Explore the remarkable diversity of Chicago Native Plants, perfectly suited to grow in the city’s unique climate and soil. Discover the ideal selection to create a thriving, sustainable garden.
Botanical Name: Hydrangea quercifolia
USDA Zones: 5-9
First on the list of Chicago native plants is Oakleaf hydrangea. Ideal for borders or informal hedges, it features creamy white pyramidal flowers with oak-like leaves.
Botanical Name: Prunus serotina
USDA Zones: 3-9
The black cherry, a native tree highly valued for its wood, offers year-round beauty with white spring blooms, purple fruit, and vibrant autumn foliage.
Botanical Name: Monarda fistulosa
USDA Zones: 3-9
Wild bergamot, with its lavender or pink petals surrounding upright tubes, adds vibrancy to any garden, blooming in the middle of summer.
Botanical Name: Penstemon digitalis
USDA Zones: 3-8
The next on the list of Chicago native plants is foxglove beardtongue. It grows delicate bell-shaped blooms in late spring to early summer with beautiful autumn foliage.
Botanical Name: Phlox paniculata
USDA Zones: 4-8
Garden phlox brings bursts of purplish-pink flowers to your yard, with delicate symmetrical petals that bloom in July. Some taller varieties may require staking for support.
Botanical Name: Veronicastrum virginicum
USDA Zones: 3-8
Culver’s root, a striking perennial, thrives with some sun, adding height and texture contrast to your garden with its tall spikes of light blue or white flowers.
Botanical Name: Liquidambar styraciflua
USDA Zones: 5-9
The sweetgum is a narrow tree that transitions into a round form. Its vibrant star-like leaves come in shades of orange, yellow, red, and purple.
Botanical Name: Sambucus
USDA Zones: 3-8
This Chicago native plant thrives in sunny conditions.
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