Native Plants

Keystone Plants for the Southeast: Native Species for Humid Zones 7-9 That Support Monarch, Swallowtail and Native Bees

The Southeast is one of the richest regions in North America for native keystone plants — species that support disproportionately large numbers of insects and birds through millions of years of co-evolution. This guide covers the most impactful keystone trees, shrubs, and perennials for USDA zones 7–9, with zone-by-zone recommendations for NC, SC, GA, FL, AL, MS, TN, KY, AR, and LA.

Keystone Plants for the Midwest: Native Prairie Species for Zones 4-6 That Survive Clay Soil and Harsh Winters

If you plant one thing this year to restore biodiversity in your Midwest garden, make it a keystone plant. Research by University of Delaware entomologist Doug Tallamy found that just 5% of plant species in any region support 75% of all native caterpillar species — and those caterpillars are the foundation of almost every food web. In the Midwest’s Prairie …

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