Annuals $8.99

• Scarlet Sage (Salvia Coccinea) 3.5" $8.99

  The sweet scent and brilliant blooms of Scarlet Sage (Salvia coccinea) will summon hummingbirds, butterflies and bees from near and far. Scarlet Sage has long-lasting blooms from spring through fall and is lovely for cut flowers. These deer resistant flowers readily self-sow, so you'll enjoy it year after year. The seeds are prized by songbirds. Or can be deadheaded throughout season to encourage more blooms. Grown in full sun in medium to dry soils (drought tolerant). Blooming spring until first hard frost at 2 feet tall.

Perennials $8.99

• Aquatic Milkweed (Asclepias perennis) 1G 3.5"

  Aquatic milkweed grows in full sun in soil that is continuously wet. Although we grow this in our gardens with heavily amended soil with compost and give no additional water. And it survived and seeded during 2023 drought. Milkweed is the only plant eaten by Monarch butterfly caterpillars, one of the reasons their numbers are dropping is the loss of space for milkweed to grow due to mowing or pesticides. Flowers are beneficial to native bees. Submerged portions of all aquatic plants provide habitats for many micro and macro invertebrates. These invertebrates in turn are used as food by fish and other wildlife species (e.g. amphibians, reptiles, ducks, etc.). After aquatic plants die, their decomposition by bacteria and fungi provides food (called “detritus”) for many aquatic invertebrates.

• Atamasca Lily (Zephyranthes atamasco) 3.5"

  Atamasca Lily is a native onion-like perennial bulb in the Amaryllidaceae (lily) family. It is naturally found in bottomland forests and wet meadows. The name zephros is Greek for west wind and anthos means flower. Plant in part sun to partial shade in moist to wet organically rich soils. We do find it does well in drier soils if planted in morning sun only. Occasionally add some leaf mold to the soil. It will tolerate seasonal flooding and will bloom best if it receives at least 2 hours of direct sunlight a day. The foliage is grass-like and may be easy to miss with no blooms. The showy fragrant trumpet flowers are white, sometimes tinged with pink in the spring. They can be a welcome bright spot in an otherwise shady landscape planting. It can spread from bulb offsets to form colonies. The plant does go dormant in summer so plan for an empty space in the landscape.

• Georgia Blue Aster (Symphyotrichum georgianum) 3.5'

  This rare plant was once widespread across southeastern meadows and prairies, but is rare today because of habitat destruction and fire suppression. Georgia aster is endemic to (occurs only in) a total of 34 counties in Georgia, Alabama, and the Carolinas. Georgia aster’s rarity rank in Alabama is S2, meaning it is imperiled because of rarity and because other factors make it very vulnerable to extinction. Its legal status in Alabama is threatened, meaning that it is likely to become an endangered species within the foreseeable future. It is currently a candidate for federal legal status. All of that is very unfortunate, but Georgia aster is an easy plant in cultivation. Give it sun or part sun in poor to average soils and walk away. Blooming in late fall at 3 feet tall. In cultivation, it does have the tendency to flop and weep over. It is a prairie plant and may need other plants to prop upon. This is an opportunity as gardeners where we can keep an imperiled plant for future conservation. Some of the last Georgia asters may be in native plant gardener’s back yards. I’d love to get it into your garden too!

• Lanceleaf Fog Fruit (Phyla lanceolata) 3.5'

  Lanceleaf Fog Fruit blooms throughout the summer months in a unique performance: flowering stalks rise above the bright, serrated foliage, with rich burgundy-brown tips leading the way. These cones slowly burgeon out to nearly an inch in length to accommodate successive rings of petite blossoms that range from white to mauve to lavender. Fog Fruit performs best in sites with full sun, although there are reports of its success in partial shade. This plant likes to keep its roots moist. It is an excellent choice for seeps, ditch lines, degraded wetlands, and seasonally flooded areas. Although this plant only matures to about 2 feet in height, don’t let the short stature fool you! In optimal conditions, this species can easily overwhelm less tenacious plants. This species spreads by long, rhizomatous roots; it also produces roots from leaf nodes. An excellent spring-flooding or soggy site groundcover, Lanceleaf Frog Fruit often forms dense, matting colonies, which is when its peculiar beauty is best displayed and enjoyed. Lanceleaf Fog Fruit attracts and sustains a host of bees, butterflies, skippers, and flies. Ducks and Geese are known to consume foliage and seed.

• Little Brown Jug (Hexastylis arifolia) 3.5”

  The variegated glossy arrowhead shaped foliage has dark green veining and lighter patches in between. The Little Brown Jug plant is a clump forming evergreen perennial native to much of the southeastern US. It is typically found in shaded, well-drained sandy loam soils. It gets its name from the interesting purple to brown jug shaped flowers that lay on the ground at the base of the plant and are produced in spring. Little Brown Jugs makes a nice addition to shaded gardens and can also be enjoyed as a low maintenance container plant.

• Spotted Beebalm (Monarda punctata) 3.5'

  Spotted Bee Balm is more drought and sun tolerant than many other Monarda species. It is an eccentric beauty in form and color with complex blossoms topping 2-3’ stems in hues of pinkish-purple, green, beige, and maroon. These blossoms attract honeybees, bumblebees, and many butterflies. It is a plant that literally buzzes when in bloom. It is also busy with songbirds when it goes to seed. The scent of this plant is repugnant to mammalian herbivores so is rarely consumed by them. Evergreen perennial at 3-4 feet tall Sun: full sun/part sun Soil moisture: medium, dry Bloom time: June-October

• Wild Strawberry (Fragaria virginiana) 3.5"

  Not only do you get the early-summer white blossoms and edible fruit, but the Wild Strawberry plant takes on a great red fall color! It spreads by runners readily. Wild Strawberries grow in a wide variety of sun and soil conditions: full sun to nearly full shade, prairie, meadows, fields, on moist ground, along the edge of woods, and on hillsides. The fruit ripens in late spring or early summer. They are much smaller than commercial strawberries but probably the most delicious of the wild fruits.

• Woodland Stonecrop (Sedum ternatum) 3.5'

  Sedum ternatum is a mat forming evergreen wildflower. Leaves are small and blue-green. In early summer, sprays of starry white flowers tower to 6”. In the wild, this lovely sedum grows in close proximity to calcareous rocks Native to the eastern United States it occurs in shaded ravines, wooded banks of rivers and creeks, shaded cliffs and rocky wooded slopes. Plants are generally found in fairly open woodlands where there is little competing vegetation. They often form large mats covering rocks, tree roots or mossy areas near streams. It’s pretty versatile to use as any other sedum.

Perennials $10.99

• ‘May Breeze’ Woodland Phlox (phlox divaricata) 1G $10.99

  ‘May Breeze’ is a white flowering variation of woodland phlox. This is Phlox for shade or partial shade and medium to drier soils. Woodland Phlox is rhizomatous and will spread slowly but steadily. It is an evergreen groundcover at 1 ft. or less tall. Some may call it Wild Sweet William, but that is also the common name we give to Phlox maculata. The flowers, atop sticky stems, are slightly fragrant and range in color from pale blue to lavender. Deer seem to have little interest in Phlox, but rabbits especially like it. It is also a favorite for swallowtail butterflies in early spring too.

• American alumroot ‘Dale’s Strain’ (Heuchera americana 'Dale's Strain') 1G

  Heuchera americana 'Dale's Strain' is a seed propagated strain selected in North Carolina by Dale Hendricks. Compared to the straight species, it has unique silver-blue marbled foliage and excitingly variable silver venation. In our region, Heuchera 'Dale's Strain' is evergreen. In the spring, pinkish white flowers appear on the top of long, delicate panicles. Plant grows 12-18” tall and spreads to 18” clump over time. Heuchera americana can be found growing naturally in rocky open woodlands east of the Rocky Mountains. Fittingly, Heuchera 'Dale's strain' performs best in organically rich, mesic soils in partial sun or light shade. This seed cultivar was found in the mountains of North Carolina and can tolerate dry shade. Wonderful for mass planting, ‘Dale’s Strain’ wanders beautifully around spring Phlox, emerging ferns, and along the edge of a woodland garden. Plants can tolerate more light but must have consistent moisture in bright conditions.

• American Alumroot (Heuchera americana) 1G

  American Alumroot forms small evergreen mounds of attractive foliage. Its lobed leaves are often highlighted with variegations of purple, bronze, or cream. Native to much of the eastern United States, American Alumroot can be found in rocky open woodlands, rock outcroppings, and cliff ledges, preferring partial shade and well-draining humus rich soil. Loose panicles of tiny cream or light green flowers atop leafless stems appear in early to mid-summer. Flowering stems can grow to be 24"' tall or more. Blooms continue for several weeks and attract mainly bees including the specialist bee Colletes aestivalis. American Alumroot is a lovely addition for shade gardens or as a border plant. Its foliage is unpalatable to most herbivores, including deer. American Alumroot is juglone resistant and can be planted under black walnut trees.

• American Ipecec (Gillenia stipulate) 1 gallon

  American Ipecac is 2-3 feet tall and is easily grown in organically rich, peaty, moist but well-drained soils in part shade. It also grows well in dry rocky soils. Established plants have respectable drought tolerance. They do appreciate some shade during the heat of the day. A great foliage texture and flower for the woodland garden. They bloom May-June. They do naturalize and can fill a space over time. Faunal associations unknown.

• Anise Hyssop (Agastache foeniculum) 1G

  Anise Hyssop is a native plant with very showy flowers, fragrant foliage and seems to be of little interest to deer. It's a bee, hummingbird, and butterfly magnet and makes an excellent addition to herb gardens, borders, perennial gardens, and prairies. When the leaves of the Anise Hyssop are crushed they smell like licorice and have been used to make tea and cold remedies. 1-3 feet tall. Full to partial sun. Medium to dry soil. It doesn’t like competition or crowding so keep it on the border of your garden. The butterflies and bees are sure to find it.

• Appalachian Sunflower (Helianthus atrorubens) 1G

  This attractive species can be found mainly in eastern Alabama. Appalachian Sunflower is found in rocky, clay or sandy soils of woodlands and along road banks. It excels in open woodland gardens, cottage gardens, and mixed perennial beds and attracts bees, butterflies. Woodland birds collect the seed. This 3-5 feet, perennial sunflower is grown in full-partial sun with good drainage. Flowers provide nectar to pollinators from July until the first frost. It is a larval host plant that supports Silvery Checkerspot. The Silvery Checkerspot has at least 3-4 broods from May through September. Its seeds are favored by songbirds, ruffed grouse, quail, morning doves, and small mammals.

• Aromatic Aster “Twilight Sky’ (Aster oblongifolius 'Twilight Sky') 1G $10.99

  If you are looking for style and substance in the autumn landscape, it is hard to beat Symphyotrichum oblongifolium ‘Twilight Sky’. 'Twilight Sky' aromatic aster has long been a favorite of the horticulture staff at Mt. Cuba Center where it was introduced. Compared to other selections of aromatic aster, 'Twilight Sky' has the edge thanks to its robust mounding habit and its extravagant periwinkle blue floral display. Grown in full sun, dry-moist soils, 3’ tall.

• Bee Blossom (Gaura lindheimeri) $10.99

  Best grown in sandy, loamy, well-drained soils in full sun. Good drainage is essential. A tap rooted plant which tolerates heat, humidity and drought. Thin flower stems tend to become leggy and flop, particularly when grown in rich soil, and plants can benefit from close planting or support from adjacent perennials. Bee Blossom, commonly called Gaura, is an herbaceous clump-forming perennial that is native to Texas and Louisiana. It grows to as much as 2-3’ tall. Pinkish buds along wiry, erect, wand-like stems open to white flowers which slowly fade to pink. Flowers appear in long, open, terminal panicles and open only a few at a time. Narrow, lance-shaped, stemless leaves (1-3" long) are occasionally spotted with maroon.

• Big Leaf Aster (Eurybia macrophylla) 1 gallon

  Big Leaf Aster is perfect for shady areas with less than perfect soil. Drought tolerant, it thrives in both dry sand and heavy clay soils that possess a modicum of organic matter. Big Leaf Aster is often planted for its large, heart-shaped basal foliage which forms a nice ground cover. Upright stems emerge from the base in late summer, bearing clusters of delicate, bluish-white rayed flowers, from August thru September. Great for stabilizing shaded hillsides and slopes, it spreads by rhizomes to form a ground cover. It is a host plant for the Pearl Crescent Butterfly. Grown in Partial shade-shade Medium to dry soils 1-2 feet tall

• Black Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta) 1 gallon

  Easy to grow and very drought-tolerant, this Rudbeckia tolerates heat, drought and a wide range of soils, but does not like poorly drained, wet soils. At 1-3 feet tall, it is grown in full to partial sun. And blooms from June until September. Black-eyed Susan is one of the larval host plants of the Silvery Checkerspot. Its bright yellow flowers attract many different butterflies, moths, and bees. This plant is of high value to pollinators.

• Black Eyed Susan or Orange Coneflower (Rudbeckia fulgida) 1G

  Orange Coneflower is a butterfly favorite with a mid-summer-to-fall bloom time that can be prolonged by removing spent blossoms (dead-heading). The large, daisy-like flowers have yellow-orange rays and purple-brown centers. Plants remain in a mounded-profile and can form colonies in large plantings on sunny sites with medium-dry to medium-wet soil, although consistent moisture and good circulation seem to be preferred in the establishment years. This Rudbeckia is deer resistant. Full sun to part sun 3 feet tall Blooms July-September

• Blue Cardinal Flower (Lobelia siphilitica) 1G

  Lobelia siphilitica offers a deep-hued counterpoint to the yellows of late summer. This colony-forming, short-lived perennial grows well in medium to wet soils, especially with a little shade. In its native range, Great Blue Lobelia can be found in wet prairies, soggy meadows, pond and creek edges, marshland borders, and other moist areas. Blue Lobelia grows large, richly flowered spikes. The deep blue-violet flowers on these spikes attract many bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Lobelias produce a secondary compound known as "lobeline," which deters herbivores. Full to part sun in wet to medium soils. Blooms July through October at 2-3 feet tall.

• Blue Eyed Grass (Sisyrinchium angustifolium) 1G

  Are you looking for a striking, unusual addition to your garden? Or a splash of color during the spring to summer transition? Consider the Blue-eyed Grasses (Sisyrinchium species)! What they lack in size they certainly make up for in beauty and tenacity. If you have a well-drained site in your yard that receives lots of sun, these are the plants for you. This beautiful plant blooms a star-shaped flower that opens in the morning to reveal six blueish-purple petals and a yellow center, and then will close in the afternoon or evening. Despite their common name, the Blue-eyed Grasses are not grasses at all but rather members of the Iris family. They handle competition quite well and readily spread via underground rhizomes. A large patch of these little plants is truly a sight to behold, especially if you are a bee. Pollinators readily take to the flowers, which is nice considering that most Sisyrinchium species bloom and provide pollen and nectar to our winged friends before some of the larger summer flowers really get going. The petals even provide markings that are like runway signs for pollinators. Yellow is a favorite of bees and the yellow center of this flower is a perfect announcement of yummy treats within. The leaves of all Sisyrinchium plants are stiff, fan-like, and in deep green bunches that resemble grass with wider and unbranched stems. Grown in full or partial sun in Medium to dry soil. Blooms April-June at 6 inches tall.

• Blue Mist Flower (Conoclinium coelestinum) 1G

  Blue mist flower reaches up to two feet in height with downy, purplish, branching stems in moist or low savanna settings. Resembling a lovely blue-purple fog when found in dense stands, the disk flowers form in clusters of 35-70 at the tops of stems in late summer and autumn, attracting late-season butterflies. It will spread by roots more aggressively in wet conditions. Insects that feed on Eupatorium species (Bonesets) may also use Mistflower as a host plant. These species include Clymene Moth, Lined Ruby Tiger Moth, and the Three-Lined Flower Moth. Grown in part sun in wet, medium, or dry soils. Very adaptable. Blooms August through October at 2 feet tall.

• Blue Ridge Catchfly (Silene ovata) 1 gallon

  Blue Ridge Catchfly will charm any gardener or garden visitor who is out in the garden early evening. The flowers open around dusk. They resemble white frilly snowflakes and are delightfully fragrant. Nocturnal pollinators are sure to visit the flowers. In its native habitat, Silene ovata is found in forests on rocky wooded slopes. Silene ovata forms a lanky tangle of stems to 3' tall x 5' wide, clothed with narrow, sticky green leaves...to catch flies. At the end of each stem, you'll find the small white carnation-like white flowers that open in the evening, just in time for a visit from a thirsty moth. Blue Ridge Catchfly thrives in part sun to bright shade and average moisture to moderately dry.

• Blue Sage (Salvia azurea) 1 gallon

  Blue sage is a 3-5 foot salvia that is easy to grow in medium to dry soils in full to partial sun. It has no trouble over wintering. In a prairie planting or naturalized setting the unusual clear blue blooms are visible from a great distance. This is a late blooming salvia, blooming July to first frost. So it’s perfect for bees,butterflies, and hummingbirds when everything else gets tired.

• Blue Stemmed Goldenrod (Solidago caesia) 1G

  Blue Stemmed Goldenrod does not spread as aggressively as some goldenrods. This plant features graceful arching stems covered with hundreds of small yellow flowers. The distinct stems are purplish in color. Native to rich woodlands in the Eastern half of the U.S. it prefers light shade but will tolerate full sun. A mature clump has great presence and texture – brightening any semi-shade garden late in the season. Solidago caesia is an interesting goldenrod for a variety of garden styles: open woodland garden, border, cottage or butterfly garden. As with all goldenrods, it is a desirable source of late-season pollen. Other common names include Wreath Goldenrod. Goldenrods are often mistakenly blamed as the cause of hay fever - an allergic reaction to wind-borne pollen. But they, and most native wildflowers, do not have wind-borne pollen. Instead, the pollen is moved from bloom to bloom by bees, butterflies and other pollinators. Part sun-shade, dry-average soils, 2-3’

• Blue Vervain (Verbena hastata) 1 gallon

  Verbena hastata is a clumping perennial with stiff erect square-ish stems. Leaves are opposite with coarse teeth. In summer, plants are topped by narrow spikey panicles of small tubular purple flowers. Plants thrive in full or part sun in moist or wet mucky soils. But is adaptable to average garden soils and red clay. Plants grow up to 2-6’ tall with 1-2’ spread. The nectar and pollen of Verbena hastata attracts a wide variety of native bees, honey bees, beneficial wasps, pollinating flies, small butterflies, skippers and moths. Caterpillars of the verbena moth and common buckeye butterfly feed on the leaves. Cottontail rabbits nibble young foliage and cardinals, sparrows and juncos forage for the seed.

• Bradbury’s Monarda (Monarda bradburiana) 1G

  Also called Bradbury's Bee Balm, this Monarda is shorter and more compact than the popular classic prairie plant Monarda fistulosa, or Wild Bergamot. Bradbury's Monarda is an excellent choice for home landscaping, tolerating sun and shade conditions and average garden soil. Like all Bee Balm species, it has a wonderful minty/oregeno smell, is deer resistant, and will attract many pollinating insects. Full to partial sun Medium to dry soils 2 feet tall

• Broadleaf Barbara’s Buttons (Marshallia trinervia) 1 gallon

  Clusters of ovate, glossy green basal leaves that put up several central flower stalks. The flowers are pink to white in compact globular heads with distinctive trumpet-shaped ray flowers lining the outer edges. Spreads slowly through rhizomes, especially in sunny, wet areas. Flowers are followed by brown seed heads in fall. This plant occurs naturally on seepy calcereous riverbanks. Coarse sand mixed with the soil before planting and consistently moist soil will help it thrive. Grown in full to part sun. At 1-2 feet tall, it booms May-June.

Grasses and Sedges $10.99

• Appalachian Sedge (Carex appalachica) 1G $10.99

  Appalachian Sedge is a native grass-like plant with thin, fine-textured leaf blades. Appalachian Sedge is an outstanding choice for use as an attractive grassy groundcover for shade and heavy shade areas at just 12” tall. Appalachian Sedge is adaptable to a wide range of soils including clay. It needs only moderate moisture but not wet soil like some Carex species. A clumper, space the plants 10 to 12 inches apart to create a swirling carpet of green. Mow it high in early to mid-spring so it will look its best during the growing season.

• Broomsedge (Andropogon virginicus) 1 gallon $10

  Broomsedge is a clumping warm-season grass with foliage that turns in fall from green to shades of gold, bronze, brown, and orange. The foliage persists, providing striking color through winter and into the following year. Foliage also provides nesting habitat for wildlife including gamebirds and long-lasting cover for insects and other wildlife. Seeds are eaten by songbirds; seeds are borne on flowering culms that were historically used as brooms. Host plant for larvae of the cobweb skipper. Grown in full sun, average-dry soil, 3-4’ tall.

• Cherokee Sedge (Carex cherokeensis) 1 gallon $10.99

  Cherokee Sedge is a robust perennial sedge that forms attractive slowly spreading clumps. The narrow leaves are shiny, upright and are often evergreen. In late spring greenish white scaly flower spikes dangle above the gracefully shaggy foliage. The flowers transition into pendant wheat-like seed clusters. This sedge is planted most often in woodland or shade gardens with average, moist or wet soil. Plants are also at home in sunny meadows and seasonally flooded open woodlands. Grown in full sun-full shade, medium-wet soil. It is moderately tolerant of foot traffic. This sedge is up to 2’ tall with a 2-4’ spread.

• Indian Grass (Sorghastrum nutans) 1G $10.99

  Indian Grass is one of the first warm season grasses to form seeds and they are rich clusters of bronze colored seed heads. Golden stems and large seed heads provide ample color and texture to plantings and birds will enjoy the seeds come fall. Plants are wind pollinated. Indian Grass does spread by rhizomes. Different species of grasshoppers and caterpillars will feed on the blades of Indian Grass; in turn these insects are important food sources for upland game birds and songbirds, where they will also find ideal nesting habitat in stands of tall prairie grasses such as Indian Grass. Indian Grass is one of the host plants of the Pepper and Salt Skipper and the Ottoe Skipper. Grown in full-part sun in medium-dry soil. Average height of 6 feet.

• Ivory Sedge (Carex eburnea) 1G $10.99

  Grow in medium moisture soils in part shade to full shade. Thrives in soils that receive consistent moisture but also will grow in drier sandy or rocky soils. Cut foliage to the ground and remove in late winter. Plants spread slowly by rhizomes over time, sometimes forming large colonies in optimum conditions It is also known to grow in drier sandy soils, particularly on limestone outcroppings and glades. This sedge is grown in the landscape for its foliage effect. Soft, thread-like, green leaves form a spherical, porcupine-like clump to 6-10” tall and as wide. Whitish-green flowers on spikes in spring are insignificant.

• Leavenworth’s sedge (Carex leavenworthii) 1G $10.99

  Carex leavenworthii is an attractive fine-textured clump-forming sedge. Sprays of flowers are produced in mid-to-late April on long, wiry stems that tend to lean soon after they finish blooming. The plants eventually grow a flush of new foliage from their crowns that fills out the form of the plant by July. In the wild, Leavenworth’s sedge grows in dry, open woodlands but proved to be quite tolerant and adaptable to the average garden soils. This species showed its potential for use in dry shade as the foliage remained green and lush during summer droughts when other Carex were showing signs of stress. This sedge is 6-12” tall with an equal spread.

• Longleaf Wood Oats (Chasmanthium sessiliflorum) 1G $10.99

  Longleaf Wood Oats grow in woodland areas with rich organic matter. Shade or filtered sun is preferred. Drought tolerant once established but may need water during extreme drought conditions. They can also tolerate periodic flooding and can be used for erosion control. Plants make nice clumps at 3’ tall.

• Pennsylvania Sedge (Carex pensylvanica) 1G $10.99

  Pennsylvania Sedge has a narrow, low growing foliage that forms a lush green carpet. It makes a fine lawn alternative or ground cover. It spreads slowly by rhizomes and is most effective when planted in masses. Carex pensylvanica is perfect for woodland gardens or shady areas. This petite, eight-inch beauty flowers in May. It is a great pollinator plant, supporting several caterpillar species. In the wild, it provides shelter and nesting material for birds. It is semi-evergreen and drought tolerant once established.

• Purple Love Grass (Eragrostis spectabilis) 1 gallon $10.99

  Purple Love Grass is a perennial, warm season grass that grows actively during the summer when soil temperatures are warm. It reaches heights of 1-2 feet even in the driest, poorest of soils. It thrives in full sun and sandy sites. Purple Love Grass can also grow under Black Walnut trees where other plants fail. The seed heads (or florets) bloom mid-summer in shades of light to bright purple, giving an overall purple haze to the landscape. This tough ornamental grass is an absolutely stunning addition to any rock garden or drier landscape. Grown in full to partial shade in dry soils. At 1-2 feet tall, it blooms June-July.

• Purpletop Grass (Tridens flavus) 1 gallon $10

  Purpletop Grass is a perennial warm-season grass native to the East Coast and Southern Plains of the United States. It is a bunchgrass that when planted in mass puts a stunning reddish-purple top into meadows during mid-summer to early autumn. The purple seed heads are covered with an oily substance inspiring another common name, Grease Grass. This species is the larval host of a number of butterflies and moths, including Common Wood Nymph, Crossline Skipper, Little Glassywing, and Broad-winged Skipper. Seeds are eaten by birds.

• Side Oats Grama (Bouteloua curtipendula) 1G $10.99

  Side-oats Grama is a rarity among native grasses in the way that it sports its tiny attractive flowers during the summer bloom time. Bracts hang uniformly from one side of the stem while brilliant red-purple anthers dangle below and delicate white stigmas protrude above. When the seed heads dry, they have a distinctly oat-like appearance. Side-oats Grama is a warm-season grass that grows actively during the summer months when soil temperatures are warm. Its current range is throughout North America and south to Argentina, and it is cited as a food source or larval host for at least five types of skipper butterflies. Its rhizomatous clumping tendency and moderate height make it a good specimen. Grown in full sun-part sun in medium-dry soils at 2’ tall.

Shrubs $10.99-29.99

• ‘Ruby Slippers’ Oakleaf Hydrangea (Hydrangea quercifolia 'Ruby Slippers' Dwarf Cultivar) 2G $29.99

  A profusion of exceptionally large, white blooms in summer that quickly age to deep pink. Robust blooms remain upright even after heavy rains. Dark green, deeply lobed oak-like foliage turns brilliant mahogany in fall. The compact form works in smaller landscapes and is useful for mass planting, hedges or borders. Grown in part sun-part shade in average to moist soils. This dwarf Oakleaf hydrangea stays small at 3 feet tall with up to a 5 foot spread. Blooming white in the summer with blooms fading to ruby.

• Alabama Azalea (Rhododendron alabamense) 3 gallon $29.99

  Alabama Azalea is a deciduous (looses its leaves in winter) woody shrub. It is found in mixed hardwood forests and hillsides within its spotty native range of Northern and Central Alabama. The only Rhododendron/Azalea to be named after the state it originated from. It is a midseason bloomer, meaning it blooms later in May, with strongly fragrant lemon-scented white flowers with a prominent yellow blotch on the upper petal. Rhododendron alabamense is more drought tolerant than most of our other native azaleas because it tends to grow in drier woodlands naturally. It was described as a new species in 1921 by Alabama botanist, Charles Mohr, from plants found in Cullman County. This is not a species you will see in your local plant nursery. It has a G5 federal listing. Meaning it is globally imperiled with only 10-15 habitat locations of this azeala remaining in Alabama. This shrub grows best in part shade (morning sun and afternoon shade is best-east facing) with average to dry soils. It grows slowly to 6-8 feet tall with loose, irregular branching. Careful not to plant too deep. Allow a quarter inch of the root crown or root flare to be above soil level and mulch. Almost like a mini volcano at planting. This keeps them from settling too deep over time which leads to root rot and possibly death.

• American beautyberry (Callicarpa americana) 2G $25.99

  Beautyberry is prized more for their fruit than its flower by gardeners and wildlife. It’s a wonderful understory shrub with a naturally loose and graceful arching form. Ranging from 3-5 feet tall and wide. In the fall and early winter, the branches are laden with magenta purple berry clusters that look spectacular as the leaves drop in autumn. It is useful under shade trees in a garden setting in part sun areas. Tolerant of some of the worst soil and water conditions. Although it will abort its berries in severe drought as in 2019. The berries are of great importance as a fall and winter food source for birds. And although they are too tart to eat off the bush people do still make Beautyberry jam.

• American Holly (Ilex opaca) 2G $25.99

  The height of American holly ranges from 25 ft.+ but is very adaptable to hard pruning for shape and size. The stout, stiff branches of this pyramidal evergreen bear dark green, non-glossy, spine-tipped leaves. New growth finally pushes off the old leaves in spring. Bright red berries occur on the female plants. A shorter, multi-trunked form may grow in lower-light situations. Grown in sun to shade in moist to well-drained soils. Least adaptable to heavy clay.

• Arrowwood Viburnum (Viburnum dentatum) 2 gallon $25.99

  Native Americans reportedly used the straight stems of Arrowwood Viburnum for arrow shafts, hence the common name. The toothed, triangular leaves are also shaped somewhat like an arrowhead. Arrowwood grows adaptably in a range of conditions and is sometimes planted as an attractive hedge, noted for its creamy white flower clusters and its pearly blue fruits. Grown in full to partial sun in average garden soil (adaptable to clay). Blooming early at 5-7 feet tall. A great berry producer for birds and wildlife.

• Black Chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa) 2G $25.99

  Black chokeberry is a dependable small to medium sized shrub with a upright, mounded habit. Small clusters of white flowers in spring are followed by glossy black fruit. Dark green foliage turns reddish-purple in the fall. The fruit is of high importance to a number of bird species and small mammals like squirrels, usually in mid to late winter when food sources are scarce. Full to partial sun. Tolerant of drought AND flooding 4-8 feet tall The perfect look-a-like replacement hedge for the dreaded privet hedge.

• Bottlebrush Buckeye (Aesculus parviflora) 2G $25.99

  Bottlebrush Buckeyes are dense shrubs with an abundance of foliage and flowers. They naturally grow into a mounded shape with flowering panicles that reach above the foliage. Spent flowers produce buckeye nuts that are not edible. In the fall, the leaves turn a stunning yellow before dropping. Bottlebrush Buckeye prefers fertile, medium moisture, well drained soils in full shade to part shade. Plenty of water is necessary while the root system establishes in the first year after planting. Over time they will become more adaptable to drought conditions. They do not require any pruning. Bottlebrush Buckeye are popular shrubs for grouping along shaded areas of a landscape. They can line driveways or structures. Their size (up to 12′) allow them to be used as natural fences between small yards. The large flowers are attractive to butterflies and hummingbirds, making them a perfect addition to a pollinator garden or naturalized area.

• Button Bush or (Cephalanthus occidentalis) 2 gallon $25.99

  Buttonbush requires full sun to partial shade, and medium to wet soils. Buttonbush can tolerate flood conditions and shallow standing water for short periods of time. It does not do well in dry soils. In natural settings, Buttonbush is often found in thickets, low woods, swamps, and stream margins, where older shrubs will have many branches and twisted trunks. Since it is tolerant of very wet soils, it is an ideal candidate for a rain garden or wetland restoration project. Growing up to 12' tall and 8' wide, this showy shrub is visited by many different species. The name of this shrub comes from the interesting flowers, which are arranged in small spheres with protruding anthers. Its tiny white flowers bloom all summer and are attractive to many different bee and butterfly species, including the swallowtail butterfly. Fruiting heads appear throughout the winter and are consumed by many waterfowl and shorebirds.

• Coastal Doghobble (Leucothoe axillaris) 2G $25.99

  Coastal Doghobble is a multi-stemmed, broadleaf evergreen shrub, 2-4 ft. tall, with a fountain-like arching habit. Flowers are white, waxy bells clustered in drooping spikes. Branches are zig-zagged toward the end, and the lance-shaped, dark-green, glossy foliage turns red-green and purple in winter. Grown in shade-part shade in moist-well drained soils. It is not drought tolerant. Its native range is coastal Alabama.

• Common Ninebark (Physocarpus opulifolius) 2G $25.99

  An excellent native shrub for year-round interest, the arching branches of Common Ninebark give this shrub a full, mounded shape. Five petaled flowers appear in dense, spirea-like clusters in spring, and give way to clusters of reddish-pink capsules. The clusters eventually turn brown and persist into the winter. The leaves are yellow in the fall. Named for its unusual bark which peels in strips to reveal several layers of reddish to light brown inner bark, Ninebark is a popular 'winter interest' shrub. Physocarpus opulifolius makes an excellent hedge plant and provides good erosion control. Both short and long-tongued bees can access the flower nectar. Mining bees are known to be frequent pollinators of ninebark flowers. Very adaptable to conditions! Clay, Loam, Sand and Dry, Medium, or Moist soils. Full Sun, Partial, or Shade. 5-10 feet tall blooming white in May-June

• Common Witch Hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) 2G $25.99

  Witch Hazel is a large native shrub or small tree with a multi-stemmed trunk and spreading branches that form an irregular, open crown. Mature plants can reach heights of 25 feet, however 12 to 15 feet is typical. Despite its stunning fall leaf color, Witch Hazel is best known for its fringed yellow flowers which appear in late fall and stay on the branches long after the leaves have dropped. Found in moist soils, but grows equally well in well-drained top soil and poorly drained clay. Extremely dry situations are best avoided. As a woodland understory shrub it prefers some shade but it will grow in full sun as well. The flowers are self-fertile and pollination is carried out by small flies and bees, foraging late in the season, along with several species of Eupsilia moths, known as winter moths, which are active on cold nights. Once pollinated the flowers go dormant for the winter, and mature the following year. The mature seeds open suddenly, with a popping sound, and are jetted to a distance of up to 30 feet from the mother tree.

• Coral Bean (Erythrina herbacea) 2G $25.99

  This tropical looking perennial shrub is native to coastal areas and found in sandy, open woodlands, clearings, and in naturalized areas. In cooler zones, it will freeze above ground in winter but will regrow in the spring. Its main attraction is coral-red flowers which are attractive to hummingbirds. It grows well in loamy clay soils Coral bean is a low, glossy-leaved, thorny shrub, growing up to 6 ft. Leaves fall in winter and before reappearing in spring. Upright spikes of showy, tubular flowers appear on the bare branches. The bright-red flowers, up to 12 inches long in spike-like clusters, occur on the upper part of the stem. These are followed by a persistent legume pod containing several bright red beans. Beans are poisonous to humans if eaten and can especially be a problem for children due to their smaller size. Growing in full sun-part shade, dry soils, growing 5-6ft tall. Attracts Hummingbirds.

• Devil’s Walking Stick (Aralia spinosa) 2 gallon $25.99

  Devil’s Walking Stick is valued as an ornamental shrub because of its large compound leaves that are up to 5 feet long and 4 feet wide! And also for its showy white inflorescence and its black berries on pink stalks. It can reach 30 feet in height, but typically remains somewhere between 8’ and 20’. Its name comes from the sharp spines that spiral around the stems. Its flowers are a great source of both nectar and pollen for bees, and the berries are consumed by many birds and mammals. Devil’s Walking Stick is typically found in woodland edges and openings. It grows best in partial shade and moist, acidic soils, but tolerates full sun and a wide variety of soils.

• Dwarf Serviceberry (Amelanchier spicata) 2G $25.99

  Dwarf Serviceberry is a multi-season plant that is attractive to bees, other pollinators, and birds. It forms dense, low thickets through the production of many upright shoots from the underground stems. They are easily grown in average, medium, well-drained soil in full sun to part shade. Tolerant of a somewhat wide range of soils. The plant's small size lends itself well to growing in rock gardens. It is useful as a hedge planting because of its tendency to spread. Running Serviceberry is a host plant for 105 species of Lepidoptera larvae, including the Eastern Tiger Swallow Tail, Red Spotted Purple, Interrupted dagger moth, Pale Beauty Moth, admiral butterflies, and two specialist moths. Bees are attracted to the flowers, and fruits are eaten by songbirds, ruffed grouse, and a wide range of mammals. It’s mildly resistant to deer. Mature Height: 5 - 10' Sun Requirement: Sun to part shade Moisture Requirement: Dry - moist Flower Color: White Bloom Time: Spring (May or earlier)

• Elderberry (Sambucus canadensis) 2 gallon $25.99

  Elderberry forms large (to 10') bushes on mostly sunny sites with medium-dry to medium-wet soils. Large clusters of fragrant white flowers attract pollinators June-July. Edible berries ripen to a deep red-purple. Birds and mammals relish the fruit. Stems can die back but new shoots emerge from the root mass.

• False Indigo Bush (Amorpha fruticosa) 3 gallon $25.99

  False Indigo Bush is a 6' to 10' tall native perennial shrub. It is a legume and grows best in medium to wet soils in full sun or partial shade sites. This plant features woody lower stems, branch stems with alternate leaves, and showy terminal spike-like racemes of small tubular dark blue flowers. It is usually found in wet ground along rivers, streams, ponds, ditches, swamp margins, and wet open woods. The plant does contain some indigo pigment and could be used as a substitute for wild indigo. This is an exotic looking plant often planted as an ornamental. It fixes nitrogen and the seeds attract numerous game birds and song birds. False Indigo does sucker in its native habitat of wet areas but I have found if planted in average to medium soil (not wet) it doesn’t sucker aggressively, although you may have to supplemental water during periods of drought.

• Fothergilla (Fothergilla gardenii) 3G $25.99

  Fothergilla ‘Mt. Airy’ is a low maintenance deciduous shrub in the Hamamelidaceae (witch-hazel) family. It grows best in slightly acidic, organically rich, well-drained soils in full sun to partial or dappled shade. While the flower display and fall color are often best in full sun, the shrub overall does better with some afternoon shade. It will tolerate wet soil and compaction yet is also drought tolerant. The shrub begins with a rounded habit and matures to a height of 3 to 6 feet and a width of 2 to 6 feet. Fothergilla has no flower petals; the showy part of its flowers are its aromatic stamens which resemble bottle brushes and emerge before the leaves in the spring. The blue-green leathery summer foliage turns to vibrant pinks, oranges, and yellows providing knock out color in the fall landscape. Bees and pollinators are attracted to this honey-scented shrub, making it an ideal addition to pollinator, native, or sensory gardens. It also works well planted along a foundation, as a specimen plant in a woodland or cottage garden, or grouped in mass to create an informal, low hedge.

• Green Hawthorn (Crataegus viridis) 2 gallon $25.99

  Green Hawthorn, like most hawthorns, has gray, thorny bark, bears white flowers in the spring, and produces red fruit in the fall. However, unlike most hawthorns, the Green Hawthorn is resistant to leaf rust. It is native to the southeastern United States. Green Hawthorn is a dense, rounded tree that typically grows 20-35’ tall with a broad spreading crown. When present, thorns grow to 1 1/2 inches long. Leaves turn purple to red in fall. Fruits, sometimes called haws, are technically edible, but are usually best left for the birds. Green Hawthorn is easy to grow in average, dry to medium, well-drained soils in full sun. It tolerates urban pollution, light shade, and drought, but moist, rich, fertile soils may encourage water sprout growth. The plant also tolerates pruning and can be shaped into a hedge in the landscape. Birds are attracted to the fruit in the fall and find nesting shelter amid the thorny branches. Host to nectar-bees, nectar-butterflies, and mammals seeking fruit. Larval host for kings hairstreak, gray hairstreak, soapberry hairstreak, banded hairstreak, red-banded hairstreak.

• Hearts a Bursting(Euonymus americanus) 2 gallon $25.99

  Hearts a Bursting is a low maintenance deciduous shrub. Its common name derives from the showy warty capsules that split open to reveal red-orange seeds in the fall. Spring flowers are small and non-showy but fall leaf color is a showy red. It has a sprawling form when young but matures to a more upright growth pattern. It is native to wooded slopes and moist woodland areas. It is found in a variety of soil conditions ranging from sandy to clay and tolerates both drought and wet soils to a degree. It also tolerates being planted near black walnut trees. Fruits and seeds are eaten by birds and small mammals. And is a favorite for deer. Plant in a woodland naturalized area for best results. This plant has a low flammability rating.

• Inkberry Holly (Ilex glabra) 2G $25.99

  Inkberry holly is native to the Coastal Plain of the eastern United States. It tolerates periodic flooding, droughts, and salt exposure. It is adaptable to all soil textures, including clay. Inkberry grows slowly and spreads gradually by root suckers (rhizomes). This is a dioecious species, meaning there are female and male flowers on separate plants. Small black berries will form only on fertilized female plants. The Holly Society of America noted in 2020 that some inkberries might have self-fertile flowers, or they may be pollinated by other Ilex species. This may account for berry production without a male inkberry. Use this evergreen shrub for a hedge, foundation plant, privacy screen, pollinator garden, or rain garden. Inkberry does not grow as densely as other hollies or boxwoods. It tends to become bare at the base as it matures. If desired, select a few stems to prune out in early spring (before new growth begins) to stimulate new growth near the base (a process called thinning). Shearing is not recommended. The berries of female inkberry plants are eaten by some songbirds and small mammals. It is a host plant for moths: Laurel Sphinx and Pawpaw Sphinx. Inkberry is deer-resistant. Grown in full sun-full shade and in dry soils to periodic flooding. This 5-8 foot evergreen is a versatile species.

Ferns $10.99

• Christmas Fern (Polystichum acrostichoides) 1 gallon $10.99

  One of the most familiar ferns of eastern North America, Christmas Fern is named for its evergreen fronds where each leaf segment looks like a stocking. They also made available Christmas decorations and gifts for early pioneers. The firm, deep green leaves are a great companion for woodland wildflowers. Shady wooded slopes are its native habitat, and it will thrive in any well-drained soils. Avoid planting it in consistently moist or heavy clay soils, as poorly drained soils can result in crown rot. Resistant to damage from deer, the rhizomatous plants will expand to form a large clump 1 - 2 feet wide, but will not creep or form ground cover. Christmas Fern is juglone tolerant and will grow successfully under walnut or hickory trees. Mature plants can be divided in early spring. Mulch with fallen leaves.

• Dixie Wood Fern (Dryopteris x australis) 1 gallon $10.99

  Sturdy, lustrous dark green fronds form a broad clump, making a bold statement in a shade or woodland garden. Mass as a backdrop for other shade-loving plants. This easy, dependable fern thrives in moist settings but tolerates drier sites when established. A semi evergreen grown in full to partial shade.

• Goldie's Wood Fern (Dryopteris goldiana) 1G $10.99

  This is the largest of the wood ferns, reaching 4' in ideal conditions. It is a stately and slowly spreading groundcover, forming large clusters of graceful arching fronds. Named for botanist John Goldie, its fronds are green without a hint of gold. Considered to be the largest of the genera Dryopteris in North America, Dryopteris goldiana is prized for its statuesque fronds that grow 3’-4’ tall in a vase shape. It is a reliable fern in this climate, and it slowly spreads through the garden. We enjoy the arching habit of the fronds and the deep green color, making it wonderful to plant in mass in the shade or woodland garden. Dryopteris goldiana hails from Newfoundland to Alabama, west to Minnesota and Arkansas and can be found in seepage slopes, swamp edges, and moist woods. According to botanist Dr. John Hilty, the presence of this fern indicates high-quality habitats such as old-growth hardwood forests where maple, beech, or basswood are the dominant canopy layer and shrub competition is reduced. In humus-rich soils with moist to mesic conditions and dappled sunlight to medium shade, Dryopteris goldiana will thrive. Prefers moist, rich, well-drained soils in full to partial shade. Needs protection from wind. Spreads slowly by rhizomes. Best planted in masses in the shaded or woodland garden.

• Lady Fern (Athyrium asplenioides) 1G $10

  Lady fern is a 2–3-foot fern with lacy, broad deciduous leaves and is native to central and eastern USA. It is found growing in meadows, open thickets, moist woods, and occasionally in swamps and is often found in the understory of cedars, firs and hemlock woodlands. It spreads by underground rhizomes and will form a dense ground cover over time. It provides cover for wildlife and parts are used in bird nest construction. Grown in shade in medium-moist soils at 2-3’ tall.

• Northern Maidenhair Fern (Adiantum pedatum) 1 gallon $10

  The fine textured fronds stand up to 2 feet high with an overall delicate appearance. The stems are black or dark purple, usually hairless and occasionally covered with whitish bloom. Each leaflet has a few hundred, very small sub-leaflets contributing to the dainty appearance of the plant. Northern maidenhair fern prefers part to full shade and moist habitats. Specifically, Northern maidenhair fern prefers deciduous woods with rich well-drained soil. When planted in the garden, keep moist throughout the season as it doesn’t tolerate drying out. Northern maidenhair fern spreads through its rhizomes to form patches over time. Patience is needed with this fern because it spreads slowly.

• Sensitive Fern (Onoclea sensibilis) 1 gallon $10

  Sensitive Fern has distinctive, coarsely lobed leaves of a slightly chartreuse color. A good native fern for clay soils, it grows best in partial or full shade, in moist settings. It also does very well in average garden soils, as long as there is consistent moisture and the soil is not allowed to dry out. In optimal conditions Sensitive Fern spreads quickly by rhizomes, making it an excellent ground cover plant for low moist areas. The name, Sensitive Fern, refers to the tendency of the leaves to die-back with the first frost. Rabbit and deer resistant.

Vines $8.99-25.99

• Coral Honeysuckle ‘Alabama Crimson/Lonicera sempervirens 'Alabama Crimson' 2G $25.99

  Coral Honeysuckle is a native vine that needs a trellis or pole to climb. This selection features clusters of crimson-pink and yellow flowers in late spring, then off and on until frost. It is by far the most profuse bloomer of the native honeysuckle cultivars. Although not fragrant, the flowers are very attractive to hummingbirds. The foliage is blue-green in color, remaining attractive well into the winter. May also be grown as a spreading groundcover. Prune back hard every 2 to 3 years to force dense growth from the base. Grown in full sun. Average to moist soils. Blooms Spring to first frost.

• White Veined Dutchman’s Pipevine (Aristolochia fimbriata) 1G $15.99 (Native to South America)

  The creeping or sprawling perennial prefers morning sun and afternoon shade. It will tolerate full shade and can tolerate full sun with adequate watering. Rich or sandy well-drained soil is preferred. It propagates by self-sowing of seeds from the previous season. It dies back and goes dormant in winter. This groundcover grows 6 to 12 inches in height and spreads about 2 or 3 feet. New shoots are produced from the buds that sit at ground level atop a tuberous root system. This mounding plant has green, wiry stems. Unlike most of its pipevine kin, it is not a twining vine and will not climb a trellis. It is sometimes grown as a houseplant with the top portion of the tuberous root exposed above ground to give added interest. The pipevine swallowtail butterfly uses the plant as a food source. Their caterpillars will strip the above-ground growth of the plant in mid-summer. and the adult butterflies will return to lay more eggs. When the new caterpillars emerge in the spring they feast on the tuberous roots. It is drought- and deer-resistant and works well in shady spots that could use a bright pop of color with its silvery leaves. The trailing form looks beautiful hanging from hanging baskets or cascading over a garden wall.

• Yellow Passionvine (Passiflora lutea) 1G $15.99

  This native perennial vine can grow to about 15′ tall but the soft stemmed vines are easy to contain. It is a larval host to 3 butterflies: Gulf Fritillary, Zebra Heliconia, and Variegated Fritillary Butterfly. It is also the only known food source of the Passionflower Bee. Birds and small mammals eat the small purple fruit. The summer foliage is subtly variegated with silver. The fall color is beautiful yellow. Plant in average to moist soil in part sun or part shade. It thrives in high Nitrogen and high Calcium soil.

• Wooly Dutchman's Pipevine (Aristolochia tomentosa) 1G $15.99

  Known as Wooly Dutchman's Pipevine because the flower resembles a Dutch smoking pipe. This perennial's native range includes the southeastern and South Central United States. This native woody vine is a host plant for both the Pipevine and Polydamas swallowtail butterflies. It does best in part shade to full sun. It is a vigorous vine with large heart-shaped leaves and can reach 20-30 feet. It grows great on a trellis, arbor, fence, and makes a nice screen in your garden when growing on higher structures. It likes medium moisture, well-drained soil and does not like to dry out. This plant is listed as endangered in Florida.

• Netleaf Leatherflower (Clemantis reticulata) 1G $10.99

  Netleaf Leather Flower is a graceful perennial vine admired for its striking, pinkish-purple flowers and distinctive fruit. This twining, trailing vine has the potential to grow 10 feet or more, creating a stunning vertical or cascading element in the garden. Blooming from spring through summer, it brings an eye-catching display to outdoor spaces. It thrives in full sun to part shade and prefers well-drained, sandy soil with an acidic to neutral pH. Its ecological benefits are vast: it serves as the larval host plant for the Mournful Thyris moth, offering critical support for their lifecycle, and its nectar-rich flowers attract a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies. Additionally, birds and small wildlife consume its seeds, further enriching its role in the ecosystem. Netleaf Leather Flower is an excellent choice for trellises, fences, or naturalized areas, adding beauty and biodiversity to any garden.

• Purple Passion Vine or Maypop (Passiflora incarnata) 1G $10.99

  Passion vines are an extremely exotic flower. Large complex flowers last only one day but are always a talking point. It needs climbing support in full sun but is not fussy about soil type. It dies down to the ground in the winter but will regrow from the rootstocks in the spring popping out of the ground once again in May - hence the name. Although a vigorous vine, it is not as large as many other species of passionflower growing to about 12 feet in length. Flowers are followed by globe shaped fruits about the size and shape of a small hen’s egg. Green initially turning slightly yellowish when ripe. When opened the seeds are embedded in a yellowish pulp that has a strong unique flavor. The host plant for Gulf Fritillary Butterfly, Variegated Fritillary and Zebra Longwing Butterfly.

• Wild Kidney Bean (Phaseolus polystachios) 1 gallon $15.99

  Sought-after and edible, Phaseolus polystachios is the wild relative of the cultivated varieties of lima beans. Wild Kidney Bean has smaller fruits, but can be dried, stored, and cooked the same as the cultivated varieties. This somewhat delicate perennial vine will climb if given support. When the seed pods are ripe, they will twist and expel the seeds. Phaseolus polystachios is also known as Thicket Bean and does prefer open thickets and woodland edges that have good drainage and are not heavily shaded. Full-part sun, medium-dry soils.

• Spurred Butterfly Pea (Centrosema virginianum) 3.5" $8.99

  Attracts butterflies in the shade or part shade! A delicate twining vine that can grow to just 4-6 feet. Adaptable to both dry and wet soils. Typically found on the edges of the forest. Having no tendrils, it climbs by twining around structures. If no structures are present, it will spread over the ground as a ground cover. Its root system is extensive, thereby making it useful as a form of erosion control or to stabilize the soil. Although pollinated primarily by bees, it serves as a host for the Northern cloudywing and the Long-tailed skipper butterflies. Its high protein and mineral content make it a good forage crop for livestock.

• Virgin’s Bower (Clematis virginiana) 1 gallon $15.99

  Virgin's Bower is a perennial vine that can extend up many feet. Its stems easily twine around trellises, fences, and nearby vegetation. Virgin's Bower prefers partial sun, medium to moist soil. One can often find Virgin's Bower in moist thickets, woodlands, moist meadows, floodplains, and riverbanks. White flowers abundantly spread along the length of the vine in small clusters. These flowers bloom mid-late summer and last about a month. The flowers are visited by Halictid bees, wasps, and various flies. The foliage is often used as nesting habitat for many songbirds. Virgin's Bower can be confused with Sweet Autumn Clematis (Clematis terniflora or Clematis paniculata,) an aggressive Asian vine with sweet-smelling flowers that has escaped from cultivation. The fragrance and the leaves sets the two vines apart: Virgin's Bower leaves are jagged on the edges whereas Sweet Autumn Clematis has rounded leaves.

• Swamp Leather Flower (Clematis Crispa) 1 gallon $15.99

  Clematis crispa, commonly called swamp leather flower, curly clematis or blue jasmine, is a semi-woody twining vine that is native to floodplain forests, marshes and swamps. Vines typically grow to 6-10’ tall. Solitary, bell-shaped, pale blue to violet blue flowers with white interiors bloom at the branch ends in late spring to early summer. Flowers are slightly fragrant. Flowers are followed by attractive seed heads. This clematis needs full sun/part shade and moderate moisture. Consider placing it near bodies of water, downspouts, or near irrigation. It can be trained to climb a wall, trellis, fence, arbor, porch, lamppost or other stationary structure. It provides good architectural height and framework for small gardens.

Trees $15.99-30.99

• Alternate-leaf Dogwood (Cornus alternifolia) 2G $30.99

  The alternate-leaf dogwood is a shrub or small tree that has horizontal branches that form tiers. The branches are parallel to the ground creating a layered tiered look with upturned branches like a pagoda. This plant may grow from 15 to 25 feet tall and 20 to 32 feet wide. Fragrant creamy-white flowers bloom from May to June. Bluish-black fruits appear from July to August. A distinctive feature of this shrub is its alternate leaf pattern. The alternate-leaf dogwood is best grown in full sun to partial shade. It prefers acidic, rich loamy, moist, and well-drained soils. It has a fibrous, spreading root system and prefers when the root zone is kept cool. Butterflies, birds, and small mammals are attracted to this shrub for its nectar and fruits. The alternate-leaf dogwood is an excellent native plant with four-season interest. Consider this shrub for your home garden as a specimen plant, shrub border, or in naturalized areas. Be sure to give it some shade in hot climates, mulch the root zone and keep the soil moist.

• American Beech (Fagus grandifolia) 2 gallon $30.99

  American Beech is probably most recognized in winter when it holds on to its fall leaves until early Spring. American beech is a large, graceful native tree, excellent for large, park-like landscapes where it has room to spread its wide, low-growing branches. The massive trunk has beautiful silver-gray bark; the dark green summer foliage turns a golden bronze in the fall. Leaves typically hang on well into the winter months adding to the seasonal interest. Grown in Full-part sun or dappled shade. Moist or well drained soils. 60-80’ height. An excellent shade tree. This tree was used by Native Americans for building materials, medicine, and food. Wood is hard, strong, and tough though it will rot when exposed to weather or soil. The wood is used for flooring, tools, containers, and has a high fuel value. The nuts are eaten by small mammals, white-tailed deer, black bears, foxes, ruffed grouse, wild turkeys, ducks, woodpeckers, white-breasted nuthatches, American crows and blue jays.

• American Hazelnut (Corylus americana) 2G $30.99

  American Hazelnut is an easy to grow native shrub that produces edible nuts in late summer. Able to thrive in a wide range of conditions, this 6-15 foot native shrub is a good choice for hedgerows or windbreaks. It can be pruned at any time of year and its deep green leaves turn copper and yellow in autumn. Highly attractive to wildlife, the nuts are eaten by squirrels, foxes, deer, northern bobwhite, ruffed grouse, turkey, woodpeckers and pheasants. The leaves, twigs, and catkins are browsed by rabbits and deer. The male catkins are a winter food for turkey and ruffed grouse. The dense, low growth habit provides cover and nesting sites for birds and other wildlife. It hosts numerous lepidoptera, including Polyphemus and Io moths. Grown in full-part sun in dry-moist soils. This is a unisex species, with separate male and female parts on the same branch. A single shrub will produce nuts, but as a wind-pollinated species 2 or more shrubs are recommended for optimal nut production.

• American Snowbell (Styrax americanus) 2 gallon 2-3' $30.99

  This is a slender-branched, deciduous shrub or small tree, 8-15 ft. tall, with a wide, wispy, open crown. American snowbell’s showy, white, bell-shaped flowers are borne in pairs from leaf axils. When in bloom, they cover the plant creating a fragrant, white cloud. The foliage is bright-green and glossy. Grown in Part Sun/shade Average to moist soils Blooms April-July Nectar source for pollinators

• Ben Franklin Tree (Franklinia alatamaha) 2G $30.99

  Extinct in the wild, this unique species is conserved in arboreta and botanical gardens around the world. The earliest mention of what would come to be called the Franklin tree appears in a journal entry in 1765. A father and son were on a trip through the southeastern part of the then British colony of Georgia when they noticed a striking tree growing along the banks of a river. The father, John Bartram, wrote that he’d seen “several very curious shrubs” in his journal. Bartram’s son, William, returned to the area in Georgia to collect seed of the Franklin tree several years later. Within 50 years, the tree was extinct in the wild. All living Franklin trees, which Bartram named for family friend Benjamin Franklin, are descended from the seeds Bartram collected. The plant is best grown in organically rich, medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun to part shade. It must have good soil drainage. Perhaps, appreciates some afternoon shade in AL. It can be sometimes difficult to transplant because of its sparsely fibrous root system and is best left undisturbed once planted in the landscape. It is best planted as a smaller specimen. To enhance planting success (especially in clay soils), we recommend amending the planting field with sand and organic matter and creating a slightly elevated, but broad mound, so that roots can grow outward, as well as down. Water well at first, but not excessively, and once or twice during the winter if it is excessively cold and dry.

• Black Walnut (Juglans nigra) 2 gallon 3-4’ $30.99

  Black Walnut is highly prized for its beautiful wood and delicious nuts. Walnut seedlings take 5-7 years to fruit, and are self-fertile trees. Grown in full to part sun in well-drained soils. Averaging 30-50 feet at maturity. You may have heard that Black Walnuts suppress plant growth but many of our native plants grow with Black Walnut.

• Bladdernut (Staphylea trifolia) 2 gallon $30.99

  The bark is mostly grey with a slightly rough texture on the trunk and larger branches. Smaller branches are smooth with streaks of black interspersed with grey. Leaves are opposite and compound with 3 leaflets that are about 2-3” long, ovate, and finely serrated. The drooping clusters of bell-shaped flowers may be some of the first that you notice in the spring. Each flower is about 1/3” long and 1/4” across with five light green or dull pink sepals and five white petals. At the end of its blooming period the flowers are replaced by a green, 3-lobed seed pod that persists through the summer and turns light brown in the fall. The flowers are visited by bumblebees, Halictid bees, Andrenid bees, Syrphid flies, Dance flies, and the Giant Bee fly. Bladdernut is also a host plant for Lopidea staphyleae (Red Plant Bug or Bladdernut Plant Bug). Grown in part shade-shade, average moisture, 20’ mature size.

• Carolina Buckthorn (Frangula caroliniana) 2 gallon 4-5’ $30.99

  This small, deciduous tree or shrub, usually 12-15 ft. tall, can reach 30 ft. in height with leaves that stay green into late fall. Flowers not showy, yellowish, in small clusters at the bases of the leaves, opening in May and June. Fruit fleshy, 1/4 inch or more in diameter, red, turning black when ripe. Songbirds and other wildlife consume the berries, which apparently have medicinal properties but can be toxic. Although called a buckthorn, this species has no spines.

• Carolina Silverbell (Halesia Carolina) 2G $30.99

  Carolina silverbell is a small tree with a rounded crown that is widely grown for its masses of showy, white, bell-like flowers (blooming in April) that mature into unusual, four-sided, inflated brown fruits. The smooth, gray bark of young saplings soon fissures into plates and scales in older trees. Carolina Silverbell grows into a 20 to 40-foot-tall tree with a 15 to 30-foot-spread and a pyramidal silhouette. Other ornamental features are the yellow fall color and the bark, which peel off in large, flat scales. Grown in full sun-part shade, average to occasionally wet soils. It does have moderate drought tolerance.

• Chalkbark Maple (Acer leucoderme) 3G $30.99

  Sometimes called Whitebark Maple, this tree is often classified as a subspecies of the Sugar Maple. Usually, it is a large shrub or small tree, with yellow flowers and small fruits with wide-spreading wings. It is easily recognized by its smooth, chalky-white bark (its Latin name, leucoderme, means “white skin”). Bark becomes ridged and blackish at its base as it ages. Its dark green leaves transform into brilliant yellow, orange, and deep red hues in the autumn. The chalk maple is restricted to small areas in the southeastern states, but most abundant in Georgia and Alabama. It lives in the understory in moist, rocky soils on riverbanks, ravines, woods, and cliffs. It is grown as a shade tree, as it is highly shade and drought tolerant.

• Eastern Red Cedar (Juniperus virginiana) 2G $30.99

  This juniper is easily grown in average, dry to moist, well-drained soil in full sun. In good conditions, it will grow to 30 to 40 feet in height and reach a width of 10 to 20 feet. It will tolerate a variety of soils and growing conditions, from swamps to dry, rocky ground. It has the best drought resistance of any conifer native to the eastern United States. This colorful tree needs space to grow. Plant 12 to 24 feet apart. Eastern red cedar has blue green, overlapping, scale-like leaves at maturity, but young shoots may have spreading, needle-like leaves. The bark is red brown in color and peels off in long, narrow, fibrous strips, often leaving ashy gray areas exposed. Light blue-green clusters of cones mature in late winter or early spring. Female (or predominantly female) trees produce small, round blue cones ("juniper berries") that mature in the fall and are beloved by cedar waxwings. Male trees make small pollen-producing cones. Pollen is wind-borne and released in large quantities. It provides winter cover for birds. And supports Juniper Hairstreak (Callophrys gryneus) and Imperial moth (Eacles imperialis) larvae. Adult Juniper Hairstreak butterflies feed on various flower nectars. Songbirds and small mammals eat the fruits.

• Hoptree (Ptelea trifoliata) 2G $30.99

  Hoptree is a deciduous small tree or large shrub in the citrus family. It can be found growing in areas such as rocky bluffs, open woodlands, and river bluffs. The common name hoptree is because the flat round fruits can be used as a substitute for hops in the brewing process. This very adaptable low maintenance plant should be sited in a location with full to partial shade. It is a slow to medium grower reaching 10 to 20 feet tall and wide with a bushy rounded habit that has branches low on the trunk. In the fall the three parted leaves turn a yellow green color. Use as a specimen or plant in small groups in an informal hedge or screen. Its ability to withstand shade makes it a good choice for an understory planting. The thin papery fruits hang on even through winter providing a food source for birds and small mammals as well as some winter interest to the landscape. Host Plant for Giant Swallowtail Butterfly.

• Kentucky Yellowwood (Cladrastis kentukea) 1G $10.99

  Yellowwood is a medium to large-sized tree, 30 to 50 feet high, with smooth bark, large hanging clusters of fragrant white flowers, and clear yellow fall color. Choose a Yellowwood tree for excellent shade in a small to medium sized landscape. The root system is deep, which makes transplanting difficult but allows shade-loving plants to grow underneath it. Yellowwood makes a great shade tree. Attracts songbirds for nesting sites and nectar and pollen attracts bees and other pollinators. Yellowwood was used by the Cherokee for carving as well as building structures. Grown in full-part sun, moist-well draining soils

• Longleaf Pine (Pinus palustris) 1G $15.99

  The Longleaf Pine trunk has scaly, coarse, light, orange-brown bark with upright branches forming an oval, open crown. The flexible, dark green needles are up to 18" long, and the large, spiny cones are up to 10" long and may persist on the tree for two years. For the first five to seven years, the pine stays in a tufted, grass-like stage after germination, growing slowly while the root system develops. Following the grass stage, it grows at a medium to fast rate. The inch long clusters of new growth are silver white during the winter. The roots are sensitive to disturbance.

• Red Maple (Acer rubrum) 2G $30.99

  The red maple is named for its red flowers, red fruit, red twigs, and of course its brilliant red fall foliage. Autumn sightseers of the eastern deciduous forest praise the red maple for its striking scarlet leaves. Few people know that red maple foliage can turn yellow or orange in the fall too. Red maples are fast-growing trees that usually reach 60 to 90 feet in height. The largest ones can grow to be more than 120 feet tall. The red maple is a species whose sap is used to make maple syrup. The biggest syrup provider is the sugar maple, though, which is named for the high sugar content of its sap.

• Redbud (Cercis canadensis) 2 gallon 4’ $30.99

  Rosy pink flowers appear in April. Reddish-purple leaves change to dark green, then to yellow. Forms a spreading, graceful crown. Full sun or light shade. Partial shade preferred in windy, dry areas. Grows to 20' to 30', 30' spread.

• Roughleaf Dogwood (Cornus drummondii) 2G $30.99

  Roughleaf Dogwood is a deciduous large shrub or small tree usually growing up to 16 feet tall and 16 feet wide. It is easily recognized by its rough upper leaf surfaces, small creamy-white flowers, white fruits, and purplish-red foliage in the fall. Their habitats include rocky woodlands, floodplain woodlands, prairies, and thickets. The Roughleaf Dogwood may be grown in full sun to partial shade with average medium to wet soils. It is an adaptable plant and has been found in wet and dry conditions and is poor soil tolerant. The flowers bloom in the spring and are creamy-white clusters on the ends of the branches. In the late summer and fall, showy white drupes appear. The fall foliage is showy and eye-catching purplish-red. The Roughleaf Dogwood attracts butterflies, bees, and moths for the nectar of their flowers. The fruits attract many songbirds and small mammals. Deer may also browse the leaves. Some birds nest in the thickets of this shrub. Because this plant grows so quickly and suckers into a large shrub, it may be best used in naturalized areas versus a lawn setting. It may also help stabilize banks and provide erosion control. The Roughleaf Dogwood will attract much wildlife as a source of food and shelter and add interest to a garden.

• Silky Dogwood (Cornus amomum) 3G $30.99

  Silky dogwood is a large to medium-sized native shrub with creamy white spring flowers, dark green foliage, reddish stems, and burgundy fall color. A great 4-season plant for naturalizing, in mass, and in the shrub border, especially in moist sites. Grown in full sun to part sun 5-8 feet tall with a dense shrub appearance more than a tree. Blooms May-June Berries are very attractive to birds.

• Sugar Maple (Acer saccharum) 3 gallon 3’ $30.99

  Sugar maple grows best in moist, well-drained, slightly acidic, fertile soil in full sun but will tolerate average well-drained soils in sun to part shade. Sugar maple may reach 50 to 120 feet tall with a dense, spreading crown that provides heavy shade and grows at a slow to medium rate, although it may grow faster in open areas. It is the only tree commercially used today for syrup production.

• Umbrella Magnolia (Magnolia tripetala) 2G $30.99

  A native magnolia with 10-24 in. leaves clustered at end of stems. Tolerates close to full shade but will grow in full sun as long as soils are kept moist. Generally intolerant of soil extremes (dry or wet) and should be planted in areas protected from strong winds to prevent damage to the leaves. Magnolia tripetala's large leaves appear in whorl-like clusters at the stem tips resembling the spokes of an umbrella. This is an understory tree native to rich moist woods, ravines, slopes and along streams in the Appalachian Mountains. It is a small, often multi-trunked, tree that typically grows to 30' tall, but may grow to 45' tall. Unpleasantly scented bowl-shaped, creamy white 6-10" flowers bloom in Spring. Each flower has 6 or up to 12 petal-like tepals, which are followed by cone-like pink 4" fruits that ripen in fall. Gray bark is thin and smooth. This plant is a food source for birds and mammals.

Fruits $10.99-30.99

Recreative Natives Gear $5-25

• Bird & Pollinator Habitat - $25

  Garden signs are weather and fade resistant and come with mounting hardware.

• Bumper Sticker - $5

• Firefly Habitat- $25

  Garden signs are weather and fade resistant and come with mounting hardware.

• Hats-$25

  Hats are two styles: trucker style and standard/adjustable.

• Leave the Leaves - $25

  Garden signs are weather and fade resistant and come with mounting hardware.

• Milkweed for Monarchs - $25

  Garden signs are weather and fade resistant and come with mounting hardware.

• Native Plants Benefit Butterflies - $25

  Garden signs are weather and fade resistant and come with mounting hardware.

• No Mow Zone- $25

  Garden signs are weather and fade resistant and come with mounting hardware.

• Pesticide Free Garden - $25

  Garden signs are weather and fade resistant and come with mounting hardware.

• Pesticide Free-$25

  Garden signs are weather and fade resistant and come with mounting hardware.

• Pollinator Friendly Garden - $25

  Garden signs are weather and fade resistant and come with mounting hardware.

• Pollinator Friendly Garden - $25

  Garden signs are weather and fade resistant and come with mounting hardware.

• T-shirts - $25

  Available in multiple sizes and colors. Hoodies also available for $40.

Coming 2026

• Appalachian Blazing Star (Liatris microcephala) 1G

  An exceptional, compact native with fine-textured, deep green grassy leaves. Appalachian Blazing Star sends up numerous spikes with tassel-like rosy purple flowers in August and September. Unique to the genus, the flowers open from top to bottom on the spike in a slow unfurling of brilliant color. Excellent as a cut flower. Tolerant of clay and drought, very low maintenance. Loved by butterflies! Liatris microcephala can be found in sandy, dry prairies and open glades of the Southern Appalachian Mountains. Prefers average to dry, well-drained, slightly acidic soil in full sun. Tolerant of harsh growing conditions such as poor soil, heat, humidity and drought. Best used in rock gardens, perennial and cutting gardens or naturalized areas.

• Brown-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia triloba) 1 gallon

  Rudbeckia triloba’s many common names include Brown-Eyed Susan, Branched Coneflower, Thin-Leaved Coneflower and Three-Lobed Coneflower. The plant’s dark green alternate leaves are slightly hairy and are divided into three oval parts, hence the species name 'triloba'. While it prefers moderate moisture, Brown-eyed Susan tolerates most conditions, including drought, once it is established. A short-lived perennial, it self-seeds readily and flowers in its second year. Because it is such a profuse self-seeder, it may overwhelm small landscapes so is not recommended for small spaces. Maroon stems support abundant bright yellow flowers which are flat, one to two inches across, with jet black centers that fade to brown. Blooming from late summer until hard frost, Brown-eyed Susan reaches two to five feet tall and becomes bushy if not crowded by other plants. It makes an excellent cut flower and complements any of the tall native grasses and common prairie wildflowers. Grown in full to partial sun in moist to dry soils.

• Calico Beardtongue (Penstemon calycosus)

  The Calico Beardtongue plant has the same form as the more common Foxglove Beardtongue (Penstemon digitalis) but it has pink flowers and can tolerate more shade. Calico Beardtongue prefers rich loamy soils, and moist to mesic conditions. Calico Beardtongue can be found in open rocky woodlands, oak savannas, black soil prairies, and moist meadows. Penstemon calycosus is one of the host plants of the Chalcedon Checkerspot and Edith's Checkerspot. Long-tongued bees are the most frequent pollinators, but other visitors include honeybees, bumblebees, mason bees, and leaf-cutting bees. Hummingbirds also visit the Penstemons as well. Full, partial sun, or shade. Medium to wet soil. 3-4 foot tall. Blooms May through July.

• Culver’s Root (Veronicastrum virginicum) 1 gallon

  Culver's Root can offer a strong upright accent to any perennial garden or prairie/savanna. It's an elegant unbranched plant, reaching heights of 5' with candelabra-like spikes of white flowers that open from the bottom up mid-summer. The small white flowers densely packed together can sometimes take on a purple hue; the contrast of these flowers against the dark green foliage is stunning. Culver's Root can successfully be grown in full sun and in partial shade (savanna conditions, up to 70% shade), and prefers moist, well-drained soil. Host plant for Culver’s Root Borer Moth

• Downy Phlox (Phlox Pilosa) 1G

  There is a wide variety of flower color on Downy Phlox, from nearly white to shades of light and dark purple and pink with a slight fragrance. The shape of any Phlox is a good example of how it has evolved with the needs of the butterfly visitor in mind. The flat, broad petals serve as a landing area and the deep and narrow tube in the center of the flower is ideal for a butterfly or moth tongue. Grown in full-part sun, dry-wet soil, 2’, blooms May-July.

• Eastern Prickly Pear Cactus (Opuntia humifusa) 1G $10.99

  Deserts aren't the only places on Earth that have cacti! Scattered around a generous portion of eastern North America grows a lovely, sun loving species of cacti known as the Eastern Prickly Pear cactus. While seemingly out of place in many temperate regions, this interesting cactus still carries with it some of the habits of its desert dwelling relatives. Preferring full sun and sandy, dry conditions, the Eastern Prickly Pear cactus is a must have for the driest parts of your garden. From June to July, the cactus puts out some of the most stunning flowers. The yellow blooms are immediately descended upon by a myriad of different pollinator species; including beetles, bees, and butterflies. After flowering the pads produce bright red, edible fruits. Be careful when handling this species though. A good pair of thick gloves is a must.

• Eastern Red Columbine (Aquilegia canadensis) 1 gallon

  This woodland wildflower is showy, with nodding bells of a bright strawberry red with lots of yellow stamens. The foliage is fernlike, like all columbines, and this plant forms neat, short (1 to 2 ft.) clumps that are both tough and durable yet extremely delicate in appearance. The flowers bloom in late spring, and always attract hummingbirds. Grown in part sun to shade and in well-draining soil. Tends to develop root rot if too wet.

• Foxglove Beardtongue (Penstemon digitalis) 1 gallon

  The tubular flowers of this plant attract long-tongued bees, including honeybees, bumblebees, Miner bees, Mason bees, and hummingbirds. Penstemon digitalis is also one of the host plants for the Chalcedon Checkerspot and Edith's Checkerspot as well as the Common Buckeye butterfly. The seeds also feed small songbirds. Penstemons are called 'Beard Tongues' because the sterile stamen has a tuft of small hairs. Perennial evergreen Size: 1-3 feet, 18 inch spacing Bloom color: white Bloom time: May-July Light requirement: sun or part shade Soil moisture: Dry, medium, or wet

• Heart-leaf Golden Alexander (Zizia aptera) 1 gallon

  Heart-leaf Golden Alexanders give the garden/prairie some well-deserved early color for several weeks in late spring to early summer when many other plants have not yet flowered. This plant prefers full sun or light shade and can tolerate dry soils. Zizia aptera is an important plant to several short-tongued insects that are able to easily reach the nectar in the small yellow flowers. Black Swallowtail caterpillars will feed on its leaves. These seeds were collected in St.Clair County at the states’ last remnant of the Coosa Plains prairie.

• Jacob’s Ladder (Polemonium reptans)

  The perfect early bloomer for your shade garden! Like many spring blooming natives, the bloom time on Jacob's Ladder is short but sweet. The few short weeks in March-April that the flowers appear, the plant will be covered in blooms that range from shades of pink to blue. Jacob's Ladder prefers woodlands (almost full shade) and woodland edges (partial shade) with adequate moisture. A mature plant will only reach heights of 1' and is deer resistant. A wide variety of native bees and honeybees sip nectar from the blossoms. Flowers are also visited by butterflies, skippers and moths.

• Large Flowered Coreopsis (Coreopsis grandiflora) 1 gallon

  These vivid, yellow flowers almost glow in the sunlight, against their dark green foliage. They are easy to grow and make a fantastic choice for a prairie planting, a butterfly garden, or even as cut flowers. Grown in full sun this plant adapts to nearly any soil, including rocky or shallow conditions. Plants prefer dry soil and tolerate drought, heat, and humidity well. If given too much moisture or rich soil, the plants tend to flop and may need support. If the blooming decreases midseason, cut the plant back by half for new growth and blooms. Regular deadheading also helps prolong the season of blooming. If allowed to self-seed it will produce volunteer plants, though it does not become weedy. This plant attracts butterflies and bees as well as resisting rabbits and deer.

• Light Poppy Mallow (Callirhoe alcaeoides) 1G

  Light poppy mallow is an erect to sometimes sprawling, slender-stemmed perennial which is native to dry rocky or sandy soils in prairies. Easily grown in dry to medium, well-drained soils in full sun. Avoid wet, poorly drained soils. The long taproot gives this plant good drought tolerance but makes transplanting of established plants difficult. It can be used in dry sunny sites in border fronts, rock gardens, native plant gardens, prairies, naturalized areas or meadows. Sprawl over a stone wall or use as an edger. It fits well into both formal garden areas as well as wild/naturalized areas. Grown in full sun in dry to medium soil. At 1-1.5 feet tall in blooms June to August.

• Narrowleaf Mountain Mint (Pycnanthemum tenuifolium) 1 gallon

  Mountain mints scare a lot of gardeners because of the “mint” word. But there isn’t a single pollinating insect that will shy away from it. It attracts the most diversity of insects. And is a must for every pollinator garden. It gets its common name because when crushed the leaves have a spearmint-like aroma. In fact, early American settlers used it like mint. Narrowleaf Mountain Mint is an evergreen that takes on a woody-bushy shape. It requires full sun to part shade. And can manage extreme drought and poor or rocky soils. It doesn’t have showy flowers. In fact, its “petals” are leaves. But it makes up for it with pollinator diversity.

• Obedient Plant (Physostegia virginiana)

  Obedient plant blooms with spikes of pretty snapdragon-like pale purple flowers that cut well for fresh arrangements. This native plant looks best in mass plantings. Perfect for cottage gardens, pollinator gardens, or cut flower gardens! Attracts hummingbirds and bees. Obedient plant gets its common name from the flower spikes. No matter which way you turn the stems they will stay in place like the obedient plant that it is. Life cycle: evergreen perennial Height: 18-36 inches tall. Light requirements: sun to partial shade Bloom time: late summer Width: 2 feet spread

• Pale Beardtongue (Penstemon pallidus)

  Pale Beardtongue likes drier soils; rocky, chert, or sandy loams, and blooms earlier than most other Penstemons in early May. The whole plant is covered in soft white hairs. Penstemon's tubular flowers are a favorite of long-tongued bees such as bumblebees, carpenter bees, and mason bees. Deer and rabbits generally do not show much interest in Penstemon species. Grown in full-part sun, medium-dry soils, 12” tall

• Pawpaw (Asimina Triloba) 1G $15.99

  Asimina Triloba is fairly small, with a tropical look. Its foliage can be very attractive during autumn when it turns a brilliant yellow. The fruit, also called a pawpaw, is the largest fruit native to North America. It’s flavor has been described as anywhere between a mango, a banana, or vanilla. And it has the consistency of custard. It is a deciduous, often narrowly conical tree. At maturity, it will reach 12-20 ft. tall. Making it a perfect specimen tree for smaller gardens. It requires full sun to part sun for better fruit production but also does well in part shade to shade, more so as a sapling. And it prefers moist acidic soils. The flowers which are produced from about March to May are about 2 inches across, maroon, and grow “upside-down”. Each flower is capable of producing several fruits but pollination can be difficult. Because they are pollinated by flies and beetles some gardeners suggest leaving rotting fruit at the base to attract its desired pollinators. Two trees are required for pollination (ours are grown from seed so they will cross-pollinate). Pawpaw is the only host plant for the zebra swallowtail butterfly.

• Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea) 1 gallon

  A native to the eastern United States, purple coneflowers are now found in gardens all over the world after it won Plant of the Year in 1998. Planting purple coneflower draws bees and butterflies, ensuring that nearby plants have plenty of pollinators. The plant also provides a tall background growing 3-5 feet tall. Although, it rarely bends or breaks and doesn’t require staking for an upright appearance. Purple coneflower plants grow best in poor or lean soil. Rich or heavily amended soil may result in lush foliage and poor flowering. When planting purple coneflower, locate them in a full sun area. Once flowers look tired at the end of summer you can dead-head for a smaller second bloom. Or you can let them go to seed and watch the songbirds like purple headed and gold finches devour them.

• Sandstone Oak or Boynton Oak (Quercus boyntonii) 1G $15.99

  We don’t sell a lot of oak trees. Most of our customer base are suburban dwellers and don’t have the space or can’t commit to waiting years to see an oak grow. But we hope the rare Boynton Oak, endemic to Alabama, will interest you. Growing in poor soils, such as sandstone outcroppings and only reaching up to 6-15 feet, occasionally 20’. This oak would be perfect for small suburban yards in its native range such as, Jeffferson, Shelby, St. Clair, Tuscaloosa, Etowah, Blount, and Cullman Counties.

• Shining Fetterbush (Lyonia lucida) 2 gallon $25.99

  Fetterbush is a native evergreen shrub. It grows 3-6 feet tall and wide and has a dense arching, often sprawling form that impedes (fetters) foot traffic of animals and humans making it a good hedge. This plant grows in moist to wet areas with seasonal flooding and prefers partial shade and rich acidic soil. It does well in better-drained sites though and can tolerate dry soils once established. Small fragrant flowers appear in clusters in spring and are followed by woody 5-parted capsules. It spreads by root suckers and rhizomes to form thickets. Use this shrub in naturalized areas, wet sites, rain gardens and as a hedge or privacy screen. It provides excellent cover to wildlife, especially in the winter. Its flowers are attractive to bees, butterflies and other pollinators. Members of the genus Lyonia support the following specialized bees: Colletes and Melitta (Cilissa and melittoides).

• Shrubby St. John’s Wort (Hypericum prolificum) 2G $25.99

  This shrub will naturally form a round-bush appearance but can be pruned early spring for a more mounded shape. An absolute bee magnet that is not picky about its sun and soil needs. It is rare that you get such beauty out of something so hardy. Able to grow under just about any soil condition you could throw at it, this lovely shrub is also quite resistant to deer and rabbits. Its secret lies in the toxic substances within its tissues that irritate the gastrointestinal tracts of mammals. It is a host plant for a variety of caterpillars and very attractive to a wide array of pollinators. Bumblebees are especially fond of the bright yellow flowers. On the decline in some parts of its range, this species is actually considered threatened in New York and endangered in New Jersey. In the wild it can be found growing everywhere from stream banks to barren, rocky outcrops. This is a great addition to a native garden as it provides aesthetic appeal as well as ecosystem function. Host plant for Grey Hairstreak Butterfly and several moths.

About Recreative Natives

Recreative Natives is a small nursery specializing in the propagation of plants native to Alabama and the Southeast. Our plants are pesticide free and we collect our own local eco-type seeds in order to increase the biodiversity of native flora. Our goal is to make native plants more accessible for the home landscape in order to protect all the fauna that depend on them.

• Welcome to Recreative Natives!

  Recreative Natives is a nursery located in Cropwell, AL, specializing in the propagation of plants native to Alabama. 125 Valley View Rd., Cropwell, Alabama OPEN SATURDAYS 10am - 2pm or by appointment

• Jessica Thompson, Owner

  Photo credit: Graham Hadley, LakeLife 24/7 Magazine