Indigenous plantings often get a bad rap, but let me tell you, they are truly amazing! As someone who promotes their use in landscaping, I’ve heard all the doubts and concerns.
“Wait, you plant weeds? Won’t they look messy?” Well, yes, they can, but it all depends on your goals.
Some indigenous species thrive in compact living quarters, standing tall and proud next to their companions – similar to a prairie or meadow. This peer-support keeps them looking their best all year long. If they have too much space, they may flop over, missing their close-knit community.
But fear not, I have three indigenous plantings to recommend that stay well-formed, even if you prefer a bit more space.
First up, we have the Iris Versicolor, also known as the Blue Flag Iris. This beauty boasts strong, decorative foliage that stays erect and well-formed all season long. It dies back in winter and emerges with the spring thaw as a true perennial. While its individual blooms only last a few days, its continuous flowering provides interest for much longer – both for you and the hummingbirds! This sun-loving wetland species can also thrive in drier, partly shaded gardens. Just be cautious, as it can spread once established and is toxic if eaten. A truly great flowering perennial!
Next, we have the Carex eburnea, or the Ivory Sedge. This is one of my personal favorites for its well-behaved, evergreen interest. A lush tuft of thin green strands forms a perfect mound, making it a sought-after addition to any landscape. Birds love the seed heads in the fall, and they even use the dry or dying foliage in their nests. This low-growing, highly shade-tolerant plant is a “plant it and leave it” species, requiring little maintenance once established. A fantastic ground cover!
Last but not least, we have the Symphoricarpos Albus, or the Snowberry.
This shade-tolerant shrub is guaranteed to create a stunning hedge or well-rounded addition to your landscape. With its glossy green leaves that bloom small pink flowers and white berries in the summer, it adds a delightful burst of color.
It thrives in those tricky, hard-to-grow corners of your landscape, making it a reliable and trustworthy species. Overall, this shrub is a fantastic addition to any garden – vibrant, hardy, and sure to impress!
