Native plants for Connecticut

179 native plants grow wild in Connecticut, each shown in historical botanical art or a photograph. They bloom from March through September, and 160 have documented pollinator visitors. Gardens across the state fall roughly in USDA hardiness zones 5b–7a. Choosing plants native to Connecticut means they are adapted to the local climate and soils and support the region's bees, butterflies, and birds.

Why plant natives

Native plants evolved with the local insects, birds, and soils, so once established they need little water, no fertilizer, and no coddling, while providing the nectar, pollen, seeds, and host foliage that non-native ornamentals cannot. A native bed is lower-maintenance and higher-value for wildlife than a conventional one.

Starting a native garden in Connecticut

Start by matching plant to place: note how much sun each spot gets and whether the soil runs dry, moist, or wet, then choose species whose needs match; the filters above sort by exactly these. In Connecticut (roughly USDA zones 5b–7a), fall and early spring are the prime planting windows. Buy nursery-propagated, local-genotype plants rather than wild-collected stock, plant in groups of three or more so pollinators can find them, and mulch lightly the first year while roots establish.

Keep it blooming

The species here bloom from March through September. Pick at least one plant for each part of that window (spring, summer, and fall) so something is always in flower and pollinators always have forage.

Frequently asked

How many native plants are native to Connecticut?

This guide features 179 native plants documented as native to Connecticut, including wildflowers, ferns, and shrubs. Many hundreds more native species also grow wild in the state.

What hardiness zone is Connecticut in?

Connecticut spans roughly USDA hardiness zones 5b–7a. Check your exact zone before buying, since the state covers more than one.

When do Connecticut wildflowers bloom?

Across these species, bloom runs from March through September. Planting a mix of spring, summer, and fall bloomers keeps color and pollinator forage going all season.

What are the best native plants for pollinators in Connecticut?

160 of these Connecticut natives have documented bee, butterfly, or hummingbird visitors. Use the "For pollinators" filter above to rank them by pollinator value.

Where can I buy native plants in Connecticut?

Look for a nursery that sells nursery-propagated (not wild-collected) local-genotype plants. Your state native plant society and regional native-plant sales are the best starting points; see Resources below.

Explore the plants

Why plant natives

Starting a native garden in Connecticut

Keep it blooming

Frequently asked

Resources