"Native" can be defined many ways. We define native plants as those that grew naturally in our state prior to the settlement by European immigrants. The plants introduced by immigrants are "exotics" - not native to this area.

You need to consider soil, available moisture, topography, sun exposure, wind, temperature, snow cover, and elevation. To be successful with native plants, you need to duplicate their natural habitat as closely as possible.

Golden Currant

Native Plants

• are best adapted to our growing conditions
• generally need less water than exotics
• are more resistant to regional pests and diseases
• generally need less care once they are established

Prickly Pear Cactus

Native plants can be as attractive as exotics!

• The varieties available for cultivation are numerous
• Their use will reduce demand for exotics and help reverse the deterioration of native landscapes by exotics

Lewis’ Flax

* from "Growing Native Plants of the Rocky Mountain Area" by Robert D. Dorn and Jane L. Dorn, (c) 2007.

Southwest Montana Native Landscapes LLC
15000 Hwy 91 North ~ Glen, MT 59732
[email protected] ~ 406-498-6198 ~ Blog

Open Wed - Fri & Sun 10am - 5pm or by appointment

Copyright © 2009 Catherine Cain / Please contact for permission to use photographs

YELLOW COLUMBINE