Tag: Keystone species
-
What are Keystone Species?
You cannot research native plants without running into the term “keystone species” on almost every page. But what are keystone species? “Keystone Species” is a term popularized by Dr. Doug Tallamy, an entomologist and the author of “Nature’s Best Hope” and “Bringing Nature Home.” Read more
-
Plant Profile: Lanceleaf Coreopsis (Coreopsis lanceolata)
This native wildflower is a great option for beginners, as it is easy to grow from seed and easy to find for sale. Lanceleaf coreopsis supports 22 species of bees, and birds like to eat the seeds. It is perfect for creating a wildflower meadow, and it is very tolerant of most growing conditions. Read more
-
Plant Profile: Carolina Cherry Laurel (Prunus caroliniana)
Carolina Cherry Laurel is a popular landscape shrub throughout the South for good reason. Once established, it’s highly drought tolerant and very low-maintenance. It produces delicate white flowers that are popular with bees and berries that the birds love, and it is a keystone species for butterflies. Read more
-
Plant Profile: Green Hawthorn (Crataegus viridis)
Green Hawthorn is probably one of the most common hawthorns available on the market. It provides 4 seasons of interest, with white flowers in the Spring, red berries in the summer, bronze to red foliage in the fall, and bark that peels off in the winter to reveal orange inner bark. Read more
-
Plant Profile: Coastal Serviceberry (Amelanchier obovalis)
Coastal serviceberry is a small shrub that sports showy white flowers in Spring, and blue/black berries in the summer that are popular with birds. It is considered a keystone species and it’s small size makes it a great choice for a yard that may not have room for larger keystone species like Oaks and Maples. Read more
-
Plant Profile: Sparkleberry (Vaccinium arboreum)
Sparkleberry is a wonderful addition to any southern garden. In spring it is covered in fragrant, delicate, bell-shaped flowers, which give way to shiny black berries that wildlife love. It is well adapted to drought, heat, and humidity and supports a huge number of pollinators. Read more
Southeastern Native Plants 