Ohio Native Species for Landscapes and Restoration


Ohio Native Species for Landscape and Restoration Use Go native! A healthy and diverse ecosystem is important for clean air and water, soil stability and provides critical food and shelter for wildlife. Whether adding a few native plants* to your landscape or substituting them in for exotic species, there are many benefits to going native! The interest in native gardening is increasing, so check with your local nursery to determine what’s available and which plants are best suited to your landscape needs. Why plant native species? • Good for wildlife, such as birds and butterflies • Costs less and saves time due to lower maintenance requirements • Saves water because natives are best suited for an Ohio climate • No need for fertilizers or pesticides • Native plants control erosion and filter storm water Blazing star (Liatris spicata) Native Species Lists The following lists are organized by habitat. The species represented were chosen because they are relatively common native plants. They generally are not weedy and are thought to be fairly easy to grow. No threatened or endangered species are included. The availability of these species for sale in Ohio nurseries has not been confirmed. Fields and Prairies Floodplains Upland Woods Wet Fields and Prairies Wet Woods Wetlands Gray-headed coneflower (Ratbida pinnata) *Do not buy plants dug from the wild; digging disrupts plant communities