Our native iris is a showy, hardy perennial found around meadows, streams, ponds, and in wetter areas of meadows. Its clumping growth and distinctive, yet familiar flower structure make it a wonderful addition to any garden.
Swamp Rose Mallow, one of our native Hibiscus, can be found in marshes, wetlands, and near ponds and rivers. Its large white or pink flowers open consistently between 9am-11am. Its seeds are a source of food for many birds and its flowers attract hummingbirds and insects. 28 species of butterflies and moths utilize this plant as a host.
Buttonbush is a shrub that is found on the edges of local ponds, swamps, and lakes. Its unique 'button-like' flower structure lends to its namesake, and the subsequent 'nutlets' can persist through the winter. An important source of food for ducks and other waterfowl in addition to being a good pollinator attracter.
This bushy, medium-sized milkweed is one of the hosts to the Monarch Butterfly. Its bright orange flower clusters, ease of growing, and tolerances make it a great choice for home gardens.
Also known as Eastern False Willow, Groundsel bush is found in saltmarshes and along the coastal areas of Long Island. Grows showy white flowers and many seed heads that attract pollinators and birds alike. It is the only member of the Aster family to reach tree size. Great for salt tolerant and coastal landscaping.
The Common Milkweed is the plant that most people associate with the word “milkweed”. It is one of the few host species for Monarch butterflies, but the flowers are very popular with many other kinds of insects. It is an aggressive spreader both by seed and by underground growth, so best in larger garden areas.
One of our few native host plants for the Monarch butterfly. Grows naturally in swamps and wet meadows but also grows well in the garden and grows well in poorly drained clay soil. Has a pleasing scent when in bloom.
Glossy green, deciduous leaves have five deep lobes forming a distinctive star shape. In the fall leaves turn vibrant shades of yellow, orange, red and purple. The fruit is a woody, burr-like fruit that is approximately 1" in diameter. Grows in a straight, upright pyramidal shape.
Inhabits sand dunes, sandy road shoulders, dry fields, disturbed sites and wet meadows, with neutral soil pH. Tolerates urban pollution. The leaves change from light-green to dark-green to purple throughout the year. Grows in an attractive clump. Provides seed, nesting, and shelter for ground nesters and birds of prey.
