Historic (Jamestown era) Native Plants Database

Albermarle County Virginia has posted a native plants database, listing the species that were on the site pre-Jamestown!

Here's what they say, "Based on available science, the plants recommended here were found in this region prior to the arrival of the colonists at Jamestown, thus making them native plants.

Native plants are historic to the region, help give us a sense of place, and are an important part of our local ecosystem.

A panel of local experts chose these plants based on their current or potential availability, their overall aesthetic interest, and their likelihood to grow well without major care.



U.S. Wildflowers.com

This database allows everyone from the development community to the backyard enthusiast to search for native plants by uses and growing conditions."

You can search based on "Recommended Uses" such as stormwater, butterflies, landscaping, etc.

Or how about by plant needs, soil type and water needs?
Then, add plant characteristics such as spreading, height, flower color, bloom time and animal resistance, and you get suggestions for your specific interest.

What a great service. Tip of the Trowel to Albermarle County, VA.

Here's the link for your native plant browsing pleasure
http://www.albemarle.org/nativeplants/

You can also go directly to the Entire List link to see what was growing in VA at the time of Jamestown. Check that one out, too.

The photo of Black Bugbane or Cohosh is from U.S. Wildflowers, another terrific resource at the link http://uswildflowers.com/. You can search by state, name, list, family, etc.