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Chapter Four: with Native A ’s Guide for Landscaping with Native Plants A Gardener’s Guide for Missouri

Introduction

Gardening with native plants is becoming the norm rather than the exception in Missouri. The benefits of native landscaping are fueling a movement that says “no” to and fertilizers and “yes” to and creating more sustainable landscapes. Novice and professional are turning to native landscaping to reduce mainte- nance and promote and wildlife conservation. This manual will show you how to use native plants to cre- ate and maintain diverse and beauti- ful spaces. It describes new ways to lightly on the earth.

Chapter Four: Landscaping with Native Plants provides tools garden- ers need to create and maintain suc- cessful native plant . The information included here provides practical tips and details to ensure successful low-maintenance land- scapes. The previous three chap- ters include Reconstructing Tallgrass , Rain Gardening, and Native landscapes in the Whitmire Wildflower Garden, Shaw Nature Reserve. Control and Identification of Invasive . use of native plants in residential gar- den design, farming, parks, roadsides, and restoration. Miller called his History of Native work “The Prairie Spirit in Landscape Landscaping Design”.

One of the earliest practitioners of An early proponent of native landscap- Miller’s ideas was Ossian C. Simonds, ing was Wilhelm Miller who was a landscape architect who worked in appointed head of the University of the Chicago region. In a lecture pre- extension program in 1912. He sented in 1922, Simonds said, “Nature published a number of papers on the Introduction 3

teaches what to plant. By going to prairies, wetlands, river-bottom for- the neighboring woods and seeing ests, glades and upland savannas. the and plants and they They have evolved with the extremes contain, one can tell pretty accu- of our climate, a wide array of patho- rately what plants will do well in any gens and a variety of soil and mois- given locality.” Nearly 100 years ago ture types, creating a palette of Simonds, Miller, and others understood durable and showy Missouri native that native plants are a good choice for plants that are the focus of landscape use in landscaping and they were right. gardening. Plants such as yellow wild Today native plants are used in resi- indigo ( sphaerocarpa), native dential and commercial landscaping, to the tallgrass prairie, and white- highway projects, habitat restoration, tinged oak sedge (), storm-water management, for parks which grows in dry woodlands, are and corporate office buildings. easy-to-grow beauties being show- cased in botanical garden displays, Metro St. Louis Sewer District rain Why Use Missouri Native gardens, and homeowners’ beds. Gardeners who use Missouri Plants? native plants have more success than those who use plants from other Local Ecotype Native Plants regions of the .

Missouri’s natural plant communities offer a diversity of native plants to gardeners. For thousands of years, they have been adapting to life in

A typical Missouri creek in the Ozarks (left) and rocky glade (right) are homes to many native plants that are useful in native landscaping. Introduction 4 Landscaping with Native Plants A Gardener’s Guide for Missouri

ensures seasonal interest, with the Eight Reasons to Use Native bonus of attracting colorful , but- Plants terflies and .

For a Sense of Place For Stormwater Management

People who have lived in one place for Rain gardens, bioretention and wet- a time develop images of their home land detention basins are a few best that create a sense of belonging and management practices in use. They familiarity. Those who have lived in slow down and absorb rain water, thus rural Missouri know about flowering reducing the quantity and velocity of dogwood. For instance, its blossoms stormwater runoff while improving and berries have made their mark in water quality. the hearts and thoughts of so many Missouri residents that it is the state See Chapter Two – Rain Gardening . Many people have recognized this and Storm Water Management for heart-felt connection with nature, and it details on planning, constructing and often is referred to as “sense of place”. maintaining rain gardens.

For Beautification For Educational Opportunities Wildflowers, flowering , shrubs and trees offer a wide range of colors, Native plant gardens present end- textures and forms to create dynamic less opportunities for learning about seasonal displays. Grasses and sedges seasonal cycles, wildlife, and plant have interesting and life cycles. Quiet spaces outside can heads and yellow– fall color. be used for art and reading classes. Shrubs and trees have fall color and Environmental and conservation topics berries that persist into the winter. are taught best outdoors. Choosing a wide assortment of plants

Left: Luna perched on wood poppy. Right: Sulphur getting from a New aster blossom. 5

wild bergamot ( fistulosa) and round-leaved groundsel (Senecio obova- tus) deter deer. Some plants repel deer because of their coarse, rough, hairy or spiny textures. This group includes rat- tlesnake master ( yuccifolium) and prickly pear (Opuntia humi- fusa). A deer-resistant garden includes a high percentage of these types of plants.

See pages 32-33 for a list of deer resis- Bioretention seeding in Columbia, Missouri tant native plants. reduces maintenance costs associated with mowing, mulching, and weeding. For Erosion Control For Less Maintenance

Siltation is a main source of water pol- Compared with and mulched lution. Soil loss can be reduced by tree, and perennial plantings, using plants with strong, deep in landscapes planted with appropriate place of turf, rock or concrete. Plants native plants require less maintenance. hold the soil, absorb water and slow They require minimal watering (except the flow of water over the surface. during establishment and drought peri- Replacing turf with native plantings is ods) and they need no chemical fertil- an effective way to help control erosion. izers or pesticides.

To Create Wildlife Habitat Characteristics of native plants that reduce maintenance include:

A native plant garden with a diversity • Longevity: plants that live for of trees, shrubs, perennials and grasses many decades provides food and shelter for insects, • Three to four-season interest: plants birds, amphibians and mammals that are apealing most of the year throughout the growing season. • Variable conditions: plants that Leaving seed heads and plant structure tolerate a wide range of light and throughout winter provides continuing moisture conditions food and shelter for many creatures • Small and compact: plants that are and provides opportunities to observe in scale with a given space nature up close. • Weed elimination: plants that grow into dense groupings and eliminate For Resistance to Deer Browse weeds • Seediness: plants that do not spread Deer are adaptable and eat a wide vari- readily from seed ety of plants. Forturately there are many native plants that deer avoid. Deer See page 24 for a list of top performing rely on their sense of smell to deter- native plants that reduce the amount of mine whether an area is safe and which maintenance. plants are desirable to eat. For instance, plants with aromatic foliage such as 6 Landscaping with Native Plants A Gardener’s Guide for Missouri

Cost comparisons: This list provides many reasons to use native plants in a landscape, but Turf before you begin planting, think about • Average turf installation per what you want the landscape to do acre (seed): $3,000 for you. You may want to reduce time • Average turf installation per and money spent mowing a large acre (sod): $8,000 expanse of turf. Or you may want to • Annual turf maintenance per reduce the expense of installing annu- acre: $1,000 al flower beds. These numbers put the • Annual turf maintenance cost of mowing grass and maintaining for homeowner:$500 standard planting beds into perspec- tive. Native Prairie Seeding • Average prairie seeding per acre: $1,500 • Annual prairie maintenance per acre: $200

The proper handling of stormwater runoff is a significant issue for homeowners, neigh- borhoods and communities. Left: a planted with Missouri native plants at the Missouri Methodist Conference Center in Columbia, Missouri. Right: Missouri Botanical Garden bioretention best managment practice (BMP) planted with natives in the main entry parking lot (oak sedge (Carex albicans) in foreground). 7

Mulched Groundcover Planting • Average planting per 1,000 sq. ft. $2,500 • Annual maintenance per 1,000 sq. ft. $200

Standard Mulched Planting Bed • Average planting per 1,000 sq. ft. $3,500 • Annual maintenance per 1,000 sq. ft. $400

Native groundcovers require the least amount of maintenance because they establish quickly, are long-lived, sup- press weeds and require little mulch once established. Native groundcov- ers also are an excellent alternative A site plan of your property will help you to invasive wintercreeper , decide where to place gardens, walkways, English ivy and periwinkle that have patios and stormwater features. escaped cultivation and invaded many natural woodlands in Missouri. Indicate north, south, east, and west, soil types, existing See page 26 for a list of native and patterns of shade and sunlight. groundcovers. Make copies of the drawing so various versions of the planning Site Evaluation process can be kept as the design changes. As possibilities are pulled Map the Area together, remember the saying “don’t fight the site.” For most con- Now that you’ve thought about ditions encountered, there is a list of why to use native plants and what plants that will thrive there. It is your goals are, it’s time to make simpler and less expensive to use a map. A map, drawn to scale, this approach than to alter the site. aids in determining plant numbers as well as placement and the amount of and mulch needed. Slope, drainage and potential for erosion should be noted and reviewed for a possible bioswale or rain garden. Indicate location of struc- tures, utility lines and traffic use. 8 Landscaping with Native Plants A Gardener’s Guide for Missouri

Survey of Existing Vegetation canadensis), that thrive in dry, rocky soils but suffer in compost-rich soils. A plant survey of the area may reveal By considering your soil, its structure, remnants of the plant community fertility and pH, you will be able to that once existed on the site. These compile an appropriate plant list for remnant species are good sources for any soil type encountered. seed to use in establishing new land- scapes. For example, if native wetland grasses and forbs grow nearby or on Soil Fertility and pH the site, include those in . Keep a close eye on the ripen- Get a general analysis of your garden ing of these plants for collect- soil with a basic soil test. Soil sample ing. The site may be covered with information forms are available at shrubs, vines or weedy vegetation. If University of Missouri Extension offices so, determine which vegetation should and online at www.extension.missouri. be removed. Identify trees and shrubs edu. When filling out the form select a that will remain and remove weaker general analysis. and undesirable species. Enlist the help of an arborist if you are unsure pH is a measurement of a soil’s acidity of which tree species are beneficial to or alkalinity on a scale where 7.0 is the overall design. neutral. Results below 7.0 indicate an acid (sour) soil, and soils above 7.0 are alkaline (sweet). Many plants do Sunlight well in one or the other environment, while a wide assortment thrive in the Determine the quality of light on the pH range of 6.5 - 7.5. Basic soil tests site. If shade exists, note when the also give a soil’s content of macronu- shade occurs. Afternoon shade or trients such as nitrogen, phosphorus dappled, occasional sunlight provides and potassium. A more complete soil a good environment for many savanna test yields levels of the micronutrients and woodland species. In contrast, hot in the soil (boron, magnesium, cop- afternoon or all-day sun is best suited per). to prairie, wetland and glade species, depending on soil type. Testing Water Infiltration to Determine Soil Types Soil To determine soil type and how quick- Many native plants are generalists; ly water drains through soil, do an they tolerate a wide range of soil infiltration test. First, dig a hole one types. However, there are some, such foot deep and eight inches wide. Fill as the glade coneflower (Echinacea it with water and observe how quickly simulata) or verbena ( the water disappears. Note: do infil- 9

tration tests when soil is moist, the of this, clay soil has poor drainage day after a soaking rain or watering. and lower fertility. Clay soils often are described as being heavy. The charac- • If water drains within an few hours teristic color is reddish or grayish. the soil is a well-drained sandy or loamy soil. Select dry-loving native plants listed on page 32. Silty soil feels smooth and silky but • If it takes 24 hours or more to does not form a ribbon like clay. It drain, it is a poorly drained clay has particles much smaller than sand. soil, typical of where native wet- Fertility is slightly higher than sandy land species thrive. See chapter soil. It drains relatively well and has a two of this landscaping series: tan color. Rain Gardening and Storm Water Management for a list of appropri- ate plants. Sandy loam soil is considered the • Soils that drain in less than six ideal garden soil for the widest range hours are considered satisfactory of plants. It is sold as topsoil. The soil for growing most native plants. color is dark-brown and particle size varies. It is among the healthiest of soil types since it is well-draining with Soil Texture ample air spaces, has good organic content and fertility and has an abun- Another way to determine soil type is dant population of beneficial soil by feeling it with your hands. Hold a organisms. small wet piece of soil in your hand and rub it between your thumb and index finger. Soil Structure

Sandy soil has obvious sand particles Soil structure indicates the effect that feel and look like sand. It drains soil has on the movement of water, well because of a large particle size amount of air in the soil and how that is irregularly shaped. It feels well roots are able to penetrate into coarse and doesn’t compact easily. the soil. It works in conjunction with This soil type has low fertility because soil texture and is easy to deter- of its low organic content. Soil color mine. A simple way is to form a ball typically is light tan. of damp soil in your hand by squeez- ing it. If you can’t make a ball, the soil is sandy. If it is crumbly and has Clay soil feels sticky and forms rib- dark color, it is a sandy loam. Clay bons when forced between your soil remains in a ball. Soil structure thumb and index finger. It has micro- can be improved with the addition of scopic, flat-shaped particles. The compost. This increases particle size shape and size of clay particles con- and encourages beneficial soil-borne tribute to compaction, with little space organisms. for air or water movement. Because 10 Landscaping with Native Plants A Gardener’s Guide for Missouri

Soil Moisture patterns and storm water flow during and after a heavy rain. Note sunny and The moisture level in soil is determined shady areas and where water drains by a combination of topography and and puddles. The plant list section on soil structure. For example, a low-lying pages 24-34 groups plants by sunlight, area with organic or clay soil stays soil types and tolerance to flooding and moist for long periods of time. Wetland drought. species are an appropriate choice for this situation. The converse is a rocky Here is a list of landscape situations and soil with low organic content at or near solutions that will help you select the the top of a rocky slope. These sites right plants for your garden: dry quickly after a rainfall. In this case, upland prairie, savanna and glade spe- • If you have limited time to garden cies are the best choices. keep the landscape style simple and use native groundcovers. Reduce Supplemental watering may be neces- plant diversity and mass single spe- sary until plants are established and cies in larger spaces. Native ground- mature. covers are an excellent alternative to high-maintenance turf. They cover areas quickly, suppress weeds and reduce amounts of mulch needed. • If you like to spend time in the gar- Plant Selection den, you can incorporate higher plant diversity, more garden fea- tures and a more complex design Right Plant, Right Place layout. This requires increased time, labor, plants and maintainance. Plants flourish with minimum mainte- • If you have exposed boulders, rocky nance when appropriately chosen for a or gravely soil, or plants that grow certain location. For small gardens and sparsely, choose plants that grow on landscapes, determine sunlight and soil rocky glades. moisture conditions by observing sun • If you have hard clay, select plants

Low-maintenance native groundcovers are used in simple massed plantings. When fully mature they suppress weeds and reduce the amount of mulch needed. Left: yellow fox sedge (Carex annectans) Right: prairie alumroot (Heuchera richardsonii) 11

Plants growing in nature give us clues as to where they may be suited in a man-made landscape like a rain garden. Left is yellow-fruited fox sedge growing in a sunny creek bottom. Right is cardinal flower growing at the edge of a shady creek.

that tolerate low fertility and poor including prairie, woodland, wetland, drainage. etc. Regional plant field guides typi- • If your garden is in a low, wet cally describe general plant habitats area, create a rain garden. in the front of the book. Once you • If whitetail deer are a problem, determine your habitat type(s), begin select native plants they avoid. selecting appropriate plants. Not all plant species are available for sale so See pages 24-34 for detailed lists of it is best to refer to nursery catalogs plants for various garden conditions. as you select plants by habitat.

Select Local Ecotype Plants Sunny Environments

These plants originate from wild popu- Prairies lations in your region, which means they are adapted to Missouri’s climate. This does not mean the plants you purchase come directly from the wild. Wild harvested plants should be avoid- ed because they deplete native plant populations. Local ecotype plants will outperform non-local ecotype plants in most cases because they are accli- mated to Missouri’s soils, weather and pests.

A prairie is an of grasses Plants for Larger Landscapes with herbaceous forbs. Few trees or shrubs exist in this habitat. Typical You may be able to select plants by prairie plants include Indian grass identifying the original habitat type (), big bluestem 12 Landscaping with Native Plants A Gardener’s Guide for Missouri

( gerardii), rattlesnake and aromatic aster (Aster oblongifolius). master (), aster, Many species encountered in dry upland goldenrods and many spe- prairies also are found in glades. cies. Some prairies have wet soils and are host to plants such as prairie cord grass (), wild bergamot Wetlands () and marsh milkweed ( incarnata). Upland prairies exist where the bedrock is shallow and soil is dry and glade-like. Shorter plants predominate, such as little bluestem (), sideoats grama (Bouteloa curtipendula) and but- terfly milkweed ().

Glades

Missouri has an abundance of wetlands, from river edges to lake shores and wet meadows. The list of plants well-adapted to these alternating wet and dry condi- tions is extensive. In addition, there are many plants that flourish in permanently wet areas and in . Soil types range from clayey to sandy loam and are sub- ject to fluctuating moisture levels. A few representative plants include the mighty swamp oak () and bald cypress (), beauti- Thin, rocky topsoil combined with out- ful irises such as blue flag ( virgi- croppings of shallow bedrock creates this nica) and copper iris () as well desert-like environment. Glades typi- as cardinal flower ( cardinalis) cally are found on south- and southwest- and rose mallow (Hibiscus lasiocarpus). ern-facing slopes and ridgetops in the Sedges (Carex spp.) and rushes (Juncus Ozark Highlands. These areas are hot spp.) compose a large percentage of the and sunny because the shallow, well- plant list. Wetlands offer a wide diversity draining soil does not support growth of of plants, birds, mammals and insects. large trees. Sunny south or west-facing Frogs and other amphibians are heard slopes with thin soil and exposed rocks and seen frequently. Wetland plant lists are areas in your landscape where glade are useful for rain gardens, bioswales plants will thrive. When planted in rich and low areas that remain wet for long soil, common in many gardens, glade periods. plants deteriorate and die. Plants found in a glade environment include rose ver- bena (Verbena canadensis), Missouri eve- ning primrose ( macrocarpa) 13

Shady Environments Riverbottom and North-sloping Forests Upland Savannas

Riverbottom and north-sloping wood- Many areas of Missouri were savannas lands tend to have soils that are rich with widely spaced trees, predominant- in organic matter and hold moisture. ly oak and hickory species. Savannas The tree canopy is heavy and produc- are dominated by grass species and es medium to dark shade, with a thick are interspersed with forbs (herbaceous understory. Typical species include flowering plants) that fill the wood- ferns, wild (Geranium macu- land floor. The quality of light is bright, latum), bluebell ( dappled shade with areas that receive virginica) and wild sweet William sunlight for short periods. Typically ( divaricata). Specific species savannas occupy the higher and drier vary according to where they exist soils of upper slopes and ridges of hills in the woodland - top of ridge versus and are maintained with prescribed fire bottom of hill or north versus south or annual mowing. The park-like setting facing slopes. of suburban properties are reminiscent of savannas. Plants such as smooth hydrangea (), Planning and Site Preparation coneflower (), blaz- ingstar ( scariosa) as well as Layout and Estimating Square many asters and goldenrods are appro- Footage priate choices for savanna-like settings. Outline the area to be planted with a hose or rope. It is easier to move a hose or line than to make changes after dig- ging has occurred. Stakes are another way to create an outline. Once you are happy with the layout, measure and multiply the length and width to get a rough square footage. Most spaces have round edges so keep in mind that this is a rough estimation. 14 Landscaping with Native Plants A Gardener’s Guide for Missouri

Remove Existing Vegetation

Removal of existing vegetation is impor- tant for the successful establishment of new plants and can be done in a number of ways. For killing weeds on large properties, refer to Chapter One – Seeding a Tallgrass Prairie. For identi- fication and removal of , refer to Chapter 3 - ID and Control of Invasive Species.

For smaller properties, the first step Estimating Plant Quantities and is to mow or string-trim tall weeds Spacing down to 4-12 inches. The second step includes one or more of the following If your garden layout is 10 feet by 10 techniques. feet you have 100 square feet of space (10x10=100). If you choose to plant on Read labels before 12-inch centers, you need 100 plants. use. Apply a glyphosate herbicide such as Roundup. Use Rodeo instead of Plant Quantity Calculator Roundup if the area is near a or creek. Less herbicide is required if veg- Spacing in Inches etation has been mowed short. In two weeks, the vegetation will brown and 8” 12” 18” 24” 36” die. Leave the dead stubble to prevent erosion, especially on slopes. It also will decay and add organic content to the 50 100 50 22 12 5 soil. Shredded or bark mulch may 100 225 100 45 25 11 be applied over the dead vegetation. 150 350 150 67 37 16 200 450 200 90 50 22 250 550 250 112 62 28 300 675 300 135 75 33 400 900 400 180 100 44 500 1100 500 225 125 55 600 1350 600 270 150 66 700 1550 700 315 175 77 800 1800 800 360 200 88 900 2000 900 405 225 99 1000 2250 1000 450 250 110

Left colum is total square feet.

There are a number of plant calculators on the internet. www.classygroundcov- Always wear safety glasses or goggles, ers.com is one of the easiest to use. gloves and protective clothing when applying herbicides. Read herbicide labels before use. 15

Use a thick layer of compost or wood backfill with topsoil. This eliminates chips over existing vegetation to air pockets and drought-related smother it. In smaller gardens, a layer mortality and reduces establishment of newsprint can be used before mulch- time. ing. It takes a couple of months for the vegetation to die. This method works well for small to medium size gardens. Soil Compaction and Grading Once undesired vegetation is killed, do not till in uncomposted , bark or Before grading soil or planting, it is wood chips as they will cause the new important to contact the Missouri-1 Call plants to turn yellow or die. System to locate underground utilities. Call 1-800-DIG-RITE three days before Put clear plastic over the mowed breaking ground. They will mark under- vegetation, and sunlight will create ground utilities with colored spray paint heat that kills the vegetation. However, and flags. microorganisms in the upper layer of soil are affected adversely so add com- Avoid compacting soil with heavy post and earthworm castings to the soil equipment or foot traffic. Compacted to replenish the microbial populations. soil drains poorly, has low oxygen con- tent and is difficult to plant in. If soil Remove sod with a desodding shovel or is compacted, loosen the soil before machine. The top few inches of roots planting. Severe compaction may and soil are removed, exposing the require digging deeply with shovels or underlying soil. in large areas with a mini excavator or backhoe. This is necessary for proper drainage. Then till soil to create a loose Soil Preparation soil that is easy to work with.

Amending soil should be done only Final soil grading typically is done on under the most difficult circumstances small areas by hand with stiff gar- because there are native plants that den or grading rakes after tilling. On tolerate a wide variety of tough soil large areas this is done with a skid- conditions. steer-mounted tiller or . During the grading process, tough clods • Severe clay subsoil that is remain- of dirt, clay, rocks, roots and stems ing after construction should have are raked out and removed. Steep soil a minimum of 3 inches of topsoil grades require the application of ero- added and tilled into the surface. sion blankets. • Severely compacted topsoil should be loostened by hand with a shovel or with a backhoe or mini-excavator Stabilizing Steep Slopes for larger areas. • Fertilizing is not normally recom- There are several brands of erosion mended unless you have clay sub- control blankets available in garden soil and choose not to add topsoil. centers. They typically are made of • If planting in clay subsoil, remove straw, wood shavings, fiber or soil unearthed while planting and 16 Landscaping with Native Plants A Gardener’s Guide for Missouri

Planting

Planting Seasons

Spring and fall are the best times to install native plants, with spring being the first choice. Containerized plants and divisions establish quickly because soil is cooler and moister. That said, you may plant containerized plants in Unroll erosion control blankets from top of summer as long as you water regularly. slope to bottom and overlap edges to attain If water is not available, plant between complete coverage. Pin down blankets late February and April. securely. jute and are woven into a plastic mesh that should be biodegradable. Avoid Lay Out Plants non-biodegradable or permanent fabrics because birds and reptiles get tangled in Lay out plants (in their containers) the mesh. on the ground to attain even spacing before planting. 0 – 10% slope: 2 foot or less drop in a 20 foot distance. Gentle slopes are Use a grid pattern similar to this when ideal and easy to work with and do not planting larger areas and groundcovers. require erosion control fabric. 10 – 20% slope: 4 foot or less drop in X X X X X X a 20 foot distance. Steeper slopes can X X X X X present a challenge and use of erosion control fabric should be considered. X X X X X X Above 20% slope: 5 foot or less drop in a 20 foot distance. Once the percent In hot sun keep plants watered as most slope is above 20%, erosion control is plastic pots are black and absorb heat. recommended. Now is the time to rearrange plants to attain the best spacing. (See graph below)

0 0 – 10%

2 ft. 10 – 20%

4 ft. 20% plus

6 ft. 20 ft. length 17

Planting in the Soil Mulching New Plantings

Plant first and then mulch. This Twice-ground leaf compost is rec- ensures plant roots are in the soil and ommended for mulching perennials not just in the mulch. and grasses. Shredded hardwood (or cedar) bark mulch is recommended for Insert the plant so the potting mix is trees and shrubs. Use these recom- not exposed to the mulch or air, so mendations to prevent over-mulching the rootball will not dry out. Cap the or burying plants too deeply in mulch: potting soil with a thin layer of natural soil to prevent moisture loss. Deep Cell Plugs....1.5 inches Quart Pots...... 2 inches When planting in hard clay soil, have Gallon Pots...... 2.5 inches a bucket or wheelbarrow of rich, loos- Tree/Shrubs...... 3 inches ened topsoil handy to backfill planting holes. Backfilling with hard clay clods Do not incorporate mulch into the leaves air pockets that lead to des- soil as this leads to poor plant perfor- sication or plant death. You may have mance and/or death. good topsoil on your property to bor- row or you may have to purchase top- soil from a garden center. Watering New Plantings

If you mulch the planting area before Water new plantings immediately! planting, do not exceed the mulch Don’t wait for rain since weather can’t depths listed below and do not leave be predicted from hour to hour. soil on top of the mulch as this encourages weeds. Also be sure that During the first three weeks, water plant roots are inserted in soil and not plantings every four days for about in mulch. 60 minutes (the equivelant of about 1

Left: Carefully remove plant from container. If roots are spiraling around inside the pot, cut the roots to prevent further spiraling. Middle: Remove loose potting soil from the top of the potting soil ball. Insert plant so the top of the potting soil is level or just below the top of the topsoil and fill in with loose topsoil. Lightly cap potting soil with a thin layer of topsoil. Right: Firmly press down plant to remove air pockets. Cover topsoil with 1-2 inches of mulch and water immediately. 18 Landscaping with Native Plants A Gardener’s Guide for Missouri

inch of rainfall). A one-hour watering will soak more deeply into the ground Maintenance than daily 15-minute waterings. In summer increase frequency to every There is the misconception that three days. native landscapes require little or no maintenance. In reality, some native After three weeks reduce frequency to gardens require a lot of maintenance once per week until plants are estab- and some don’t. This list describes lished. Plants are established when what makes a native landscape low- roots have grown out of the container maintenance and why: soil and into the native soil to a depth of two to four inches. This normally • Plants that are long-lived do not takes three to four months for peren- need replacing. nials and grasses and six months • Plants that are selected properly for trees and shrubs. With trees and for a site will thrive. shrubs, the larger the ball the • Plants that have few pest prob- longer it takes to become established. lems require no chemicals. Extremely large trees may take years. • Plants that are compact and clump-forming work well in small When plants are fully established, places and don’t flop over. watering is only necessary during dry • Plants that sucker to form solid or drought periods during summer. ground-cover fill large spaces quickly, keep weeds out and require little mulch. Planting Seed • Plants that do not spread agres- sively from seed reduce weeds. It is less expensive to plant large • Plants with clean, dense foliage areas with seed than with plants. three to four seasons of the year Seeded areas look natural and are prevent weeds and require little usually in sunny areas (prairie), shady mulching. woodlands (savanna), or wet areas (wetlands, rain gardens, bioretention If your goal is to reduce maintenance, or detention basins). When seeding be keep the landscape style simple and certain weeds are eliminated, do not use native groundcovers. Reduce plant till the soil, sow seed in early winter diversity and group single species in and keep the seeding mowed to six large masses. Native groundcovers are inches during the first growing season. an alternative to high-maintenance It takes about three years for most turf and flower beds. They cover areas seedlings to mature and flower. quickly, suppress weeds and reduce the amount of mulch needed. Please read Chapter One, Reconstructing a Tallgrass Prarie for As with all gardens, a new plant- a detailed description of how to sow ing requires attention as the plants seed. become established. Once root sys- tems are well developed, supplemen- tal watering should be minimal or only in periods of drought. 19

Weed Control down to subsoil clay after new con- struction. These clay soils are impos- It is likely weeds will grow in newly sible to dig in when dry. In these planted areas the first and second extreme situations add a minimum of years. Control them by handpulling three inches of topsoil before planting. or spot spraying with a glyphosphate herbicide such as Roundup. If you have nut sedge, hand-pull repeatedly An application of one to two inches of until it is gone or use the herbicide compost each fall helps maintain an Sedgehammer. adequate level of fertility and organic matter in the soil, which reduces or By the second or third year, plants are eliminates the need for fertilizer. more established and able to crowd out weeds. Weeding becomes minimal as the garden matures. Annual appli- Problems cations of compost and mulch in late autumn help suppress weed growth In general, native plants are not and make handpulling much easier. affected by insect damage. There are exceptions, however. Japanese beetles may devastate native , hazel- nut and wild grapes in some years. Dogwood sawflies denude swamp dog- wood, but only in some years. It is only a matter of time before beneficial insects move in and control the prob- lem naturally.

Developing a tolerance for small amounts of damage and an under- standing of the interaction of beneficial insects eliminates the need for pest control. There is a host of desirable caterpillars that nibble native plants. Monarch caterpillars eat milkweed leaves, zebra swallowtails eat pawpaw Yellow nutsedge is a common gar- leaves and giant swallowtails eat wafer den weed that is difficult to control by ash shrubs. All of these turn into beau- hand. Hand pull small infestations or tiful . spray the herbicide Sedgehammer for large-scale control. To control mosquitos use a diversity of native plants in and around water edges. This will attract native aquatic Fertilization insects and frogs that eat mosquito larvae. Fertilizer is not necessary with most native landscapes. The exceptions are sites where topsoil has been removed 20 Landscaping with Native Plants A Gardener’s Guide for Missouri

Mulching Shredded hardwood or cedar bark Mulch gives gardens a clean, tended mulch is also commonly used and and intentional appearance. Other available. Cedar lasts much longer benefits include preventing loss of than hardwood but costs more. Once soil moisture, controlling soil tem- rained on, it tends to bind together perature and suppressing weeds. and will not migrate. It is recom- Mulch may be applied from late fall mended for use in rain gardens. through spring. In areas where you want to encourage seed germina- River gravel mulch comes in various tion (woodlands, for example), apply sizes, from -sized gravel to three- mulch after seeds have germinated in inch rock. A medium size of one or spring and are tall enough to trans- two inches works best in rain gardens plant. or where storm water will be flowing. It is heavy to move around. Never till mulch into topsoil because mulch is not composted. As it breaks Pine bark chip mulch has large down it starves plants of nutrients. pieces that migrate on slopes and Mulch must be fully rotted (black in float. It is recommended for use on color, the consistancy of sawdust and flat ground. have no heat) before it can be incor- porated into topsoil. Natural tree leaves raked up and reused as mulch save money but do Twice-ground composted leaf not look clean or intentional in plant- mulch is one of the more commonly ing beds. They are best used in natu- used mulches and is readily available ral wooded settings. from compost suppliers or garden centers. It is delivered warm or hot Wood chips from a tree chipper are and has a slight to strong sour smell coarse, uneven and do not look as because it is not composted com- clean as ground mulches. They work pletely. This mulch can float so is not well, however, and are economical. recommended for use near stormwa- ter flows.

Left: Shredded hardwood bark mulch binds together to resist washing away. Middle: River gravel mulch will not migrate where water flow is a problem. Right: Wood chip mulch is inexpensive or often free but migrates and may float away where water flow occurs. 21

Pruning growth is removed and old stems are kept. Dogwood, fringetree, south- involves the use of hand ern blackhaw , green haw- pruners, hand saws, lopers, or thorne, serviceberry, pagoda dog- shears. Here are some reasons to wood and buckeye benefit from this prune. treatment.

• To remove damaged branches. If a shrubby screen-like appearance Ice and wind storms may cause bro- is desired, older trunks are removed, ken branches on trees and shrubs, leaving young stems. Hazelnut, that should be removed before they rough-leaved and gray dogwood and cause harm to people or property. are used in this treatment. When pruning tree limbs, be cau- tious as limbs may fall at any time. Contact a certified arborist if you are • To rejuvenate shrubs. Shrubs unsure about safety issues. such as wild hydrangea, snowwreath, golden currant, and • To remove suckers and water Missouri gooseberry benefit from a sprouts. Suckers are fast-growing rejuvinating pruning every three to sprouts that emerge from the ground five years. First trim back shrub by at the base of a tree or shrub. Water 40-60% with shears. Then remove sprouts are similar but emerge from one third of the old canes to the a stem or branch. Both are removed ground with hand pruners. because they give a messy appear- ance and increase disease problems. They are removed with hand pruners or hand saws on trees like hawthorn, viburnum, fringetree and dogwood.

• To shape woody plants. As young trees, shrubs and vines begin to mature and gain height, lower branches may be pruned off to cre- ate space for planting beds under- neath. Wide-arching side branches are pruned when they grow out of control. While this can be done at anytime, it is best done just after flowering to ensure blooming the When using hand pruners the next year. blade (black) is always on the side of the cut that remains. The anvil (silver) is to Multi-stemmed trees and shrubs are the outside. Always keep the blade sharp pruned either to maintain an upright and be careful not to cut yourself. Hand pruner cuts are the leading cause of inju- tree or low-bushy appearance. To ry in most gardens. create a tree-like look, new vigorous 22 Landscaping with Native Plants A Gardener’s Guide for Missouri

• Thin growth. Trees and shrubs growing in full sun often develop Deadheading also prevents reseed- dense branching that requires thin- ing. If reseeding is a problem, ning. The same tree, growing increase mulch frequency and depth in shade, tends to remain open. or remove the reseeding plant. Keep Remove all crossing, rubbing, dead in mind that birds and small mam- or damaged stems in the interior mals depend on seeds for winter of the plant and work outward. It food. Stop deadheading in late sum- is desirable to open views into the mer to allow late seeds to ripen. center of a tree or shrub to reveal interesting bark and branching. • Control height. Spring top- Hornbeam, southern blackhaw vibur- pruning (or spring haircuts) of the num, spicebush, red buckeye, red- taller, late-summer-to-fall-blooming bud, pagoda dogwood, yellowood, perennials and grasses reduces and witchazel benefit from this treat- plant height and prevents flopping. ment. Remove the top 40-60% of spring growth late April through mid-May, • Promote reblooming. using hedge shears or hand pruners. Deadheading (removal of spent Plants pruned this way become multi- flowers) on perennials and annuals branched, fuller and shorter overall. stimulates more blooming. Be sure to Flowering species that respond well remove faded flowers before seeds to this include aster, Joe-Pye weed, ripen since ripe seed is a signal to sneezeweed, rose mallow, turtlehead, the plant to stop blooming. This method works well on Missouri eve- garden phlox, goldenrod, and iron- ning primrose, rose verbena, core- weed. The grasses include big opsis, black-eyed Susan, and native bluestem, Indian grass, switchgrass, annuals such as sneezeweed and cordgrass, and eastern gama grass. palafox.

When pruning medium-sized branches, always make a small undercut first (left) and then finish the cut with an overcut (right). This prevents the bark from tearing downward when the branch falls. 23

time). • Layout the garden areas and related elements of the site and calculate square footage for each portion individually. This number helps you predict the number of plants or materials needed. • Remove weeds and undesirable growth by hand, with Round-up (glyphosphate) or by layering newspaper and covering it with mulch. • Grade and amend soil if neces- sary; then mulch if you will not be planting right away. Taller, late-summer blooming perenni- als and grasses may be sheared back by • Autumn is the second best time 40-60% in late May to control height and to plant. Perennials and grasses prevent flopping. can be planted in September and October. Plant quart size contain- ers or larger. Trees and shrubs may be planted from September through November. • Mulch new plantings immediately as mulch helps maintain soil mois- ture and steadies soil tempera- Typical Garden Schedule ture. • Water new plantings immediately. Summer and Fall - Year 1

• Map out the site, noting existing Winter - Year 1 and future use, traffic patterns, utilities, trees, water flows, poorly • October through March is a good drained areas, wildlife use, desir- time to construct patios, paths able and undesirable views. and walls. • Assess the site for drainage, soil • Fall-planted trees and shrubs may type, sun, shade and utilities. need watering during severely dry • Choose the site, the plant palette periods. (plants you want to include), the landscape style and layout for the garden (you likely will be selecting Spring - Year 2 hardscape features like pathways, fences, patios, water features, • Spring is the best time to plant. walls, containers, outdoor pizza Planting may begin in mid-March ovens and other features at this and continue until the end of May. 24 Landscaping with Native Plants A Gardener’s Guide for Missouri

If you plant after June 1st, water periodically during planting and Plant Selection Guide then every three days until plants are established. • Remove weeds as they appear. Top Performing Native Plants • Water as needed. for Landscaping • Top-prune perennials and grass- es late April through mid May to Based on: reduce flowering height and pre- vent flopping. • 3-4 seasons of interest • long life expectancy • compact form or slow growth Summer - Year 2 • availability from nurseries • Be vigilant and remove weeds as they appear. Full Sun • Provide a deep watering when needed rather than frequent, shal- Grasses and Sedges: low watering. Carex albicans (oak sedge) (yellow-fruited fox • Summer planting is not recom- sedge) mended due to heat and unpredict- (palm sedge) able rainfall. heterolepis (prairie dropseed)

Perennials: Fall/Winter - Year 2 Amsonia illustris (shining bluestar) Asclepias tuberosa (butterfly milkweed) • Continue to be vigilant and remove Aster oblongifolius (aromatic aster) winter weeds as they appear. (yellow wild indi- • Water newly planted trees and go) shrubs by hand if winter drought (purple poppy mal- occurs. low) • Reapply mulch to thin areas. Heuchera richardsonii (prairie alumroot) • Be careful to not mulch where you Iris fulva (copper iris) want plants to spread by reseed- (slender ing. This is the trick to getting mountain mint) fulgida (orange coneflower) woodland plants like wood poppy, Virginia bluebells, blue-eyed Mary, Small Flowering Trees and Shrubs: wild geranium, bloodroot and oth- (serviceberry) ers to spread. (beautyberry) canadensis (redbud) viridis (green hawthorn) Hydrangea arborescens (wild hydrangea) (winterberry holly) Ribes odoratum (golden currant) 25

Heuchera Americana (American alum- Part Shade root) (dwarf crested iris) Aster oblongifolius (aromatic aster) biflorum (Solomon’s seal) Carex albicans (oak sedge) flexicaulis (zig-zag goldenrod) (ivory sedge) (Indian pink) Carex grayii (bur sedge) Carex muskingumensis (palm sedge) Small Flowering Trees and Shrubs: Echinacea purpurea (purple coneflower) Amelanchier arborea (serviceberry) (American alum- Callicarpa americana (beautyberry) root)Heuchera richardsonii (prairie alum- alternifolia (pagoda dogwood) root) C. (flowering dogwood) (Solomon’s seal) palustris (leatherwood) (broad-leaved gold- (Eastern witch enrod) hazel) Spigelia marilandica (Indian pink)

Small Flowering Trees and Shrubs: Amelanchier arborea (serviceberry) Native Groundcovers (black chokeberry) Callicarpa americana (beautyberry) (hornbeam) (flowering dogwood) Hamamelis vernalis (Ozark witch hazel) Hydrangea arborescens (wild hydrangea) Ilex verticillata (winterberry holly) Ribes odoratum (golden currant)

Shade

Ferns: (Maidenhair fern) The 12-inch native groundcover field sedge Athyrium pycnocarpon (silvery spleen- () growing in a solid mass at Shaw Nature Reseve reduces wort) maintenance, tolerates poorly drained clay (sensitive fern) soils and suppresses weeds. Polystichum acrostichoides (Christmas fern) *Plants that spread rapidly by Grasses and Sedges: and develop into large colonies. These Carex albicans (oak sedge) species require large areas and contain- Carex eburnea (ivory sedge) ment. Carex grayii (bur sedge) Carex muskingumensis (palm sedge) Shade

Perennials: Grasses & sedges: (wild ) Carex albicans (oak sedge) (wild geranium) C. eburnea (ivory sedge) 26 Landscaping with Native Plants A Gardener’s Guide for Missouri

C. emoryii* (riverbank sedge) Perennials: C. grayii (bur sedge) millefolium (yarrow) C. jamesii (James sedge) Amsonia illustris (shining bluestar) C. muskingumensis (palm sedge) Anemone canadensis* (meadow anemone) C. pennsylvanica ( sedge) * (wormwood) Diarrhena obovata* (beak grass) Aster oblongifolius (aromatic aster) (river ) obliqua (rose turtlehead) * (wild ) Perennials: occidentalis*(western sunflower) (pussytoes) H. mollis* (ashy sunflower) Asarum canadense (wild ginger) Heuchera richardsonii (prairie alumroot) (rose turtlehead) (southern blue flag) (Robin’s fleabane) Iris fulva (copper iris) * (woodland sun- (Missouri evening flower) primrose) * (Virginia water- Parthenium hispidum (American feverfew) leaf) (orange coneflower) Heuchera americana (American alumroot) Verbena canadensis (rose verbena) H. parviflora (littleflower alumroot) Iris cristata (dwarf crested iris) Shrubs: Isopyrum biternatum (false rue anemone) Andrachne phyllanthoides (Missouri maid- (Bradbury beebalm) enbush) ternatum (woodland stonecrop) Hydrangea arborescens (w. hydrangea) Senecio aureus* (golden groundsel) Ribes odoratum (golden currant) S. obovatus* (round-leaved groundsel) Rhus copallina* (winged sumac) Solidago flexicaulis (zig-zag goldenrod) *Plants that spread rapidly by rhizomes Ferns: and develop into large colonies. These spe- Athyrium pynocarpon (narrow-leaved cies require large areas. spleenwort) Onoclea sensibilis (sensitive fern) struthiopteris (ostrich fern) Clay Soil Conditions

*Plants that tend to spread from seed Full Sun Grasses and Sedges: Grasses and sedges: curtipendula (sideoats grama) Carex annectens (yellow-fruited fox sedge) Carex annectens (yellow-fruited fox sedge) C. buxbaumii* (Buxbaum sedge) Carex muskingumensis (palm sedge) C. emoryi* (Riverbank sedge) Schizachyrium scoparium (little bluestem) C. hystericina* (bottlebrush sedge) (prairie dropseed) C. lanuginosa* (wooly sedge) C. muskingumensis (palm sedge) Perennials: C. praegracilis* (tollway sedge) (nodding wild ) C. stricta* (tussock sedge) (fall glade onion) (switch grass) Amsonia illustris (shining bluestar) Schizachyrium scoparium (little bluestem) Asclepias tuberosa (butterfly flower) Sporobolus heterolepis (prairie dropseed) Aster novae-angliae* (New Eng. aster) Spartina pectinata* (cord grass) 27

Prairie dropseed (Sporobolus heter- Palm sedge (Carex muskingumensis) tol- olepis) growing as a groundcover at erates clay soils and can grow in sun or Missouri Botanical Garden. shade.

Baptisia bracteata var. leucophaea (cream wild indigo) Small Flowering Trees and Shrubs: lanceolata* (lance-leaved core- Aronia melanocarpa (black chokeberry) opsis) (green hawthorn) (finger coreopsis) Hamamelis vernalis (Ozark witch hazel) candida (white prairie clover) Hydrangea arborescens (wild hydrangea) (purple prairie clover) Ilex verticillata (winterberry holly) Echinacea purpurea* (purple coneflower) Eryngium yuccifolium (rattlesnake mas- ter) (false sunflower) Screening with Shrubs (prairie blazing star) Aronia melanocarpa (black chokeberry) (marsh blazing star) (giant cane) Monarda fistulosa (wild bergamot) (gray dogwood) Parthenium hispidum (American feverfew) (rough-leaved dog- (wild quinine) wood) (smooth beard- (pagoda dogwood) tongue) (hazelnut) Polygonatum biflorum var. commutatum Hydrangea arborescens (wild hydrangea) (Solomon’s seal) (shrubby St. John’s (Mexican hat) wort) * (grayhead coneflower) ( holly) Rudbeckia fulgida (orange coneflower) Ilex verticillata (winterberry holly) (black-eyed Susan) Neviusia alabamensis (Alabama snow (rosinweed) wreath) (compass plant) opulifolius (ninebark) * (cup plant) Rhus copallina (winged sumac) * (stiff goldenrod) (smooth sumac) (showy goldenrod) Salix humilis (prairie willow) ohiensis* ( spiderwort) canadensis (elderberry) arkansana ( ironweed) S. racemosa (red-berried elderberry) * (golden Alexander 28 Landscaping with Native Plants A Gardener’s Guide for Missouri

Staphylea trifoliata (bladdernut) Limestone Soils (7.5 pH or (arrowwood) higher) (northern blackhaw) Grasses and Sedges: (sideoats grama) Hedges Schizachyrium scoparium (little bluestem) Sporobolus heterolepis (prairie dropseed) Aesculus (red buckeye 10-15’) Amsonia illustris (shining bluestar 3-4’) Perennials: Andrachne phyllanthoides (Missouri maid- Parthenium hispidum (American feverfew) enbush 3-4’) Pycnanthemum tenuifolium (slender Aronia melanocarpa (black chokeberry mountain mint) 5-6’) (pitcher sage) Callicarpa americana (beautyberry 4-5’) (wild stonecrop) (leatherwood 3-5’) Senecio obovatus (round-leaved ground- Hydrangea arborescens (wild hydrangea sel) 3-4’) (wild senna) Ilex verticillata (winterberry 4-6’) Sporobolus heterolepis (prairie dropseed) Neviusia alabamensis (Alabama snowreath Verbena canadensis (rose verbena) 6-8’) (yellow wingstem) (hop hornbeam 15-20’ (Missouri gooseberry Small Flowering Trees and Shrubs: 3-4’, thorns) Andrachne phyllanthoides (Missouri maid- Staphylea trifoliata (bladderpod 6-8’) enbush) Viburnum dentatum (arrowwood viburnum Ilex decidua (possum haw) 5-7’) (eastern red cedar) ( viburnum 6-8’) (ninebark) (wafer ash)

Bladdernut (Staphylea trifoliata) forms a Shining bluestar (Amsonia illustris) dense screen with dark green leaves and hedge along walkway. lime-green seed pods in summer. 29

Cercis canadensis (redbud) (sallow sedge) Quercus meuhlenbergii (chinquapin oak) Carex muskingumensis (palm sedge) Chasmanthium latifolium (creek oats) Ferns: Adiantum pedatum (maidenhair fern) Acidic Soils (pH of 5.5 or lower) Athyrium filix-femina (lady fern) Athyrium pycnocarpon (narrow-leaved Grasses and Sedges: spleenwort) Andropogon gerardii (big bluestem) (fragile fern) Andropogon virginica (broomsedge) Matteuccia struthiopteris (ostrich fern) (splitbeard bluestem) Thelypteris hexagonoptera (broad beech (fuzzy-wuzzy sedge) fern) Juncus biflorus (bog rush) Woodsia obtusa (common wood fern) Schizachyrium scoparium (little bluestem) Perennials: Perennials: pachypoda (dolls eyes) Amsonia illustris (shining bluestar) Arisaema (green dragon) Chrysopsis camporum (golden aster) (Jack-in-the pulpit) (lance-leaf coreopsis) dioicus (goatsbeard) (path rush) Asarum canadense (wild ginger) Lespedeza virginica (slender lespedeza) Aster drummondii (Drummond aster) (violet lespedeza) Cacalia atriplicifolia (pale Indian plantain) Monarda fistulosa (wild bergamot) Cacalia muehlenbergii (great Indian plan- Parthenium integrifolium (wild quinine) tain) (smooth beard-tongue) Caulophyllum thalictroides (blue cohosh) (old field goldenrod) (spring beauty) (goats beard) (blue-eyed Mary) Verbesina helianthoides (yellow wingstem) tricorne (dwarf larkspur) ( flea- Trees and shrubs: bane) Amelanchier arborea (serviceberry) Erigeron philadelphicus (Philadelphia flea- Aronia melanocarpa (black chokeberry) bane) virginica (Virginia sweet-spire) Geranium maculatum (wild geranium) Polygonella americana (jointweed) racemosum (Solomon’s (scarlet oak) plume) (black gum) (Virginia bluebells) Rhododendron prinophyllum (mountain Onoclea sensibilis (sensitive fern) ) (sweet ) (shortleaf pine) (Miami mist) peltatum (mayapple) reptans (Jacob’s ladder) Polygonatum biflorum (Solomon’s seal) Full Shade with Rich Moist Soil canadensis (bloodroot) (all-day shade) Senecio aureus (golden groundsel) Solidago flexicaulis (broad-leaved golden- Grasses and sedges: rod) Carex grayii (bur sedge) (rough-leaved goldenrod) (grass sedge) Spigelia marilandica (Indian pink) 30 Landscaping with Native Plants A Gardener’s Guide for Missouri

Stylophorum diphyllum (celandine poppy) Perennials: (Palmer’s spider- (thimbleweed) wort) canadensis (wild columbine) Tradescantia subaspera (zigzag spider- (goatsbeard) wort) Asarum canadense (wild ginger) grandiflora (bellwort) (purple milkweed) pubescens (yellow violet) Aster anomalus (soft blue aster) (cream violet) Aster oblongifolius (aromatic aster) Aster patens (purple daisy) Small Flowering Trees and Shrubs: Aster turbinellus (prairie aster) Cornus alternifolia (pagoda dogwood) (cream wild indigo) (Ohio buckeye) ciliata (Ohio horsemint) A. pavia (red buckeye) (wild hyacinth) (Hercules’ club) (American bellflow- benzoin (spicebush) er) acuminata (cucumbertree) racemosa (black cohosh) (red-berried elder- Claytonia virginica (spring beauty) ) (tall larkspur) (dwarf larkspur) Echinacea purpurea (purple coneflower) Erigeron pulchellus (robin’s plantain) Part Shade with Dry Soil (bottle gentian) (morning or afternoon shade) Geranium maculatum (wild geranium) Heuchera parviflora (downy alumroot) Grasses and Sedges: (alumroot) Carex albicans (oak sedge) Hydrastis canadensis () Carex eburnea (ivory sedge) Iris cristata (dwarf crested iris) (globe sedge) (tall melic grass) Carex jamesii (grass sedge) Monarda bradburiana (Bradbury beebalm) Carex muskingumensis (palm sedge) Osmorhiza longistylis (sweet Cicely) Chasmanthium latifolium (creek oats) (pale beard-tongue) Diarrhena obovata (American beakgrain) (wild sweet William) hystrix (bottlebrush grass) (garden phlox) (Jacob’s ladder) Polygonatum biflorum (Solomon’s seal)

Dry woodlands often have naturally grow- ing white oak, post oak, chin- quapin oak, and shagbark hickory. 31

Polygonum virginianum (Virginia knot- Elymus hystrix (bottlebrush grass) weed) (woodland wild ) Porteranthus stipulatus (Indian physic) Pycnanthemum albescens (white moun- Perennials: tain mint) (wild columbine ) incana (hoary skullcap) Aster drummondii (Drummond aster) (heart-leaved skullcap) Campanula americana (Amer. bellflower) Sedum ternatum (wild stonecrop) Echinacea purpurea (purple coneflower) Senecio obovatus (round-leaved ground- Geranium maculatum (wild geranium) sel) Mertensia virginica (Virginia bluebells Senna marilandica (wild senna) Phlox divaricata (wild sweet William) stellata (starry campion) Phlox paniculata (meadow phlox) (blue-stemmed goldenrod) Polemonium reptans (Jacob’s ladder) Solidago flexicaulis (zigzag goldenrod) (downy skullcap) (elmleaf goldenrod) Solidago caesia (blue-stem goldenrod) Spigelia marilandica (Indian pink) Solidago flexicaulis (zig-zag goldenrod) (celandine poppy) Stylophorum diphyllum (wood poppy) Tradescantia subaspera (zig-zag spider- Tradescantia ernestiana (Palmer’s spider- wort) wort) (bellwort) Viola pubescens (yellow violet) Verbesina helianthoides (yellow wingstem) (common violet) Zizia aurea (golden Alexander) Viola striata (cream violet)

Small Flowering Trees and Shrubs: Amelanchier arborea (serviceberry) Bumelia lanuginosa (gum bumelia) Callicarpa americana (beautyberry) Carpinus caroliniana (hornbeam) (redbud) Cornus alternifolia (pagoda dogwood) C. florida (flowering dogwood) Dirca palustris (leatherwood) Neviusia alabamensis (Alabama snow wreath) Ostrya virginiana (hop hornbeam) Viburnum molle (Kentucky viburnum) V. prunifolium (northern blackhaw) V. rufidulum (rusty blackhaw)

Wood poppy (Stylophorum diphyllum) and Woodland Plants that Spread Virginia bluebell (Mertensia virginica) spread by Seed from seed in the Whitmire Wildflower Garden.

Dry Soils: Grasses and Sedges: (woodland brome) Chasmanthium latifolium (river oats) Diarrhena obovata (beak grass) 32 Landscaping with Native Plants A Gardener’s Guide for Missouri

Well-drained Dry or Rocky Soil (sand phlox) (full sun) (hairy phlox) Pycnanthemum tenuifolium (slender moun- Grasses and Sedges: tain mint) Bouteloua curtipendula (sideoats grama) Ratibida columnifera (Mexican hat) (June grass) (Missouri black- Schizachyrium scoparium (little bluestem) eyed Susan) Sporobolus heterolepis (prairie dropseed) (hairy wild petunia) Salvia azurea (pitcher sage) Perennials: (widow’s cross) Allium cernuum (nodding wild onion) Senecio plattensis (prairie ragwort) Allium stellatum (fall glade onion) (wild pink) canescens (leadplant) (royal catchfly) var. filifolia (feathery blue (fire pink) star) Silphium terebinthinaceum (prairie dock) Asclepias tuberosa (butterfly flower) (Gattinger’s goldenrod) Aster oblongifolius (aromatic aster) (yellow pimpernel) Aster oolentangiensis (sky blue aster) Talinum calycinum* (rock pink) Aster paludosus (prairie aster) * (blue curls) (blue wild indigo) Verbena canadensis (rose verbena) Calamintha arkansana (calamint) glauca (soapweed yucca) Callirhoe digitata (fringed poppy mallow) (Indian paintbrush) Annuals* americanus ( ) star) Small Flowering Trees and Shrubs: (Fremont’s leather flow- Callicarpa americana (beautyberry) er) Cercis canadensis (redbud) (white prairie clover) (fringetree) Dalea purpurea (purple prairie clover) Corylus americana (Hazelnut) (Carolina lark- (Smoke tree) spur) Juniperus virginiana (eastern red cedar) (pale purple coneflower) (fragrant sumac) (glade coneflower) * (western wallflower) Hedyotis longifolia (longleaf bluet) Liatris mucronata (bottlebrush blazingstar) Resistance to Deer Browse Manfreda virginica (American aloe) Marshallia caespitosa (Barbara’s buttons) Most Resistant: Oenothera macrocarpa (Missouri evening primrose) (yarrow) Palafoxia callosa* (palafoxia) Adiantum pedatum (maidenhair fern) Parthenium hispidum (American feverfew) (giant hyssop) Penstemon (showy beard-tongue) Penstemon pallidus (pale beard-tongue) 33

Allium stellatum (fall glade onion) Somewhat Resistant to deer browse: Amsonia ciliata (feathery bluestar) Amsonia illustris (shining bluestar) Aquilegia canadensis (wild columbine) Andropogon gerardii (big bluestem) Aruncus dioicus (goatsbeard) (swamp milkweed) Asclepias tuberosa (butterfly flower) (spider milkweed) Aster oblongifolius (aromatic aster) Carex annectens (yellow-fruited fox Aster oolentangiensis (sky blue aster) sedge) Aster patens (purple daisy) Carex muskingumensis (palm sedge) Baptisia australis (blue wild indigo) (tussock sedge) (Ohio horsemint) Coreopsis tinctoria () Chelone obliqua (rose turtlehead) Delphinium exaltatum (tall larkspur) Coreopsis lanceolata (lance-leaved core- Eryngium yuccifolium (rattlesnake master) opsis) Erysimum capitatum (western wallflower) Echinacea simulata (glade coneflower) (autumn sneeze- (Canada wild rye) weed) Eupatorium purpureum (Joe Pye weed) (woolly rose mallow) lanceolata (gum plant) Iris cristata (dwarf crested iris) (Maximilian sun- Iris virginica (blue flag iris) flower) (soft rush) Heliopsis helianthoides (false sunflower) Monarda bradburiana (Bradbury beebalm) Heuchera richardsonii (prairie alumroot) Onoclea sensibilis (sensitive fern) Liatris pycnostachya (prairie blazing star) Palafoxia callosa (palafoxia) (cardinal flower) Panicum virgatum (switch grass) (blue lobelia) (obedient plant) (monkeyflower) Polystichum acrostichoides (Christmas Monarda fistulosa (wild bergamot) fern) Penstemon digitalis (smooth beard- Pycnanthemum pilosum (hairy mountain tongue) mint) Phlox paniculata (garden phlox) Pycnanthemum tenuifolium (slender Polemonium reptans (Jacob’s ladder) mountain mint) Rudbeckia fulgida (orange coneflower) (mountain (sweet cone- mint) flower) Salvia azurea (pitcher sage) Ruellia humilis (hairy wild petunia) Schizachyrium scoparium (little bluestem) Silene regia (royal catchfly) Scutellaria incana (hoary skullcap) Solidago caesia (blue-stemmed golden- Scutellaria ovata (heart-leaved skullcap) rod) Sedum ternatum (wild stonecrop) (cliff goldenrod) Senecio obovatus (round-leaved ground- Solidago nemoralis (gray goldenrod) sel) (Riddell’s goldenrod) Senna marilandica (wild senna) Stylophorum diphyllum (celandine poppy) Sporobolus heterolepis (prairie dropseed) (Arkansas ironweed) Verbena canadensis (rose verbena) virginicum (culver’s root) Verbesina helianthoides (yellow wing- Zizia aurea (golden Alexander) stem) 34 Landscaping with Native Plants A Gardener’s Guide for Missouri

Native Vines

Aristolochia tomentosa* (wooly pipe-) Berchemia scandans** (supplejack) capreolata* (crossvine) ovata* (ladies eardrops) * (trumpet creeper) * ** (American bitter- sweet) Clematis pitcheri (Pitcher’s leather flower) Clematis versicolor (pale leather flower) (Carolina moonseed) (yellow honeysuckle) Matalea decipiens (climbing milkweed) Parthenocissus quinquefolia* (Virginia creeper) * (passionflower) Passiflora lutea (yellow passionflower) (prairie rose, may be trained like a vine) frutescens* (wisteria)

*Aggressive spreading, isolate or plant in container

**Dioecious: Male and female flowers on separate plants. Requires one male and one female plant for production.

Prairie Plants see Chapter 1: Reconstructing Tallgrass Prairies

Rain Garden Plants see Chapter 2: Rain Gardening and Stormwater Managment

Invasive Plants see Chapter 3: Control and ID of Invasive Species 35

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