Moss phlox plant sale.
While native plants may be found in most of the same places you buy non-native plants, it is important to verify that the species you select actually is native to our region as mislabeling is all too common.
If you are shopping for summer annuals for flowerbeds and planters, buying non-native plants is not as critical. However, when you are shopping for perennials, shrubs, and trees that will become permanent parts of your landscape, it’s much more important to buy native plants.
Big box stores, and many nurseries, tend to carry more non-native than native plants, so be careful to check the labels before you buy. Plants with names that mention geographic areas are obvious: Japanese anemone, Korean dogwood, English ivy, and Pampas grass all clearly are not native here. The full scientific (Latin) name is also informative: Spirea japonica, for example, is from Asia. Latin names with words like canadense, virginiana, pensylvanica, or caroliniana are more likely native to our area. If you’re not sure, put the label name of the plant into Google or other search engine along with the word “native.” You will quickly find information about the native habitat of the plant.
Below are a few examples of local sources for native plants.
Nurseries
Title: Hilltop Hanover Farm, Yorktown Heights NY
Description: Native plant nursery: potted plants and plugs grown from locally sourced seeds.
Plant Sales
Title: Native Plant Center at Westchester Community College
Description: Spring and Fall Native Plant Sales.
Title: Lasdon Park & Arboretum
Description: Spring Plant Sale which includes native plants.
Title: Teatown Lake Reservation
Description: Spring Plant Sale which includes some native plants.