In the Pacific Northwest, we are fortunate to be home to a lush green environment with a wide variety of plant species, rich in color, texture and local history.
Pacific Northwest native plants are not just beautiful, they are functional too. Planting natives is the best place to start when the goal is restoring ecosystems, attracting wildlife and supporting pollinators.
Northwest plants, animals, and insects have lived together for thousands of years, so it’s no surprise that our native critters prefer the familiar. Adding trees to support insects and caterpillars will bring birds.
Using native perennials will bring butterflies. Almost all native plants have a role in supporting pollinators. Many native plants will adapt to differing environments, but it is still important to put the right plant in the right place.
As our wild spaces decrease the importance of adding native plants to the urban landscape grows. Planting natives is the best place to start when the goal is restoring ecosystems, attracting wildlife, and supporting pollinators.
Things to consider when choosing plants:
Just like other nursery plants, NW natives need proper care. Here are a few tips for successfully establishing new plantings:
If you dream of having your garden certified as a Backyard Habitat with Portland Audubon and the Columbia Land Trust, we have a variety of NW Natives throughout the year that can help make your dream a reality! You can check out our list of NW Native Plants that we often have on hand to get yourself started, and if you have any questions along the way, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Note: New NW Natives arrive every week at both locations. Please give us a call or stop on by for current availability!
Audubon Sanctuary Botanical Signs Interpretive Guide
• Native Plant Society of Oregon
• City of Portland: Native Plant List
Oregon State University: Gardening with Oregon Native Plants West of the Cascades by Linda R. McMahan
This publication provides an introduction and guide for those who are interested in Pacific Northwest native plants and would like to incorporate natives into their home gardens. Included are:
We offer a great selection of Northwest Natives from spring through fall. The plants featured are highlighted favorites, but they do not represent ALL of the plants we carry. For a more complete list, see our Northwest Native Plant List.