Self-Sustaining Midwestern Wildflowers: A List of 21 Native Species
In the heart of the Midwest, gardens are coming alive with a splash of colour and a buzz of activity as native wildflowers begin to bloom. These resilient and beautiful plants not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of gardens but also play a crucial role in supporting local ecosystems.
One such wildflower is the Smooth Blue Aster (Symphyotrichum laeve), which creates clouds of blue-lavender daisy-like flowers with yellow centres from August through October. The seed heads are a favourite among birds during fall and winter, adding wildlife interest when other plants have faded.
Another star attraction is Wild Bergamot (Monarda fistulosa), native to the Midwest, which produces lavender pom-pom shaped flowers that bloom from July to September. The leaves give off a delightful oregano-like scent when crushed and can be used to make tea.
Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea) is another favourite, thriving in full sun to partial shade. It attracts pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds and is drought tolerant once established.
Prairie Blazing Star (Liatris pycnostachya) is a tall, striking wildflower that prefers full sun and well-drained soil. It is a tall, bright flower spike that attracts butterflies and other pollinators.
Culver's Root (Veronicastrum virginicum) grows well in moist to average soil with full sun exposure. It produces tall spikes of white flowers important for pollinators.
Virginia Bluebells (Mertensia virginica) are native to the moist woodlands and floodplains of the Midwest. They thrive in moist, rich soil in partial to full shade and bloom in early spring, reliably returning each year.
Calendula (Pot Marigold) and Baby’s Breath (Gypsophila) are included in regional wildflower mixes. They prefer well-prepared soil with full sun to partial shade and regular watering during establishment.
For planting native wildflowers in the Midwest, it is recommended to prepare the soil by removing existing growth and rocks, plant the seeds in early spring or late fall (after frost), and provide water and fertilizer as needed during establishment to ensure vibrant growth and pollinator attraction.
These wildflowers not only bring colour and texture but also support local ecosystems by attracting beneficial pollinators. Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea) delivers stunning purple-pink daisy-like flowers that bloom from July through October. Butterflies and bees find the nectar-rich blooms of Prairie Blazing Star irresistible during mid-summer.
Wild Bergamot serves as a crucial host plant for monarch butterflies, providing food for their caterpillars. Butterfly Weed (Asclepias tuberosa) dazzles with clusters of bright orange flowers that bloom from June through August and serves as a host plant for monarch caterpillars.
The abundant blooms of New England Aster serve as vital late-season nectar sources for migrating monarchs and other butterflies. The unique reflexed petals distinguish it from its cousin, Purple Coneflower, creating a more delicate aesthetic.
In conclusion, native wildflowers are a valuable addition to any Midwest garden, offering a range of colours, textures, and benefits for both gardeners and local wildlife. By choosing native wildflowers, we can create beautiful, sustainable, and pollinator-friendly gardens.
Incorporating wildflowers in a home-and-garden setting, such as the Smooth Blue Aster and Wild Bergamot, not only enhances the lifestyle aesthetically but also supports local ecosystems with their valuable pollen and nectar. Additionally, gardening with native wildflowers like Purple Coneflower, Prairie Blazing Star, and Virginia Bluebells fosters a thriving habitat for beneficial pollinators like butterflies and bees, making home-and-garden spaces more attractive and sustainable.
