Here are five native perennials to plant in your garden.
Black Eyed Susan ‘Goldstrum’
A colorful, fuss-
free border plant and an excellent choice for cut flowers. Bright, daisy-like, golden-yellow blooms with black centers cover the dark green foliage. Tolerates heat, humidity, and clay soil. Honored as the 1999 Perennial Plant of the Year.
Black-Eyed Susans are pioneer plants; they are the first plants to grow in an area damaged by fire or natural disasters. In addition, they are the plant host of the Silvery Checkerspot butterfly caterpillar.
Height: 24-26 Inches
Width: 18-24 Inches
Bee Balm
A perennial favorite native to North America, bee balm (also called wild bergamot or monarda) is beloved in flower beds for its beautiful blooms —not to mention the fragrant foliage.
Bee balm is a member of the mint family (Lamiaceae). Its foliage has a strong aroma and is sometimes used in herbal teas, salads, and garnishes. The flowers are also edible. (Only Eat If Not Treated With Chemicals)
Grass, Blue Eyed ‘Lucerne’
A casual spreader that makes a lovely selection for the informal, naturalized garden. Bright blue, star-shaped flowers with gold centers rise above diminutive, iris-like foliage. Excellent for edging or the front of mixed borders.
Height: 6-12 Inches
Width: 6-12 Inches
Creeping Phlox
Mounding perennial of semi-evergreen foliage bearing countless rich flowers in mid-spring. Great low-care color for the early season.
Height: 2-4 Inches
Width: 10-12 Inches
Columbine
Colu
mbine was named for the Latin word columba, which means dove.
Columbines make a good choice in a naturalized garden setting. Birds and bees are attracted to their colorful blooms in the spring. Seedpods make tasty snacks for the birds in the fall.