Native Plants
A plant which occurs naturally within the region where it grows. Because of their longstanding prevalence in a certain place, native plants form a cooperative plant community in which different species benefits each other. For example, certain plants may provide food for the local insects that in turn pollinate that plant. Unfortunately, humans sometimes introduce non-native plants to a region. This can cause strain, introduce disease or disrupt the natural balance of natives.
Native plants have adapted to their climates and are easier to grow and maintain than non-native plants. Natives also generally require less fertilizer, less water and fewer pest controls.
As much as 30 percent of the world’s flora is at risk of extinction. One organization that exists to increase the sustainable use and conservation of native plants is the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center (http://www.wildflower.org/).
To find out what plants are native to your area, check out this native plant database (http://www.wildflower.org/plants/).
Sources:
-- “Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center,” Accessed Sept. 5, 2007. http://www.wildflower.org/
-- “Native Plant,” Wikipedia. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Native_plants
-- “Native Plant Gardening,” eNature. Accessed Sept. 5, 2007. http://www.enature.com/native_invasive/natives_overview.asp
