The Most Popular Native Plants in Every State

From milkweed to cardinal flower to blue aster, discover the best native plants for your area and learn how to plant and care for them in your own wildlife-friendly garden. We've gathered the top picks from all 50 states plus D.C.

By: Amanda Plante

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Native Plants for a Sustainable, Wildlife-Friendly Garden

Native plants are a key ingredient in a thriving sustainable garden. Perfectly adapted to their local environment, native species form symbiotic relationships with the wildlife that inhabits an area. By planting natives, you create not only a lush garden of plants, but an oasis for wildlife, too. Because they are hyper-local, the native plants that can be considered best truly varies by region. And each state has its own preferences for native plants, too — that’s something Garden for Wildlife, a trusted online source for native plants associated with the National Wildlife Federation, has found in its data for sales by state.

We’ve used that data to share with you the most popular native plants for all 50 states plus the District of Columbia; the top picks and runners-up come from Garden for Wildlife information, unless otherwise noted (for Alaska and Hawaii). While there are repeat favorites, including cardinal flower, foxglove beard tongue, smooth blue aster, and wild bergamot (bee balm), and varieties of milkweed (a perennial bestseller), columbine, hibiscus, and coreopsis, there are also selections specific to one state. See which natives are beloved in your state and learn how to plant and care for them in your own sustainable habitat garden.

Learn More: How to Get Your Yard Wildlife Habitat-Certified

Alabama: Scarlet Sage

The vibrant red blooms of scarlet sage (Salvia coccinea) are a pollinator magnet, providing nectar for hummingbirds, bees and butterflies. Scarlet sage is also an important food source for the caterpillars of at least nine species of butterflies and moths, including the wavy-lined emerald moth. This species of sage is native to the sandy, coastal areas from South Carolina and Florida, west to Eastern Texas. Scarlet sage has fantastic flower power, with fiery red blooms that can last over a long season if deadheaded regularly. This species is adaptable to a wide range of soil types, moisture levels and amounts of sunlight. Scarlet sage is a hardy perennial in USDA hardiness zones 8 to 10 and can be grown as an annual in cooler climates. You can grow it easily from seed or rooted stem cuttings. If grown as a perennial, wait until all danger of frost has passed in the spring to trim back brown, dead growth from the previous season.

Runners-up: Cardinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis) is a showy, red-flowering biennial. This fantastic nectar source for hummingbirds also supports four species of butterflies and moths as a caterpillar host plant. Save seeds in the fall and gently rake them into the garden bed to ensure cardinal flower comes back year after year. Blazing star (Liatris spp.) has dazzling purple blooms that are irresistible to a wide variety of butterflies and bees. Liatris supports the caterpillars of at least five species of butterflies and moths. Check out a specialty native plant nursery in your area to find locally adapted selections.

Learn More: Salvia Plants: Growing and Caring for Ornamental Sage

Alaska: Wild Flag Iris

These top picks come from the experts at Alaska Botanical Garden in Anchorage. Wild flag iris (Iris setosa) is a tough, cold adapted species that begins blooming within a month of snowmelt in the spring, when the violet-to-lavender blossoms are a welcome sight to gardeners and hungry pollinators alike. Hummingbirds and butterflies seek out the 3- to 6-inch-wide flowers that grow on this 2- to 3-foot-tall plant. Wild flag iris is naturally found growing in the coastal areas of the extreme northwest of North America and along the northeastern coast of Asia, south to Japan. This resilient perennial prefers wet to periodically wet conditions, which makes this a good choice for edge plantings in water gardens, bog gardens, rain gardens, wet meadows and low areas in the garden.

Runners-up: Spiraea (Spiraea stevenii) is a compact flowering shrub that blooms from June through September. The frothy white flowers will hum with bees, butterflies and other pollinators, while the foliage is an important food source for the caterpillars of 23 species of butterflies and moths. Shrubby cinquefoil (Dasiphora fruticosa, formerly Potentilla fruticosa) is a resilient and adaptable shrub that prolifically produces buttercup-yellow blooms throughout the growing season. While shrubby cinquefoil prefers full sun, it will tolerate light shade as well as a wide range of soil conditions. This species has an expansive native range, and with regionally adapted ecotypes found throughout North America, with the exception of the southeastern states. Cinquefoils are an important food sources for caterpillars of the adorable Dorcas copper butterfly.

Learn More: Iris Flower: Varieties to Grow and How to Care for Them

Arizona: Sunflower

It’s hard to find a more joyful, summer bloom than the classic annual sunflower (Helianthus annuus). As soon as the petals unfurl, the center of the flower will be humming with myriad bees and other pollen-hungry insects. Bird lovers know that once the flowers fade, seed-loving songbirds will flock to the spent plants to pry the sunflower seeds from the bowed sunflower heads. Helianthus annuus is native to the western part of the continent, although it’s naturalized east of the Mississippi as well. Naturally occurring ecotypes are often found in dry, sunny, exposed sites. While the name “sunflower” may conjure up towering plants, there’s actually huge diversity of forms within the species. That means, there’s a sunflower for every garden! From mammoth 10-foot-tall sunflowers that briefly overlook the back of the flower border before bowing a heavy 12-inch head, to petite 2- to 3-foot-tall multi-stemmed selections that will bloom throughout the season in a container. Typically, annual sunflowers grow best with regular watering and plenty of organic matter. Gardeners in dry conditions should look for multi-stemmed varieties that produce smaller leaves and flowers, which will use less water.

Runner-up: Rabbitbrush (Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus) is a showy flowering shrub that is cloaked in cheerful butter-yellow blooms from early summer through fall. This sun-loving species performs well in both traditional gardens as well as difficult, dry or rocky sites.

Learn More: Growing Sunflowers: When to Plant and How to Grow Sunflowers

Arkansas: Purple Coneflower

The fragrant, showy summer blooms of purple coneflower (Echinacea purpurea) are familiar to most gardeners, and plants are available at most garden centers. The flowers are an important pollen and nectar source for bees, butterflies and other pollinating insects, which are, themselves, also an important food source for bug-eating songbirds. Those who hold off on deadheading are usually rewarded with flocks of cheerful yellow goldfinches and other seed-eating birds through late summer and fall. Purple coneflower is native to Eastern North America, from Virginia, south to Florida, and west to Ohio and Indiana, although it has naturalized further west and north today. Grow purple coneflower in open, sunny spots that receive at least 6 hours of sun per day. This species tolerates moderately dry through moderately wet soils, and may only need irrigation in drought conditions.

Runners-up: Smooth Blue Aster (Symphyotrichum laeve) is a welcome sight as one of the final flowers of autumn. The eye-catching blue-purple blossoms attract a host of pollinating insects, including monarch butterflies during their fall migration to Mexico, and the foliage is an important food source for the caterpillars of up to 8 species of butterflies and moths. While blue aster grows up to 4 feet, you can trim back midsummer for a more compact plant. Oxeye Sunflower (Heliopsis helianthoides) fills the garden with sunny-yellow blooms from summer through early fall. This species tolerates a wide range of soil conditions and grows best in full sun.

Learn More: Coneflower: Growing and Caring for Echinacea

California: Rabbitbrush

Rabbitbush (Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus) shines out in the garden, producing an abundance of golden flowers from June to October. This species can be found naturally growing throughout most of western North America, as far north as British Columbia, east to Nebraska, and south to southern California. Rabbitbush is a tough shrub that tolerates drought, salt and alkaline soils and grows best when it has at least 6 hours of bright, direct light each day. This 1- to 3-foot-tall shrub grows well in foundation plantings, flower borders, natural areas and in the shrub border.

Runners-up: Sunflower (Helianthus spp.) includes several perennial species native to California, in addition to the familiar cultivated annual sunflower (Helianthus annuus). Up to 58 species of butterflies and moths depend on sunflower as a caterpillar food source, and many more pollinators are attracted to the cheerful yellow blooms. The perennial native species will produce smaller flowers on multiple stems, but should have a longer bloom period with less maintenance needed and will grow back year after year. Trim back to 8 inches midsummer to control height. Gumweed (Grindeli spp.) can be a tall, airy plant that can produce bright yellow blooms from late spring through the fall. The flowers provide pollen and nectar for butterflies and native bees, and the caterpillars of up to 19 species of butterflies and moths depend on the foliage for food and habitat.

Learn More: Growing Sunflowers: When to Plant and How to Grow Sunflowers

Colorado: Gumweed

The attractive, daisy-like yellow blooms of curlycup gumweed (Grindelia squarrosa, also called curly-top gumweed) provide pollen and nectar to native bees and butterflies, and the leaves are an important food source for the caterpillars of up to 13 species of butterflies and moths. The unusual flower buds make an attractive addition to the flower garden. This species is native throughout western and southwestern North America and has become naturalized outside of its native range in many northern and eastern regions. Curlycup gumweed is a short-lived perennial that can fill in open spaces in the garden border while longer-lived flowering perennials and shrubs develop. This species grows best in full sun and dry conditions. This species has a long history of medicinal use among First Nations People, including treatments for respiratory, skin and kidney ailments.

Runner-up: Rabbitbrush (Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus) is a tough shrub with great flower power and is usually covered in buttery yellow flowers from early summer into the fall. This adaptable species will grow well in most soil conditions, but it will need bright, direct sunlight for best performance.

See More: Southwest Natives That Sizzle

Connecticut: Cardinal Flower

This species is a garden staple for hummingbird enthusiasts, because hummingbirds can’t resist the scarlet red blooms of cardinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis). According to the National Wildlife Association, the foliage is also an important food source for caterpillars of five species of butterflies and moths. Cardinal flower naturally grows along waters’ edge and in damp sites throughout much of North America and even into northern regions of South America. It thrives in moist areas and will grow happily in spots that are too wet for many perennials common in the nursery industry. While individual plants tend to be short lived, this species will spread prolifically by seed. Lightly rake the soil at the base of the plant to encourage good seed-to-soil contact at the end of the season.

Runners-up: Eastern columbine (Aquilegia canadensis) may look delicate, but is actually a very tough plant that will thrive in a variety of conditions. Hummingbirds and other pollinators visit the flowers, and up to 12 species of butterflies and moths rely on the foliage as a caterpillar food source. Wild bergamot (Monarda fistulosa) is an intensely fragrant perennial in the mint family. Bees and butterflies love the lilac blooms, and the caterpillars of 10 butterfly and moth species feed on the foliage. Wild bergamot can be a little aggressive in the garden, so plant in a spot where it has plenty of space and few neighbors.

Learn More: How to Grow and Care For Cardinal Flower Plants

District of Columbia: Foxglove Beard Tongue

Foxglove Beard Tongue (Penstemon digitalis) has spires of bell-like white flowers that are irresistible to native bees, including miner bees, mason bees and bumble bees, as well as butterflies and hummingbirds. According to the National Wildlife Foundation, the foliage is an important food source for Baltimore checkerspot caterpillars, along with five other species of butterflies and moths. Foxglove beard tounge's native range includes much of the Mississippi River Basin, although it can be found growing naturally throughout much of Eastern North America. This Penstemon is a highly adaptable species and will grow happily in most soil types as well as sun to light shade. Gardeners can dig and divide in the fall or collect and sow seed to propagate foxglove beard tongue in the landscape.

Runners-up: Orange butterfly weed (Asclepias tuberosa) is a show-stopping plant, producing fiery blooms that range from red to orange and even yellow. Don’t be alarmed if you find caterpillars defoliating entire stems, as this is one of only a few species that monarch caterpillars can feed on. After a short period of feeding, the monarch caterpillars will pupate into butterflies and carry on with their migration across the continent. Smooth blue aster (Symphyotrichum laeve) is a garden staple, reliably blooming late in the fall. The blue-to-purple daisy-like blooms are an important food source for late pollinators and migrating monarchs, and the foliage supports the caterpillars of four species of butterflies and moths during the growing season. Cut back hard mid-summer to promote a more compact habit.

Delaware: Swamp Milkweed

The vanilla-scented, bubblegum pink blooms of swamp milkweed (Asclepias incarnata) attract a variety of pollinators, including native bees, butterflies and hummingbirds. This species, along with other members of the genus Asclepias, are an important larval food source for the caterpillars of the iconic monarch butterfly. According to the National Wildlife Foundation, the caterpillars of at least 11 other Delaware butterfly and moth species depend on milkweed leaves for food, including the cecropia silkmoth, the Isabella tiger moth and the milkweed tussock moth. Swamp milkweed is native to Eastern North America, from Quebec, Ontario and Manitoba south to Georgia and west to Texas. This species of milkweed thrives in damp conditions, and will grow best beside water features or in poorly drained low points and depressions in the landscape. Plant in full sun to promote more flowers. This species of milkweed is well-behaved in the garden, and will grow better with neighboring plants close-by to prop up its 4-foot-tall stems. Milkweed is easiest to grow from seed planted outdoors in the fall. Avoid mulching on top of the seed, as this can prevent milkweed seed from germinating.

Runners-up: Whorled milkweed (Asclepias verticillata) is another fantastic milkweed for the garden. Whorled milkweed grows about 2 feet in height, with stems topped in creamy white blooms that are very appealing to pollinators. This species of milkweed does grow from root suckers, so avoid planting next to delicate plants that can’t compete with an aggressive neighbor. Orange butterfly milkweed (Asclepias tuberosa) is a traffic-stopping plant that grows 2-feet-tall stems cloaked in shades of orange blooms, with the flowers of seed-grown plants ranging from deep red to golden yellow. Orange butterfly milkweed tolerates dry conditions and behaves well in a traditional garden setting.

Learn More: Planting and Growing Milkweed

Florida: Blazing Star

Blazing Star (Liatris spp.) is a relatively large genus, with many species native to North America. Florida has several native blazing star species, including Garber’s blazing star (L. garberi), slender blazing star (L. gracilis) and gayfeather (L. spicata). In the summer, each stem is topped with a robust spike of showy purple flowers that are irresistible to native pollinators, especially butterflies and bees. According to the National Wildlife Foundation, as many as four species of butterflies and moths depend on blazing stars as a caterpillar food source in Florida. Blazing stars prefer moist soils and full sun. According to the Florida Native Plant Society, these plants don’t tolerate salty water, salt spray or even salty wind, so coastal gardeners should grow blazing stars in protected areas.

Runners-up: Scarlet sage (Salvia coccinea) is a fabulous plant for gardeners and hummingbirds alike, heavily producing fire engine red flowers all season long. Scarlet sage needs full sun to flower its best, but it will tolerate a wide range of soil conditions as well as some salty wind. Gardeners in Northern Florida should wait until spring after all danger of frost has passed before trimming back previous season’s growth. Cardinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis) is another must-have plant for fans of hummingbirds. This species grows best in moist conditions and does not tolerate salt water, salt spray or salty wind. While individual plants are short-lived, cardinal flower reliably self-seeds.

See More: Southern Native Plants Worth Growing

Georgia: Button Bush

The fascinating spherical white blooms of button bush (Cephalanthus occidentalis) are irresistible to pollinating insects, including butterflies and native bees. Button bush is native to moist, boggy sites across Eastern and Central North America. This species makes a fantastic statement plant, especially when covered with creamy white, golf ball-sized flowers. While the straight species can grow up to 12 feet tall, there are much smaller cultivated varieties available from the nursery industry. Button bush needs consistent moisture to thrive.

Runners-up: Sea myrtle (Baccharis halimifolia) is tolerant of sandy soils and salt spray, making it a great choice for coastal gardeners. In the fall, sea myrtle shrubs are cloaked in white flowers that provide pollen and nectar for native pollinators. The flowers mature into equally attractive silvery seedheads. Scarlet hibiscus (Hibiscus coccineus) is a hardy perennial hibiscus that produces enormous, 6-inch-wide carmine flowers. Unlike other hibiscus, the petals of scarlet hibiscus don’t usually overlap, which gives the blooms a starrier appearance. According to the National Wildlife Foundation, up to 32 species of butterflies and moths in Georgia rely on scarlet hibiscus as a caterpillar food source, including the stunning io moth.

Learn More: How to Plant, Grow and Care for Hibiscus

Hawaii: ʻŌhiʻa lehua

These picks come from the experts at National Tropical Botanical Garden (NTBG) in Kalaheo, with the endemic tree ʻŌhiʻa lehua (Metrosideros polymorpha) being top choice. Mike DeMotta, Curator of Living Collections at NTBG, says: "ʻŌhiʻa lehua can be found in nearly every habitat in the Hawaiian forest. It's a foundational species with significance in hula and is associated with Pele's sister, Hiʻiaka. Ōhiʻa is beautiful and easy to grow. Its red, orange, or sometimes yellow flowers are important in lei making. It is one of the most Hawaiian trees one can grow."

Pollinating insects are highly attracted to the tree's vibrant pom-pom flowers. While this species can grow up to 75 feet tall under ideal circumstances, it can also survive as a shrub or small tree. While ʻŌhiʻa lehua is restricted to the Hawaiian Islands, it can be found growing in a wide variety of habitats, including coastal areas, forests, mountains and even as colonizing plants on lava flows.

Runners-up: Aʻaliʻi (Dodonaea viscosa) is a tropical species that can be found in nature growing in dry, coastal or rocky conditions. This shrub or small tree produces yellow to orange blooms that mature into a deep red, then brown dry fruit. Kokiʻo keʻokeʻo (Hibiscus waimeae) produces large, fragrant flowers. The white petals fade to pink as the day progresses, and the center of the flower remains red or deep pink. This species can naturally be found growing in moist forests.

See More: Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden

Idaho: Fleabane

There are many species of daisy fleabane (Erigeron spp.), a group of plants in the genus Erigeron, that can be found naturally growing in Idaho, and all of them are fantastic for wildlife. Tiny pollinators and predators of common garden pests flock to fleabane’s open, flat flowers for pollen. According to the National Wildlife Federation, 14 species of butterflies and moths endemic to Idaho rely on Erigeron as a caterpillar food source as well. If you live in North America, there’s a good chance there’s a fleabane species native to your area. The species Erigeron annuus alone is native to most of the continent, except the northernmost stretches of Canada and Alaska. With its cheerful spring blooms and easy carefree habit, daisy fleabanes make a welcome addition to the garden. Allow naturally occurring fleabanes to remain as a filler plant between cultivated plants in the flower border, and deadhead immediately after flowering to prevent prolific reseeding. For a more formal look, check specialty nurseries for well-behaved species and varieties.

Runner-up: Goldenaster (Heterotheca villosa) can be counted on to produce golden, daisy-like flowers from spring through fall, and bees, butterflies and other pollinators are frequent visitors at the cheerful yellow blooms. This compact, 28-inch-tall shrub thrives in exposed conditions with bright sunlight and dry soils.

See More: America's 18 Wildest Wildflowers

Illinois: Little Bluestem

Little bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium) is a stunning native plant that has major wildlife and ornamental value. The fall seeds are an important food for native songbirds, and, according to the National Wildlife Federation, the foliage is eaten by the caterpillars of several species of skippers. Little bluestem is native to most of North America, from as far north as Quebec and Manitoba in Canada, all the way south to Tabasco in southeast Mexico. While plants across this range are considered the same species, there’s a great deal of genetic variation that allows individuals to adapt to the specific environment of their region. In the summer, little bluestem forms an attractive blue-green clump of soft, strappy leaves. As cool weather approaches, the drama heightens, as the foliage turns shades of copper and red and plants begin to send up feathery white seedheads. For best effect, plant little bluestem where the morning or evening sun can shine through the fluffy plumes. While there are many cultivated varieties of little bluestem on the market, they don’t all perform equally well for all gardeners. Look for local ecotypes or varieties that have been tested to hold up in your area.

Runners-up: Carolina rose (Rosa carolina) has fragrant pink spring flowers that are irresistible to native bees. This species has gorgeous fall color, and the brilliant red rosehips are eaten by overwintering birds. Carolina rose spreads rapidly from its roots and is best grown in an area with plenty of room and little competition. Whorled milkweed (Asclepias verticillata) belongs to a small group of plants that monarch butterflies depend on as a caterpillar food source. Plants grow about 2 feet tall, producing creamy white flowers at the top of each stem that attract a variety of beneficial insects. Like Carolina rose, whorled milkweed also can spread from its roots.

Learn More: How to Identify Different Types of Bees in Your Garden

Indiana: Great Blue Lobelia

The violet-blue flower spikes of great blue lobelia (Lobelia siphilitica) shine out from the flower border late in the summer. Hummingbirds, butterflies and bees all seek out the tubular blooms as they unfurl, and, according to the National Wildlife Foundation, four species of butterflies and moths feed on the foliage as caterpillars. Great blue lobelia is native to most of eastern North America and the great plains region, where it can be found naturally growing along streambanks, in marshes and in moist woods and meadows. When in flower, great blue lobelia can grow between 2 and 4 feet in height, and it looks best when grown with plants of similar heights. This species needs reliably moist soil to perform their best.

Runners-up: Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta) has fiery-colored, daisy-like blooms through the summer. In nature, the flowers tend to be yellow, but there are varieties with purple, red, orange, and multicolored petals available from garden centers. This species tends to be a short-lived perennial that will seed itself freely through the garden. Bees are especially fond of the flowers, and the caterpillars of 17 species of butterflies and moths feed on the foliage in Indiana. Foxglove beard tongue (Penstemon digitalis) has showy spires of white bell-shaped blooms in the spring. A wide variety of native bees and even hummingbirds are frequent floral visitors, and the leaves of this plant are an important food source for the caterpillars of several species of butterflies and moths, including the Baltimore checkerspot and common buckeye butterflies.

Learn More: Black-Eyed Susan: How to Grow and Care for This Cheery Perennial

Iowa: Orange Butterfly Milkweed

The fiery hues of orange butterfly milkweed (Asclepias tuberosa) make a traffic-stopping addition to any garden. The classic flower color is orange, although seed-grown plants may have red, yellow and even slightly bicolor blooms that native bees adore. This species is also a host plant for monarch butterfly caterpillars. Check the flower heads for eggs and tiny caterpillars when plants are in bloom. Orange butterfly milkweed is native to much of North America, as far north as Newfoundland in Canada, south into Florida, and as far west as Colorado. It can be found naturally growing in sunny, dry, well-drained areas including prairies, open woods and hillsides. This milkweed species behaves very well in traditional gardens, forming 2-foot-tall clumps. Avoid mulching deeply to ensure individual plants will grow back from the roots year after year. Mulching can prevent fall-sown seeds from emerging in the spring, but seedlings grow easily from bare soil.

Runners-up: Foxglove beardtongue (Penstemon digitalis) is a beautiful spring-blooming perennial. While basal foliage grows only a few inches tall, the blooms can reach 3 feet in height, producing delicate racemes (a cluster of short-stalked flowers) covered in many white bell-like blooms that are especially attractive to long-horned bees. Smooth blue aster (Symphyotrichum laeve) is a staple for spectacular blue daisy-like fall flowers that are beautiful to gardeners and critical for late-season pollinators. During the growing season, the foliage is also an important food source for the caterpillars of eight species of butterflies and moths. Plants can grow up to 4 feet tall, but plants can be trimmed back early in the summer to promote a more compact, 2-foot-tall plant.

Learn More: Planting and Growing Milkweed

Kansas: Oxeye Sunflower

Bees and butterflies absolutely love the golden yellow blooms of oxeye sunflower (Heliopsis helianthoides), and seed-eating birds enjoy perching on the tall stems to pry seeds from the spent flowerheads in the fall. Oxeye sunflower is native to much of eastern North America, from Quebec in Canada south to northern Florida and west into Nebraska. However, this species has naturalized outside of its native range and is found growing throughout much of the continent in a wide variety of environments, including prairies, fields and open woodlands. Site this 5-foot-tall perennial in the back of the flower border for maximum floral impact without obscuring neighboring plants. Oxeye sunflower prefers full sun, but will tolerate part shade. This species grows well in most gardens, tolerating moderately wet through moderately dry soil conditions.

Runners-up: Sideoats grama grass (Bouteloua curtipendula) is a fine textured native grass that has delicate summer flowers and attractive plumes in fall. Sideoats grama grass can be grown as an ornamental grass in the flower border or as an alternative lawn — it tolerates regular mowing to a 2-to-4-inch height turf. This plant is an important food source for caterpillars of 13 species of skippers and moths. Little bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium) is a colorful and highly ornamental grass, with blue-green foliage in the summer that takes on a copper or even crimson color in fall. Songbirds feed on the seedheads, the caterpillars of six species of skippers feed on the foliage, and many more birds, insects and other animals nest in the tufts. Look for locally adapted plants that have been proven to perform well in your area.

Learn More: Growing Sunflowers: When to Plant and How to Grow Sunflowers

Kentucky: Lanceleaf Coreopsis

Gardeners can count on lanceleaf coreopsis (Coreopsis lanceolata) for buttery yellow flowers from spring through fall. Butterflies especially enjoy visiting the flowers, and songbirds feast on the seedheads in the fall. Lanceleaf coreopsis is native to much of the eastern US, from the Great Lakes region in the North, down to Florida in the south, and east to Oklahoma and Texas. This is an early successional species that thrives in open, recently disturbed areas, including roadsides and open fields. Those features have allowed lanceleaf coreopsis to naturalize across much of the continent, beyond its native range. Lanceleaf coreopsis must have well drained, dry conditions to grow its best. In fact, when grown under heavy irrigation, this species behaves more like an annual plant. Under the best of circumstances, lanceleaf coreopsis can be a short-lived perennial, but it will readily reseed itself through the garden.

Runners-up: Smooth blue aster (Symphyotrichum laeve) is a stunning addition to the fall garden, when it is absolutely covered with purple daisy-like flowers and humming with the sound of late season pollinators. The foliage is also an important food source for the caterpillars of 10 species of butterflies and moths in the Kentucky area. Smooth blue aster can grow about 4 feet tall, but gardeners can cut back the stems mid-summer for a more compact plant. Foxglove beard tongue (Penstemon digitalis) has lovely spires of white, bell-like flowers late in the spring that native bees adore. Trim the spent blooms back to the ground to maintain the plant as a tidy basal rosette, or leave the stems in place to allow the plant to seed freely around the garden. Up to seven species of butterflies and moths, including the Baltimore checkerspot and the common buckeye, feed on the leaves as caterpillars.

See More: Southern Native Plants Worth Growing

Louisiana: Sea Myrtle

Sea myrtle (Baccharis halimifolia) in bloom looks like a fluffy white cloud. When in flower, sea myrtle shrub is abuzz with the hum of pollinating insects. The flowers give way to silvery seed heads that native songbirds enjoy snacking on. According to the National Wildlife Federation, 28 species of butterflies and moths feed on sea myrtle leaves as caterpillars. Sea myrtle is native to Eastern North America, typically found growing in coastal areas and marshes from Massachusetts south to Mexico. This species tolerates salt spray and is a good choice for coastal gardeners. Sea myrtle grows well in a variety of environmental situations and thrives in exposed, dry sites, although it can be a little weedy. Gardeners who want to limit seedlings should grow seedless male plants. Sea myrtle can grow up to 15 feet tall, but it tolerates pruning and hedging well.

Runners-up: Button bush (Cephalanthus occidentalis) has unique, white pincushion-like flowers that are about the size of a golf ball. In the right location, this shrub will bloom abundantly in the summer, attracting myriad pollinators. The leaves are an important caterpillar food source for 24 species of butterflies and moths, including the promethea silkmoth, cecropia silkmoth and hickory horned devil moth. Scarlet hibiscus (Hibiscus coccineus) is a show-stopper in bloom. The large, somewhat star-shaped carmine flowers attract nectar-seeking hummingbirds and butterflies, and the foliage is an important caterpillar food source for 33 species of butterflies and caterpillars, including the io moth. Site this large, 6- to 8-foot-tall perennial in the back of the flower border for maximum impact and to prevent shading neighboring plants. This species prefers moist soils but will perform well in a standard garden bed.

Learn More: How to Plant, Grow and Care for Hibiscus

Maine: Smooth Blue Aster

Fall blooming asters, including smooth blue aster (Symphyotrichum laeve), are a delight to gardeners and pollinators alike. The autumn flowers are a welcome sight as other plants prepare for winter dormancy, and they’re an important source of late-season pollen to native bees and butterflies, including migrating monarchs. The Xerces Society encourages gardeners to leave the brittle, dry stems in place in the garden to provide shelter for stem-nesting bees. During the growing season, caterpillars from up to 10 species of butterflies and moths feed the green leaves and stems. Smooth blue aster is native to a wide swath of North America and has naturalized throughout much of the continent. Smooth blue aster can grow 4 or more feet tall, and the stems are prone to lay across the ground. Site this species towards the back of the border, and accompany with ornamental grasses that can provide support. Gardeners can trim this aster back to about 8 inches in height early in the summer to promote a more compact, upright habit.

Runner-up: Oxeye sunflower (Heliopsis helianthoides) prolifically blooms throughout the summer. The 2-inch-wide yellow, daisy-like blooms are an important source of pollen and nectar for native bees and butterflies, and, in the fall, birds will perch on the stems to pry seeds from the spent flowerheads. Oxeye sunflower flowers best in full sun and will tolerate anything except excessively dry or wet soils. Plant this 5 foot tall perennial in the back of the border to avoid shading neighboring plants.

See More: Northeast Native Plants to Try

Maryland: Pink Azalea

The soft, pink blooms of pinxterbloom azalea (Rhododendron periclymenoides) are a welcome sign of spring. While bees certainly collect pollen and drink nectar from the trumpet shaped blossoms, the large wings of butterflies actually pollenate the flowers. Pinxterbloom azalea are native to the woods and bogs of eastern North America, from New Hampshire south to Georgia and west to Kentucky. This and other native azalea species can be a little tricky to keep happy in the typical suburban landscape. Pinxterbloom azalea needs acidic and rich, humusy soils that are both moisture retentive and have great drainage. Gardeners with soggy, heavy clay should plant azaleas into a raised berm to improve drainage. These shrubs grow best under the dappled shade of an oak or beech tree. Mulch with pine straw or autumn leaves to improve soil quality.

Runners-up: Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta) are familiar to many gardeners. In nature, the 2-inch-wide daisy-like flowers may be golden yellow with a dark center, but there are many cultivated varieties that have slightly larger flowers that range from burgundy and red to orange and lemon yellow. These blooms are an important source of pollen and nectar to beneficial insects, including bees and butterflies. Black-eyed Susans are short-lived perennials that will seed themselves freely in the garden. The showy orange, red or yellow flowerheads of orange butterfly milkweed (Asclepias tuberosa) are a favorite of many types of bees, including honeybees, mining bees and mason bees, and the foliage of milkweeds is a crucial food source for caterpillars of monarch butterflies. Orange butterfly milkweed does well in a traditional garden, and should return year after year so long as it is not mulched too deeply.

Learn More: How to Plant and Grow Azaleas

Massachusetts: Grayleaf Goldenrod

Goldenrods are considered a keystone species because an incredible diversity of insect species rely on goldenrods to complete their lifecycle. According to the National Wildlife Federation, in Massachusetts 125 butterflies and moths depend on goldenrod as caterpillar food, and 42 species of specialist bees need goldenrods for pollen. Migrating monarchs and other butterflies also rely on goldenrods as a fall food source. Without keystone species such as goldenrods, the ecosystems that depend on these plants could collapse. While some species of goldenrod can be lanky and weedy in the garden, grayleaf goldenrod (Solidago nemoralis) is very well behaved, growing only to 2 feet in height. Grayleaf goldenrod is native to North America from the Rocky Mountains to the Atlantic Ocean, where it can be found growing in dry, rocky, exposed woodlands, prairies and roadsides.

Runners-up: Pinxterbloom azalea (Rhododendron periclymenoides) is a stunning native azalea that generously blooms big, blousy pink flowers in the spring. Bees and butterflies visit the blossoms, 55 species of butterflies and moths feed on the foliage as caterpillars (including the io moth, promethea silkmoth and green comma butterfly), and birds nest in the branches. Pinxterbloom azaleas need rich, well drained soils and dappled shade to thrive. Carolina rose (Rosa carolina) is beautiful in flower, foliage and fruit. Native bees enjoy the bright pink blooms with golden centers that appear for two or so weeks in the spring. Caterpillars from 119 species of butterflies and moths, including polyphemus moths, imperial moths and io moths, feed on the glossy green foliage during the growing season. Birds eat the bright red rosehips in the winter.

Learn More: How to Identify Different Types of Bees in Your Garden

Michigan: Foxglove Beard Tongue

Foxglove beard tongue (Penstemon digitalis) is a stunning spring bloomer and a resilient perennial. For much of the year, this species is a diminutive and easy-to-overlook clump of basal foliage. As the temperatures begin to rise in the spring, foxglove beard tongue sends up a 2- to 5-foot-tall shoot that is topped by a spire of bright white, tubular flowers. Native bees, including mason bees and miner bees, are frequent floral visitors, although hummingbirds may occasionally stop by for some nectar too. According to the National Wildlife Federation, 13 species of butterflies and moths feed on Penstemon foliage as caterpillars. Foxglove beard tongue is native to eastern North America, mainly in the Northeast region and the Mississippi River Basin, although it has now naturalized throughout most of the eastern and central areas of the continent. While this species appears to be dainty in flower, it’s actually a tough plant that can tolerate a variety of environmental conditions. Plants should thrive in all but excessively dry or wet soils and deep shade.

Runners-up: Smooth blue aster (Symphyotrichum laeve) has lovely blue-purple, daisy-like flowers with golden centers. This fall bloomer is an important late source of pollen for native bees and butterflies, including migrating monarch butterflies. While this species can grow to 4 feet in height, gardeners can cut plants back in the early summer to promote a more compact habit. Orange butterfly milkweed (Asclepias tuberosa) has cheerful orange, and sometimes red or yellow, flowers that native bees absolutely love. Like other milkweeds, orange butterfly milkweed is also a crucial food source for monarch butterfly caterpillars. Avoid mulching too deeply to keep this plant reliably perennial in the garden.

See More: 13 Terrific Midwest Native Plants

Minnesota: Lanceleaf Coreopsis

The cheerful butter-yellow flowers of this perennial wildflower are a favorite of bees, butterflies and other pollinating insects, and songbirds feed on the seeds. Lanceleaf coreopsis (Coreopsis lanceolata) is native to the meadows, prairies, savannahs and open woodlands of much of eastern North America, although this species has naturalized in many areas across the continent. Lanceleaf coreopsis is a short-lived perennial that thrives on disturbance. Allow plants to self-seed in the flower border, and you’ll be rewarded with golden flowers along sunny edges for years to come.

Runners-up: Foxglove beard tongue (Penstemon digitalis) is charming in the spring, with spires of white, pouty blooms that native bees can’t resist. Caterpillars of eight different species of butterflies and moths feed on the foliage, including the Baltimore checkerspot and common buckeye butterflies. Foxglove beard tongue grows well in full sun, light shade and all but excessively dry or wet soils. Smooth blue aster (Symphyotrichum laeve) is one of the last perennials to bloom in the fall, prolifically producing purple-blue daisy-like flowers with bright yellow centers. Asters are an important food source for late-season pollinators and migrating monarch butterflies. Smooth blue aster can be a little leggy, growing to around 4 feet in height. Trim back to 8 inches in the early summer to promote a more compact habit.

See More: America's 18 Wildest Wildflowers

Mississippi: Smooth Blue Aster

Asters are beautiful and ecologically important plants. Smooth blue aster’s purple and yellow daisy-like fall blooms are an important food source for native bees and butterflies late in the season, including migrating monarch butterflies. Smooth blue aster (Symphyotrichum laeve) is native to most of the United States, with the exception of California and Florida. This species has expanded its range and naturalized in many areas throughout North America. Smooth blue aster is a staple plant in the garden, providing a much-needed pop of color late in the season. This species grows around 4 feet tall and tends to sprawl under the weight of its own foliage and flowers. Plant smooth blue aster in the back of the border to ensure maximum visibility of neighboring plants, and use stakes or sturdy upright neighbors (like ornamental grasses) to hold the stems upright. Trim back to 8 inches above the soil early in the summer to promote more compact, tidy growth.

Runners-up: Orange butterfly milkweed (Asclepias tuberosa) has eye-catching flowers in a variety of fiery colors, from the typical orange to shades of red and yellow. Native bees forage for pollen in the flowers, and the caterpillars of 12 species of butterflies and moths (including monarch and queen butterflies, Isabella tiger moths and cecropia silkmoths) feed on the foliage. Avoid mulching near the base of the plant, as this can prevent orange butterfly milkweed from surviving the winter and emerging in the spring. Foxglove beard tongue (Penstemon digitalis) has lovely spires of dainty white blooms in the spring that are often pollinated long-horned bees and sometimes visited by hummingbirds. This is a tough and adaptable species that will thrive in a variety of garden conditions, although it doesn’t tolerate heavy shade or excessively wet or dry soils.

Learn More: Planting and Growing Milkweed

Missouri: Orange Butterfly Milkweed

Milkweeds are well known for their importance as food for monarch butterfly caterpillars, but they have other wildlife benefits too. The showy, brightly colored orange (and occasionally red or yellow) flowers provide pollen and nectar to native bees and other pollinating insects. According to the National Wildlife Federation, the foliage is also a crucial food source for the caterpillars of a dozen species of butterfly and moths, including the Isabella tiger moth, milkweed tussock moth and the cecropia silkmoth. Orange butterfly milkweed (Asclepias tuberosa) is native to a large portion of North America, from Newfoundland to Florida and west to Colorado. It can be found growing in exposed, dry, open sites, including prairies, open woods and hillsides. Orange butterfly milkweed has a lot of ornamental appeal, but it's a tough plant, too. This species tolerates dry conditions and thrives without irrigation. While it performs well in traditional garden situations, it does not like to be heavily mulched. Orange butterfly milkweed is easy to grow from seed on any open patches of bare soil.

Runners-up: Great blue lobelia (Lobelia siphilitica) has lovely blue-purple blooms that progressively open on 2- to 5-foot-tall stems, and hummingbirds, butterflies and bees are frequent floral visitors. Caterpillars of up to three species of butterflies and moths eat great blue lobelia leaves. This species thrives in moist environments but it will grow well in moderately well-watered gardens, too. Cardinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis) has tall spires of brightly colored, fire-engine red flowers that are irresistible to hummingbirds. This species needs moist soils to survive and grows best along water's edge or in low-lying marshy spots. Cardinal flower is a short-lived perennial that will come back from seed if the soil below the plant is lightly raked at the end of the season.

Learn More: How to Grow and Care For Cardinal Flower Plants

Montana: Grayleaf Goldenrod

Nothing says "autumn" quite like the bright yellow blooms of goldenrod. Goldenrods are a crucial late-season food source for pollinating bees and butterflies, including migrating monarchs. According to the National Wildlife Federation, the foliage is also an essential source of food for at least 65 species of butterflies and moths, including the wavy-lined emerald moth. While some gardeners may consider goldenrods weedy in the garden, grayleaf goldenrod (Solidago nemoralis) is a well-behaved species that can perform well in a traditional garden setting. Grayleaf goldenrod is native to most of North America east of the Rockies, from southern Canada to Durango in Mexico.

Runners-up: Thistles (Cirsium spp.) have a complex relationship with landowners. While there are a few noxious and invasive species loose in Montana, there are several native thistles that have important ecological value to their ecoregions. The State of Montana’s online field guide has information to help residents identify any thistles growing in their home landscapes. Hairy goldenaster (Heterotheca villosa) is a drought-tolerant plant with plenty of flower power. The golden yellow flowers borne from spring through fall attract beneficial pollinating insects, songbirds enjoy the seeds in fall and winter, and the foliage is food for the caterpillars of eight species of butterflies and moths.

See More: America's 18 Wildest Wildflowers

Nebraska: Foxglove Beard Tongue

This lovely spring wildflower is a tough plant with plenty of wildlife value. Foxglove beard tongue (Penstemon digitalis) grows just about any situation except deep shade or excessively wet or dry soils and, once established in the garden, should thrive without regular watering. Most of the season, plants will simply be a tidy, low-growing rosette of green foliage, but in the spring, the spires of white flowers rise 2 to 5 feet above the ground. Native bees and occasionally hummingbirds seek visit the lovely white blooms. Caterpillars of several species of butterflies and moths feed on the leaves, including the common buckeye butterfly. Foxglove beardtongue is native to many parts of eastern North America, including parts of Nebraska. Today it has naturalized from Quebec in Canada south to Texas, east to the Atlantic Ocean, and as far west as Nebraska.

Runners-up: Orange butterfly milkweed (Asclepias tuberosa) is a stunning addition to any garden, prolifically producing eye-catching fiery orange (and occasionally red or yellow) blooms. Native bees are frequent visitors at the clusters of bright flowers, and the foliage is an important source of food for 13 caterpillar species, including monarch butterflies, Isabella tiger moths and cecropia silkmoths. This species grows well in any open, sunny garden and is very tolerant of dry conditions. Smooth blue aster (Symphyotrichum laeve) is an exceptional fall blooming perennial, forming a lovely mound of purple-blue daisy-like blooms late in the season. Plants will hum with the activity of hungry pollinators as they feast before winter dormancy or migration. While smooth blue aster can grow about 4 feet tall, gardeners can trim plants heavily in the early spring to promote a more compact plant without sacrificing flowering.

See More: 13 Terrific Midwest Native Plants

Nevada: Desert Marigold

Desert marigold (Baileya multiradiata) is a gorgeous flowering perennial that thrives with little care. The relatively low-growing patch of silvery foliage will sporadically send up 2-inch-wide golden yellow blooms from spring through fall. Bees, butterflies and other pollinating insects feed on pollen and nectar from the long-lasting flowers. Desert marigold is native to the arid regions of the North American southwest, where it is naturally found growing in flat deserts. This short-lived perennial will persist longer when given plenty of sun and grown in sharply drained soils. Under its ideal growing conditions, desert marigold will seed itself freely in the garden.

Runners-up: Yellow rabbitbush (Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus) is a beautiful and resilient choice for gardeners in arid regions. Shrubs grow between 1 and 3 feet tall, and branches are topped with a profusion of sunny golden blooms. Pollinating insects are frequent floral visitors, and the caterpillars of up to 24 species of butterflies and moths, including the sagebrush checkerspot butterfly, feed on the leaves. Yellow rabbitbush grows best in full sun and well drained soils. Sunflower (Helianthus spp.) is a familiar plant to most gardeners — especially the large blooms of annual sunflower (H. annuus). There are several species of sunflowers native to Nevada, including the common annual sunflower and many drought tolerant, branching perennials, including prairie sunflower (H. petiolaris), Nuttall’s sunflower (H. nuttallii) and Cusick’s sunflower (H. cusickii). Pollinating bees and butterflies enjoy the open, golden flowers, and the delicious seeds are a treat for native songbirds. Sunflower leaves are also an important source of food for caterpillars of as many as 33 species of butterflies and moths, including Milbert’s tortoiseshell butterfly and the oblique-striped emerald moth.

See More: Southwest Natives That Sizzle

New Hampshire: Eastern Columbine

Eastern columbine (Aquilegia canadensis) is an absolutely breathtaking plant. En masse, when the sun's rays are low in the sky, the pendulous red blossoms take on an ethereal quality that is absolutely captivating. Hummingbirds are frequent visitors at the unique spring blooms, and, according to the National Wildlife Federation, eastern columbine’s foliage is an important source of caterpillar food for 9 species of butterflies and moths. This species of columbine is native to a large portion of North America, as far north as Quebec in Canada, south to Alabama (although there are some members of this species endemic to an isolated area of Texas), as far west as the Rockies and east to the Atlantic Ocean. While the flowers of eastern columbine are dainty in appearance, in reality, this is an incredibly tough plant. This species tolerates dry, rocky soils, and actually performs better in poor soils than in rich garden conditions. Eastern columbine seeds freely without seriously competing with neighboring plants.

Runners-up: Cardinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis) is a fantastic choice for gardeners with soggy soils. Naturally found growing along waterways and in marshes and swamps, cardinal flower is a plant that loves wet feet. The spires of red summer blooms are a favorite nectar source for hummingbirds, and the caterpillars of six species of butterflies and moths depend feed on the foliage. Cardinal flower is a short-lived perennial, but will reseed in the garden. Wild bergamot (Monarda fistulosa) has lovely lavender blooms that bees and butterflies adore. The fragrant summer flowers transform to unique and attractive seed heads that are a treat for seed eating birds. The foliage is an important source of food for the caterpillars of nine species of butterflies and moths, including the orange mint moth. Wild bergamot spreads quickly from its roots, so pair with equally aggressive neighboring plants who won’t allow themselves to be overrun.

Learn More: How to Grow Columbine Flowers

New Jersey: Wild Bergamot

Wild bergamot (Monarda fistulosa) has showy lilac-colored blooms that are irresistible to bees and butterflies. This species’ summer flowers are followed by attractive, spherical seedheads that gardeners may spot birds, including bright yellow goldfinches, prizing seeds from later in the season. According to the National Wildlife Federation, wild bergamot's fragrant foliage is an important source of caterpillar food for up to 10 species of butterflies and moths. Wild bergamot is native to most of North America east of the Rockies, from southern Canada to Veracruz in Mexico. Wild bergamot thrives with little care or attention in all but the wettest soils or shadiest conditions. This species spreads aggressively, sending new shoots up from its roots as they radiate from the parent plant. Pair with equally uncompromising neighbors, like goldenrods (Solidago spp.), obedient plant (Physostegia spp.) and river oats (Chasmanthium latifolium), to keep wild bergamot’s growth in check.

Runners-up: Eastern columbine (Aquilegia canadensis) has gorgeous, yellow-tinged pink, nodding flower heads in the spring. These striking blooms are pollinated by hummingbirds and some species of bees. A dozen species of butterflies and moths feed on the foliage as caterpillars, including the columbine duskywing and the wild indigo duskywing butterflies. Eastern columbine grows best in partial shade and well-drained soils, but it's adaptable to many garden conditions (except soggy, poorly drained soils). Although this perennial spreads freely from seed, the seedlings rarely outcompete established neighboring plants in the garden. Cardinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis) is a fabulous choice for gardeners who struggle with soggy soils. This species is naturally found growing along waterways, swamps, moist meadows and ditches. In the summer, plants send up 4-foot-tall spires of bright red flowers that attract hummingbirds and swallowtail butterflies. The caterpillars of several species of butterflies and moths eat the foliage. This short-lived perennial reseeds easily. Simply rake up the soil below the spent flower at the end of the season to encourage good seed-to-soil contact.

Learn More: Growing Monarda: When to Plant and How to Grow Bee Balm

New Mexico: Hairy False Goldenaster

Hairy false goldenaster (Heterotheca villosa) is a showy herbaceous perennial that thrives in sunny and dry gardens. Depending on the environmental conditions, plants may form a low-growing carpet of foliage or can reach just over 2 feet in height. Hairy false goldenaster has eye-catching buttery yellow blooms from spring through fall that provide pollen and nectar to bees, butterflies and other pollinating insects. According to the National Wildlife Federation, 15 species of butterflies and moths depend on false goldenasters as a caterpillar host plant. Hairy false golden aster is native to the western regions of North America, from Alberta in Canada south to Nuevo León in Mexico, and as far east as Wisconsin in the U.S. This species is an outstanding choice for water-wise gardens, including rock gardens and naturalistic arid gardens. Hairy false goldenaster makes a great addition to traditional garden borders, so long as the soils are freely draining.

Runners-up: Sunflower (Helianthus spp.) is a familiar plant to many gardeners, because annual sunflower (H. annuus) is widely available from garden centers and seed catalogues. There are also many species of lovely and perennial sunflowers that are native to New Mexico that offer a wealth of wildlife value, including Maximillian’s sunflower (H. maximiliani), prairie sunflower (H. petiolaris) and Pecos sunflower (H. paradoxus). Perennial sunflowers are usually tall, multistemmed plants that are covered with 2- to 5-inch-wide bright yellow blooms. The cheerful flowers feed bees and butterflies, and up to 57 species of caterpillars eat the foliage. Curlytop gumweed (Grendelia nuda) has sunny yellow thistle-like flowers that are irresistible to native bees. The attractive silvery foliage is an important food source for the caterpillars of 11 species of butterflies and moths, including the lovely bordered patch butterfly. Curlytop gumweed grows best in sunny spots that have well-drained soils.

See More: Southwest Natives That Sizzle

New York: Smooth Blue Aster

Smooth blue aster (Symphyotrichum laeve) is a must-have for fall color in the garden, putting on a spectacular autumn show of myriad lavender daisy-like flowers with golden centers. This late-blooming species is an important source of pollen and nectar for bees and butterflies, including migrating monarchs. According to the National Wildlife Federation, 12 species of butterflies and moths rely on asters as caterpillar host plants. Smooth blue aster is native to most of the North American continent, where it can be found growing in sunny fields and open woods. This species tends to flop over under the weight of its 4-foot-long stems. Stake mid-season, site next to sturdy neighboring plants (like ornamental grasses), or promote a more compact habit by cutting back to 6 inches mid-summer.

Runners-up: Orange butterfly milkweed (Asclepias tuberosa) can stop traffic when it's in bloom. The spectacular, fiery colored flowers attract many pollinating insects — especially native bees. Milkweed leaves are a crucial caterpillar food source for a dozen species of butterflies and moths, including monarch butterflies, cecropia silkmoths and lined ruby tiger moths. Orange butterfly milkweed grows about 2 feet tall and performs well in naturalistic plantings as well as traditional gardens. Avoid mulching too deeply to keep this plant coming back every year. Foxglove beard tongue (Penstemon digitalis) has phenomenal spring flower power, with spires of white blooms that native bees can’t resist. Up to 10 species of butterflies and caterpillars feed on the foliage, including the Baltimore checkerspot and common buckeye butterflies. Foxglove beard tongue is a resilient and adaptable perennial that will thrive in most garden conditions.

Learn More: How to Identify Different Types of Bees in Your Garden

North Carolina: Wild Bergamot

The frilly lavender pom-poms of wild bergamot (Monarda fistulosa) are bee heaven. Many native bees and butterflies flock to the tubular blooms for a sip of nectar, and lazy bumblebees frequently stop for a snooze on the flower heads. As the summer flowers fade, they transform into striking round seedheads that birds — especially goldfinches — flock to for food late in the season. According to the National Wildlife Federation, a dozen species of butterflies and moths use wild bergamot and its relatives as caterpillar food, including the raspberry pyrausta and orange mint pyrausta moths. Wild bergamot is native to most regions of North America that are east of the Rockies, although it has naturalized across most of the continent beyond its native range. Wild bergamot is a fantastic choice for gardeners who are looking for a carefree plant to fill a large area. However, wild bergamot spreads aggressively from its roots, which means that it easily overtakes and outcompetes neighboring plants in traditional garden beds. Site this species in an area where it has plenty of room to roam, and plant with neighbors that can handle the competition, such as goldenrod (Solidago spp.), obedient plant (Physostegia spp.) and river oats (Chasmanthium latifolium).

Runners-up: Cardinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis) has spectacular red summer blooms that hummingbirds flock to for nectar. Six butterfly and moth species feed on the foliage as caterpillars. This moisture-loving species is a short-lived perennial that will happily return from seed. Simply rake the soil beneath the spent blooms at the end of the season to encourage good seed-to-soil contact. The only condition cardinal flower won’t tolerate is dry soil; it needs ample soil moisture to survive. Eastern columbine (Aquilegia candaensis) is outstanding in bloom, with nodding pink and yellow flowers that are pollinated by hummingbirds and bees. Despite its delicate appearance, eastern columbine is actually a tough plant that thrives in a wide variety of environmental conditions, including dry shade.

Learn More: Growing Monarda: When to Plant and How to Grow Bee Balm

North Dakota: Black-Eyed Susan

Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta) has cheerful yellow blooms that brighten any garden. The outer ray flowers usually have deep golden hue in nature, although there are many cultivated varieties that range in fiery shades from wine red to lemon yellow, with bicolor options available. Whatever the color, the open daisy-like flowers attract a diversity of beneficial insects, including eight species of butterflies and moths feed on this Rudbeckia’s fuzzy leaves, including the silvery checkerspot butterfly and the wavy-lined emerald moth. Black-eyed Susan’s native range is most of North America east of the Rocky Mountains; however, its ability to grow prolifically from seed has allowed it to naturalize across most of the continent. This species thrives in most garden conditions, except extremely wet or dry soils. While black-eyed Susan is a short-lived perennial, it happily returns from seed.

Runners-up: Curlycup gumweed (Grindelia squarrosa) has unusual, alien-looking flower buds that open to reveal sunny yellow daisy-like flowers which attract bees, butterflies and other pollinating insects. Up to 8 species of butterflies and moths feed on this plant’s leaves as caterpillars. Curlycup gumweed is a short-lived perennial that grows best in nutrient-poor, well-drained soils in full sun. Despite its name, New England aster (Symphyotrichum novae-angliae) is actually native to many parts of North America, from the Great Plains, east to the Atlantic Ocean, as far north as Quebec in Canada and south to South Carolina. The petals range from deep purple to light pink, and these daisy-like flowers all have a bright yellow center, rich in pollen for bees, butterflies and other beneficial insects. The caterpillars of as many as four species of butterflies and moths feed on the foliage. Plants can grow up to 5 feet tall, but trimming back stems mid-summer can promote a more compact habit.

Learn More: Black-Eyed Susan: How to Grow and Care for This Cheery Perennial

Ohio: Whorled Milkweed

Bees, butterflies and gardeners alike are fans of the creamy white blooms of whorled milkweed (Asclepias verticillata), albeit for differing reasons. Bees are frequent visitors to the clusters of cream to green-white flowers. According to the National Wildlife Federation, a dozen different species of butterflies and moths feed on this the foliage as caterpillars, including monarch butterflies and cecropia silkmoths. Gardeners favor this tough plant, that tolerates dry soil, full sun, and browsing from deer and rabbits, all with plenty of flower power. Whorled milkweed is native to the woodlands of North America, from Saskatechewan in Canada, west to Montana and south to Florida.

Runners-up: Foxglove beard tongue (Penstemon digitalis) has lovely spires of white spring blooms that hum with the activity native long-horn bees as they buzz from flower to flower. The caterpillars of 10 species of butterflies and moths, including the Baltimore checkerspot and common buckeye, feed on the foliage. While foxglove beard tongue has a delicate appearance when in bloom, the plants are actually tough and adaptable, thriving in many garden conditions. Orange butterfly milkweed (Asclepias tuberosa) illuminates the garden with vivid fiery summer blooms. A diversity of bees pollinate the blooms, and a dozen species of caterpillars, including the iconic monarch butterfly, feed on the foliage. Orange butterfly milkweed is a well-behaved plant that is suited to life in a traditional garden bed, so long as the soil is well-drained and the plants are not mulched too deeply.

Learn More: Planting and Growing Milkweed

Oklahoma: Sideoats Grama Grass

Sideoats Grama Grass (Bouteloua curtipendula) is a beautiful and underused native grass. This diminutive prairie native blends well in mixed wildflower plantings and traditional garden beds, intermingling its fine textured foliage without overshadowing or overrunning neighboring plants. Look for the naturally occurring variety Bouteloua curtipendula var. curtipendula, a more diminutive creeping form that performs well as a drought-tolerant alternative lawn and tolerates occasional mowing. The oat-like seeds are a favorite food of local birds, and the caterpillars of a handful of species of skipper moths feed on the foliage. Sideoats grama grass is native to prairies, open clearings and rocky slopes from Ontario in Canada south to Argentina in South America. While its original range was mainly restricted to central and western prairies, it can be found growing throughout most of North America today.

Runners-up: Little bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium) is a dazzling native grass that is equally at home in the flower border as it is in the prairie. For most of the year, little bluestem remains a lovely 1 to 2-foot-tall tuft of blue-green foliage, but the autumn is this plant's time to shine. When the temperatures drop, the leaves take on copper and crimson hues and stems speckled with sparkling white flowerheads rise above the foliage. Little bluestem is an important food source for the caterpillars of several species of skippers, as well as food and habitat for many other organisms. Look for a locally tested variety or regionally adapted ecotype that will perform best in your garden. Carolina rose (Rosa carolina) might not bloom for as long as cultivated roses, but its single summer blooms add a pop of color to the garden. The fragrant, bubblegum-pink flowers attract many pollinators, especially native bees. Local birds feed on the red rosehips in the winter and up to 72 species of butterflies and moths depend on native roses as a caterpillar host plant, including imperial moths, polyphemus moths, io moths and cecropia silkmoths. Carolina rose spreads aggressively from its roots and needs to be grown in open areas or with tough neighboring plants that won’t be overrun.

See More: 13 Terrific Midwest Native Plants

Oregon: Tanyaster

Tanyaster (Machaeranthera tanacetifolia) is a tough annual plant that thrives in open, disturbed areas. From gravelly roadsides to cracks in the pavement, tanyaster lifts up its cheerful purple and yellow blooms to feed pollinating bees and butterflies that may happen by. While tanyaster grows well without (and even despite) human intervention, it flourishes with minimal care. Scatter the seed along the edges of naturalistic meadows, between pavers and flagstones, or as a flowering annual in a traditional garden. Water from time-to-time to promote more flower growth, and trim back the spent flower heads to limit reseeding. Tanyaster is native to most of the western states, east to Oklahoma, and is naturally found growing as far north as Alberta and south into central Mexico.

Runners-up: Douglas aster (Symphyotrichum subspicatum) is similar in flower to the purple-flowering asters of the eastern and central states, but native to and regionally adapted to the west, from Alaska to California. The purple and yellow daisy-like flowers are frequented by hungry bees and butterflies, and the foliage is an important caterpillar food source for three species of butterflies and moths. Goldenwave coreopsis (Coreopsis tinctoria) makes a cheerful addition to any garden, with its abundant sunny blooms that pollinating bees and butterflies adore. The petals may be fully yellow with a dark spot in the center of the bloom, or the petals may be bi-color, with bright yellow fringe and a maroon wave closer to the center. Moisture is a must to keep goldenwave coreopsis growing happily, so plant this showy annual in low-lying wet spots or next to gutter downspouts.

Learn More: Aster Flowers

Pennsylvania: Cardinal Flower

If you love hummingbirds, then cardinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis) is a must-have plant for your garden. In the summer, the low-growing basal rosette of foliage sends up a 4-foot-tall spire of fire-engine red blooms that hummingbirds can’t resist. Once cardinal flower starts blooming, it doesn’t stop until cold weather hits — the top of the raceme continues to generate new flower buds as the frilly blooms lower down mature and fall off. According to the National Wildlife Foundation, caterpillars of up to six species of butterflies and moths feed on the foliage. Cardinal flower is native to most of North America (except the northwest region) and even parts of northern South America. It can be found naturally growing along waterways, in marshes, in moist meadows, and in ditches. Cardinal flower can be a little finicky to grow in the garden for two reasons. First, it needs consistent moisture to thrive. Don’t plant it in a spot where it can dry out. Second, this species is a short-lived perennial that needs to be allowed to reseed. At the end of the growing season, gently rake the soil below the spent blooms. This will ensure good seed-to-soil contact and increase the number of seedlings that emerge the following season.

Runners-up: Eastern columbine (Aquilegia canadensis) is a gorgeous plant that belongs in every garden. The unusual pink and yellow nodding flowers add a welcome pop of color early in the season, and they are often visited by hungry hummingbirds. After blooming, the flower heads dry out and scatter seeds, leaving an attractive clump of pale-green foliage that a dozen species of butterflies and moths feed on as caterpillars, including the columbine duskywing and wild indigo duskywing butterflies. Eastern columbine is easy to grow and thrives in all but deep shade and extremely wet soils. Wild bergamot (Monarda fistulosa) has attractive lavender pom-pom blooms that are often visited by bees, butterflies and other beneficial insects. Almost a dozen species of butterflies and moths feed on wild bergamot’s fragrant, silvery-green foliage as caterpillars, including the raspberry pyrausta and orange mint moths. Wild bergamot spreads aggressively from its roots and can quickly overtake less competitive neighboring plants, so place this plant in a spot where it has plenty of room to roam and tough plants nearby, like goldenrod or obedient plant.

Learn More: How to Grow and Care For Cardinal Flower Plants

Rhode Island: Eastern Columbine

Hummingbirds are especially drawn to the nodding pink and yellow blooms of eastern columbine (Aquilegia canadensis) because the spring flowers are an early nectar source for migrating hummingbirds. According to the National Wildlife Federation, up to 10 species of butterflies and moths (including the wild indigo duskywing) feed on columbine foliage during the caterpillar phase of their lifecycles. Eastern columbine can be found growing naturally in dry woodlands of North America, east of the Rockies, south of Saskatchewan in Canada all the way down to Alabama. While this species appears delicate in flower, it’s actually a tough perennial that thrives with little care. Plant in full sun to full shade and medium to dry soil. Eastern columbine sows itself happily from seed, and over time will form a showy stand of pendulous blooms. The seedlings don’t usually out-compete neighboring plants. Plants can be deadheaded to the diminutive rosette of blue-green leaves after blooming, or the attractive seedheads can be allowed to develop.

Runners-up: Carolina rose (Rosa carolina) is a wonderful plant for wildlife. In late spring, the golden pollen-rich centers of the bubblegum-pink flowers are a fantastic source of food for native bees. The flowers develop into bright red rosehips that persist into the winter, providing much-needed food for overwintering birds. Up to 113 butterflies and moths feed on the foliage as caterpillars, including the imperial, polyphemus moth, cecropia and io moths. Carolina rose is an aggressive spreader and shouldn’t be planted with neighboring plants that can’t handle competition. Pinxterbloom azalea (Rhododendron periclymenoides) is a stunning native shrub. Its soft pink, fragrant blooms are visited by butterflies, hummingbirds and bees. The foliage is an important source of food for the caterpillars of up to 50 species of butterflies and moths, including the promethea silkmoth, white-lined sphinx moth, io moth and cecropia silkmoth. This native azalea grows best in moist but well-drained, acidic soils and partial shade. It will be happiest under the shade of an oak in rich, organic soil.

Learn More: How to Grow Columbine Flowers

South Carolina: Carolina Rose

Carolina Rose (Rosa carolina) prolifically flowers for about two weeks late in the spring —usually around Mother’s Day. The fragrant blossoms have bubblegum-pink petals and a golden, pollen-rich center that native bees can’t resist. In the fall, the glossy green leaves transform to a long-lasting mosaic of purples, reds, oranges and yellows held on stems with the long-lasting red rosehips. Carolina rose aggressively spreads by its roots, so site in a spot where it has few neighboring plants and plenty of room to roam. According to the National Wildlife Federation, in this region nearly 100 species of butterflies and moths feed on Carolina rose as caterpillars, including the io moth, polyphemus moth, imperial moth and cecropia silkmoth. This lovely wildflower is native to most of eastern North America, from Maine all the way to northern Florida and west to eastern Oklahoma.

Runner-up: Buttonbush (Cephalanthus occidentalis) is a great stunning flowering shrub for boggy, poorly drained sites. The unique pincushion-shaped flowerheads are irresistible to butterflies and bees, and up to 23 species of butterflies and moths use this plant as a caterpillar food source, including the promethea silkmoth, cecropia silkmoth and the royal walnut moth. While the straight species can grow up to 12 feet tall, there are compact cultivated varieties on the market that max out at 4 feet in height.

Learn More: How to Grow Roses

South Dakota: Black Eyed Susan

The golden yellow flowers of black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta) shine out in the heat of summer. The pollen and nectar concealed in the dark center of the bloom provides food for pollinating bees and butterflies. According to the National Wildlife Federation, the fuzzy leaves are a source of food for several caterpillar species, including the silvery checkerspot butterfly and wavy-lined emerald moth. The furry foliage also helps the plant conserve moisture by moderating water lost through the leaves. Songbirds eat the plump caterpillars that feed on the leaves as well as the developed seedheads. Black-eyed Susan is native to eastern North America, from Wyoming to Florida. Because it grows easily from seed, is well adapted to a variety of environments and is a popular garden plant, this species has naturalized across most of the continent beyond its native range. Black-eyed Susan grows well in moderately dry to moderately wet soils, as well as full to part sun. Plants are either annual or biennial, but they will happily return from seed. Many nurseries and seed catalogues have a range of flower colors available, from wine red to lemon yellow, with bicolor petal options too.

Runners-up: Sunflower (Helianthus spp.) is familiar to most gardeners — especially the large flowered annual sunflower (H. annuus). Annual sunflower completes its lifecycle, from seed to seedhead, in one growing season and can grow up to 10 feet tall in just a few months. There are also several species of perennial sunflowers native to South Dakota, including Maximilian sunflower (H. maximiliani), prairie sunflower (H. petiolaris) and sunchoke (H. tuberosus), the last of which is known for its edible tubers. The perennial species form many more flowers than the annual sunflower, although they tend to be smaller. All species attract bees and butterflies in bloom and birds in seed. Up to 44 caterpillar species feed on the foliage. Golden crownbeard (Verbesina encelioides) is a showy annual with prolific golden blooms that attract butterflies and bees throughout the growing season. Plants can grow up to 4 feet tall and grow best in dry, sunny sites. This species is native to much of the US where it is often seen happily growing along roadsides and in open fields.

Learn More: Black-Eyed Susan: How to Grow and Care for This Cheery Perennial

Tennessee: Eastern Columbine

In April, many Tennessee woodlands are illuminated with the pendulous pink and yellow blooms of Eastern columbine (Aquilegia canadensis). Hummingbirds and bees are especially attracted to the unusually shaped flowers. In the summer, the spent flowers transform into a curious looking seedhead, brimming with tiny lustrous black seeds that easily spill onto the ground and, with luck, will sprout the following season. Eastern columbine is native to most of North America, from the Rockies east to the Atlantic Ocean, and from Saskatchewan in Canada south to Alabama, although it has naturalized further north and south. It can be found growing naturally on shaded rocky slopes and dry woodlands. Eastern columbine is a fabulous addition to any garden, so long as it’s not in excessively wet, poorly drained soils. While it seeds readily, the seedlings don’t aggressively compete with neighboring plants. According to the National Wildlife Federation, up to eight species of butterflies and moths use eastern columbine as a caterpillar host plant.

Runners-up: Wild bergamot (Monarda fistulosa) has lovely lavender sparkler-like blooms that bees and butterflies can’t resist. The silvery foliage is especially aromatic in the heat of summer or when brushed by passersby. Up to nine species of butterflies and moths feed on the leaves as caterpillars, including the raspberry pyrausta moth. This species grows aggressively from its roots and should only be sited with neighboring plants that can tolerate some competition, such as goldenrod (Solidago spp.) or obedient plant (Physostegia spp). Dwarf crested iris (Iris cristata) is a diminutive species that usually reaches only six or so inches in height. In early spring, the violet to white blooms appear, nestled within the wide, spear-like foliage. This species of iris spreads from its roots, slowly forming a dense colony. Dwarf crested iris thrives in moderately moist to moderately dry soils, in full sun to full shade. The flowers attract hummingbirds and bees, and the foliage is an important source of food for the caterpillars of up to nine species of butterflies and moths.

Learn More: How to Grow Columbine Flowers

Texas: Scarlet Hibiscus

Rose mallow (Hibiscus laevis) has plenty of flower power for gardeners who want showy, tropical blooms with lots of wildlife value. The nectar rich, 6-inch blooms attract butterflies, and, according to the National Wildlife Federation, the foliage feeds up to 38 species of butterfly and moth caterpillars, including the io moth and the spiny oak slug moth. Rose mallow is native to the central states from eastern Texas to the southern tip of Lake Michigan, with some communities growing along the Atlantic coastal regions further east. This species grows best with ample moisture. Plant in full sun to encourage flowering.

Runners-up: Sea myrtle (Baccharis halimifolia) in bloom is cloaked with fluffy white flowers as well as many busy buzzing bees. The foliage of this large shrub is an important food source for the caterpillars of up to 37 species of butterflies and moths. While the silvery seeds of the female plants are very attractive, they can allow this species to prolifically reseed in the landscape. Gardeners who want to limit the spread should only grow seedless male plants. Buttonbush (Cephalanthus occidentalis) in summer will be covered with alien looking pincushion shaped flowers. The creamy white blooms are packed full of pollen and nectar, making them highly desirable to butterflies and bees. Birds enjoy snacking on the seed heads later in the season, and up to 24 species of butterflies and moths feed on the foliage as caterpillars, including the cecropia and promethea silkmoths and the royal walnut moth. Buttonbush needs consistent moisture to grow its best and is a great choice for rain gardens, bogs and along waters edge.

Learn More: How to Plant, Grow and Care for Hibiscus

Utah: Golden Crownbeard

The buttery-yellow blossoms of golden crownbeard (Verbesina encelioides) are a fantastic source of nectar and pollen for hungry butterflies, bees and other beneficial insects. Golden crownbeard blooms throughout the summer and late into the season, providing an important source of food for pollinators after many other species have stopped flowering. These herbaceous annuals grow up to 4 feet tall in a single season and thrive in full sun and dry soils. Golden crownbeard is native to most of the US, with the exception of the northwest and northeast regions, Wisconsin, Minnesota, and parts of the Ohio River Valley. This species is a great choice for naturalistic wildflower meadows, water-wise gardens and the back of traditional flower borders.

Runners-up: Gray rabbitbush (Ericameria nauseosa) is gorgeous in flower and foliage. Eye-catching clusters of golden blooms tips each stem in the fall, providing a fantastic source of late-season pollen and nectar to hungry butterflies and bees. The lovely silver leaves resemble lavender, and the caterpillars of 18 species of butterflies and moths feed on this species’ foliage. This shrub grows best in full sun and dry, well drained soils. Sunflower (Helianthus spp.) is most well-known for the annual species (H. annuus) that produces a large flowerhead on a tall stem. However, Utah is also home to several perennial species that will return year after year, including prairie sunflower (H. petiolaris), Nuttall’s sunflower (H. nuttallii) and the edible sunchoke (H. tuberosus). Like annual sunflowers, perennial sunflowers also produce cheerful yellow flowers that bees and butterflies adore. However, perennial sunflowers tend to produce more, smaller flowers over a long period and usually have a multi-stemmed habit. Up to 48 species of butterflies and moths rely on sunflowers as a caterpillar host plant.

Learn More: Growing Sunflowers: When to Plant and How to Grow Sunflowers

Vermont: Golden Alexanders

The bright yellow blooms of golden Alexanders (Zizia aurea) resemble fireworks exploding from the flower border. Golden Alexanders bloom during the late-spring lull when not a lot of other plants are blooming, and the tiny individual flowers are a fantastic food source for beneficial insects, including native bees that pollinate flowers and parasitic wasps that prey on garden pests. Black swallowtail butterflies feed on the foliage as caterpillars. Golden Alexanders is native to most of eastern North America, from Quebec south to parts of Florida, and as far west as Oklahoma. However, this species has naturalized as far west as the Rockies. Golden Alexanders is a great choice for moderately dry to moist, well drained soils. Allow plants to reseed after flowering to ensure there’s a population of seedlings on hand to replace this short-lived perennial.

Runners-up: Jacob’s ladder (Polemonium reptans) has darling bell-shaped blooms that range from blue to pink in color. The spring blossoms are pollinated by native bees. This species naturally occurs in moist deciduous woods and needs moist, rich soils and full to part shade to thrive in the garden. This short-statured plant grows up to a foot tall with gently arching foliage. Jacob’s ladder will slowly spread by seed or from its roots. Blue wood aster (Symphyotrichum cordifolium) is a great choice for fall color in woodland gardens. The delicate pale blue daisy-like flowers are a fantastic late season food source for pollinating insects, and the foliage is consumed by the caterpillars up to 10 species of butterflies and moths. Blue wood aster grows well in sun or shade with medium to moderately dry soils.

See More: Northeast Native Plants to Try

Virginia: Whorled Milkweed

Whorled milkweed (Asclepias verticillata) has attractive creamy-white, green-tinged flowers. Its 2-foot-tall stems are topped with clusters of beautiful star-shaped blooms that are rich in pollen and nectar for pollinating bees and butterflies. According to the National Wildlife Federation, up to a dozen species of butterflies and moths feed on the foliage, including the iconic monarch butterfly, whose caterpillars feed exclusively on milkweeds. Whorled milkweed is native to eastern and central North America, from Saskatchewan in Canada, south to Florida and west to Montana. This species sends new shoots up from its roots, slowly forming large colonies. Grow whorled milkweed in naturalistic mixed wildflower meadows and in gardens with robust neighboring plants that can handle some competition.

Runners-up: Orange butterfly milkweed (Asclepias tuberosa) has spectacularly showy fiery flowers that native bees adore. The flat-topped clusters of starry red-orange-yellow blooms are visited by myriad beneficial insects, before going on to develop into an attractive pod brimming with seeds and silky parachutes. Orange butterfly milkweed is a clump-forming 2-foot-tall plant that behaves well in a traditional garden setting. This species needs sharp drainage and doesn’t like to be mulched too deeply. Rose milkweed (Asclepias incarnata) is hard to miss when it’s in flower, when clusters of starry pink blooms fill the garden with a heady vanilla fragrance. Hungry bees and butterflies often visit the flowers for a sip of nectar, and the foliage is an important caterpillar food source for a dozen species of butterflies and moths, including monarch butterfly caterpillars. While rose milkweed grows well in traditional gardens that have moist, well-drained soil, they also shine out in boggy, poorly drained soils, rain gardens and along water’s edge.

Learn More: Planting and Growing Milkweed

Washington: Coreopsis

The bright, cheerful blooms of goldenwave coreopsis (Coreopsis tinctoria) shine out in the garden all season long, from spring through fall. The bi-color yellow and burgundy flowers offer lots of sweet nectar for butterflies, and birds feed on the seeds. Goldenwave coreopsis is native to the central plains, west of the Mississippi. This popular garden plant spreads easily from seed and has escaped cultivation, becoming naturalized throughout much of North America. The lovely flowers make up for the somewhat untidy growth habit. Goldenwave coreopsis is especially attractive in in naturalistic flower gardens and prairie plantings, and it grows best with full sun and well-drained soils.

Runners-up: Gumweed (Grindelia stricta) has bright, showy flowers that native bees adore, and the foliage is an important source of caterpillar food for up to seven species of butterflies and moths. Plants abundantly produce sticky, protective buds, which open to reveal 2-1/2 inch lemon yellow daisy-like blooms. While this species of gumweed can grow up to 6 feet tall, depending on genetic variability and its environment, it’s typically much shorter. The low-growing variety ‘Mendocino' forms an 8-inch-tall groundcover. Gumweed grows best in full sun and sharply drained soils and is a great choice for coastal gardens. Rabbitbush (Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus) is a showy, low-growing shrub that blooms abundantly in the driest, sunniest gardens. As temperatures rise, flower buds at the tips of the 1- to 3-foot-tall stems explode into a showy cluster of tiny yellow, trumpet-shaped blooms that are rich in pollen and nectar for butterflies and bees. Rabbitbush grows best in full sun with sharply drained soil.

Learn More: Common Coreopsis: How to Grow and Care for Coreopsis

West Virginia: Black Eyed Susan

Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta) is an easy to grow native with lots of flower power and wildlife value. The daisy-like flowers have golden yellow petals that surround a dark brown center, and the blooms are often visited by bees and butterflies. According to the National Wildlife Federation, caterpillars from as many as 19 species of butterflies and moths feed on the soft, fuzzy foliage. Native songbirds eat these caterpillars as well as the seeds from the dry seedheads. Black-eyed Susan is native to the eastern US, from the Atlantic Ocean to Wyoming and New Mexico. Its adaptability and free-seeding nature have allowed it to naturalize across most of North America. This attractive species grows well in prairies, meadows, rain gardens, and traditional flower gardens. Plant in full sun or part shade with moderately moist soils, and you will be rewarded with blooms throughout the season. Black-eyed Susan behaves as an annual or short-lived perennial plant, but it will persist in the garden if allowed to reseed.

Runners-up: Cardinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis) has spectacular 4-foot spires of bright red, frilly blooms. These late summer flowers are irresistible to hummingbirds, and the caterpillars of up to 5 species of butterflies and moths feed on the leaves. While cardinal flower can be short-lived in the garden, it can grow back from seed. Gently rake up the soil below the plant at the end of the season after the ripened seed has dropped to ensure good seed-to-soil contact and avoid mulching. Cardinal flower must have consistent moisture to grow its best and is a great choice for planting along pond margins and in rain gardens. Great blue lobelia (Lobelia siphilitica) has dazzling 2- to 5-foot-tall spires of blue to pink flowers that shine out from the flower border late in the summer. Swallowtail butterflies and hummingbirds visit the flowers for nutritious nectar, and five species of butterflies and moths feed on the foliage as caterpillars. While great blue lobelia is naturally found growing in damp conditions, it will grow well in moderately moist soils that are typical in many gardens.

Learn More: Black-Eyed Susan: How to Grow and Care for This Cheery Perennial

Wisconsin: Orange Butterfly Milkweed

Orange butterfly milkweed (Asclepias tuberosa) adds a blaze of fiery color through the garden. The flat-topped clusters of starry orange flowers are a favorite of native bees, and they can range from typical bright orange to peachy yellow or a deep auburn. Many gardeners will know that monarch butterfly caterpillars feed exclusively on milkweeds, including orange butterfly milkweed. However, according to the National Wildlife Federation, monarchs aren’t the only species that use milkweeds as caterpillar food — up to a dozen species of butterflies and moths may feed on milkweed as caterpillars, including the cecropia silkmoth, Isabella tiger moth, and milkweed tussock moth. Asclepias tuberosa is native to most of the US, excluding the Pacific Northwest, Nevada and Alaska. Orange milkweed does well in traditional gardens, water-wise landscapes and prairie plantings, where it thrives in full sun with little water. This species forms 2-foot-tall clumps that should return year after year if they are not mulched too deeply.

Runners-up: Carolina rose (Carolina rose) has fragrant and beautiful single pink flowers with a rich golden center. Native bees are especially fond of these blooms and often visit to collect pollen. More than 100 species of butterflies and moths use native roses as a source of caterpillar food. Songbirds feed these caterpillars to their nestlings, and overwintering birds will eat the bright red rosehips. Carolina rose sends up new canes from the roots, and it can spread aggressively, overgrowing less competitive neighboring plants. Plant Carolina rose in an open spot where it has plenty of room to spread. Whorled milkweed (Asclepias verticillata) has lovely cream-colored flowers that can have an attractive tinge of green. Bees visit the clusters of starry white flowers, and caterpillars of up to a dozen of butterflies and moths feed on the soft, willowy leave. This beautiful, fine-textured milkweed grows up to 2 feet tall and spreads from its roots. Whorled milkweed grows best in full to part sun and in moderately moist to dry soils.

Learn More: Planting and Growing Milkweed

Wyoming: Aster

This lovely aster species adds a pop of color late in the season. In the fall, plants will be covered with deep purple to light pink daisy-like blooms that provide much needed pollen and nectar for bees and butterflies, including monarch butterflies. While this plant’s common name is New England aster (Symphyotrichum novae-angliae), it’s actually native to many northern and central states, from Maine to Wyoming. This species grows well in a wide range of environmental conditions and grows easily from seed, which means that New England aster has naturalized across much of North America. New England aster can become a little lanky, flopping under the weight of its 5-foot-long stems. Site in the back of the border with support or cut back stems to 6 inches midsummer to promote a more compact habit. Some gardeners may wish to deadhead blooms before seed develops to limit the appearance of seedling volunteers.

Runners-up: Tansyaster (Machaeranthera tanacetifolia) is a beautiful plant that thrives in tough conditions. The purple daisy-like flowers from spring through fall. Bees and butterflies often visit the blooms, and the soft, ferny foliage is eaten by caterpillars of six species of butterflies and moths, including the sagebrush checkerspot, gorgone checkerspot and field crescent butterflies. Tansyaster grows well in full sun to part shade and well-drained soil. Golden crownbeard (Verbesina encelioides) abundantly grows sunny, yellow flowers from April to October that are often visited by bees and butterflies. This fast-growing annual can grow up to 4 feet tall and makes a great addition to prairie plantings and flower borders. Golden crownbeard grows best in full sun and dry, well-drained soils.

Learn More: Aster Flowers

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