Native Plants of the Midwest: A Comprehensive Guide to the Best 500 Species for the Garden

Native Plants of the Midwest features the best native plants in the heartland and offers clear and concise guidance on how to use them in the garden.

“Whether you are a native plant aficionado or simply looking to add regionally appropriate plants to your landscape, this book will become a valued addition to your library.” ―Edward S. Lyon, director of Reiman Gardens

Plant profiles for more than 500 species of trees, shrubs, vines, perennials, ground covers, bulbs, and annuals contain the common and botanical names, growing information, tips on using the plant in a landscape, and advice on related plants.

You’ll learn how to select the right plant and how to design with native plants. Helpful lists of plants for specific purposes are shared throughout. This comprehensive book is for native plant enthusiasts and home gardeners in Ohio, Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, Missouri, Nebraska, North and South Dakota, northern Arkansas, and eastern Kansas.

Alan Branhagen is the Executive Director of the Natural Land Institute (one of the country's first land trusts), and past Director of Operations at the University of Minnesota Landscape Arboretum and former Director of Horticulture at Powell Gardens. He is the author of The Midwest Native Plant Primer, Native Plants of the Midwest, and The Gardener’s Butterfly Book. He has written articles for a range of publications, including Fine Gardening, Missouri Gardener, and Missouri Prairie Journal. Alan is a naturalist and plantsman with a background in garden design and management; he specializes in botany, butterflies, and birds.