained, rich soil. Mulch to protect shallow roots. Flower stems die after bloom and seed set. Clip back to lower leaves. Forms ground-covering drifts. Good companions are Foamflower, later-blooming Creeping Phlox or spring bulbs. Mats may be lifted and moved in early spring. Fragrant. Easily grown but not deer or rabbit resistant. Shadier rain garden plant.
Phlox maculata - Meadow Phlox
Blooms pink to lavender in summer on stiff stems. Height: 2-3'. Width: 2'. Morning sun or dappled light. Moist, rich soil. Fertilize in spring. Water during drought. Spreads to form colonies over time. Use in borders, moist meadows or open woods. Shadier rain garden plant. Butterfly plant.
Phlox paniculata - Summer Phlox; Garden Phlox; Perennial Phlox
Blooms pink, lavender or white in late summer. Height: 3-5'. Width: 2-3'. Morning sun or dappled light. Evenly moist, very fertile soil. This plant is usually found on floodplains. It will not survive drought. May develop powdery mildew. Allow space for air circulation and avoid overhead watering to help prevent. The native species is more vigorous and disease resistant than the cultivars. Shadier rain garden plant. Butterfly plant.
Phlox stolonifera - Creeping Phlox
Evergreen, woodland groundcover. Blooms rose-pink in spring. Height: 6-10". Spread: to 2'. Part shade to shade. Moist, acidic, rich soil. Seed heads may be cut off after bloom for neat appearance. Remove leaf litter in winter as it can smother plants. Cannot survive drought. Transplant in early spring. Plant among other low woodlanders such as Foamflower. Nice at wood edge.
Physocarpus opulifolius - Ninebark
Deciduous, suckering shrub. White flower heads in late spring to early summer. Layers of peeling bark, attractive if plant is pruned to expose. Attracts many pollinators. Height: 6-12'. Spread: 6-10'. Part sun. Average to moist soil. Very adaptable. Best used for naturalizing, screening or to stabilize soil. Provides good protection and nesting sites for birds. Cut back hard in winter once every few years for fresh growth. Rain garden plant.
Podophyllum peltatum - Mayapple
Deciduous, woodland groundcover. Bold, umbrella-like leaves shade single, 2" white flowers in spring. A few apple-like fruits loved by box turtles may develop. An aggressive, colony-forming woodland groundcover for larger, shady places or under shrubs. Height: 8-16". Spread: 4-6'. Part to full shade. Best in moist, fertile soils, but will grow under dry conditions after established. Nice with large stands of Virginia Bluebells or Wood Poppies on a floodplain. Use gloves when handling rhizomes as sap can irritate eyes and skin. Evergreen ferns are good companion plants since Mayapple goes dormant in late summer. Carefree. Deer resistant./p>
Polemonium reptans - Spreading Jacob's Ladder; Greek Valerian
Blooms in clusters of blue, bell-shaped flowers over attractive, fern-like foliage in spring. Clumping-forming. Height: 10-16". Width: 1-1.5'. Morning sun or dappled light. Moist, fertile soil. Shear back hard after seeds are shed to tidy plants and encourage new growth. Self-sows, but not aggressively. Woodland gardens. Always attractive. Easy. Shadier rain garden plant.
Polygonatum biflorum - Solomon's Seal
White, bell-shaped flowers tipped in green dangle beneath elegant, arching foliage in spring. Blue-black fruits in late summer. Height: 1-3'. Width: 16-24". Shade. Moist, well-drained, rich soil. Intermingle with large-leaved groundcovers such as Bloodroot or Wild Ginger, or with ferns, to add height. Divide every 5 years.
Polystichum acrostichoides - Christmas Fern
Dark, leathery, evergreen fronds. Forms clumps. Often grows on slopes. Height: to 30". Width: to 2'. Part shade. Moist, rich, acidic soil. Use to cover bare spots left by spring ephemerals or as an accent plant, groundcover or edger. Deer resistant.
Porteranthus trifoliatus - Bowman's Root
Blooms star-like, white flowers with a tinge of pink in early summer. Bushy. Nice fall foliage color. Height: 2-3'. Width: 2-3'. Part sun. Moist to dry, rich soil. Transplant only in spring. Fertilize in spring. Cut back in fall. Good as a specimen or in mass plantings. Use in the mixed border, on slopes or at the wood edge. Nice, airy texture to contrast with large flowers. White Beardtongue is also a good companion. Tough, long-lived plant. Drought tolerant. Never needs dividing. Deer resistant.
Pycnanthemum virginianum - Virginia Mountain Mint
Blooms white in roundish heads in mid- to late summer. Minty fragrance. Height: 2-3'. Width: 2-3'. Sun to part sun. Average soil. Needs space as it spreads aggressively on rhizomes. Use for naturalizing in a meadow or wildlife garden, especially a butterfly garden as the plants are excellent nectar sources. Tough. Drought tolerant. Rain garden plant. Deer resistant
Quercus montana (prinus) - Chestnut Oak.
Deciduous tree. In the white oak group. Yellow-green blooms in spring. Leaves dark green and scalloped. Oval acorns in fall. Height: to 80'. Width: to 45'. Sun to part sun. Prefers drier, even rocky, average to poor soils. A tough species. Care must be taken to protect the taproot, but this is one of the easiest oaks to transplant. Growth is slow but can be encouraged by pruning off a few lower branches in winter, and all but the main leader. Protect from deer until well established and sizeable. Excellent wildlife plant. Oaks are used by an amazing number of butterfly species.
Rhododendron maximum - Rosebay
Massive, slow-growing, evergreen shrub. Blooms light pink in early summer. Height: 6-15'. Spread: 4-15'. Fairly moist, strongly acidic, rich soil. Part shade. Blooms best with morning sun or dappled light. Add lots of sphagnum peat, compost and pine needles to soil when planting. Prune off old or weak stems when plant is dormant. Often seen growing on steep, rocky, wooded slopes or stream banks. Best used for naturalizing on larger properties. Rain garden plant.
Rosa carolina - Pasture Rose; Carolina Rose
Deciduous shrub. Fragrant, pink blooms in summer followed by dark red hips. Height: 3'. Spreading, but easily controlled by circling clump with a sharp spade in spring. Sun to part sun. Well-drained, average, even rocky soil. Apply a little organic fertilizer in spring. Prune just after bloom, as flowers are produced on older canes. Provides important winter food for birds. Drought tolerant. Deer resistant.
Rubus odoratus - Purple-Flowering Raspberry
Deciduous, suckering shrub. Fragrant, 2", rose-purple blooms in summer followed by edible, red fruits. Large leaves shaped like those of a maple tree. Height: 3-6'. Width: 3-8'. Part shade, especially in the afternoon. Moist, rich soil. Use at wood edge or streamside. Prune occasionally to remove dead canes (which have no thorns). Fertilize lightly in spring with compost or organic fertilizer.
Rudbeckia laciniata - Green-headed Coneflower; Cut-leaf Coneflower
Blooms light yellow flowers with green centers in summer to early fall. Height: 3-9'. Width: 3-4'. Part sun. Moist, well-drained, moderately fertile soil. Cut back by half in early June to control height, plant among tall grasses for support or stake. Deadhead to avoid self-sowing. Divide occasionally in spring. Nice with ornamental grasses, other coneflowers, Blazing Star, ironweeds or Culver's Root in a meadow or wild garden. Also good at the back of a border. Seeds attract birds. Rain garden plant.
Rudbeckia triloba - Three-lobed Coneflower; Brown-eyed Susan
Blooms gold with brown centers in mid- to late summer. Flowers a bit smaller than Black-eyed Susans. Height: 2-4'. Width: 1-2'. Same cultural requirements as for Rudbeckia laciniata. Short-lived but self-sows readily, so is nice for naturalizing in a meadow. In a garden, deadhead most but not all flower heads, or allow them to remain up through winter for the birds and pull out unwanted plants in spring. Rain garden plant.
Salvia lyrata - Lyre-leaved Sage
Blooms violet on a spike rising to 18" from a ground-hugging rosette of scalloped green or reddish leaves in late spring. Part sun. Well-drained, rich soil. Mainly a foliage plant. Will create a groundcover in time if allowed to self-sow. Nice in a rock garden or in an open woodland garden.
Sambucus canadensis - Common Elderberry
Deciduous, fast-growing, suckering shrub. Flat-topped, creamy white flower clusters in early summer followed by edible, deep purple berries. Height: 5-12'. Spread: to 12' or more. Part sun. Moist, average soil. Best used in informal garden situations and for naturalizing, especially at the wood or meadow edge. Prune back old or weak canes to trunk near the ground in winter every few years. Flowers provide nectar and birds love the fruit. Rain garden plant.
Sambucus racemosa ssp. pubens - Red-berried Elder
Deciduous, fast-growing, suckering shrub. Similar in leaf to Sambucus canadensis, above, but blooms earlier in spring and produces bright red fruits in early summer. Height: 4-10'. Spread: 3-8' or more. Cultural requirements same as for Sambucus canadensis. Quite showy in fruit which, though edible, needs to be well-cooked. Flowers provide nectar and birds love the fruit. Rain garden plant.
Sanguinaria canadensis - Bloodroot
Blooms briefly in spring. Flowers white with yellow stamens. Leaves large, roundish, with wavy, lobed edges. Attractive foliage lasts in good condition into fall with enough moisture. Height: 5-12". Width: 12-16". Part shade to shade. Moist, well-drained, gritty but rich soil. Mulch only lightly to prevent stem rot. Dust soil occasionally with horticultural lime, and add a little organic fertilizer in spring. Mass for a groundcover in shade, or plant among spring ephemerals to cover bare spots. Deer resistant.
Saxifraga pensylvanica - Swamp Saxifrage
Greenish-white flowers in branched clusters on stout, 1-4' high stalks in spring. Leaves are basal rosettes. Part shade. Wet soil. A dramatic plant for use in standing water near the edge of a pond or stream, or in a swampy area. Produces offsets which may be divided with a sharp knife after bloom.
Saxifraga virginiensis - Early Saxifrage
Small white flowers bloom in clusters successively up lengthening stems and branches in early spring. Leaves are basal rosettes. Height: 4-12". Part to full shade. Moist but well-drained, rich soil in rock crevices or on damp, rocky banks or slopes; or create a slightly raised area with a few rocks at the edge of some trees. Dust soil occasionally with horticultural lime.
Schizachyrium scoparium - Little Bluestem
Clump-forming grass. Emerges blue-green, turns brownish-red in fall. Height: 2-3'. Width: 1-2'. Sun. Dry, average soil. Use as a vertical accent in a border or in mass between wild and cultivated areas, especially on hillsides. Mixes nicely with yellow composites. Self-sows readily. Cut back to 6" in late March. Seeds attract birds. Deer resistant.
Scirpus cyperinus - Wool Grass or Rush
Strongly vertical. Inflorescence radiates out from one point, then radiates again, like an exploding firework. Matures to fuzzy, brown, dangling seed balls late summer to fall. Height: 3-5'. Width: 2'. Part to full sun. Moist to wet soil, but quite adaptable to damp, open areas. Grows naturally in clumps in wet places. Deer resistant.
Scutellaria incana - Downy Skullcap
Blooms violet-blue or pink on spikes in mid- to late summer. Clumping habit. Height: 2-3'. Width: 12-16". Part shade. Moist to dry, average soil. Adaptable. Deadhead after flowering for neater appearance. Foliage may be slightly disfigured by a tiny moth. Best if scattered among other perennials in borders, or used in groups in meadow gardens or open woods. Self-sows. An alternative for dry shade. Deer resistant.
Sedum ternatum - Wild Stonecrop
White, star-like blooms in spring. A fleshy plant. Height: 4-8". Spread: to 12". Morning sun to shade. Moist, well-drained, average soil. Dust soil occasionally with horticultural lime. Easy to grow, evergreen groundcover. Spreads to form large mats. Use in rock crevices or in rocky soil, near stone walks or paths or under shrubs and trees. Also nice in pots. Deer resistant.
Senecio aureus - Golden Ragwort
Gold flowers held on stiff stems above foliage in May. Height: 1-3'. Width: 1'. Part shade. Very moist, rich soil. Ever-widening clump needs occasional division. Self-sows. Deadhead to prevent. Good for naturalizing in shady, wet areas beside ponds and streams or in low spots. Shadier rain garden plant.
Senna hebecarpa - Northern Wild Senna
Clusters of yellow flowers in summer. Attractive seed pods. Height: 3-7'. Width: 4-6'. Sun to part sun. Moist to moderately dry, rich soil. Drier, leaner soils produce shorter, less floppy plants. Choose planting site carefully as it is difficult to move or divide. Self-sows. Use for vertical impact in large borders or as a screen. Seeds attract birds. Rain garden plant. Deer resistant.
Silene stellata - Starry Campion
Nodding, ¾", white flowers with fringed edges in summer. Height: 2-3'. Plant is taller than wide. Part shade. Average to dry, moderately rich soil. Use in borders or in dry, open woods, especially along paths or at the wood edge. Will self-sow but not excessively. A delicate-looking yet rugged, undemanding plant.
Silene virginica - Fire Pink
Blooms crimson, star-like flowers in summer. Height: 8-14". Width: 12". Part sun. Moist, but very well-drained, rich soil. Add generous amounts of sand and humus to soil when planting. Usually found growing on steep slopes or in open woods. May be short-lived due to heavy bloom. Deadhead at least half the spent flowers to prevent seed production and promote growth of new crowns. Division of clump after bloom may also spur strong new growth. Self-sows when conditions are right. Move new plants in spring. Cut back if affected by thrips or powdery mildew. Good rock garden plant.
Silphium trifoliatum - Whorled Rosinweed
Clusters of yellow, daisy-like blooms in mid-summer. Height: 3-6'. Width: 2-3'. Sun or part sun. Moist to dry, rich soil. Drought tolerant once established. Choose planting site carefully as it is difficult to divide. Whole plants can be moved. Be sure to get the entire taproot out or it may resprout. Nice at the back of an informal border or in meadows. Seeds attract birds.
Sisyrinchium angustifolium - Blue-eyed Grass
Star-shaped blooms at the tips of grass-like blades in late spring through early summer. Blooms only when in sun. A miniature member of the Iris Family. Height and width: 10-16". Part sun only. Moist, well-drained, rich soil. Individuals may be short-lived but new seedlings may form at the base of mature plants. Also self-sows here and there. Nice among low groundcovers or rocks, in low, moist meadows or as an edger. Also combine with spring or fall-blooming crocus. Shadier rain garden plant.
Smilacina racemosa - False Solomon's Seal
White flowers in clusters at the ends of arching stems in late spring. Berries which turn from white to red follow. Height: 1-3'. Width: 3-4'. Moist, rich soil. Part shade. Forms colonies over time. Foliage benefits from extra water. Combines well with Wreath Goldenrod, Wild Ginger or Bloodroot.
Goldenrods (Solidago spp.)
Goldenrods play important roles in native ecosystems,
stabilizing soil on hillsides and banks, providing excellent
nectar sources as well as food and shelter for wildlife.
Solidago bicolor - Silverrod
Silver-white blooms along a spike in late summer and fall.
Height: 2-3'. Width: 2'. Part sun. Average soil. Will self-sow. A
rugged plant, especially in dry soils.
Solidago caesia - Wreath Goldenrod
Yellow flowers circle arching stems in fall. Height: 1-3'. Width:
1-2'. Morning sun to light shade. Moist to dry, rich soil.
Transplant in spring to early summer only. Occasionally rust can
be a problem. Remove affected plants and discard. (Do not
compost.) Use at wood edge or in open woodland. Mix with asters
and ironweeds for nice color contrast in meadows and borders. Can
be used as a taller groundcover.
Solidago flexicaulis - Zigzag
Goldenrod
Blooms yellow-gold in fall. Stems zigzag from leaf to leaf.
Height: 1-3'. Width: 2-3'. Average soil. Part shade to shade. A
species to brighten the woodland garden in fall. Goes well with
the purples and blues of other fall-blooming species.
Occasionally may develop rust. Remove badly infected plants and
discard. (Do not compost.)
Solidago rugosa - Rough-stemmed Goldenrod
Blooms yellow in late summer to fall. Height: 2-6'. Width: 3'.
Sun to part sun. Cultural requirements same as for Solidago
caesia, above. This is an aggressive species best used for
naturalizing in large areas such as meadows and fields. Forms
large clumps. Rain garden plant.
Sorghastrum nutans - Indiangrass
Tall, arching and clump-forming. Coppery colored inflorescence in late summer and fall. Height: 3'. Width: 2-3'. Sun. Average soil. Use as a specimen in borders or in meadows. Self-sows. Cut back in March. Excellent wildlife plant. Deer resistant.
Spiraea alba - Meadowsweet
Shrub. Frothy clusters of white blooms in mid- to late summer. Height and width: 2-5'. Width: 2-5'. Part sun. Medium to moist, average soil. Best for naturalizing in meadows or for mixed plantings. May be cut back yearly when dormant. Excellent nectar source. Rain garden plant. Deer resistant.
Staphylea trifolia - American Bladdernut
Deciduous, suckering shrub/small tree. Drooping clusters of white, bell-shaped flowers in spring. Interesting, 2-3" long, inflated papery pods containing large seeds which rattle inside when dry. Height: 4-15'. Part shade. Moist, rich soil. Use at shady pond edge or on stream or riverbank. Shadier rain garden plant.
Stylophorum diphyllum - Wood Poppy
Large yellow-gold blooms in spring. Flowers light up shady areas. Height: 12-18". Width: 1'. Part shade, especially under deciduous trees. Moist, rich soil. Older individuals will go dormant after flowering. Ferns can be used to hide bare spots. Self-sows freely. Deadhead or remove seed pods to prevent. Best for naturalizing in woodland gardens in light shade. Good companions are Virginia Bluebells, Foamflower and Mayapple. Shadier rain garden plant. Deer resistant.
Symphotrichum cordifolium - Blue Heart-leaved Aster
Blue, pink or white flowers in fall. Height: 2-4'. Width: 18". Average soil. Part shade. Lovely in a woodland garden. Competes well with tree and shrub roots. Readily self-sows. Deadhead to prevent. Nice on steep, shady banks. Tall Bellflower is a good companion. Good fall nectar source and food plant for butterfly larva.
Symphotrichum novae-angliae - New England Aster
Showy violet-purple to pink flowers with orange centers in fall. Height: 3-7'. Width: 2-3'. Part sun. Moderate to moist, average soil. Forms thick clumps in time. Pinch several times before mid-July for fuller plants and more blooms. May need staking, or cut back by half in early June to promote bushiness and control height. Deadhead to prevent self-sowing. Divide every 3 years in spring. Often suffers from leaf blight on lower stems. Plant shorter species in front to hide. Rain garden plant. Good fall nectar source and food plant for butterfly larva.
Symphotrichum prenanthoides - Crooked-stem Aster
Pale violet, 1-1½" wide flower heads in fall. Stem zig-zags. Height: 1-3'. Part shade. Moist, rich soil. Readily self-sows. Deadhead to prevent. Rain garden plant. Good fall nectar source and food plant for butterfly larva.
Symphotrichum puniceum - Purple-stemmed Aster
Pale violet- 1-1.5" wide flower heads in fall. Height: 2-8'. Part sun. Moist, rich soil. Readily self-sows. Deadhead to prevent. Rain garden plant. Good fall nectar source and food plant for butterfly larva.
Symphotrichum shortii - Short's Aster
Pale, 1" wide violet flowers in fall. Height: 1-4'. Part shade. Average to dry, rich soil. Readily self-sows. Deadhead to prevent. Rain garden plant. Good fall nectar source and food plant for butterfly larva.
Thalictrum dioicum - Early Meadow Rue
Tassel-like, yellow-green blooms in spring. Fine-textured foliage dies back in summer. Bushy. Height: 1-2'. Width: 1½'. Part shade. Average or even rocky soil that stays moist, especially in spring. Use as an accent plant in a woodland garden, on a rocky bank or as an airy groundcover under deciduous trees. Deer resistant.
Thalictrum pubescens - Tall Meadow Rue
White, airy blooms in summer. Fine- textured foliage. A tall, graceful species. Height: 3-9'. Width: 2'. Part sun to light shade. Moist to wet, rich soil. Easy to grow and long-lived with plenty of moisture. Use as a vertical presence in borders, moist meadows, at the edge of woods, in open woods or beside a pond or stream. Nice filler for tight spaces. Blends well with other tall species. Shadier rain garden plant. Deer resistant.
Thalictrum revolutum - Purple Meadow Rue
Delicate, white to pinkish, drooping flowers in late spring to early summer. Fine-textured foliage. Height: 4-6'. Width: 2'. Part shade. Rich soil. Use as a vertical accent among lower-growing woodland species, or on a rocky, woodland slope. Deer resistant.
Thalictrum thalictroides - Rue anemone
Dainty, white to pink blooms in spring and early summer. Will continue blooming longer with moisture. Height: 4-8". Width: to 12". Part shade to shade. Moist, but very well-drained, near neutral-soil. Dust soil occasionally with horticultural lime. Add compost and sand to improve drainage. Use in a woodland garden, a shady rock garden or under deciduous shrubs. Best in drifts. Self-sows. Delicate-looking but tough. Deer resistant
Tiarella cordifolia - Foamflower
Spires of white flowers above maple-like leaves in spring. Height: 3-10". Width: to 2'. Dappled sun to shade. Moist, rich soil. Semi-evergreen. This is a running form. Plant in spring and shear back after seeding. Dust soil occasionally with horticultural lime. Use as a groundcover under deciduous trees or in drifts in wooded areas. Nice mixed with Christmas Fern, Virginia Bluebells or Creeping Phlox.
Tradescantia virginiana - Spiderwort
Blooms deep blue-violet in spring at the ends of leaves (really bracts) similar to those of day lilies. Flowers open in sun for one day only, but blooms over several weeks. Height and width: 1-2'. Part sun to light shade. Moist, rich soil. May go dormant in summer and re-emerge in fall. This is an aggressive species, spreading via stolons and seedlings. Fertilize in spring and cut down after flowering. If any plant develops rust, remove and discard. (Do not compost.) Use in borders, in mass plantings and for naturalizing near ponds and streams. Shadier rain garden plant.
Trautvetteria caroliniensis - Tassel Rue
Flat clusters of white flowers with long stamens produce a tassel-like effect above large, lobed leaves. Blooms early summer. Height: 2-3'. Taller than wide. Morning sun to bright shade. Moist, rich soil. Use near a pond or stream or in an open woodland garden. Shadier rain garden plant.
Verbena hastata - Blue Vervain
Blooms dark, blue-violet on stiff, upright stems from summer to fall. Height: 2-6'. Width: 12-16". Sun to part sun. Moist to wet, moderately fertile soil. Forms clumps. Self-sows. Deadhead to prevent. Use at edge of pond or stream or in a moist meadow. A nice companion to yellow-blooming meadow species and other blue-purple late bloomers such as Joe-Pye-Weed and ironweeds. Rain garden plant. Deer resistant.
Vernonia gigantea - Tall Ironweed
Intense purple flower clusters in late summer. Height: 4-10'. Width: 2-3'. Sun to part sun. Moist to wet, rich soil. Somewhat drought tolerant after established. Self-sows. Deadhead to prevent. Plant emerges late. Use for vertical accent or anchor plant in large borders, or for screening or naturalizing in moist meadows or near ponds or streams. Nice in low spots with Joe-Pye Weed and Boneset, or with tall yellow composites. Choose planting site carefully as plant is hard to move or divide. Easy. Long-lived. Rain garden plant.
Vernonia noveboracensis - New York Ironweed
Very similar to Vernonia gigantea, above, but somewhat shorter. Culture and use information the same. Rain garden plant.
Veronicastrum virginicum - Culver's Root
Long, white flower spikes above whorled leaves in mid-summer. Height: 3-6'. Width: 2'. Sun to part sun. Moist, moderately fertile soil. Forms clumps. Divide every 3-5 years in spring before plant emerges. Roots are thick. Elegant, vertical plant to grow with other meadow plants such as asters, ironweeds, goldenrods, Joe-Pye-Weed, coneflowers and Blazing Star. Nice massed or in groups of 5 or more as a background plant in a perennial or mixed shrub border. Shows up nicely in front of a dark background. Rain garden plant.
Viburnum dentatum - Arrowwood
Deciduous, suckering shrub. Creamy, flat-topped clusters of white blooms in late spring followed by deep blue berries. Glossy leaves on arching stems turn shades of burgundy in fall. Height: 6-12'. Width: 6-12'. Sun to light shade. Fairly moist, average soil. Thin occasionally or hard-prune clumps to remove older stems in late winter. Use for massing, in a shrub border, at the wood edge, or as a specimen. Excellent food source for migrating birds. Somewhat deer resistant. Rain garden plant.
Viola canadensis - Canada Violet
White blooms tinged purple with yellow centers throughout spring and well into summer. Height: 10-16". Width: 12". Part shade. Moist, fertile soil. An erect species. Forms mounds. Good as a groundcover for woodland gardens or for naturalizing. Also good in partly shaded rock gardens or as a filler in an awkward corner. Cut back when foliage declines. Self-sows readily. Good wildlife plant.
Viola conspersa - American Dog Violet
Pale violet flowers with conspicuous spurs in spring. Height: 2-6". Part shade. Moist, rich soil. Good wildlife plant.
Viola hirsutula - Southern Wood Violet
Reddish-purple flowers in early spring. A small species with distinctive silver veining on the leaves. Height: 1-3". Part to full shade. Rich, moist soil. Self-sows readily. Good wildlife plant.
Viola pubescens - Downy Yellow Violet
Yellow blooms in spring. Forms clumps with 3" long, heart-shaped leaves. Height: 8-12". Part shade. Moist, rich soil. Self-sows. New plants easy to move in spring or may be divided. Plants may be affected by thrips and mildew over the growing season. Cut back and they will recover for next spring. Use as a woodland groundcover, in a shady rock garden or for naturalizing. Good wildlife plant.
Viola rostrata - Long-spurred Violet
Pale blue blooms with dark centers in spring. One of the showiest native violets. Flowers have half-inch long, slender spurs which may attract hummingbirds. Height: 6". Shade or dappled light. Moist, fertile soil. Self-sows. Good wildlife plant./p>
Viola striata - Creamy Violet
Blooms white with violet lines on lower flower petals in late spring. Forms rather erect mounds. Height: 8-12". Width: 8". Part shade. Moist, fertile soil. Self-sows aggressively. Best used for naturalizing. Good wildlife plant. Shadier rain garden plant.
Waldsteinia fragarioides - Barren Strawberry
Blooms yellow in spring. Strawberry-like, semi-evergreen foliage. Height: 3-7". Spread: 12" or more. Morning sun to bright shade. Moist to dry, rich soil. Fertilize in spring by top-dressing soil with compost. Water regularly during the first year to establish. Excellent groundcover, spreading about one foot per year. An option for dry shade. Nice on open, wooded slopes, under shrubs or in rock gardens.
Zizia aurea - Golden Alexanders
Flat clusters of small yellow flowers in spring, similar to Queen Anne's Lace. Height: 1-3'. Width: 12-16". Part shade, especially in the afternoon. Moist to wet, moderately fertile soil. A naturalizing species for open woods or meadows. Best in groups. Can be used as a medium height groundcover. Easy. Shadier rain garden plant. Deer resistant.
Bibliography
- The New England Wild Flower Society Guide to Growing and Propagating Wildflowers of the United States and Canada, by William Cullina.
- Native Trees, Shrubs & Vines, by William Cullina.
- Native Ferns, Moss & Grasses, by William Cullina.
- Handbook of Wild Flower Cultivation, by Kathryn S. Taylor and Stephen F. Hamblin.
- The American Woodland Garden, by Rick Darke.
- Newcomb's Wildflower Guide, by Lawrence Newcomb.
- Wildflowers of Pennsylvania, by Mary Joy Haywood and Phyllis Testal Monk.
- The Well-Tended Perennial Garden, by Tracy DiSabato-Aust.
- Wildflower Perennials for Your Garden, by Bebe Miles.