Native Plants for Montana’s Home Gardens
Yard and Garden
MT202503AG
New August 2025
By Abiya (Abi) Saeed, MSU Extension Horticulture Specialist; Andrea Berry, Big Horn County MSU Extension Agent; and Noelle Orloff, Schutter Diagnostic Lab Plant Identification Diagnostician
LANDSCAPING WITH MONTANA’S NATIVE PLANTS can have countless benefits. Native plants have cold and drought hardiness, provide food and habitat for beneficial insects, including pollinators, and are attractive additions to many different landscapes. With many options of native plant species available, it can be difficult to select those most likely to succeed in individual locations. This publication highlights options for native plants that are likely to thrive in a variety of Montana’s rural and urban home garden landscapes.
There is growing interest for incorporating native plants in home gardens. Native plants are critical for supporting ecosystem biodiversity by providing food and habitat for wildlife. These plants are adapted to local climates, growing seasons, topography, and soils, making them especially tolerant of some of the most challenging issues of growing plants in Montana. Most ornamental and landscape plants grown in home gardens have been introduced from other continents (i.e., they are non-native). Native plants can provide the same beauty as non-native plants, with the addition of ecosystem services that non-native plants may not provide.
Native plants and pollinators
Native plants and native pollinators evolved together. Adding native plants to a yard or garden could help to support native pollinator populations. Although some non-native plants can be a good source of nectar and pollen for some pollinators, not all non-native plants meet the nutritional needs of the diverse array of pollinator species. Many pollinators need a varied diet. They may also specialize their diet on certain species or families of plants, making plant diversity an important feature of a pollinator-friendly habitat. Native plants have the added benefit of serving as important sources of food for diverse wildlife species. They function as larval hosts for native butterfly and moth species, and the caterpillars, in turn, are an important source of food for many birds. These interconnected food webs make native plants a key component of the ecosystems in which they are found, with benefits that can extend into home gardens.
Bumble bee collecting pollen from a Blanketflower (Gaillardia aristata). Photo: Abiya Saeed
Mason bee sipping nectar from a Penstemon flower. Montana is home to several native Penstemon species suitable for home gardens, such as the examples featured in the plant list (page 6). Photo: Casey Delphia
Cultivars/nativars
Sometimes native plants are propagated in the nursery trade for their desirable characteristics. Cultivars of these plants (commonly referred to as nativars) can offer disease resistance, different colors, sizes, bloom times and other unique features that may not be found within the wild plant. This breeding process often makes nativars less genetically diverse than wild native plants and may alter their attractiveness to insects and other pollinators.
The suitability of nativars for supporting native wildlife species is a hotly debated topic and the subject of many studies. Research conducted on woody ornamental nativars and their equivalent wild varieties showed a significant reduction in herbivory (feeding by native insect species) in instances where the leaf color had been altered. Some nativars may be less useful to certain native insects than their wild counterparts. Additionally, certain nativars have sterile flowers and may not produce viable seed, making some nativars less useful as food for pollinators and other wildlife. Although the wild genetics of native plants are best for supporting native wildlife, incorporating nativars could provide benefits to wildlife, especially if wild varieties are unavailable or difficult to source.
Soils
Most soils in residential areas have different characteristics than native soils. Whether their structure and microbial composition have been significantly disturbed and altered, or soils have been transported from different ecosystems altogether, it is not guaranteed that native plants will thrive in them.
Obtaining a soil test and evaluating the soil characteristics, including texture (percentage of sand, silt and clay), pH, organic matter, and nutrients, should be a starting point for any gardening project involving plants. Adding amendments such as compost to improve soil organic matter while addressing issues, including compaction and drainage, may be necessary for supporting a thriving native plant garden. Information on soil testing locations and assistance with interpretation can be found through MSU Extension’s website as well as in local MSU Extension offices.
| Never remove native plants from their native ecosystems. Plant removal can disrupt these ecosystems and threaten populations of plants and animals in sensitive areas. Instead, source them from a reputable supplier. |
Pasqueflower (Pulsatilla patens) is a source of nectar early in the growing season. Photo: Andrea Berry
Purchasing seeds is less expensive than purchasing nursery-grown plants but seldom provides quick visual results. Transplanting nursery-grown plants can be more expensive but can increase the chance of successful establishment. A combination of seeds and container plants when starting native plants in the yard or garden can provide both instant gratification and greater species diversity in the long term. The material available (whether seeds or nursery-grown plants) will also greatly depend on the plant species. Some species readily establish from seed, while others may require nursery-grown plants for faster growth and establishment.
Seed mixes need to be carefully evaluated before planting in a home garden. Some seed mixes, especially those that are not created or sourced locally, may contain non-native species of plants (some of which could be invasive or poorly suited to the climate). Seed mixes may also contain a mix of annual and perennial seeds, which may result in a showy display during the first year of growth, with a lower diversity of species in subsequent years. There are several reputable sources for native plant seeds and nursery-grown transplants for Montana. The Montana Native Plant Society Source Guide in the resource list is a good place to begin.
Planting
Whether seeding or transplanting nursery-grown plants, timing can be an important consideration. For most native forbs and grasses, late fall is the optimal time to seed. Many native species require a cold period to encourage germination. This ‘cold stratification’ process helps break down inhibitors that prevent germination that are common in many native plant seeds. In exposed areas with little to no snow cover and high winds, fall seeding may not be the best option. Spring seeding can also work for native plants, though species that require cold stratification may not germinate until the following year. This is a common occurrence in nature. Spring seeding should take place after there is no snow cover, and seeds will need to be watered consistently for a few weeks to encourage germination (especially if conditions are dry).
Transplanting nursery-grown plants works well in the spring before temperatures get too hot and soil dries, and in the fall after the heat of the summer has passed, while the soil is still warm. Bare root trees and shrubs should be planted when they are dormant in the early spring. Depending on species, there may be additional planting considerations, so do some research on specific plants before getting started.
Watering
Although many native plants are evolutionarily adapted to Montana’s semi-arid climates, watering newly installed plants sufficiently can be a critical component of successful establishment. A common mistake when planting natives is failing to water young plants that are not yet established (i.e., rooted in the soil) because they are considered drought-tolerant. Plan to water newly planted native species until they are well established, which may take a growing season or longer in the case of trees and shrubs. Some species do not like excessive water, so water judiciously as plants require it.
Incorporating native plants into the home garden
Whether starting a new native garden, converting larger sections of the landscape to native plants, or incorporating some native plants into an existing garden, there are a variety of ways to accomplish these goals. Thoughtful planning is helpful for any garden project, and taking the time to plan a native garden can have countless benefits. Taking a survey of the garden landscape, mapping out sun and shade areas, and creating sketches of proposed landscaping ideas can help with selecting the appropriate locations for native plant projects. Visit locations with native plant gardens to get ideas for native landscaping projects.
Native plants work well in perennial borders on their own or with existing ornamental plants. Photo: Casey Delphia
Narrowleaf Purple Coneflower (Echinacea angustifolia) blooms in mid-summer, providing nutrition to pollinators and birds. Photo: Andrea Berry
Using a combination of colors and textures to add variety and visual interest can increase biodiversity and add unique design features in the landscape. Photo: Sarah Eilers
Native plants can be important sources of food for pollinators and other wildlife. Blanketflower (Gaillardia aristata) in the foreground and Blue Giant Hyssop (Agastache foeniculum) in the background, located at the Bee Haven Pollinator Garden at Fort Peck Interpretive Center. Photo: Shelley Mills
Native plants work well in perennial borders on their own or with existing ornamental plants. Using a combination of colors and textures to add variety and visual interest can also increase biodiversity and add unique design features in the landscape. Add native perennial forbs and grasses around undisturbed areas surrounding existing trees and shrubs. As in any landscape, grouping plants with similar growing requirements and water needs can simplify garden maintenance. Whether it’s a profusion of spring and summer blooms, vibrant seed-heads in the fall, or a stunning display of textures and interesting bark in the winter, native plants can provide year-round beauty. If the thought of converting a whole landscape as a larger project is daunting, start small and transition to a native landscape over time.
Species selection
Montana is a large state with a variety of climates, soil types, and growing conditions. It is important to keep local considerations in mind while selecting plants for landscaping projects. Consult local MSU Extension resources for additional information.
The included list of species serves as a guide to make selections of native plants, grasses, shrubs and trees based on criteria including use type, Plant Hardiness Zone, drought resistance, and benefits to pollinators. These plants are also reasonably easy to establish and grow in the home garden and most are readily available through local suppliers. Some of the plants included in this list are native to the region (including adjacent states) and grow well in Montana, without being explicitly native to the state.
Upright Prairie Coneflower (Ratibida columnifera) is a good addition to a native plant garden for its beautiful floral display, high drought resistance, and benefit to pollinators. Photo: Noelle Orloff
* Species not designated as Montana native are not considered native to Montana or their status is under review, but they are considered native in nearby states (USDA Plants Database, Montana Field Guide). Plants indicated as larval hosts support one or more butterfly or moth species.
* Species not designated as Montana native are not considered native to Montana or their status is under review, but they are considered native in nearby states (USDA Plants Database, Montana Field Guide). Plants indicated as larval hosts support one or more butterfly or moth species.
* Species not designated as Montana native are not considered native to Montana or their status is under review, but they are considered native in nearby states (USDA Plants Database, Montana Field Guide). Plants indicated as larval hosts support one or more butterfly or moth species.
* Species not designated as Montana native are not considered native to Montana or their status is under review, but they are considered native in nearby states (USDA Plants Database, Montana Field Guide). Plants indicated as larval hosts support one or more butterfly or moth species
** Some tree species may not be suitable in an area, check with local Extension resources before incorporating trees and shrubs in the landscape.
Definitions
Annual: Plant that completes a life cycle in one year.
Biennial: Plant that completes a life cycle in two years, with vegetative growth during the first year and flowering occurring during the second year.
Cultivar: A cultivated variety of a plant, bred for specific characteristics by humans.
Forb: An herbaceous, broadleaf plant that is not a grass, often with larger and more distinct/showy flower displays.
Graminoid (Grasses, Sedges, and Rushes): Herbaceous plant with narrow leaves and subtle elongated flower spikes that are pollinated by wind, including grasses (Poaceae) and other grass-like plants such as sedges (Cyperaceae) and rushes (Juncaceae).
Nativar: A cultivar created from a native plant species.
Native plant: Plant that has evolved and occurs naturally in a particular region, ecosystem, and habitat.
Perennial: Plant that persists year after year, growing and blooming during the spring and summer seasons, dying back in the fall and winter, and regrowing the following spring.
Shrub: A woody plant, smaller than a tree, with several main stems arising at or near the ground.
Tree: A woody plant, usually with a single elongated stem or trunk, that can grow to considerable sizes.
Acknowledgements
We want to thank Casey Delphia (Assistant Research Professor, MSU), Sarah Eilers (Montana Master Gardener Coordinator), Kenda Herman (Botany Data Assistant, Montana Natural Heritage Program), Clain Jones (Extension Soil Fertility Specialist, MSU), and Monica Pokorny (Plant Materials Specialist, NRCS Montana State Office) for their contributions to the plant list, editorial feedback, and photos.
Additional resources
Beaver, J., S. Vantassel, and A. Saeed. 2023. Minimizing Deer Damage in Residential Settings. MT202308AG. Montana State University Extension, Bozeman, MT. store.msuextension.org/Products/Minimizing-Deer-Damage-in-Residential-Settings-MT202308AG__MT202308AG.aspx
Dinkins, C., C. Jones, C., and K. Olson-Rutz. 2018. Home Garden Soil Testing and Fertilizer Guidelines. MT200705AG. Montana State University Extension, Bozeman, MT. store.msuextension.org/Products/Home-Garden-Soil-Testing-and-Fertilizer-Guidelines MT200705AG__MT200705AG.aspx
Holm, H. 2014. Pollinators of Native Plants: Attract, Observe and Identify Pollinators and Beneficial Insects with Native Plants. Pollination Press, Minnetonka, MN. 320 pp.
Montana Field Guide. Montana Natural Heritage Program [online]. fieldguide.mt.gov
Montana Native Plant Society. 2025. Native Plant Source Guide. 37 pp.mtnativeplants.org/landscaping/sourceguide/
Phillips, H. W. 2003. Plants of the Lewis & Clark Expedition.
Mountain Press Publishing, Missoula, MT. 288 pp. USDA-NRCS. USDA Plants Database [online]. plants.usda.gov USDA-NRCS. Creating Native Landscapes in the Northern Great Plains and Rocky Mountains. www.nrcs.usda.gov/plantmaterials/mtpmcpunatland.pdf
USDA-NRCS. 2012. Montana Native Plants for Pollinator Friendly Plantings. www.nrcs.usda.gov/plantmaterials/mtpmcbr11694.pdf
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