Illinois Native Plants

A native plant is a plant that is indigenous to a particular area. In Illinois, native plants are well-suited to the local climate and soil. These plants are often more resistant to pests and diseases and require less water than non-native plants and no fertilizer.

When choosing plants for your Illinois garden, you can shop for Illinois native plants by state here. Be sure to select plants for the amount of sun and shade in your garden, as well as the soil type and moisture level. With a little research, you can create a beautiful and sustainable pollinator garden filled with Illinois native plants.

Illinois is home to many native plants — each of which plays a vital role in the ecosystem. Many people believe that native plant landscapes are messy and unkempt, but in reality, Illinois native plants are one of the best ways to keep your landscape looking neat and tidy.

Native plants are already accustomed to the Illinois climate, so they don't need to be constantly watered nor fertilized. They also don't require special treatments or pest control measures. As a result, you can create stunning gardens by planting Illinois native plants in your landscape.

The benefits and advantages of growing and cultivating native plants suited to your state can’t be understated. The benefits of a wildlife habitat garden are proven by science!

Illinois is a state rich in biodiversity, with a wide variety of native plants that have evolved to thrive in the state’s unique climate. Not only are Illinois native plants beautiful and hardy, but they also provide essential habitat and food for local wildlife. If you’re thinking of starting a garden, consider going native! Here are a few reasons Illinois native plants are the way to go:

Less work

Illinois native plants are perfectly adapted to thrive in our climate and soil. They require less water and pesticides than non-native species, need no fertilizer, and are more resistant to pests and diseases. They are also perennials which means they will come back each year on their own. As a result, Illinois native plants are easier to care for and will save you time and money in the long run. 

Help local wildlife

Gardeners who want to help support and attract butterflies, birds, fireflies, and other local wildlife will find Illinois native plants an absolute game-changer. Illinois native plants are an important food source for Illinois' wildlife and provide shelter and nesting sites, so they naturally attract local wildlife to your garden.

They look spectacular

Illinois native plants are beautiful, perennial plants that add interest and color to your garden throughout the year. Illinois is home to many different native plants, so you're sure to find something that will fit your gardening needs.

The general rule of thumb is that the more local, the better. Illinois native plants have evolved over thousands of years to adapt to the Illinois climate and soil, so they will generally do their best in Illinois gardens. However, if you live in Illinois but are close to the border with another state, plants from that state may also do well in your garden.

To be sure, you can shop for native plants by zip code. This will ensure that you're getting Illinois native plants that are well-suited to your particular garden.

Illinois is home to a wide variety of native plants that support an equally diverse wildlife. Birds, butterflies, bees, fireflies, and other important wildlife species find food and shelter in Illinois' native vegetation.

In turn, these animals help to spread the pollen of native plants, ensuring the continuation of these important species. By planting Illinois native plants in your garden or landscape, you can attract a variety of local wildlife and help to support the Illinois ecosystem.

A monoculture is a garden or yard in which only one type of plant is grown. A typical example of a monoculture is a lawn. Monocultures are often practical for decorative purposes. Ideally those areas are counterbalanced with abundant plantings of diverse species of native flowers and trees.

Monocultures reduce biodiversity. When you have only one type of plant in your garden, it creates a very limited habitat for the local wildlife. Traditional landscaping practices are also bad for the local wildlife because they often involve using harmful chemicals such as pesticides and herbicides. These chemicals can pollute the air and water, and they can also kill indiscriminately, harming beneficial insects as well as pests.

You can help to create a healthy environment for the local wildlife by planting a variety of Illinois native plants in your garden.