Plant Classification

Native Plants
Ornamental Plants

A forb is an herbaceous annual, perennial or biennial that is not a grass. All plants within this category are perennials and of local ecotype propagated from seed that originated from plants within 90 miles of St. Charles, IL, unless otherwise noted. Some native flora and fauna form symbiotic relationships. For example, some of the most threatened butterflies are dependent on a few species of native forbs. When planted in garden habitats similar to their natural ones, native forbs tolerate extreme midwestern climates with minimal care.

Native Grasses & Sedges

Prairies once covered much of our state lands and native grasses formed a major component of this prairie. Native grasses and sedges provide habitat for countless animals, including many beneficial insect species. All plants in this category are perennials and of local ecotype (propagated from seed that originated from plants within 90 miles of St. Charles, IL) unless otherwise noted. Several are very ornamental and useful for erosion prevention and control.

Native Trees, Shrubs
& Vines

The plants in this category are trees and shrubs not only native to the U.S., but they are local ecotypes. All of our native plants are propagated from seed that originated from plants within 90 miles of St. Charles, IL, unless otherwise noted.