Native Wisconsin perennials are well suited for our climate and soil. Plus they offer a low-maintenance gardening solution, allowing you to enjoy a flourishing garden without the extensive care often required by non-native species.

But the benefits of native Wisconsin perennials extend far beyond ease of care. By choosing these local species, you’re creating a haven for a diverse array of wildlife. Imagine your garden buzzing with the activity of butterflies and dragonflies, the air filled with the songs of birds, and the gentle hum of bees – all of these are attracted to the native flora for their nectar, shelter, and breeding grounds. Native plants form the foundation of local ecosystems, supporting pollinators and other wildlife that are crucial for a healthy environment

In this guide we’ll delve into the enchanting world of native perennials ideal for Wisconsin gardens, focusing on those perfect for ground cover and adding height. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or just starting, you’ll find that incorporating these native beauties into your landscape not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also contributes to the conservation of our local biodiversity. Let’s explore how you can transform your garden into a vibrant, wildlife-friendly paradise with the best of Wisconsin’s native plants

Why Choose Native Perennials?

Native plants are adapted to Wisconsin’s climate, making them more resilient and easier to care for. They require less water and are resistant to local pests and diseases. Additionally, they provide essential habitats and food sources for local wildlife, including bees, butterflies, and birds.

Top Native Perennials for Wisconsin Gardens:

1. Wild Columbine (Aquilegia canadensis): With its unique red and yellow flowers, wild columbine is a favorite for hummingbirds and thrives in both sun and shade.
2. Prairie Smoke (Geum triflorum): Known for its feathery, smoke-like seed heads, this plant adds a whimsical touch to gardens and attracts pollinators.
3. Butterfly Weed (Asclepias tuberosa): A vital plant for monarch butterflies, it showcases vibrant orange flowers that are a magnet for various pollinators.
4. Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea): A staple in many gardens, this perennial offers striking purple flowers and is known for its medicinal properties.
5. New England Aster (Symphyotrichum novae-angliae): Featuring beautiful purple blooms, it’s a late-season favorite for bees and butterflies.
6. Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis): This perennial brings a splash of brilliant red to your garden and is particularly attractive to hummingbirds.

Native Ground Cover Plants for Wisconsin Gardens:

Creating a lush underlayer in your garden can be effortlessly achieved with these native ground cover plants:

1. Wild Ginger (Asarum canadense): Ideal for shady areas, its heart-shaped leaves form a dense carpet.
2. Creeping Phlox (Phlox stolonifera): Beautiful spring flowers and evergreen foliage make it a superb ground cover.
3. Bearberry (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi): A low-growing evergreen perfect for sandy soils, providing red berries and glossy leaves.
4. Prairie Dropseed (Sporobolus heterolepis): This native grass forms flowing clumps, adding texture to your garden floor.

Native Wisconsin Perennials for Adding Height:

Elevate your garden’s profile and add dynamic layers with these tall native perennials:

1. Big Bluestem (Andropogon gerardii): A prairie grass that adds vertical interest and dynamic movement, reaching up to six feet.
2. Cup Plant (Silphium perfoliatum): A tall perennial with large, cup-shaped leaves and yellow flowers, perfect for garden borders.
3. Joe-Pye Weed (Eutrochium purpureum): Tall, with fluffy pinkish-purple flowers, it’s a butterfly magnet.
4. Ironweed (Vernonia fasciculata): Known for its deep purple flowers, it adds height and color to your garden.

Year-Round Color and Interest with Native Wisconsin Perennials:

One of the most enchanting qualities of native Wisconsin plants is their ability to provide visual interest throughout the year. In the vibrant spring and summer months, these perennials burst into a kaleidoscope of colors, with flowers and foliage that attract a symphony of wildlife.

Embrace Native Perennials in your Wisconsin Garden

Embracing native perennials in your Wisconsin garden is not only a celebration of local natural beauty but also a commitment to supporting the environment. At Thomas Greenhouse & Garden Center, we have a wide range of native perennials perfect for Wisconsin gardens. Our knowledgeable staff can help guide you in choosing the right plants for your garden’s unique conditions. Let’s bring a piece of Wisconsin’s natural heritage into your garden!

Good Reads

• Wisconsin DNR’s Guide to Helping Native Pollinators
• Madison Audubon Guide to Attracting Birds
• Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel Article on Attracting Dragonflies