Corylus americana

A rounded, thicket-forming, multi-stemmed shrub that produces edible nuts, which can be roasted, ground to flour, or left for wildlife to enjoy. Nice fall foliage.

April, May, June

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Partial Shade

Well Drained, Dry, Moist, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), pH Acid <6.0, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0

6-12'

100-200

Caterpillars, Pollinators, Butterflies, Birds, Mammals

Ostrya virginiana

This slow-growing tree has a wider, round canopy, and is highly adaptable to light and soil conditions. It has beautiful yellow foliage in the fall, and nutlets that are enjoyed by songbirds and other mammals. Also called Ironwood.

April

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Partial Shade

Well Drained, Dry, Moist

Over 20'

10-100

Caterpillars, Birds, Mammals

Carpinus caroliniana

Small, attractive tree or large shrub with attractive foliage and flowers, and very unique “muscled” trunk.

September

Partial Shade

Well Drained, Dry, Moist, Wet, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), High Organic Matter, pH Acid <6.0, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0

12-20'

10-100

Birds, Mammals

Larix laricina

In boreal and other northern forests, the brilliant fall foliage of Larix laricina is unmistakable. It is the only New England conifer to drop its needles, so don’t be surprised to find it bare come November. A lovely specimen tree for rich soils that is host to more than 128 caterpillar species!

April, May

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Well Drained, Moist, Wet, Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), High Organic Matter, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0

Over 20'

100-200

Caterpillars, Birds, Mammals

Viburnum dentatum

Adaptable mid-sized shrub provides unique leaf shape and texture with showy flower and fruit display typical of viburnums.

June

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Partial Shade

Well Drained, Dry, Moist, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), pH Acid <6.0, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0

6-12'

100-200

Caterpillars, Pollinators, Birds

Prunus maritima

Attractive shrub or small tree with abundant flowers and edible fruit. Salt and drought resistant. Species is listed as Endangered in Maine.

May

Full Sun

Well Drained, Dry, Moist, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), pH Acid <6.0, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0

6-12'

Over 200

Caterpillars, Pollinators, Birds, Mammals

Prunus serotina

One of the largest of the cherry trees! Has a beautiful spring bloom and attractive fall foliage. Fruit is very attractive to wildlife.

April, May

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Partial Shade

Well Drained, Dry, Moist, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), High Organic Matter, pH Acid <6.0, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0, pH Alkaline >8.0

Over 20'

Over 200

Caterpillars, Pollinators, Butterflies, Birds, Mammals

Aronia melanocarpa

Beautiful, hardy, and beneficial medium-sized shrub, well suited for use in developed landscapes. Produces lovely flowers and edible fruit, and is forage for many wildlife species.

June

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Partial Shade

Well Drained, Dry, Moist, Wet, Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), pH Acid <6.0, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0

3-6'

1-10

Pollinators, Birds

Nyssa sylvatica

Attractive, slow-growing tree with waxy leaves. Beautiful blue berries and showy scarlet-colored fall foliage.

May, June

Partial Sun, Partial Shade, Full Shade

Well Drained, Dry, Moist, Wet, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), pH Acid <6.0, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0

Over 20'

10-100

Caterpillars, Birds, Mammals

Salix nigra

Fast-growing, medium to large sized water-loving tree, great for erosion control and flood prevention. Bark and twigs are commonly browsed by wildlife.

April

Partial Sun, Partial Shade, Full Shade

Moist, Wet, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), pH Acid <6.0, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0, pH Alkaline >8.0

Over 20'

Over 200

Caterpillars, Pollinators, Butterflies, Birds

Iris versicolor

This spring stunner has sword-shaped blue-green leaves and produces 3-4” wide bluish-purple flowers with yellow and white blotches. It’s a natural for wet areas and spreads by rhizomes.

May, June

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Partial Shade

Moist, Wet, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), High Organic Matter, pH Acid <6.0, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0

1-3'

10-100

Caterpillars, Pollinators, Butterflies, Hummingbirds

Solidago caesia

Clump-forming, non-aggressive growing Goldenrod with arching, purple stems, and small clusters of daisy-like yellow flowers. Very attractive to pollinators and deer tolerant!

August, September

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Partial Shade

Well Drained, Dry, Moist, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), pH Acid <6.0, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0

1-3'

100-200

Caterpillars, Pollinators, Butterflies, Birds

Verbena hastata

A wonderful wet-meadow plant with blue to purple flowers occurring in a candelabra-shaped panicle. It often grows in colonies and creates a lovely display when planted amongst tall native grasses and wildflowers.

July, August

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Moist, Wet, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), pH Alkaline >8.0

3-6'

10-100

Pollinators, Birds, Mammals

Symphyotrichum cordifolium

A lovely keystone species which can thrive in a variety of habitats from meadows to woodlands or the spaces in between. It spreads vigorously by seed, so it's best suited for naturalized landscapes. Also called Heart-leaved Aster.

August, September, October

Partial Sun, Partial Shade

Well Drained, Dry, Moist, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), pH Neutral 6.0-8.0

1-3'

10-100

Caterpillars, Pollinators, Birds, Mammals

Cornus canadensis

Small, hardy accent or groundcover with beautiful foliage, flowers, and fruit. Also known as Chamaepericlymenum canadense.

July, August

Partial Sun, Partial Shade

Well Drained, Moist, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), High Organic Matter, pH Acid <6.0

less than 1'

100-200

Caterpillars, Pollinators

Diervilla lonicera

Suckering densely branched shrub with fragrant, brightly colored tube-like flowers, attractive to hummingbirds and butterflies.

June, July, August

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Partial Shade, Full Shade

Well Drained, Dry, Moist, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), pH Acid <6.0, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0, pH Alkaline >8.0

3-6'

1-10

Caterpillars, Pollinators, Butterflies, Hummingbirds

Asclepias tuberosa

This stunning perennial provides a pop of bright orange color and is a host plant for Monarch butterflies. State-listed as Potentially Extirpated.

July, August

Full Sun

Well Drained, Dry, Moist, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), pH Acid <6.0, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0

1-3'

10-100

Caterpillars, Pollinators, Butterflies

Cephalanthus occidentalis

A low-maintenance shrub with glossy leaves and long-lasting white fragrant flowers that resemble pincushions. Attracts a wide variety of pollinators and adapts easily to various soil types.

June

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Partial Shade

Moist, Wet, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), High Organic Matter, pH Acid <6.0, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0

6-12'

10-100

Caterpillars, Pollinators, Butterflies

Lobelia cardinalis

This plant is absolutely stunning with large, cardinal-red tubular flowers that are magnets for hummingbirds and butterflies. Super effective in moist and shady areas, providing a pop of brilliant color.

July, August, September

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Partial Shade

Moist, Wet, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), High Organic Matter, pH Acid <6.0, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0

3-6'

1-10

Caterpillars, Pollinators, Butterflies, Hummingbirds

Prunus virginiana

Large shrub/small tree with fragrant, dense clusters of white flowers and red/dark purple fruit, that are very attractive to birds and butterflies, and can be made into jelly or preserves. Excellent wildlife value!

April, May

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Partial Shade, Full Shade

Well Drained, Dry, Moist, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), pH Acid <6.0, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0, pH Alkaline >8.0

12-20'

Over 200

Caterpillars, Pollinators, Butterflies, Birds, Mammals

Aquilegia canadensis

A beautiful woodland native with nodding red and yellow spurred flowers. Attracts hummingbirds and is deer resistant.

May, June

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Partial Shade

Dry, Moist, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), pH Acid <6.0, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0

1-3'

1-10

Caterpillars, Pollinators, Butterflies, Hummingbirds

Sambucus canadensis

Large, full shrub produces showy white flowers and edible fruit. Food source for countless insects, pollinators, songbirds, and mammals.

June

Partial Sun, Partial Shade

Well Drained, Dry, Moist, Wet, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), High Organic Matter, pH Acid <6.0, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0

6-12'

10-100

Caterpillars, Pollinators, Birds, Mammals

Juniperus communis

Needled evergreen conifer that loves colder climates! Behaves like low-spreading shrub but can grow tall in certain conditions.

April

Full Sun

Well Drained, Dry, Moist, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), pH Acid <6.0, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0

6-12'

10-100

Caterpillars, Birds

Hamamelis virginiana

Unique large shrub with interesting foliage and flowers, which bloom in late fall following leaf drop.

October

Partial Sun, Partial Shade, Full Shade

Well Drained, Moist, Wet, Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), High Organic Matter, pH Acid <6.0, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0

12-20'

10-100

Caterpillars, Pollinators

Geranium maculatum

One of the best spring-blooming natives, this low-maintenance beauty produces pink to lilac five-petaled flowers that give way to distinctive seed capsules. Has deeply cut, five-lobed dark green leaves.

May, June, July

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Partial Shade, Full Shade

Well Drained, Dry, Moist, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), High Organic Matter, pH Acid <6.0, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0

1-3'

10-100

Caterpillars, Pollinators, Butterflies

Phlox subulata

Also called Moss Phlox. Perfect for rock gardens, borders, and edge plantings, this native carpet-forming, spreading plant has reddish-purple, pink, and occasionally white tubular, fragrant flowers. Pollinators love it!

April, May

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Well Drained, Dry, Moist, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), High Organic Matter, pH Acid <6.0

less than 1'

1-10

Caterpillars, Pollinators, Butterflies, Hummingbirds

Veronicastrum virginicum

Like a glowing candelabra, this stunning native will light up back-of-the-border areas and create cottage charm. Elegantly reaches 5’ with spikes of white to purple-tinged flowers. Attracts bees and butterflies galore!

June, July, August

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Partial Shade

Well Drained, Moist, Wet, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), pH Acid <6.0, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0, pH Alkaline >8.0

3-6'

1-10

Pollinators, Butterflies

Rudbeckia laciniata

Yellow, daisy-like flowers with drooping rays, and a yellow/green center cone.

July, August, September

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Moist, pH Acid <6.0

3-6'

10-100

Caterpillars, Pollinators, Birds

Dicentra cucullaria

A standout in a shade or woodland garden, Dicentra cucullaria has a short presence but lasting impact! Its name stems from its lovely small white flowers which resemble pantaloons of an upside-down Dutchman. Great alternative to non-native bleeding hearts!

May

Partial Sun, Partial Shade

Well Drained, Dry, Moist, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), High Organic Matter, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0

less than 1'

1-10

Caterpillars, Pollinators

Thalictrum dioicum

A whimsical woodland perennial with beautiful white and orange flowers suspended above delicate green foliage. It stands out best when surrounded by native woodland groundcovers.

May, June

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Partial Shade, Full Shade

Well Drained, Moist, Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), High Organic Matter, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0

1-3'

10-100

Pollinators

Tsuga canadensis

Classic Northern New England conifer serves well in a variety of protected settings in town.

April

Partial Shade, Full Shade

Well Drained, Dry, Moist, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), pH Acid <6.0

Over 20'

100-200

Caterpillars, Birds

Juniperus virginiana

Beautiful upright evergreen tree that is very adaptable to dry sites along roads, fences, and buildings. Namesake plant for Cedar Waxwing, which love this fruit.

April

Full Sun

Well Drained, Dry, Moist, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), pH Acid <6.0

Over 20'

10-100

Caterpillars, Birds

Ionactis linarifolia

A lesser known member of the Aster family, Ionactis linarifolia is a unique, low growing perennial with violet petals. It prefers acidic soils low in nutrients, and is great for drought tolerant landscapes!

July, August

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Well Drained, pH Acid <6.0

1-3'

10-100

Pollinators

Rubus odoratus

A beautiful shrub with fragrant long lasting blossoms and large vibrant green foliage. Unlike others in the rubus genus, Rubus odoratus is thornless making it a much friendlier garden addition!

June, July, August, September

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Well Drained, Dry, Moist, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), High Organic Matter, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0

3-6'

100-200

Pollinators, Birds, Mammals

Tiarella cordifolia

A great groundcover for shade gardens, the small, white to pinkish, foam-like flowers of this native plant really shine. The semi-glossy, heart-shaped leaves are often tinged with burgundy variegation along the veins. A real winner!

May, June

Partial Shade, Full Shade

Well Drained, Moist, Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), High Organic Matter, pH Acid <6.0, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0, pH Alkaline >8.0

less than 1'

1-10

Pollinators, Butterflies

Penstemon digitalis

For an amazing spring show-stopper, this native plant can’t be beat. It features white to pink, two-lipped, tubular flowers atop tall stems. Attracts a huge variety of pollinators and beneficial insects.

May, June, July

Full Sun

Well Drained, Dry, Moist, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), pH Acid <6.0

3-6'

1-10

Caterpillars, Pollinators, Butterflies, Hummingbirds

Aruncus dioicus

A handsome perennial with creamy white flower plumes that brightens shady spots. It becomes shrublike over time and is a great plant for the back of the garden.

May, June, July, August

Partial Sun, Partial Shade, Full Shade

Well Drained, Dry, Moist, Texture (Loam), pH Acid <6.0, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0

3-6'

1-10

Pollinators, Butterflies

Zizia aurea

Beautiful upright herbaceous plant with flat-topped clusters of tiny yellow flowers. Fruit and leaves turn purple in the fall. Attracts native pollinators. Moderately deer resistant.

May, June

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Partial Shade

Well Drained, Dry, Moist, Wet, Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), High Organic Matter, pH Acid <6.0, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0

1-3'

1-10

Caterpillars, Pollinators, Butterflies

Packera aurea

Semi-evergreen basal foliage creates a nice ground cover, with attractive yellow daisy-like flowers shooting up in the spring. Leaves are purple underneath. Perfect for moist-woodland gardens.

May, June, July, August, September

Partial Sun, Partial Shade, Full Shade

Dry, Moist, Wet, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), pH Acid <6.0, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0, pH Alkaline >8.0

1-3'

1-10

Caterpillars, Pollinators, Butterflies

Cornus racemosa

Thicket forming shrub with beautiful white flowers and white berries that grow on red stems. Deer tolerant and very attractive to wildlife! Also known as Swida racemosa.

May, June

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Partial Shade

Well Drained, Dry, Moist, Wet, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), High Organic Matter, pH Acid <6.0, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0, pH Alkaline >8.0

12-20'

100-200

Caterpillars, Pollinators, Butterflies, Birds, Hummingbirds, Mammals

Lobelia siphilitica

Wow! This plant has it all—light to dark blue, tubular, two-lipped flowers blooming in tall spikes late in the season. Attracts hummingbirds, butterflies, and countless other beneficial insects. Species is Potentially Extirpated in Maine.

July, August, September

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Partial Shade

Moist, Wet, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), High Organic Matter, pH Acid <6.0, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0

3-6'

1-10

Caterpillars, Pollinators, Butterflies, Hummingbirds

Vaccinium corymbosum

Medium to large sturdy shrub with pretty foliage, plump berries, and gorgeous fall color. Food source for people and many taxa of wildlife.

May

Full Sun

Well Drained, Dry, Moist, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), pH Acid <6.0

6-12'

Over 200

Caterpillars, Pollinators, Birds, Mammals

Viburnum trilobum

Unique viburnum with bright red edible berries that ripen through winter. Also known as Viburnum opulus.

June

Partial Sun, Partial Shade

Well Drained, Moist, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), High Organic Matter, pH Acid <6.0, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0, pH Alkaline >8.0

6-12'

100-200

Caterpillars, Pollinators, Birds

Athyrium filix-femina

Lacy, light-green, arching fronds with finely-divided, pointed leaflets grace this shade-loving fern. Easy to grow and is low maintenance.

June, July

Partial Shade, Full Shade

Well Drained, Dry, Moist, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), pH Acid <6.0, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0

1-3'

1-10

Caterpillars

Coreopsis lanceolata

A wonderful plant for colonizing poor soils, this native produces bright yellow daisy-like flowers on long stems. Great for pollinators and beneficial insects!

May, June, July

Full Sun

Well Drained, Dry, Moist, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), pH Acid <6.0

1-3'

1-10

Caterpillars, Pollinators, Butterflies

Schizachyrium scoparium

Heat and drought tolerant, this wonderful native provides year-round interest with blue-green foliage in the summer, followed by orangish-burgundy fall color. The silvery-white seed tufts persist into winter. Upright, clump-forming and carefree!

June

Full Sun

Well Drained, Dry, Moist, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), pH Acid <6.0, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0, pH Alkaline >8.0

1-3'

1-10

Caterpillars, Birds

Vaccinium angustifolium

Small woody plant is extremely durable and drought-resistant, thus can be found thriving in many tough growing conditions.

May

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Partial Shade

Well Drained, Dry, Moist, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), pH Acid <6.0

1-3'

Over 200

Caterpillars, Pollinators, Birds, Mammals

Caltha palustris

Beautiful, lush, and low-growing, Caltha palustris is a wonderful addition to areas with richer soils and consistent moisture. In the Buttercup family, its brilliant yellow flowers provide a lovely burst of color and food for early pollinators in spring.

May, June

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Partial Shade

Moist, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), High Organic Matter, pH Acid <6.0

1-3'

1-10

Pollinators

Spiraea latifolia

A lovely mounding shrub with small white and pinkish flowers in cone-shaped clusters. Attracts birds and native bees. Deer tolerant. Also known as Spiraea alba var. latifolia.

June, July, August

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Partial Shade

Dry, Moist, Wet, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), pH Acid <6.0, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0

3-6'

100-200

Caterpillars, Pollinators, Butterflies, Birds

Viburnum lentago

Tall shrub or small tree with showy flowers and fruit typical of viburnums.

May

Partial Sun, Partial Shade

Well Drained, Moist, Wet, Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), pH Acid <6.0, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0

12-20'

100-200

Caterpillars, Pollinators, Birds

Sisyrinchium angustifolium

When in bloom, this is a plant that is certain to stop garden visitors in their tracks. The narrow upright grass-like foliage is adorned with small blue flowers which emerge in late spring and bloom through mid summer. It is best planted in groups to provide the greatest impact.

June, July

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Well Drained, Moist, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), High Organic Matter, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0

1-3'

1-10

Pollinators

Symphyotrichum novae-angliae

This pollinator magnet produces a riot of daisy-like blue to purple, and sometimes pink, flowers with yellow centers from late summer to early fall.

August, September

Full Sun

Well Drained, Dry, Moist, Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), High Organic Matter, pH Acid <6.0, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0, pH Alkaline >8.0

3-6'

10-100

Caterpillars, Pollinators, Butterflies, Birds

Ceanothus americanus

This durable and drought-tolerant plant produces bright white flowers that attract hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees. Use as a groundcover or a low hedge for the most difficult areas of your yard. Species is listed as Threatened in Maine.

May, June

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Partial Shade

Well Drained, Dry, Moist, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), pH Acid <6.0, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0

1-3'

1-10

Caterpillars, Pollinators, Butterflies, Hummingbirds

Myrica pensylvanica

Gorgeous, full, large shrub with waxy, fragrant leaves and beneficial berries that persist into winter. Salt, drought, and pest resistant. also known as Morella pensylvanica and Morella caroliniensis.

April

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Well Drained, Dry, Moist, Wet, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), High Organic Matter, pH Acid <6.0, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0, pH Alkaline >8.0

6-12'

10-100

Caterpillars, Birds, Mammals

Quercus rubra

This rugged staple of the Eastern Forest is just at home as an urban shade or street tree. Oaks are among the most beneficial genera for diverse wildlife.

April

Full Sun

Well Drained, Dry, Moist, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), pH Acid <6.0, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0

Over 20'

Over 200

Caterpillars, Birds, Mammals

Lindera benzoin

Large shrub, often multi-trunked, that produces beautiful flowers, fruit, and fall foliage. Very good yellow fall color. Species is listed as Species of Concern in Maine.

April

Partial Sun, Partial Shade

Well Drained, Dry, Moist, Wet, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), pH Acid <6.0, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0

6-12'

1-10

Caterpillars, Pollinators, Butterflies, Hummingbirds

Thuja occidentalis

Species is a familiar evergreen hedge or foundation plant due to many cultivars. Straight species has same clean, upright habit plus wildlife benefits.

April, May

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Partial Shade

Well Drained, Dry, Moist, Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), pH Acid <6.0, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0, pH Alkaline >8.0

Over 20'

10-100

Caterpillars, Birds

Physostegia virginiana

This bold, long-blooming beauty has robust, tubular, pink snapdragon-like flower spikes that top tall, square stems with narrow, toothed leaves. Great for back-of the border and cottage gardens. Also called Obedient False Dragonhead.

June, July, August, September

Full Sun

Well Drained, Moist, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), High Organic Matter, pH Acid <6.0, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0, pH Alkaline >8.0

3-6'

1-10

Pollinators, Butterflies, Hummingbirds

Pteretis nodulosa

The large, lustrous, and graceful dark green fronds of this fern resemble ostrich plumes in summer after emerging as edible fiddleheads in spring. Will form a quick cover with spreading, underground rhizomes. Also known as Matteuccia struthiopteris.

May

Partial Shade, Full Shade

Well Drained, Dry, Moist, Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), pH Acid <6.0, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0, pH Alkaline >8.0

3-6'

1-10

Caterpillars

Cornus alternifolia

This small flowering tree is as ornamental as it is beneficial. Its small size and flat-topped growing habit make an interesting shady spot for a small yard or space, and large white flowers followed by blue/black berries support countless wildlife species. Also known as Swida alternifolia.

June

Partial Shade, Full Shade

Well Drained, Moist, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), High Organic Matter, pH Acid <6.0

12-20'

100-200

Caterpillars, Pollinators, Butterflies, Birds, Hummingbirds, Mammals

Carex pensylvanica

A beautiful sedge that produces soft delicate fountains of foliage and is an amazing groundcover for dry shady spots.

June

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Partial Shade

Well Drained, Dry, Moist, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), pH Acid <6.0, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0

less than 1'

1-10

Birds

Antennaria plantaginifolia

Named for its cat paw-like flower heads, this low-growing perennial makes an excellent ground cover in the right conditions. Leaves are wooly and silvery-green and the flowers range from white (male) to light pink (female). Attractive to butterflies and is deer resistant.

April, May, June

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Well Drained, Dry

less than 1'

1-10

Caterpillars, Birds

Salix discolor

Fast-growing many-stemmed shrub or small tree with shiny green leaves and silky, furry catkins that appear in late winter and early spring, ranging from white, to green, to brown.

April

Full Sun

Moist, Wet, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), pH Acid <6.0, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0, pH Alkaline >8.0

12-20'

Over 200

Caterpillars, Birds, Mammals

Acer rubrum

Large, well-adapted shade tree, interesting spring and fall color. Important early nectar source, bountiful host plant, and shelter/refuge for countless wildlife taxa.

May

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Partial Shade

Well Drained, Dry, Moist, Wet, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), pH Acid <6.0, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0

Over 20'

Over 200

Caterpillars, Pollinators

Cornus sericea

Beautiful flowering shrub with red stems when young. Very attractive to wildlife (including deer). Colorful autumn foliage. Also known as Swida sericea.

May, June

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Partial Shade

Well Drained, Moist, Wet, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), High Organic Matter, pH Acid <6.0, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0, pH Alkaline >8.0

6-12'

100-200

Caterpillars, Pollinators, Butterflies, Birds, Hummingbirds, Mammals

Solidago sempervirens

Unique clumping form of familiar genus. Long, lobed leaves multiply in upright clump rather than spreading throughout garden. Produces dense, long-lasting flower clusters.

August, September

Full Sun

Well Drained, Dry, Moist, Texture (Sand), pH Acid <6.0, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0

3-6'

100-200

Caterpillars, Pollinators, Butterflies, Birds

Amelanchier canadensis

Small tree, or multi-trunked shrub, with delicate white flowers in the spring, small red fruit, and orange-red foliage and blue fruit in the fall.

April, May

Partial Sun, Partial Shade, Full Shade

Well Drained, Dry, Moist, Wet, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), pH Acid <6.0, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0

12-20'

100-200

Caterpillars, Pollinators, Butterflies, Birds, Hummingbirds, Mammals

Dasiphora floribunda

A wonderful, low growing shrub for a variety of sunny landscapes. A member of the rose family, its yellow rose-like blossoms will shine in the front or middle of a border garden. Drought tolerant once established, it’s a great choice for slopes where it will provide erosion control.

June, July, August, September

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Well Drained, Dry, Moist, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), pH Alkaline >8.0

1-3'

1-10

Caterpillars, Pollinators

Cornus amomum

Large, interesting shrub with attractive foliage, flowers, fruit, and stems. Will form wide thicket if low stems allowed to contact ground and root. Also known as Swida amomum.

July

Partial Sun, Partial Shade, Full Shade

Moist, Wet, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), High Organic Matter, pH Acid <6.0

6-12'

100-200

Caterpillars, Pollinators, Butterflies, Birds, Hummingbirds, Mammals

Solidago bicolor

This long-blooming goldenrod species features white or pale yellow flowers on an elongated spike. Great addition to areas with poor, dry soil. Attractive to pollinators and birds. Drought and deer tolerant!

July, August, September, October

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Dry, Texture (Sand), Texture (Clay)

1-3'

100-200

Caterpillars, Pollinators, Birds

Symphyotrichum laeve

Very attractive and fragrant flowers that are lavender-blue rays surround a central yellow disk on this low-maintenance aster with smooth blue-green foliage.

August, September

Full Sun

Well Drained, Dry, Moist, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), pH Acid <6.0, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0, pH Alkaline >8.0

1-3'

1-10

Caterpillars

Amelanchier laevis

A gorgeous flowering understory tree that’s a great alternative to non-native ornamentals. The fruit is edible and is the most palatable of all our native serviceberries. It’s also a wildlife magnet, hosting more than 100 caterpillar species.

May, June

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Partial Shade, Full Shade

Well Drained, Moist, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), pH Neutral 6.0-8.0

12-20'

100-200

Caterpillars, Pollinators, Birds, Mammals

Eutrochium maculatum

Crowned with clusters of bright pink flowers in late summer, this native is a nectar source for many insect species and is the larval host for 27 different butterflies and moths.

August, September

Full Sun

Moist, Wet, Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), High Organic Matter, pH Acid <6.0, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0, pH Alkaline >8.0

3-6'

10-100

Caterpillars, Pollinators, Butterflies

Acer pensylvanicum

Small understory tree with showy leaves and interesting bark. Makes interesting accent for moist shady spots.

May

Partial Sun, Partial Shade, Full Shade

Well Drained, Moist, Wet, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), pH Acid <6.0, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0

12-20'

Over 200

Caterpillars, Pollinators

Clethra alnifolia

Medium to large shrub with interesting leaves and showy, fragrant, long-lasting white flowers in midsummer. Well adapted to varied growing conditions, very hardy. Species is listed as Species of Concern in Maine.

July, August

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Partial Shade

Well Drained, Dry, Moist, Wet, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), High Organic Matter, pH Acid <6.0, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0

3-6'

1-10

Pollinators, Birds, Mammals

Asclepias incarnata

A stunning perennial with dark pink flower buds that open to pale pink; a pollinator magnet and host plant to Monarch butterflies.

July, August

Full Sun

Well Drained, Moist, Wet, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), pH Acid <6.0, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0

3-6'

10-100

Caterpillars, Pollinators, Butterflies

Comptonia peregrina

A small, aromatic clumping shrub that colonizes and spreads vigorously if left alone. Great native groundcover!

May, June, July, August

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Partial Shade

Well Drained, Dry, Moist, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), pH Acid <6.0

1-3'

1-10

Caterpillars, Birds

Helianthus decapetalus

Elegant perennial native sunflower will tolerate varied tough spots and shade. Helianthus hosts the third most species of caterpillars throughout most of Maine, and several species of bees that specialize on its flowers. Responds well to pruning (to encourage spreading and blooms) and dividing like exotic perennials. Deer tolerant.

July, August

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Partial Shade

Well Drained, Dry, Moist, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), High Organic Matter, pH Acid <6.0, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0

3-6'

10-100

Pollinators, Birds

Pycnanthemum virginianum

Attract pollinators galore with this awesome native! Bees, wasps, beetles, butterflies, and moths sip the nectar from the small, white-to-lavender flowers. Forms clumps and spreads by rhizomes--a low maintenance winner!

July, August, September

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Partial Shade

Well Drained, Dry, Moist, Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), pH Acid <6.0, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0, pH Alkaline >8.0

1-3'

1-10

Caterpillars, Pollinators

Rosa virginiana

Fast-growing vibrant pink rose bush with lustrous dark green leaves. The fruit is high in Vitamin C and can be used to make jam or tea.

June, July, August

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Partial Shade, Full Shade

Well Drained, Dry, Moist, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), pH Acid <6.0, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0

3-6'

100-200

Caterpillars, Pollinators, Butterflies, Birds, Mammals

Clematis virginiana

This twining vine produces a profusion of white fall-blooming flowers which morph into attractive, plume-like seed heads. Blooms on current year’s growth.

August, September, October

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Partial Shade

Well Drained, Moist, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), High Organic Matter, pH Acid <6.0, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0

12-20'

1-10

Caterpillars, Pollinators, Butterflies

Symphyotrichum ericoides

This showy aster grows in a somewhat bushy manner, with many-branched stems featuring small white flowers with yellow centers, though the flowers can sometimes have a light blue or pink appearance. Leaves are narrow and rigid, heath-like. Grows and spreads easily by self-seeding. Nice addition to a wildflower or rock garden.

August, September, October

Full Sun

Well Drained, Dry, Moist

1-3'

10-100

Caterpillars, Butterflies, Birds

Quercus alba

Large, important species of oak in relative decline. Tends to grow stout horizontal branches giving it broader spread than other oaks.

April

Full Sun

Well Drained, Dry, Moist, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), pH Acid <6.0

Over 20'

Over 200

Caterpillars, Birds, Mammals

Chelone glabra

This striking perennial has lance-shaped, dark green leaves and white snapdragon-like flowers that resemble turtle heads. Adds late summer charm to shade gardens and is a great accent plant.

August, September, October

Partial Shade

Moist, Wet, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), High Organic Matter, pH Acid <6.0, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0

1-3'

1-10

Caterpillars, Pollinators, Butterflies, Hummingbirds

Monarda fistulosa

This amazing plant attracts hummingbirds, butterflies, bees and a host of beneficial insects with its beautiful lavender, two-lipped, tubular flowers atop wonderfully fragrant stems and leaves.

July, August, September

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Partial Shade

Well Drained, Dry, Moist, Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), pH Acid <6.0, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0

3-6'

10-100

Caterpillars, Pollinators, Butterflies, Hummingbirds

Asarum canadense

Fantastic groundcover for shade/woodland gardens! A slow spreader, via rhizomes, each plant consists of two heart-shaped leaves, velvety in texture. A great alternative to its non-native counterpart, European Ginger.

May, June

Partial Shade, Full Shade

Well Drained, Moist, Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), High Organic Matter, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0

less than 1'

1-10

Caterpillars, Pollinators

Allium tricoccum

A favorite of spring foragers, Allium tricoccum, a member of the onion family, is considered a culinary delicacy. Rather than deplete native populations, consider creating a source in your own backyard!

June, July

Partial Shade, Full Shade

Well Drained, Moist, High Organic Matter, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0

less than 1'

1-10

Pollinators, Birds, Mammals

Lactuca canadensis

A flowering plant in the daisy family, the greens of Lactuca canadensis are edible to humans, and high in nutrients. While some plants may appear somewhat weedy in character, this is a great native edible to incorporate into a natural landscape benefitting both humans and pollinators alike.

July, August

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Partial Shade

Well Drained, Moist, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), pH Neutral 6.0-8.0

1-3'

1-10

Pollinators

Lupinus perennis

Also called Sundial Lupine, this long-lived perennial lupine boasts tall clusters of purple/blue pea-like flowers. Palmate leaves are beautiful on their own! Like other plants in the pea family, it enhances soil by fixing nitrogen into a usable form.

April, May, June, July

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Partial Shade

Well Drained, Dry, Moist, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), pH Acid <6.0

1-3'

1-10

Caterpillars, Butterflies, Birds, Mammals

Viburnum cassinoides

Showy upright shrub with dynamic flower to fruit display that changes colors into fall. Also known as Viburnum nudum.

June

Partial Sun, Partial Shade

Well Drained, Dry, Moist, Wet, Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), pH Acid <6.0, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0

6-12'

100-200

Caterpillars, Pollinators, Birds

Fragaria virginiana

A beautiful and edible cool-season perennial ground cover, with white flowers and red fruit. Attractive to native pollinators and useful for erosion control. Deer and drought tolerant.

April, May, June

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Partial Shade

Dry, Moist, Texture (Sand), Texture (Loam), Texture (Clay), High Organic Matter, pH Acid <6.0, pH Neutral 6.0-8.0, pH Alkaline >8.0

less than 1'