Category Archives: Tried and True Native Plant Selections for the Mid-Atlantic

PERENNIAL: Monarda didyma (Scarlet Beebalm, Oswego Tea) 

Posted on May 29, 2020 by

Tried and True Native Plant Selections for the Mid-Atlantic)

This member of the Mint family, native to scattered regions of eastern North America, grows along stream banks and in thickets and open woods. Its distinctive red flowers attract a variety of pollinators, especially hummingbirds,** and it offers herbal and medicinal benefits. Continue reading →

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SHRUB: Kalmia latifolia (Mountain Laurel)

Posted on May 22, 2020 by

Tried and True Native Plant Selections for the Mid-Atlantic

Mountain Laurel is a tall, exceptionally handsome, evergreen shrub with shiny, leathery leaves that make beautiful winter-season roping.  This native of eastern North America is one of the most beautiful native flowering shrubs and is often displayed in parks. The Virginia Native Plant Society named Mountain Laurel as Wildflower of the Year in 1994. Continue reading →

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VINE: Bignonia capreolata (Cross-vine)

Posted on May 15, 2020 by

Tried and True Native Plant Selections for the Mid-Atlantic: Bignonia capreolata (Cross-vine)

This semi-evergreen vine can cling to stone, brick, and wood without support. Found in forests and along roadsides mainly in the South, its showy, two-tone flowers are an early nectar source for butterflies and hummingbirds. Continue reading →

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Northern Virginia Bird Parents Face Caterpillar Shortages

Posted on May 13, 2020 by

Northern Virginia Bird Parents Face Caterpillar Shortages

“Parents often feed their chicks even after they fledge, similar to what some human parents experience these days with their Millennial fledges. And while local parents have recently been confronting scarce supplies of paper products and frozen pizzas, these poor bird parents will tell you they’ve been suffering caterpillar shortages in this urban area for years.” Continue reading →

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