33 Native U.S. Plants Every Survival Garden Needs

Growing a survival garden is more than just a style ; it ’s a stride towards ego - enough and sustainability . In the United States , we are blessed with a rich diversity of native plants that are perfect for such garden .

These plant are not only adapted to thrive in their aboriginal environments , but they also offer up a embarrassment of benefits ranging from medicinal properties to nutritional value .

Whether you ’re a seasoned nurseryman or just starting out , incorporating these 35 native U.S. industrial plant can avail you create a robust , resilient , and productive survival garden .

1. American Ginseng

American Ginseng , with its prized root , is a powerful aboriginal plant . Revered in traditional medicine , it ’s celebrated for boost energy and resistant function . Plant it in shaded area with deep , well - drain soil . Imagine this plant thriving under a canopy of tree , silently working its conjuring trick beneath the earth . It ’s not just a flora ; it ’s a silent healer , waiting to be discover . Did you know ? American Ginseng was so valued in the eighteenth century that it became a major export to China ! Its historical import is as rich as its health welfare .

2. Echinacea

Echinacea , known for its outstanding violet flowers , is more than a garden beauty . This plant is a staple in herbal remedies , often used to combat colds and infections . Plant it in gay musca volitans with well - drained grime for best results . The vivacious blooms draw pollinators , produce a brisk prospect in your garden . It ’s like having a natural pharmacy right outside your door . Beyond its knockout , Echinacea has a bequest root in Native American medicine , symbolizing healing and resiliency . Imagine the account these petals could share if they could speak !

3. Purple Coneflower

The Purple Coneflower is not only a visual delight but also a powerhouse in herbal medicine . Its tall , refined stems and vibrant petal are a magnet for bees and butterflies . Placed in well - drain land with plentiful sunlight , this plant tucket and bring a splash of color to any garden . Beyond aesthetic , the Purple Coneflower is revered for its immune - boosting holding . It ’s like a protector of health , standing marvelous and proud . Did you know ? Its roots were used by Native Americans for their medicinal tone , making it a works infuse in history .

4. Wild Bergamot

Wild Bergamot , with its aromatic leaves and vivid heyday , is a sensory delight . Known for its use in teas and cure , it ’s a plant that offers both look and wellness benefits . Its lavender blooms sway gently in the breeze , a muckle that soothes and refreshes . Besides its culinary use , Wild Bergamot was traditionally used to treat colds and sore throats , bring in it a versatile addition to your garden . Its aroma may whisk you by to flying field of wildflowers , where nature ’s chemist’s shop is always open .

5. Milkweed

Milkweed is notable for its vital purpose in the life cycle of Monarch butterfly . Its milky sap and vivacious clusters of flowers are as engrossing as they are operative . Beyond supporting wildlife , Milkweed is easy to grow in sunny areas with well - drained grunge , making it a gardener ’s ally . The works ’s signification go beyond dish ; it ’s a cornerstone in the ecosystem . guess being part of the Monarch ’s unbelievable journey , from egg to romance , all support by this humble works .

6. Black Cohosh

Black Cohosh , with its tower presence , is a standout in any garden . Revered for its medicative properties , it ’s usually used to alleviate menopausal symptoms . set it in fond ghost with dampish soil , where its elegant livid spikes can extend to for the sky . Beyond its forcible beauty , Black Cohosh oblige a place in herbal tradition , offering natural relief and comfort . It ’s like having an ancient remedy at your fingertip , quick to share its wisdom and healing trace .

7. Bee Balm

Bee Balm , with its fiery red bloom , is a beacon fire for pollinator , ensuring a bouncy garden atmosphere . cognise for its aromatic leave , it ’s often used in tea leaf and culinary cup of tea . Plant it in fat , well - drained grunge and watch it become a hub of body process . This industrial plant is n’t just visually appealing ; it ’s a symbol of verve and flavor . Its presence in the garden is like a party invitation to bees and butterfly , assure a engaged and vibrant surround .

8. Yarrow

Yarrow , with its touchy white clusters , is a flora of resiliency and healing . Known for its medicative uses , it ’s often employed to do by wounds and reduce firing . Its feathery leaf and uncompromising shank thrive in sunny areas , providing a soft contrast to other garden plant life . guess the story this ancient plant could tell , having been used medicinally for century . It stands as a testament to nature ’s hold out power to heal and protect .

9. Elderberry

Elderberry , with its dark Chuck Berry and rich history , is a garden hoarded wealth . celebrate for its immune - boosting properties , it ’s often used in syrup and teas . Plant it in well - drain , fertile grease to enjoy its seasonal bounty . see yourself harvest these alimentary - rich berries , a true natural endowment from the garden . It ’s not just a plant ; it ’s an ally in health , offering both beauty and nourishment .

10. Spicebush

Spicebush , with its spicy aroma and shiny red berries , is a sensory delight . Its leaves and Chuck Berry are often used in teas and culinary creations . Thriving in moist , shaded areas , it ’s a versatile plant that bring both flavor and ravisher to the garden . Imagine walking through a woodland course , the air fill with the spicy scent of Spicebush . It ’s like nature ’s own spicery rack , ready to tot up a kick to your culinary escapade .

11. Jerusalem Artichoke

Jerusalem Artichoke , with its sunflower - like blooms , is both a feast for the oculus and the palate . Known for its edible tubers , it ’s a nutritious summation to any garden . Plant it in well - drained grime , where it can reach its full altitude and grow a bountiful harvest . This works is more than just a pretty face ; it ’s a reference of sustenance and pleasure . Imagine digging up its tubers , a hidden treasure beneath the soil , waiting to be discovered and savored .

12. Mayapple

Mayapple , with its singular umbrella - corresponding leaves , is a woodland curiosity . Its individual white bloom and chickenhearted fruit tot up to its charm and machination . Thriving in shaded areas with rich filth , it ’s a plant that surprises with its finespun beauty . Beyond aesthetic , Mayapple has a history in traditional medicine , often used for its laxative properties . It ’s like nature ’s gentle jog , proffer relief and beauty in one package .

13. New England Aster

New England Aster , with its vibrant royal blooms , is a beacon for bees and butterfly stroke . Its late - season flower tote up color to the garden when most plants have faded . constitute it in well - drained soil and enjoy the show of colors and activity . This industrial plant is more than just a splatter of color ; it ’s a crucial part of the ecosystem , support pollinators before wintertime arrive . Imagine a garden alive with movement , thanks to this spirited flora .

14. Pawpaw

The Pawpaw tree , with its tropical allure , produces fruits that taste like a blend of banana and mango . Its heavy leaves and unequaled yield make it a standout . grow in fat , well - debilitate territory , it bid both stunner and a pleasant-tasting harvest time . Picture yourself biting into a mature Pawpaw , its creamy texture and flavor a delicious surprise . It ’s not just a tree diagram ; it ’s a taste of the tropics right in your backyard .

15. Joe Pye Weed

Joe Pye Weed , with its grandiloquent stature and dusky pink bloom , is a magnet for pollinator . Often discover in moist meadow , it ’s a plant life that command aid . Plant it in well - drained areas and take in it become a lively hub for butterflies . This plant is more than just a garden filler ; it ’s a show-stopper that brings life and color . Imagine a hayfield alive with fluttering wings , all thanks to this loom beauty .

16. Eastern Red Cedar

Eastern Red Cedar , with its evergreen foliage , is a symbol of strong point and resiliency . Often used for its wood and aromatic oil , it ’s a tree that offers both stunner and public utility . Plant it in well - drained filth and enjoy its yr - stave greenery and odor . Beyond its hardheaded uses , this tree is a constant comportment , offering shelter and a jot of the wild . Imagine the stories this ancient tree could separate , standing through the seasons , steadfast and secure .

17. Sassafras

Sassafras , with its distinctive mitten - form leave-taking , is a tree that captures the resourcefulness . Known for its redolent rootage and leave , it ’s often used to make teas and root beer . imbed it in well - enfeeble soil where it can bask in the Dominicus and produce to its full glory . This tree is n’t just redolent ; it ’s a piece of history , with leaves that have inspired folklore and culinary world . Imagine the odour of Sassafras wafting through the air , a whisper of nostalgia and tradition .

18. Wild Strawberry

Wild Strawberry , with its tiny reddened Berry , is a sweet delight for both the center and the palate . Its dispirited , spreading riding habit makes it a perfect ground cover . Plant it in gay area with rich land and enjoy its sweet , nutritious fruits . This flora is not just a culinary treat ; it ’s a burst of joyousness , offering little treasures hidden beneath its leaves . envisage the thrill of find out a right berry , ready to be savored , a gift from the earth .

19. Serviceberry

Serviceberry , with its delicate white-hot flower and sweet berries , is a sight to lay eyes on . Often used in crush and desserts , its fruit are a nurseryman ’s delight . establish it in well - drained soil and watch it transmute with the season , offering beauty and bounty . This tree is more than decorative ; it ’s a reservoir of sustenance and joyfulness . Imagine the mouthful of fresh berry , a taste of summertime captured in each bite , all from your garden .

20. Goldenrod

Goldenrod , with its aureate plumes , is often associated with fall hayfield . Its bright flowers are a radio beacon for pollinator and a symbolic representation of resilience . Plant it in sunny area and enjoy its previous - bloom mantrap and bionomic benefit . This industrial plant is not just a pretty face ; it ’s a vital part of the ecosystem , hold pollinators as they train for the colder months . Imagine a field awash with golden hues , a celebration of nature ’s H.M.S. Bounty .

21. Wild Ginger

Wild Ginger , with its warmheartedness - shaped farewell and secret flowers , is a woodland jewel . Known for its redolent rootstock , it ’s often used in cooking and herbal remedies . embed it in shady , moist areas where it can thrive quiet and add elusive dish . This flora is more than meets the centre ; it ’s a fragrant surprise , offering both culinary and medicinal benefit . Imagine the fragrance of peppiness waft through a forest track , a scent of comforter and lovingness .

22. Buttonbush

Buttonbush , with its alone ball-shaped flowers , is a conversation appetizer . Its rosiness attract a variety of pollinator , creating a lively garden picture . institute it in moist , cheery areas and watch it become a hub of activity and sweetheart . This works is more than just ornamental ; it ’s a lively part of wetland ecosystems . Imagine a garden alive with the buzz of bee , all thanks to this intriguing plant .

23. Prairie Dropseed

Prairie Dropseed , with its fine - textured foliage and airy blossom plumes , adds state of grace to any garden . Known for its drouth tolerance , it ’s a live choice for gay areas . Plant it in dry , well - drained soil and love its gentle movement and pernicious beauty . This industrial plant is more than just cosmetic ; it ’s a survivor , thriving where others may not . Imagine a prairie landscape , waves of grass shake in the air current , a dance of survival and elegance .

24. Sunflower

Sunflowers , with their sunny disposition and tower heights , are a symbolisation of summertime . roll in the hay for their edible seeds , they ’re both a visual and nutritionary delight . Plant them in cheery , well - drain soil and check them gain for the sky , bestow joy and bounty . These plants are not just pollyannaish ; they ’re a source of upkeep and temperateness . Imagine a force field of golden cheek , turn towards the sun , a testament to resilience and ontogeny .

25. Columbine

Columbine , with its distinguishable spurred petal , is a garden darling . Its colourful flower are a attractive feature for hummingbirds , adding a touch of arbitrariness to any space . implant it in well - drained grime and savour its playful presence and vibrant hues . This flora is more than just sorcerous ; it ’s a symbolisation of joy and lightness . Imagine a garden alive with vividness and movement , all thanks to this delightful peak .

26. Blazing Star

Blazing Star , with its improbable capitulum of vibrant purple prime , is a standout in any garden . Known for draw in butterflies , it ’s a plant that adds both beauty and liveliness . implant it in gay , well - drain soil and enjoy its spectacular bearing and bionomic benefit . This plant is more than just an eye - catcher ; it ’s a of the essence part of a lively garden , put up pollinators and add together drama . suppose a garden alert with flutter wings , thanks to this fiery star .

27. Lupine

Lupine , with its tall spires of disconsolate and royal flowers , is a optic joy . Known for its nitrogen - ready ability , it ’s a plant that amend soil health while adding beauty . Plant it in well - drained soil and savor its vivacious colouring and bionomical benefits . This flora is more than just reasonably ; it ’s a soil enhancer , offer a explosion of color and living . guess a hayfield awash with chromaticity of blue and purple , a will to lulu and function .

28. Switchgrass

Switchgrass , with its towering leaf and feathery plumes , is a symbolization of the prairie . Known for its adaptability and soil preservation benefits , it ’s a plant that stands the psychometric test of time . Plant it in gay region and revel its class - round beauty and environmental contributions . This industrial plant is more than just a grass ; it ’s a reminder of the barbaric prairies , offering strength and elegance . Imagine a landscape painting swaying with the confidential information , a dance of resilience and seemliness .

29. Penstemon

Penstemon , with its trumpet - shaped blooms , is a garden pleasure . know for attracting hummingbird , it ’s a flora that adds both beauty and excitement . implant it in well - drained soil where it can thrive and lend color to your garden . This plant is more than just ornamental ; it ’s a rattling plus that brings crusade and wonder . guess a garden alive with bombinate activity , thanks to this lively bloom .

30. Blue Flag Iris

Blue Flag Iris , with its striking blue - violet blooms , is a wetland treasure . Known for its vivacious flowers and piddle purification benefits , it ’s a plant that offer beauty and function . implant it in moist areas and savor its graceful front and ecologic contribution . This plant is more than just a pretty face ; it ’s a full of life part of wetland health and a delight to behold . Imagine a waterscape adorned with vibrant color , a testament to nature ’s artistry .

31. Virginia Bluebells

Virginia Bluebells , with their campana - mold blooms , are a woodland enchantment . Known for their early springtime flowers , they fetch life to shaded sphere . found them in rich , moist soil and delight their fleeting beauty and early color . This plant is more than just a seasonal pleasure ; it ’s a harbinger of natural spring , offering a burst of color after a long wintertime . Imagine a woodland carpet in blue , a promise of warm 24-hour interval to come .

32. Cardinal Flower

Cardinal Flower , with its brilliant ruby spike , is a standout in any garden . cognise for attracting hummingbird , it ’s a plant that adds both color and life . Plant it in moist , partly shaded area and enjoy its spectacular bearing and wildlife benefits . This plant is more than just a splash of colouring ; it ’s a vivacious invitation to wildlife , ensuring a lively and dynamic garden . opine a infinite alive with flash of ruby-red and flitting chick , a testament to nature ’s vitality .

33. Wild Indigo

Wild Indigo , with its clustered blue flowers , is a prairie gemstone . Known for its dyestuff - create properties , it ’s a works that coalesce looker and public utility company . establish it in well - drained soil and enjoy its fat colouring material and geomorphological ravisher . This plant is more than just decorative ; it ’s a nod to custom and artistry . suppose the vivacious chromaticity of natural dyes , a connection to the past and a celebration of creativity .

American Ginseng