Indiana is home to a diverse range of native plants and flowers that thrive in the state’s unique climate and soil conditions. Here are some of the best flowers to plant in Indiana that are native to the region:
Coneflowers (Echinacea):
These vibrant, daisy-like flowers come in shades of pink, purple, and white and are known for their ability to attract butterflies and bees to your garden. Coneflowers should be planted in the Spring after the threat of frost has passed. They can also be planted in the Fall, but they should be given at least 6 weeks for roots to grow before the threat of frost. Coneflowers do best in full sun.
False Indigo (Baptisia):
These perennial flowers produce beautiful spikes of blue, purple, or yellow flowers and are known for their ability to fix nitrogen in the soil, making them a great addition to any garden. They adapt well to having full sun or partial shade and don’t mind having dry or moist soil. You can learn more about growing False Indigo in Indiana here.
Cardinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis):
This striking red flower is a favorite of hummingbirds and butterflies and adds a pop of color to any garden. The plant grows to be about 2-4 feet tall, so it may not be suitable for a small flower bed, but could be a great addition to large spaces. To grow Cardinal Flower in Indiana, it’s important to choose a location that has moist soil and partial shade. It is also important to avoid letting the soil dry out completely, so it is recommended to water the plant regularly during dry spells.
Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia):
These cheerful yellow flowers with dark centers are a staple of many Indiana gardens and are easy to grow and care for. The Black-eyed Susan is a perennial wildflower that can be found all across Indiana. It likes to spread out throughout the season; mine usually start in the front yard flower bed and end up all around the perimeter of my house by October. They tend to bloom in late Summer/ early Fall.
Columbine (Aquilegia):
These delicate, bell-shaped flowers come in a variety of colors and are a favorite of hummingbirds. Columbine is a perennial plant that produces delicate flowers with distinctive spurs that can be found in a range of colors, including pink, purple, blue, and white. When planting Columbine in Indiana, it is best to choose a location that receives partial shade, especially during the hot afternoon hours. Columbine prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter, and will benefit from the addition of compost or other organic amendments to the soil.
Columbine can be started from seed indoors, and then transplanted outside in the spring or fall. Alternatively, Columbine can be purchased as potted plants and planted directly in the garden. Columbine plants should be spaced approximately 12-18 inches apart to allow for adequate air circulation and growth. Once established, Columbine is a low-maintenance plant that does not require frequent watering or fertilization.
Butterfly weed (Asclepias tuberosa):
This bright orange flower is a member of the milkweed family and is an essential plant for monarch butterflies, whose caterpillars feed exclusively on milkweed leaves. There is a lot of mixed information out there about milkweed plants, but I am a huge supporter of growing it to support local pollinators.
It is native to Indiana and can be found growing in fields, meadows, and prairies. Butterfly weed is a hardy plant that thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. It can grow up to 3 feet tall and blooms in the summer with vibrant orange flowers. This makes it a great addition to larger yards with acreage to cover.
Butterfly weed is a low-maintenance plant that requires little watering once established. It can be propagated by seed or by dividing the root system. It is important to note that butterfly weed is toxic if ingested, so it should not be planted in areas where children or pets may come into contact with it. Overall, butterfly weed is a beautiful and beneficial addition to any Indiana garden, providing both aesthetic value and important habitat for pollinators. Check out my list of the What Wildflowers Attract Butterflies.
Bee balm (Monarda):
Bee balm, also known as Monarda, is a beautiful and easy-to-grow perennial plant that is native to North America. This herbaceous plant produces clusters of brightly colored flowers in shades of pink, red, purple, and white, which attract hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees to the garden.
Bee balm prefers full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. It is drought-tolerant once established, but regular watering will help to promote optimal growth and flowering. Deadheading spent blooms will encourage the plant to produce more flowers throughout the growing season. Bee balm can be propagated by dividing established clumps in the spring or by sowing seeds in the fall. It is also resistant to many pests and diseases, making it a low-maintenance addition to any garden. With its vibrant blooms and attractive foliage, bee balm is sure to be a standout in any garden or landscape.
New England aster (Symphyotrichum novae-angliae):
These late-blooming flowers produce masses of pink, purple, or white blooms in the fall and are a great way to extend your garden’s bloom season. These perennials produce masses of small, daisy-like flowers in late summer and fall, attracting bees, butterflies, and other pollinators to your garden.
New England asters prefer full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil, but they are adaptable and can tolerate a range of soil types, including clay and sandy soils. They can grow up to 6 feet tall and may require staking or support to prevent them from flopping over. To encourage bushier growth, pinch back the stems when they are about 6 inches tall.
Virginia bluebells (Mertensia virginica):
These bell-shaped flowers produce clusters of blue or pink blooms in the spring and are a favorite of many gardeners.
By planting these native flowers in your Indiana garden, you can help support local ecosystems and enjoy the beauty of the region’s unique flora.
Why Should I Plant Native Flowers?
Planting native flowers in your yard can have numerous benefits, including:
Supporting local ecosystems: Native flowers provide food and habitat for local wildlife, including bees, butterflies, birds, and other pollinators. By planting native flowers in your yard, you can help support local ecosystems and biodiversity.
Lower maintenance: Native flowers are adapted to the local climate and soil conditions, which means they require less water, fertilizer, and maintenance than non-native plants. This can save you time and money on lawn care and gardening.
Water conservation: Many native flowers have deep root systems that help absorb water and prevent soil erosion. By planting native flowers in your yard, you can help conserve water and reduce runoff.
Beauty and enjoyment: Native flowers come in a wide variety of colors, shapes, and sizes, and can add beauty and interest to your yard. By planting native flowers, you can create a colorful and diverse landscape that you can enjoy throughout the year.
Overall, planting native flowers in your yard is a simple and effective way to support local ecosystems, conserve water, improve air quality, and enhance the beauty of your outdoor space. So why not give it a try?
