Maryland Native Plants
Introduction to Maryland Native Plants
Maryland is home to an extraordinary variety of native plant species that are not only beautiful but deeply beneficial to the environment. These native species have evolved over centuries to survive and thrive in the state’s unique climate, soils, and ecosystems — from the wetlands of the Eastern Shore to the woodlands of the Appalachian Mountains. For organic gardeners, Maryland native plants offer a sustainable path to creating thriving, eco-friendly gardens that support pollinators, reduce chemical use, and preserve biodiversity.
Incorporating native plants into your garden helps to restore natural balance, reduces the need for synthetic inputs, and attracts beneficial wildlife like bees, butterflies, birds, and other essential pollinators. This guide provides everything you need to know about choosing, planting, and caring for native plants in Maryland.
Maryland’s Climate, Soil, and Gardening Zones
It spans three major regions — the Coastal Plain, Piedmont, and the Appalachian Mountains — each with distinct characteristics that affect gardening choices.
Climate Overview
Maryland experiences a humid subtropical to humid continental climate. This range allows for a broad diversity of native plant species to thrive naturally in different parts of the state.
USDA Hardiness Zones
Maryland falls into USDA Hardiness Zones 6a through 8a, meaning that average winter lows range from -10°F to 15°F. Knowing your specific zone helps ensure your chosen native plants survive winters and bloom properly.
Eastern Shore & Coastal Plain (Zone 7b–8a): Milder winters, sandy soils, higher humidity.
Western Maryland (Zone 6a–6b): Colder winters, rocky soils, higher elevations.
Piedmont Region (Zone 7a–7b): Rolling hills, clay and loam soils, moderate climate.
Maryland Soil Types
- Sandy Loam: Well-draining and acidic, common in coastal areas.
- Clay-Rich Soil: Holds water, often compacted, found in central Maryland.
- Loamy Soil: Ideal mix of clay, sand, and silt — rich and fertile.
- Rocky Soil: Often seen in mountainous regions, excellent for drought-tolerant natives.
Many native plants thrive in one or more of these soil types. Part of successful native gardening is matching the plant to its preferred environment.
Why Grow Maryland Native Plants?
Here’s why more Maryland gardeners are making the switch:
Environmental Sustainability
Native plants require less water, fertilizer, and pesticide than non-natives. Once established, they are generally more resilient and less susceptible to pests and diseases. This leads to healthier, more sustainable gardens that benefit both people and the planet.
Support for Pollinators and Wildlife
Maryland native plants form the foundation of the local food web. Native bees, butterflies, birds, and mammals depend on them for food, shelter, and reproduction. For example, the monarch butterfly relies on native milkweed to lay its eggs.
Natural Beauty and Biodiversity
Maryland native wildflowers bring a unique beauty to gardens — from the golden glow of Black-Eyed Susans to the vibrant purple of New England Asters. Using native species adds diversity and a sense of place that reflects the natural heritage of the region.
Low Maintenance and Cost-Effective
Because they are adapted to local conditions, native plants usually require less care and maintenance. This translates into fewer costs for irrigation, fertilizers, and pest control — making them ideal for busy or budget-conscious organic gardeners.
Best Maryland Native Plants Wildflowers
Wildflowers are the stars of any native garden, bringing seasonal color, attracting pollinators, and spreading easily without becoming invasive.
Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta)
As Maryland’s official state flower, the Black-Eyed Susan is a must-have. Its golden-yellow petals and dark center create a stunning contrast in any garden. Blooming from mid-summer into fall, this hardy perennial attracts bees and butterflies.
Butterfly Weed (Asclepias tuberosa)
A bright orange member of the milkweed family, Butterfly Weed is a key nectar source for butterflies and a host plant for monarchs. It tolerates dry, sandy soils and is remarkably drought-resistant, making it perfect for low-maintenance landscapes.
Wild Bergamot (Monarda fistulosa)
With its lavender, tufted blooms and minty aroma, Wild Bergamot adds color and fragrance to any native garden. It’s beloved by hummingbirds and native bees and performs well in sunny or partly shaded areas with average soil.
Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea)
A garden favorite for its resilience and striking appearance, Purple Coneflower features large, purple-pink petals and a spiky orange center. It attracts a range of pollinators and, when left standing through winter, provides seeds for birds like goldfinches.
Native Shrubs That Thrive in Maryland Native Plants
Shrubs provide essential structure in a garden and serve as shelter and food sources for wildlife.
Spicebush (Lindera benzoin)
A native shrub that thrives in moist, shady areas, Spicebush is valued for its aromatic leaves, early yellow flowers, and bright red berries. It’s a host plant for the spicebush swallowtail butterfly and a valuable addition to woodland or rain gardens.
Arrowwood Viburnum (Viburnum dentatum)
With clusters of white spring flowers and deep blue autumn berries, this viburnum is a four-season performer. It provides nesting habitat for birds and nectar for pollinators while tolerating a wide range of soil conditions.
Sweet Pepperbush (Clethra alnifolia)
Also known as summersweet, this fragrant, late-blooming shrub is ideal for moist, partly shaded spots. Its white or pink bottlebrush-like flowers attract butterflies and bees.
Maryland Native Trees for Organic Gardeners
Trees are vital for shading, wind protection, and biodiversity. Many Maryland native trees are especially beneficial for wildlife and pollinators.
Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis)
This small, flowering tree bursts into vibrant pink blooms in early spring. It attracts native bees and is a favorite in home gardens for its compact size and multi-season interest.
Red Maple (Acer rubrum)
Known for its brilliant red fall foliage, Red Maple is one of the most common and versatile native trees in Maryland. It supports various caterpillar species and thrives in both moist and dry conditions.
American Hornbeam (Carpinus caroliniana)
Also called musclewood, this small tree is perfect for shady spots. Its smooth gray bark and elegant form make it a favorite for naturalized landscapes, and it supports songbirds and beneficial insects.
White Oak (Quercus alba)
A keystone species in Maryland’s forests, White Oak supports over 500 caterpillar species — making it an essential tree for birds raising their young. Its majestic canopy, acorns, and strong wood also make it a long-term investment in your garden.
Native Grasses and Groundcovers
Native grasses and groundcovers help prevent erosion, suppress weeds, and add texture.
Little Bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium)
This upright, clumping grass turns shades of orange and bronze in fall. It’s drought-tolerant and supports the life cycles of several native butterflies.
Pennsylvania Sedge (Carex pensylvanica)
An excellent lawn alternative, this low-growing sedge prefers dry shade and forms soft, grassy mats that require little mowing or maintenance.
Wild Ginger (Asarum canadense)
A beautiful groundcover for shady gardens, Wild Ginger has heart-shaped leaves and thrives under trees where other plants struggle.
Maryland Native Plants for Every Garden Condition
- Full Sun: Purple Coneflower, Butterfly Weed, Little Bluestem
- Shade: Wild Ginger, Spicebush, Eastern Columbine
- Moist Soils: Red Maple, Sweet Pepperbush, Joe-Pye Weed
- Dry Soils: Black-Eyed Susan, New Jersey Tea, Aromatic Aster
How to Design and Maintain a Maryland Native Plants
Step-by-Step Design Tips
Start small with one garden bed, then expand. Group plants in drifts or clusters rather than scattered individuals. Consider bloom time, height, and form to create visual interest and layered structure.
Organic Maintenance Practices
Native plants need less fertilizer, but compost and mulch can be used to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Avoid synthetic chemicals — let natural predators and plant diversity keep pest populations in check.
Creating a Pollinator Paradise
To maximize your garden’s appeal to pollinators:
- Plant at least three species for each bloom season (spring, summer, fall)
- Avoid pesticides, even organic ones, during bloom periods
- Provide shallow water dishes or bee baths for hydration
Supporting Birds and Other Wildlife
Birds rely on native plants for more than food — they also use them for nesting, camouflage, and protection. Shrubs like Serviceberry and Dogwood provide berries, while oaks and birches support the caterpillars young birds need to grow.
Leaving leaf litter and seed heads through winter ensures overwintering insects and food sources for birds remain available, promoting biodiversity year-round.
Educating and Engaging with Maryland Native Plants
Getting kids and communities involved in native gardening helps build lasting conservation values. Try:
- Building butterfly gardens at schools
- Hosting native plant seed swaps
- Organizing neighborhood native plant walks
- Journaling plant growth with children
Where to Find Maryland Native Plants
Local Maryland Native Plants Nurseries
- Chesapeake Natives
- Adkins Arboretum
- Lauren’s Garden Service
Maryland Native Plants Society
- Hosts native plant sales
- Offers plant lists and ID guides
Online Retailers
Izel Plants
Prairie Moon Nursery
Ernst Seeds
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Choosing ornamentals or exotic plants that compete with natives
- Overwatering drought-tolerant plants
- Failing to group plants by light/moisture needs
(FAQ):
What are native plants in Maryland?
Native plants in Maryland are species that have naturally evolved in the region and support local wildlife, soil health, and biodiversity.
Why should I grow native plants in my Maryland garden?
They require less water, no chemical fertilizers, and provide vital food and habitat for birds, bees, and butterflies.
Do native plants attract pollinators?
Yes! Native wildflowers and shrubs are some of the best food sources for bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Where can I buy native plants in Maryland?
Local nurseries, arboretums like Adkins, and events hosted by the Maryland Native Plant Society are great sources.
Conclusion: Maryland Native Plants
Maryland native plants offer far more than beauty — they offer a path toward sustainable, organic gardening that strengthens ecosystems, restores balance, and connects gardeners with the land they live on. Choosing native species ensures your garden is both environmentally responsible and visually stunning.
Start small, grow with intention, and remember: every native plant you include is a step toward a more resilient future.
