Five Native Plants of the Northeast and New England: Tips and Ideas

If you live in the Northeast or New England areas, there are many advantage of planting native northeast flowers, shrubs and trees. First of all, native northeast plants are naturally hardy and thrive in a Northeastern climate. Secondly, native northeast flowers, shrubs and trees can be more affordable than those which are from other regions or climates. You might even be able to transplant cuttings from neighbors' or friends' plants. Also, native Northeast plants have an in-built resistance to some of the diseases and pests which can plague more delicate non-native plants. However, native northeast or New England plants still need love and care. Below are five suggestions for native northeast plants, followed by plant care tips.

Carolina Lupine

A native to the Northeast, the Carolina Lupine looks rustic and charming. It has numerous blossoms and a tall stock. Many gardeners enjoy the Carolina Lupine for its height and dense color. Plant it in a sunny and well drained area of your garden. This Northeast native plant is a perfect ingredient for achieving a cottage garden look. It can grow to four or five feet tall.

Virgin's Bower

A delicate looking clematis, this vine has small white flowers which lend an elegance
to a garden gate or trellis.

Eastern Red Cedar

Looking for native Northeast trees? The Eastern Red Cedar is a classic choice which is associated with New England and the Northeast. The bluish berries attract lots of wildlife and the tree is very aromatic. Be prepared for a large size tree - it can grow from 40 to 60 feet high.

Northern Red Oak

Who doesn't love an oak tree. The Northern Red Oak has an attractive rounded shape and an impressive height. It can grow from 40 to sixty feet. It is a native of the northeast and New England.

Wild Anemone

This very popular option among northeast native plants is easy to grow. It loves shady or partly sunny areas and can grow to two feet tall. I love using it for a ground cover. The large white blossoms compliment most other flowers.

Finally, some northeast native plant growing tips will will help you get the most from your pants. The plants above are hardy enough for the cold temps at night and winter that the northeast is known for. However, they need tender loving care particularly when they are young and the weather is bad. Protect tender plants from winter frost by covering them. Eliminate the risk of damage from falling snow on trees by keeping overhead ledges free of snow if it's possible to do it in a safe way. Alternatively, cover the plants to protect them from falling deposits of snow.