Explore the diverse and stunning world of British Columbia native plants!
From rugged coastlines to lush rainforests and majestic mountains, BC's natural landscapes are home to a wealth of unique flora that can enhance any garden. Let's delve into the beauty and benefits of incorporating native plants into your outdoor spaces.
Why Choose Native Plants?
Native plants are species that have evolved and adapted to the specific environmental conditions of a region over thousands of years. Here are some compelling reasons to consider incorporating British Columbia native plants into your garden.
Resilient and Naturally Adapted to Our Unique Climate
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BC native plants are naturally adapted to our climate, soil types, and rainfall patterns. They are resilient and require less water, fertilizer, and maintenance once established.
Easy to Grow and Maintain
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Native plants are well-suited to local growing conditions, making them easier to grow and maintain compared to non-native species.
Provide Many Benefits and Preferred by Native Pollinators
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Native plants provide essential habitat, food, and shelter for local wildlife, including native pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. They are the preferred choice for supporting native biodiversity.
Increase Natural Biodiversity in the Landscape
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By planting native species, you contribute to the preservation and enhancement of BC's unique ecosystems, increasing overall biodiversity in your landscape.
Attractive Additions to Cultivated Gardens
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BC native plants offer a diverse range of colours, textures, and forms that can enhance the beauty of cultivated gardens. Whether you're creating a formal landscape or a naturalistic wildflower garden, native plants add a sense of place and authenticity.
Popular British Columbia Native Plants
Here is a list of some of the iconic native plants that thrive in British Columbia!
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Pacific Dogwood (Cornus nuttallii)
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Known for its stunning white blooms in spring, the Pacific Dogwood is BC's provincial flower. It's a beautiful addition to any garden with its showy flowers and attractive foliage.
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Red Columbine (Aquilegia formosa)
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This striking perennial features vibrant red and yellow flowers that attract hummingbirds. It thrives in shady woodland areas.
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Salal (Gaultheria shallon)
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A versatile evergreen shrub with glossy leaves and edible berries. Salal is ideal for adding texture and year-round interest to gardens.
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Sword Fern (Polystichum munitum)
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A classic fern species that thrives in BC's moist, shaded forests. Sword ferns add a touch of lush greenery to shaded garden areas.
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Ocean Spray (Holodiscus discolor)
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A deciduous shrub with cascading clusters of creamy-white flowers. Ocean Spray is a favorite in coastal landscapes.
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Watch this video for one of our plant expert's favourite Native Plants!
Design Tips for Using Native Plants In Your Garden or Landscape
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Choose a Variety of Species
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Incorporate a mix of flowering plants, shrubs, and trees to create a balanced and visually appealing landscape.
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Consider Bloom Times
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Select plants that bloom at different times of the year to ensure year-round interest and provide continuous food sources for pollinators.
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Embrace Naturalistic Planting
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Mimic BC's natural ecosystems by grouping plants according to their native habitats. For example, create a woodland garden with shade-loving species like ferns and trilliums.
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Combine with Non-Native Plants
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Native plants can complement non-native species in garden designs. Pair them with ornamental grasses, perennials, and bulbs for added diversity and color.
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Ready to Get Started?
Ready to introduce British Columbia's native beauty into your garden? Visit GARDENWORKS to explore our selection of native plants and speak with our knowledgeable staff for expert advice on gardening with local species. Whether you have a small balcony or a spacious backyard, there's a native plant suited to your space and preferences.
Happy gardening!
