When it comes to gardens everyone has their ideas about which plants and shrubs will look good and which will not. The yard is an integral part of the homeowner’s property and they have the right to decide how they want it to look. So, what is the big deal about using native plants? What makes a plant “native” and what are the benefits of native plants in landscaping?

The Definition of a Native Plant 

In the U.S., native plants are those that grew in continental America before the arrival of the Europeans who brought the flora and fauna of their countries with them. In the case of California which is rich in biodiversity, a wide variety of plants grew here from before the beginning of recorded history. These plants were what the first inhabitants of the land depended on for their food and shelter. Over the eons, plants in the Americas have evolved along with native animals, microbes, and fungi to form a complex and diverse network of interconnected relationships. The plants need the animals to propagate and the animals need the plants for food. Native plants are the foundation of the regional ecosystem.

What About Non-Native Plants?  

Today, the American continents are full of non-native plants imported from Europe and other parts of the globe. Many are known for their beauty and are harmless. An example of this is the cherry blossoms that came from Japan. However, other imported plants can spread rapidly and in an uncontrolled manner to the extent that they smother the existing native plants. This happens not because native plants are “weak”, but because the weather conditions, diseases, natural pests, and foraging animals that kept these imported plants in check are not present in their new home. There is little to stop their unhindered growth and spread. Non-native plants do not provide food or shelter to wild animals and this adds another problem to their already challenged survival.

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Also Read: Simple Eco-Friendly Landscaping Practices

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Plants Native to California  

California has a huge range of native plants that can be used in landscaping. Among the most popular are:

1. California buckeye

2. Toyon

3. Coastal redwood

4. California Bay laurel

5. Purple needlegrass (the official California state grass)

6. Western serviceberry

7. Coastal sagebrush

8. Lupine

9. Madrone

10. Buckwheat

11. Coyote brush

12. California poppy (the official California state flower)

These are just a few of the native plants that can add beauty and variety to a landscape. To learn more about the native plants of California, go to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife website.

Landscaping, whether with native plants, non-native ones, or a combination of both, requires an understanding of what will thrive, what will wither, what will support native insects, plants, and animals, and what will harm its surroundings. Eco-friendly landscaping practices that involve the use of native plants can add beauty, durability, and variety to your garden. The amount of time and money needed for maintenance will be reduced. Native plants can add value, in so many ways, to your garden. Talk to a landscaping expert to learn more about the many benefits of using native plants.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why should I use native plants in landscaping?

Native plants require less water, fewer pesticides, and minimal maintenance while supporting local wildlife and promoting biodiversity.

2. Do native plants attract wildlife?

Yes! Native plants provide food and shelter for birds, butterflies, and pollinators, supporting a healthy ecosystem.

3. Do native plants need fertilizers?

Most native plants do not require fertilizers, as they are naturally adapted to local soil and climate conditions.

4. How do native plants help in water conservation?

Native plants are drought-tolerant and require less irrigation compared to non-native species, making them ideal for eco-friendly landscaping.

5. How do I start a native plant garden?

Research your local climate and soil conditions, choose native species suited for your area, and plant them in a way that mimics their natural habitat.