Unruly Native Plants

Native plants are great for many reasons. While time and space do not allow a complete explanation, suffice to say they are the preferred choice in the plant world for ecological reasons. However, just because a plant is native does not mean it is well behaved and interacts nicely with companions. Unless it is a well-chosen site and properly maintained, some natives can be downright bullies.

At the risk of irritating all of the Monarch butterfly proponents, let’s start with Common milkweed (Asclepias syriaca). Before proceeding, let me clarify that there are many garden-friendly milkweed species, including Swamp milkweed (A. incarnata), Butterfly weed (A. Tuberosa), and Whorled milkweed (A. verticillate). However, native common milkweed is aggressive and once established is difficult to control. They seed prolifically plus spread by rhizomes (underground runners). Common milkweed can take over a perennial garden in a flash and is best used in fields and thickets. Stick to the less aggressive species mentioned above to please both the Monarch butterflies and you.

Cup plant (Silphium perfoliatum) is another native plant that may make your cup run over if not put in the proper location. This is an outstanding plant that pollinators enjoy, tiny frogs love, as they sit in the cups at the base of the leaves, and birds relish due to the fall seeds. However, it is big. And, by big, I mean 6—10 feet tall big. (About the size of a lilac.) Additionally, it seeds readily which means it will soon be a colony in your perennial garden unless deadheaded. However, if maintained properly, and planted among tall prairie companions with plenty of room to spread, they are a beauty to behold.

Staghorn Sumac (Rhus tyhina) is an excellent choice if you need a small tree/shrub that will spread 20—30 feet, grow fast, and colonize. It is of great value to wildlife, has multiple season interest, and will grow where most other things will not. However, if you were thinking of putting this in a small space, do not do so. It is extremely aggressive and will outcompete other plants in the area.

Common ninebark (Physocarpus opulifolius) is another rowdy native. Because of its high maintenance requirements, it is difficult to site properly. It is a fast grower in almost any conditions, but is a bit irregular and leggy, needs regular pruning, and is prone to powdery mildew. However, there are some cultivars that are much more well behaved, including ‘Diablo’, ‘Coppertina’, and “Summer Wine’, with varying shades of foliage to match your landscape.

Virginia creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia) is a native vine that is sometimes mistaken for poison ivy. It is a fast-growing plant that is wonderful for erosion control, growing up to 20 feet in a single year. It will obscure unsightly tree stumps, rock piles, and other undesirable items in the landscape. However, it will also smother other plants, shrubs, and even trees if not managed properly. (Be sure to keep an eye on small children!) If there is a spot that needs ground cover with lots of room to roam, this is a good plant. However, keep it away from small spaces unless you want to make pruning a full-time job.

All of these plants have redeeming qualities in the correct location. Planted unwisely, they will be a world of frustration. Use the landscaping rule “Right plant: Right place” and all will be well.

Carol Shirk

Certified Master Gardener