Native Wildflowers for New York
In the bustling landscapes of New York State, from the serene shores of Long Island to the rugged terrains of the Adirondacks, planting native wildflowers offers a unique opportunity to both beautify your garden and contribute to local biodiversity. These ten native wildflowers not only thrive in New York’s varied climates but also play a crucial role in supporting local wildlife, including pollinators like bees and butterflies, and other fauna such as birds and hummingbirds. Whether you're an experienced gardener or a beginner looking to green your surroundings, incorporating these native blooms can create a vibrant and sustainable ecosystem right in your backyard.
Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta)
Description: Black-eyed Susan is a vibrant, daisy-like flower with bright yellow petals and a dark brown center. It blooms from June to October, adding long-lasting color to gardens.
Wildlife Attraction: This flower is a magnet for butterflies and bees. The nectar and pollen-rich blooms provide food for these pollinators, while its seeds attract birds like goldfinches in the fall.
New York Ironweed (Vernonia noveboracensis)
Description: New York Ironweed features tall, striking clusters of deep purple flowers that bloom in late summer. It can reach up to six feet in height and thrives in moist soils.
Wildlife Attraction: It is particularly favored by butterflies and moths, including the endangered monarch butterfly. Its dense clusters also provide shelter and nesting materials for various birds.
Wild Bergamot (Monarda fistulosa)
Description: Wild Bergamot, or Bee Balm, is known for its unique lavender-pink flower clusters that have a minty fragrance. It blooms from July to September and prefers full sun or partial shade.
Wildlife Attraction: This plant is a favorite of hummingbirds and bees. The tubular flowers are perfectly shaped for hummingbird feeding.
Blue Vervain (Verbena hastata)
Description: Blue Vervain produces slender, tall spikes of purple-blue flowers. It's a hardy perennial that loves wet ground and blooms from July to September.
Wildlife Attraction: It attracts butterflies and native bees. Additionally, the seeds are a food source for birds in the autumn months.
Butterfly Weed (Asclepias tuberosa)
Description: Butterfly Weed is a member of the milkweed family, with clusters of vibrant orange flowers. It's a crucial host plant for monarch butterfly caterpillars and blooms from June to August.
Wildlife Attraction: This plant is essential for monarch butterflies as a nectar source and breeding ground. It also attracts other varieties of butterflies and bees.
Common Milkweed (Asclepias syriaca)
Description: Common Milkweed is well-known for its fragrant, pinkish-purple flower clusters and milky sap. It blooms from June to August and can grow in a variety of soil types.
Wildlife Attraction: It hosts monarch butterfly caterpillars and provides nectar to a wide range of pollinators. The plant's complex flowers are an important food source for bees.
Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis)
Description: Cardinal Flower is noted for its brilliant red flowers, which stand out in any garden setting. It prefers wet locations and blooms from July to September.
Wildlife Attraction: It is particularly attractive to hummingbirds, which are drawn to the bright red flowers.
Trillium (Trillium grandiflorum)
Description: Trillium, also known as Wake Robin, features three-petaled white flowers that turn pink as they age. It blooms in the spring and prefers shaded, wooded areas.
Wildlife Attraction: Its early flowers are important for early spring pollinators. It also provides habitat for ground-dwelling birds.
Joe-Pye Weed (Eutrochium purpureum)
Description: Joe-Pye Weed is a tall, herbaceous perennial that boasts dusty pink flowers in large, flat-topped clusters. It blooms from late summer to fall and prefers moist soils.
Wildlife Attraction: It attracts a variety of pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and even hummingbirds.
Columbine (Aquilegia canadensis)
Description: Columbine features delicate, bell-shaped red and yellow flowers. It blooms in the spring and prefers rocky or sandy soils.
Wildlife Attraction: Its unique flower shape attracts hummingbirds and several species of bees, providing essential early-season nectar.
By planting these native wildflowers, gardeners in New York State can not only enjoy a variety of vibrant blooms but also contribute positively to local wildlife and ecosystem health. Each flower plays a role in supporting specific wildlife, which in turn can help with pollination and maintaining biodiversity in your garden.
