Many people want to create beautiful, easy-to-care-for gardens, but they may not know where to start. Maryland native plants are a smart choice because they are naturally adapted to the local climate and soil. These plants also help support local wildlife, like bees and birds, making gardens more lively and healthy.
Different types of Maryland native plants include colorful flowers, strong shrubs, and tall grasses. These plants are good for many uses, such as shady spots or sunny areas in a yard. By choosing the right native plants, anyone can have a thriving garden that needs less watering and fewer chemicals.
Key Takeaways
- Maryland native plants are adapted to local conditions.
- Many types fit different garden needs and purposes.
- Native plants support healthy and low-maintenance landscapes.
What Are Maryland Native Plants?
Maryland native plants are species that have grown naturally in the state for hundreds or thousands of years. These plants form the basic building blocks of Maryland’s local ecosystems and are well-suited to the region’s climate, soils, and wildlife.
Definition and Characteristics
A native plant in Maryland is a plant that existed in the region before European settlers arrived. These plants have evolved together with local animals, insects, and other plants. They are adapted to Maryland’s weather patterns, rainfall, and soil types.
Examples include Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta), Red Maple (Acer rubrum), and Wild Columbine (Aquilegia canadensis). Maryland native plants must be able to grow and reproduce successfully within local habitats.
These plants may come in the form of flowers, grasses, shrubs, and trees. Most are perennials, but some annuals and biennials are also native. Maryland native plants can thrive without extra fertilizers or pesticides if planted in the right spot.
Benefits of Native Plants
Maryland native plants support local wildlife and pollinators like bees and butterflies. They provide food for birds, shelter for insects, and help preserve soil and water quality.
Because these plants are adapted to local conditions, they often need less water, fertilizer, or care than non-native plants. This means they are usually easier to grow and maintain in home gardens.
Native plants help slow erosion and prevent harmful runoff into rivers and Chesapeake Bay. Planting a mix of native species can support biodiversity and bring a wide range of colors, textures, and wildlife to any landscape.
Key benefits:
- Require less water and care
- Support native animals
- Protect soil and water
- Add beauty and variety to yards
Native vs. Non-Native Species
Native plants are part of Maryland’s natural heritage and ecosystem, but non-native plants were brought from outside the region, often by people. Non-native plants may look attractive but can struggle with local pests or weather.
Some non-native plants are invasive, meaning they spread quickly and push out native plants. When this happens, the balance of the ecosystem is disrupted, which can harm local wildlife.
Choosing native over non-native species can help keep Maryland’s habitats healthy. Gardeners, homeowners, and public parks should focus on native species to reduce the risk of invasive plants taking over and causing problems for native animals and other plants.
Types of Maryland Native Plants
Maryland is home to many native plants, each suited to the region’s weather, soil, and animals. These plants provide food, shelter, and beauty throughout the year.
Native Wildflowers
Black-eyed Susans (Rudbeckia hirta), which are Maryland’s state flower, grow well in open areas and attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. Wild columbine (Aquilegia canadensis) adds bright red color to shady spots, and cardinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis) thrives in wetter areas.
Other common wildflowers include blue false indigo and purple coneflower. These plants bloom at different times, giving a long season of color. Wildflowers often need less care than non-native species and usually survive drought better once established.
| Wildflower | Sun Needs | Bloom Time | Notable Wildlife Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Black-eyed Susan | Full sun | Summer | Attracts bees and butterflies |
| Cardinal Flower | Partial shade | Summer | Attracts hummingbirds |
| Purple Coneflower | Full sun | Summer | Seeds for birds |
Native Shrubs and Bushes
A variety of native shrubs offer important habitats and food sources. Serviceberry (Amelanchier canadensis) blooms early in spring and gives berries for birds. Inkberry holly (Ilex glabra) is an evergreen that stays green through winter and supports many insects.
Spicebush (Lindera benzoin) grows in wooded areas where its yellow flowers brighten the early spring woods, and its berries feed migrating birds. Virginia sweetspire offers white flowers and bright fall color, and grows well in wet or dry soils.
Native shrubs can be used for borders, privacy, or ground cover. They support many insects and animals, helping local ecosystems.
Native Trees
Maryland’s native trees include both hardwoods and evergreens. White oak (Quercus alba), the state tree, grows very large and can live for centuries. Its acorns feed birds and mammals. Red maple (Acer rubrum) is known for its red flowers in spring and colorful leaves in fall.
Eastern redbud (Cercis canadensis) offers pink flowers in early spring. Tulip poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera) produces tulip-shaped flowers and grows quickly in rich soil. These trees add beauty and shade, and many insects, birds, and other wildlife depend on them for food and shelter.
Native Grasses
Native grasses are an important part of prairies, meadows, and woodlands in Maryland. Little bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium) is popular for its blue-green leaves and orange-red color in the fall. Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) grows tall and does well in both wet and dry areas, making it useful for preventing erosion.
Indiangrass and broomsedge are other valuable choices. Native grasses often have deep roots that help the soil and give shelter to insects and ground birds. Many of these grasses are low-maintenance and drought-resistant.
A table showing common native grasses:
| Grass Name | Height | Landscape Use |
|---|---|---|
| Little Bluestem | 2–4 feet | Meadows, borders |
| Switchgrass | 3–6 feet | Erosion control, screens |
| Indiangrass | 3–5 feet | Prairies, wildlife cover |
Ecological Importance of Native Species
Maryland’s native plants play a vital part in local ecosystems. They help many species survive, keep the land healthy, and prevent soil damage.
Habitat Creation
Maryland native plants form the base of many local habitats. Trees like the white oak and shrubs like the spicebush give birds, insects, and small mammals food and shelter. Their leaves, seeds, and berries fit the diet and needs of native wildlife.
Some animals, such as the eastern box turtle and American robin, depend on these plants for their homes. Native grasslands support butterflies, bees, and ground-nesting birds. The complex root systems of native plants provide underground shelters for insects and small animals.
Native plants also help keep a balanced ecosystem. They reduce the spread of invasive species and keep local wildlife populations stable by giving steady sources of food and cover.
Support for Pollinators
Native plants attract and support pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Many pollinators are now in decline, making native plants even more important. For example, black-eyed Susan and purple coneflower offer reliable nectar and pollen.
These plants bloom at times that match local pollinators’ life cycles, so insects can always find food. Unlike some non-native species, native plants rarely create barriers for local pollinators.
Table: Examples of Native Plants and Pollinators
| Plant Name | Common Pollinators |
|---|---|
| Milkweed | Monarch Butterfly |
| Goldenrod | Honeybee, Bumblebee |
| Cardinal Flower | Hummingbird |
Pollinators help produce seeds and fruits that feed birds and mammals. Protecting native plants means helping native pollinators survive and thrive.
Erosion Control
Native plants have deep, strong roots that help hold soil in place. Grasses like little bluestem and trees like red maple reduce runoff and stop soil from washing away during heavy rain.
Their root systems break up compacted soil and let water soak in. This process improves groundwater recharge and reduces flooding. Areas with many native plants usually have less soil erosion than places with mostly lawn grass or non-native plants.
Native groundcovers and shrubs protect stream banks and hillsides. They stop sediment from washing into rivers, which helps keep both water and land healthy. Less erosion means cleaner streams and stronger landscapes throughout Maryland.
Choosing Maryland Native Plants for Your Landscape
Maryland native plants offer beauty, habitat value, and adaptability. Selecting the right plants and understanding site needs helps create a healthy, appealing landscape.
Selecting the Right Species
Choosing native species starts with knowing local plant options. Maryland has trees such as Red Maple (Acer rubrum), shrubs like Inkberry (Ilex glabra), and perennials such as Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta).
Gardeners should use plant lists from local resources or native plant societies. Consider these factors:
- Mature size: Avoid crowding by checking mature height and width.
- Bloom time and color: Mix species for interest from spring to fall.
- Wildlife value: Some plants, like Milkweed (Asclepias spp.), support butterflies and bees.
Use plants that match the garden’s light and soil conditions for the best results.
Understanding Site Conditions
Site conditions shape which native plants will grow well. Soil type is key: sandy, clay, or loamy soils each suit different species.
Check if the area is sunny, partly shaded, or fully shaded. A sunny slope benefits from plants like Butterfly Weed (Asclepias tuberosa), while shaded areas fit Christmas Fern (Polystichum acrostichoides).
Moisture matters as well. Review how wet the soil stays after rain:
| Drainage Type | Example Native Plants |
|---|---|
| Wet or poorly-drained | Swamp Milkweed, Blue Flag Iris |
| Average/moist | Red Maple, Blue Wild Indigo |
| Dry | Little Bluestem, Eastern Red Cedar |
Matching species to exact site conditions ensures healthier, longer-lived plants.
Design Tips for Native Gardens
Design with layers for structure and wildlife value. Use tall trees in the back or center, shrubs as middle layers, and groundcovers up front or underneath.
Plant in informal, curved shapes to mirror natural patterns. Group species in clumps of three or more to help pollinators and make colors stand out.
Add mulch or native leaf litter to keep roots cool and limit weeds. Minimize the use of turf grass by expanding borders or creating garden beds.
Label plants if desired for learning, and leave seed heads over the winter for birds and seasonal interest.
Planting and Maintenance Guidelines
Good results with Maryland native plants depend on choosing a good spot, following proper care steps, and watching out for problems. Paying attention to details during planting, watering, and pest control helps native gardens stay healthy and attractive.
Best Practices for Planting
Pick a location that matches the plant’s needs for sun, shade, and soil. Some native plants do best in full sun, while others like moist, shaded ground. Test the soil for nutrient levels and drainage. Most native species grow well in soil that is not too rich or soggy.
Plant in early spring or fall. This gives roots time to settle before hot or cold weather. Dig a hole twice as wide as the plant’s root ball, but no deeper. Place the plant so the top of the root ball is level with the soil. Fill the hole and press the dirt down with your hands.
Avoid packing the soil too tightly. Space the plants so they have room to grow and air can move between them. This helps lower the risk of disease. Water well after planting.
Watering and Mulching
Water new native plants deeply once a week, unless it rains enough. Shallow watering is less helpful because roots need steady moisture to grow strong. Reduce watering after the first year, since most established natives need little extra water.
Add a 2- to 3-inch layer of natural mulch, like shredded bark or pine needles, around each plant. Keep mulch a few inches from the base of stems to prevent rot. Mulch helps hold in moisture, stops weeds, and keeps soil temperatures steady.
Do not stack mulch too high or use synthetic mulches. Over-mulching can keep the soil too wet and attract pests. Check the soil now and then to make sure it isn’t too dry or soggy under the mulch.
Pest and Disease Management
Most native plants in Maryland resist common pests and diseases. Still, problems can happen. Watch for signs like chewed leaves, spots, or wilt. Use the table below to identify and address common issues:
| Problem | Signs | What to Do |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Sticky leaves | Spray with water or use insecticidal soap |
| Powdery mildew | White powder | Remove affected leaves; space plants well |
| Slugs | Ragged holes | Hand-pick; apply barriers |
Encourage birds and ladybugs, which eat pests. Avoid most pesticides, as they may harm helpful insects. Remove any dead or infected plants right away. This keeps diseases from spreading to healthy plants.
Seasonal Interest in Maryland Native Plants
Many native plants in Maryland offer distinct features throughout the year. Colors, shapes, and textures change with each season, providing interest to gardens and supporting wildlife.
Spring Blooms
Spring brings the Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis), which shows off bright pink flowers before leaves appear. The Virginia Bluebell (Mertensia virginica) paints woodland areas with blue and pink blossoms. Another plant, Wild Columbine (Aquilegia canadensis), attracts hummingbirds with unique red and yellow flowers.
-Trout Lily (Erythronium americanum) creates yellow carpets in shady spots. -Mayapple (Podophyllum peltatum) produces umbrella-like leaves and white blooms.
Most spring-blooming natives finish flowering by late May. Many serve as early nectar sources for bees and butterflies. Planting several of these can give gardens color and help local pollinators as they emerge.
Summer Color
Many Maryland natives show their best during summer. Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta), Maryland’s state flower, displays bright yellow petals with dark centers from June through August.
Bee Balm (Monarda didyma) adds red, pink, or purple clusters that attract pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea) blooms for weeks in sunny spaces, offering purple petals and seed heads that later feed finches.
Butterfly Weed (Asclepias tuberosa) grows vivid orange flowers and supports monarch butterflies. A variety of colors and heights allow summer gardens to stay lively and appealing while giving food and shelter to wildlife.
| Plant Name | Flower Color | Pollinators Attracted |
|---|---|---|
| Black-eyed Susan | Yellow | Bees, butterflies |
| Bee Balm | Red/Pink | Bees, butterflies, birds |
| Purple Coneflower | Purple | Bees, butterflies, finches |
| Butterfly Weed | Orange | Butterflies |
Fall Foliage and Berries
Several native plants show new colors and produce berries in fall. Sweetspire (Itea virginica) changes to deep red and purple leaves, while Mapleleaf Viburnum (Viburnum acerifolium) shifts from green to pink and purple.
Serviceberry (Amelanchier canadensis) gives orange and red fall leaves, plus blue-black berries that birds eat quickly.
Winterberry Holly (Ilex verticillata) loses its leaves but keeps bright red berries. These fruits stay through winter and feed robins, cedar waxwings, and other birds.
Fall leaves and berries add a second layer of visual interest. They also continue to support wildlife as the weather cools and other food sources become scarce.
Maryland Native Plants for Special Purposes
Native plants in Maryland can be chosen to solve challenges like wet areas, low sunlight, or to support local wildlife. Each plant’s traits make it useful for certain garden needs.
Rain Gardens
Rain gardens need plants that can handle both wet and dry conditions. These plants help prevent water runoff and keep water cleaner. Common native plants for rain gardens include:
- Blue Flag Iris (Iris versicolor)
- Swamp Milkweed (Asclepias incarnata)
- Joe-Pye Weed (Eutrochium fistulosum)
- Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis)
Rain gardens are often placed where water collects after rain. These native species have deep roots that help pull water into the soil and stop erosion. They can also attract butterflies, bees, and birds. Maryland rain gardens usually do best with a mix of tall flowers, grasses, and small shrubs to support drainage and beauty.
Wildlife Gardens
Wildlife gardens use native plants to provide food and shelter for local animals. Many Maryland native plants produce berries, seeds, or nectar that support bees, butterflies, and birds. Some good choices are:
- Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea)
- Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta)
- Serviceberry (Amelanchier canadensis)
- Common Milkweed (Asclepias syriaca)
Plants like serviceberry offer berries for birds, while milkweed is a key host plant for monarch butterflies. Wildlife gardens benefit from a mix of trees, shrubs, and flowers to attract different animals. Leaving some leaf litter and dead wood can also help insects and small mammals find shelter.
Shade Gardens
Shady spots in Maryland often make it hard to grow plants that need lots of sun. Native shade-tolerant plants are adapted to these areas. Examples include:
- Wild Ginger (Asarum canadense)
- Foamflower (Tiarella cordifolia)
- Mayapple (Podophyllum peltatum)
- Christmas Fern (Polystichum acrostichoides)
These plants can grow under trees or next to buildings where light is limited. They need less care once established. Most native shade garden plants have broad leaves or unique flowers, adding visual interest beneath tree canopies or along north-facing walls. Selecting several types ensures blooms and structure for most of the year.
Resources for Identifying and Sourcing Maryland Native Plants
Accurate plant identification and finding trusted sources are key to gardening with Maryland natives. Many helpful guides, nurseries, and organizations exist that are dedicated to native species in this area.
Recommended Field Guides and Databases
Field guides and digital databases offer trusted ways to learn plant details. For Maryland, Native Plants for Wildlife Habitat and Conservation Landscaping: Chesapeake Bay Watershed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is widely used. It includes color photos, plant descriptions, and habitat info.
The Maryland Biodiversity Project (marylandbiodiversity.com) is a free, online database listing plants found in the state. It has photos and scientific information that help users confirm a species.
The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center’s Native Plant Database allows searches by region, light needs, and plant type. The book Wildflowers of Maryland by Fred W. Case Jr. is also useful for on-the-go identification. For beginners, carrying a printed field guide outdoors helps compare live samples directly.
Local Nurseries and Plant Sales
Local nurseries specializing in native plants are a reliable place to buy healthy, regionally sourced species. Some popular vendors in Maryland are:
| Nursery Name | Location | Website |
|---|---|---|
| Chesapeake Natives | Upper Marlboro | chesapeakenatives.org |
| Herring Run Nursery | Baltimore | bluewaterbaltimore.org |
| Adkins Arboretum Nursery | Ridgely | adkinsarboretum.org |
Seasonal plant sales hosted by parks and gardens, like Brookside Gardens, offer natives grown by experts.
It is important to check that plants are not wild-dug and are free of invasive pests. Buying from reputable sources increases the chance of success in the garden.
Community and Conservation Organizations
Many Maryland-based groups work to protect and promote native plants. The Maryland Native Plant Society offers plant walks, educational talks, and a monthly newsletter.
Blue Water Baltimore and Audubon Maryland-DC have hands-on programs and volunteer events for learning and habitat restoration. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources shares advice about conservation projects and home landscaping ideas.
Community gardens and arboretums sometimes offer classes that teach identification, care, and legal considerations for using wild plants. Local chapters often have contacts for expert help and citizen science opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Maryland is home to many native plants that are important for local wildlife and gardens. People interested in native plants often want to know which species to grow, how to tell them apart, where to buy them, and how to avoid harming local ecosystems.
What are the most popular native flowers in Maryland?
Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta) is Maryland’s state flower and a favorite among gardeners. Other popular native flowers include Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea), Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis), and Wild Columbine (Aquilegia canadensis).
These flowers support pollinators like bees and butterflies. Many of them are easy to grow in home gardens.
How can I identify Maryland native plants?
Native plants often have features that suit Maryland’s climate and soil. Field guides and plant identification apps are helpful tools for beginners.
Joining local plant walks or workshops can also be helpful. Many native plants have unique leaf shapes, flower colors, or growth habits.
Where can I purchase native plants in Maryland?
Native plants can be found at local nurseries that specialize in regional species. The Maryland Native Plant Society publishes a list of trusted plant sellers.
Spring native plant sales are common across the state. Many environmental centers and botanical gardens offer native plants for sale.
Which native evergreen shrubs are recommended for Maryland landscaping?
Inkberry holly (Ilex glabra) is a popular choice because it stays green year-round. Mountain laurel (Kalmia latifolia) and American holly (Ilex opaca) are also strong options for evergreen landscaping.
These shrubs give structure to gardens, provide shelter for wildlife, and require less watering.
What is the role of the Maryland Native Plant Society?
The Maryland Native Plant Society works to promote the conservation and use of native plants. It offers educational programs, field trips, and resources to help people learn about local species.
Members can join conservation efforts, attend lectures, and take part in native plant sales.
Which invasive plants should be avoided in Maryland ecosystems?
Invasive plants such as English ivy (Hedera helix), Japanese honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica), and Bradford pear (Pyrus calleryana) can spread quickly and harm native habitats. Tree-of-heaven (Ailanthus altissima) and mile-a-minute vine (Persicaria perfoliata) are also invasive and should be avoided.
These species can crowd out native plants and reduce habitat for local wildlife.
