Master Gardeners of Northern Virginia
Over 40 Years of Growing Gardens and Gardeners
Tried and True Native Plant Selections for the Mid-Atlantic
The tallest and showiest of the native lilies, Turk’s-cap frequents wet meadows and moist woods primarily in the Mid-Atlantic Region. A single plant can bear up to 40 individual flowers, which are noted for their stunning color, reflexed tepals, and prominent stamens.
Tried and True Native Plant Selections for the Mid-Atlantic
Wild Hydrangea is a fast-growing, deciduous shrub with large handsome leaves and large flower heads comprising dozens of florets. It is common throughout much of the Mid-Atlantic Region except for the Coastal Plain where it occurs infrequently. (In Delaware its status is historical.)
Tried and True Native Plant Selections for the Mid-Atlantic
Sometimes referred to as False Sunflower, this hardy native of open woodlands, prairies, and fields is notable for its eight-week period of peak bloom. Its 2- to 3-inch, showy yellow flowers attract a wide variety of pollinators and make it a wonderful addition to a cutting garden.
Tried and True Native Plant Selections for the Mid-Atlantic
Although a number of plants share the common name Black-eyed Susan, it is Rudbeckia hirta, which was designated the “Floral Emblem” of Maryland in 1918. This familiar, cherished flower is at home in private gardens as it is in wildflower meadows or prairie restorations.
Tried and True Native Plant Selections for the Mid-Atlantic
Butterfly-weed is one of the showiest native wildflowers. Summer waves of orange blossoms brighten open fields, woods, and waysides. Later, spindle-shaped fruit (follicles) pierce the air in shades of green, yellow, brown. When follicles split open, the seeds’ silky threads glisten in the sun. The Virginia Native Plant Society selected Butterfly-weed as Wildflower of the Year in 1992.
Tried and True Native Plant Selections for the Mid-Atlantic
This member of the Mint family, native to scattered regions of eastern North America, grows along stream banks and in thickets and open woods. Its distinctive red flowers attract a variety of pollinators, especially hummingbirds, and it offers herbal and medicinal benefits.
