2013 Pahove Chapter Native Plant Sale
INPS Members Only Sale: Friday, April 26th, 5-7pm
Public Sale: Saturday, April 27th, 10am-1pm
There will be no waiting lines at the entrance again this year, that seems to have worked just fine last year!
Location:
MK Nature Center
600 South Walnut, Boise
2013 Plant Sale Availability List
PREVIOUS PAHOVE CHAPTER NATIVE PLANT SALES
2012 Plant Sale Availability List
2011 Plant Sale Availability List
2010 Plant Sale Availability List
Plant Sale Species Information -- For all sales years
(Not all species offered every year. Refer to the availability list above.)
Shrubs/Trees
Acer glabrum (Rocky Mountain Maple) -- This attractive
deciduous shrubby tree reaches a heighth of 8 to 25 feet. It can be planted in moist
protected areas or in the shade of other trees, especially in warm valley sites.
They are a perfect hideaway for large game, small mammals, and nesting or roosting
birds. It flowers in the spring and produces brilliant fall color. Plant in full
sun to partial shade with moderate water use.
Acer glabrum douglasii (Douglas Rocky Mountain Maple)
-- A native alternative to Japanese Maple. They have a substantial shrub presence
with beautiful fall colors of yellow, orange and red. They grow 6-12’ height, and
10’ width at full maturity. Best planted creek side, as green screens, transitional
shrub for a forest setting or specimen in a lawn. They should be planted 8-16’ apart
when used in group plantings. Requires 20-30” of water annually. Plant in sun to
part shade, likes various types of soil. The easily bendable stems were used by
various American Indian tribes to make drying racks, drum hoops, snowshoe frames,
spears, pegs, toys, and masks. The fibrous bark was woven into mats and rope. The
species also provides considerable cover and nesting habitat for many game birds,
songbirds, and small mammals.
Alnus incana tenufolia (Thinleaf Alder) -- A thicket-forming
deciduous shrub or tree that has the ability to fix nitrogen from the air, just
like clover does. They can be grown in full sun to partial shade in average to poor
soils that are moist to wet. This tree is tolerant of cold, dry soil and moderate
drought. It can be used as a fast-growing shade tree or an effective windbreak.
Chickadees, goldfinches and pine siskins, eat alder seeds, buds and catkins. Plant
in full to partial sun where they will get plenty of water. They can grow 20-60
feet tall..
Amelanchier alnifolia (Serviceberry) -- This native shrub
grows up to 15 feet tall. It has white flowers in spring and produces edible, blue
fruits in summer. Plant in full to partial sun, this shrub is moderately drought
tolerant.
Arctostaphylos uva-ursi (Kinnickinnick) -- A low-growing,
spreading, subshrub with evergreen leaves, small pink flowers, and red berries in
the fall. It needs a moderately shady or north-facing location. Moderately drought
tolerant.
Artemisia arbuscula (Low Sagebrush) -- This is a low growing
shrub, no taller than 10 inches, with gray-green foliage and light yellow flower
stalks. It blooms in late summer and the flower stalks persist through winter. This
small shrub likes full sun and tolerates poor soils and low water.
Artemisia cana (Silver Sagebrush) -- This is a 3-5 ft.
shrub with gray-green foliage and a yellow flower in late summer. It will spread
by rhizomes. It is very long lived and likes full sun. Tolerates low water very
well.
Artemisia frigida (Fringed Sagebrush) -- This is a low
growing, mat forming shrub. The feathery foliage is silvery-gray and feathery with
a pleasant fragrance. The yellow flower spikes appear in early summer. Cut back
the flower stalks after the bloom fades. Drought tolerant, plant in full sun. Tolerates
poor soils. Resistant to hungry critters. Good source of seeds for birds in fall
and winter.
Artemisia ludoviciana(White / Louisiana Sagebrush) --
This is a low growing, mat forming shrub. The feathery foliage is silvery-gray and
feathery with a pleasant fragrance. The yellow flower spikes appear in early summer.
Cut back the flower stalks after the bloom fades. Drought tolerant, plant in full
sun. Tolerates poor soils. Resistant to hungry critters. Good source of seeds for
birds in fall and winter.
Artemisia ludoviciana compacta (Fringed Sagebrush) --
This is a stiff, aromatic, silvery-white perennial, 1 1/2-3’ tall by 36” wide, which
can spread quickly to form large colonies. Its adaptability and tendency to colonize
makes it a good choice for a low-maintenance, knee- to waist-high groundcover. Trim
back, edge-trim or divide if less spreading is desired. It can even take mowing.
They have tiny yellow-green flowers cluster on the ends of the stems in the summer.
It spreads by roots to form attractive patches of soft silver texture. They are
extremely drought tolerant requiring 15-20” of water per year. They prefer full
sun and well-drained soil. Rabbits and upland birds use.
Artemisia nova (Black Sagebrush) -- This is a small shrub
with a rounded crown and dwarf growth habit. It only gets 10-18 inches tall. It
produces flower stalks with small brownish flowers in late summer-fall. It reproduces
easily from seed. The leaves are dark to pale green and often fury. Sage Grouse
use Black Sagebrush for nesting.
Artemisia tridentata ssp. tridentata (Basin Big
Sagebrush) -- This is the tallest of the A. tridentatas. It grows 3-5 ft. typically
but can reach 12 ft. under favorable conditions. The foliage is gray-green and semi-evergreen.
About one third of the leaves will drop in late summer. It has pendulous flowers
and an uneven growth pattern. The yellow flowers come on in fall and are inconspicuous.
Plant in full sun and provide even moisture. Do not overwater! This is an excellent
choice for a wildlife friendly landscape and many animals use it for food and cover.
Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana (Mountain big
sagebrush) -- Mountain big sage grows 4-5feet tall. This subspecies typically occurs
above 4,000 feet, where precipitation is slightly higher than in the Treasure Valley.
Mountain big sage requires full sun. It can flower and produce seedlings by the
3rd year.
Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomoingensis (Wyoming
Big Sagebrush) -- This sagebrush is very drought resistant once established. It
grows to about 3 ft. tall, has grey-green hairy foliage and upright yellow flower
stalks. It blooms in the fall. It is semi-evergreen. About 1/3 of the leaves drop
in late fall. Plant in full sun. Tolerates shallow soils. This is an excellent choice
for a wildlife friendly landscape as many animals use it for food and cover.
Atriplex canescens (Fourwing saltbush) -- This 4-6 foot
tall shrub has grayish-white deciduous leaves and non-showy flowers. It is grown
primarily for wildlife, for its drought tolerance, and as a firewise species.
Atriplex confertifolia (Shadscale Saltbrush) -- This plant
is unique, flourishing in poor, alkaline soils in dry, sunny areas. It has rounded
silver blue-green leaves clumped up and down upright branches growing from a low
base. In the fall the whole bush turns rosy yellow. Winter shows a twiggy structure,
awaiting spring's new leaves it adds self-protection with 1/2 inch spines. They
require less than 10” of water annually, reaching 2-4’ height and 36’width at full
maturity. Shadscale growth is greatly related to seasonal precipitation. They are
not fully deciduous, retaining the majority of its leaves through winter. A small
proportion of leaves are shed in the fall, with new leaves produced in March or
April. The fruits provide food for game birds and songbirds.
Berberis aquifolium (Tall Oregon grape) -- Tall Oregon
grape is an evergreen shrub with leathery compound leaves. It can grow to over ten
feet tall (usually < five feet) and has 5-9 leaflets with one central vein. Flowers
are dark yellow, clustered, and bloom April through May. Fruits are waxy blue berries
in grape-like clusters. Plant in sun or partial shade.
Berberis repens (Creeping Oregon grape) -- A low-growing,
evergreen subshrub or ground cover with holly-like leaves. Drought and shade tolerant,
it is native to the forest understory. Grows 1 foot tall and flowers are a bright
yellow in April and May.
Betula occidentalis (Water birch) -- This multi-stemmed
tree grows 15-25 feet tall, producing decorative catkins in April and May. It grows
well on moist sites, especially near a pond or stream. Native to the Rocky Mountain
states from 3,000-9,000 feet elevation.
Celtis reticulata (Netleaf hackberry) -- This drought
tolerant shrub to small tree can grow to nearly 30 feet tall. Slow-growing unless
regularly watered, it is tolerant of pruning, a variety of soil types, and provides
excellent cover for wildlife. The purplish-red drupes it produces in fall are favored
by a variety of wildlife species.
Cercocarpus ledifolius (Curl-leaf mountain mahogany) --
A 10-15 foot tall evergreen shrub with narrow, entire leaves. Drought tolerant,
it prefers well-drained soils and full sun. Tolerant of pruning. Preferred deer
browse.
Cercocarpus montanus (Birchleaf mountain mahogany) --
Native to Oregon, Wyoming, Utah, Colorado, and California, this deciduous shrub
grows to about 10 feet tall by 3-5 feet wide. It prefers medium to well-drained
soils, and provides good cover for birds. Drought tolerant, it grows best in full
sun.
Chamaebatiaria millefolium (Fernbush) -- This shrub grows
6-8 ft. tall and 4-6 ft. wide. It has a very upright growth pattern. The fern like
foliage resembles that of Yarrow. It is deciduous in this area, but will get its
foliage back in early winter. The flowers are elongated clusters of white that appear
in summer. An excellent choice for hot dry exposure. It is very drought tolerant
once established. This plant is attractive to bees, butterflies and/or birds.
Chrysothamnus nauseosus (Gray rabbitbrush) -- This 3-6
foot tall, yellow flowering shrub is extremely drought tolerant. It flowers in late
summer/early fall, and performs best if pruned each spring prior to regrowth.
Cornus sericea (Red-osier dogwood) -- Showy, bright red
stems make this a favorite shrub for landscaping. It grows to about 8 feet and spreads
by layering. Produces white berries in fall. Deciduous, large leaves w/prominent
venation.
Clematis columbiana (Blue or Rock Clematis) -- This semi-woody perennial
vine can grow 10-12 ft. long. Flowers are blue to reddish-purple and appear from
May to July. Flowers are followed by fuzzy plumed seed heads. Needs partial shade
and tolerates dry to moist soils.
Crataegus douglasii (Douglas hawthorne) -- This thorn-bearing
shrub can grow to 15 feet tall. It is moderately drought tolerant and produces a
purple-black fruit in summer that is favored by birds.
Ericamera nauseosa (Rubber Rabbitbrush) -- This shrub
grows to 5 ft. tall. It has silvery-grey evergreen foliage. In late summer it explodes
in intensely golden flowers. It makes and excellent contrast plant with sagebrush.
It likes dry, well drained soil. Once established it is very drought tolerant. Good
forage for deer and sheep and it provides cover for small rodents and jackrabbits.
The flowers are attractive to birds, butterflies and bees..
Fallugia paradoxa (Apache plume) -- A drought tolerant
4-6 foot tall shrub native to the Colorado Plateau, Apache plume grows well in the
Treasure Valley. It is in the rose family and produces simple white flowers through
the summer. Its showy, pink-tinged, feathery-plumed fruits persist on the plant
from fall through winter.
Frangula purshiana (Cascara) -- This plant has deeply
embossed veins and glossy dark green color. The leaves give the tree/shrub great
ornamental value. It grows in full sun to semi-shaded, dry to moist areas. They
have graceful open branching, reaching 12 to 25’ height and 12’ width. Distinct
blue-blackberries in small clusters punctuate the branches in late summer and provide
food for birds (non-edible for humans). Cascara will develop a fuller, more shrub-like
form if pruned yearly, or prune to a central trunk. It can be planted on banks of
a pond or river, in a forest setting or standing alone in a dry corner. They require
20-30" water per year.
Grayia spinosa (Spiny Hopsage) -- This is a long-lived,
woody shrub that reaches 1-5 ft. tall. It is deciduous in our area. It flowers April
to July. The blossoms are green and male and female flowers usually form on different
plants. Leaves are spatula shaped, gray-green and ½ - 1 ½ inch long. There are spines
on the stems. It is very drought tolerant once established and well adapted to alkaline,
clay soils.
Holodiscus discolor (Oceanspray) -- Ocean Spray is a many-stemmed,
spreading shrub that grows 4-5 feet tall. The stems are slender and often arching,
bearing deeply lobed and tothed, deciduous foliage. It flowers May-August completely
covering the shrub in a mass of tiny, fragrant, creamy-white flowers arranged in
large, plumed clusters. Plant in full sun to part shade in rocky course soil. This
plant likes water! Attracts butterflies and birds.
Krascheninnikovia lanata (Winterfat) -- This is a low-growing,
long-lived (up to 130 yrs) subshrub with a woody base and numerous annual branchlets,
growing 1-3 ft. tall. The foliage is hairy giving the plant a silvery white appearance.
It flowers from spring to early fall. The blossoms are wooly and white with a green
stripe. It likes well drained soils and is very drought tolerant once established.
Flowers/Inflorescence: The flowers are inconspicuous with no petals and clustered
in the leaf axils. They are wooly and white, with a green stripe. Male flowers are
found in the axils of spikes, in clusters at the end of the branches. Female flowers
are in a pair of silky bracts.
Larix occidentalis (Western Larch) -- This is a large
tree growing up to 200 ft tall at maturity if the growing conditions are favorable.
The bark is scaly and cinnamon colored. The deciduous needles are pale green turning
a deep gold in fall. Plant in full sun. It will tolerate a wide variety of soils
and the water use is low. Grouse like to eat the new needles.
Lonicera involucrata (Twinberry Honeysuckle) -- This plant
has lush foliage with leaves in pairs showing off yellow flower twins in late spring,
followed by shiny black twin berries, each with its own raspberry-red bract "cape.”
They reach 12-14’ height and 36” width, often growing in thickets. This plant is
not drought tolerant and needs to be watered regularly. They can be planted in low-lying
marshy areas or stream/pond banks, naturalized shrub areas. They prefer moist soil
in sun, part-shade and shade. Wild birds enjoy eating the berries. Hummingbirds
and butterflies are drawn to them.
Mahonia repens (Creeping Oregon grape) -- A low-growing,
evergreen subshrub or ground cover with holly-like leaves. Drought and shade tolerant,
it is native to the forest understory. Grows 1 foot tall and flowers are a bright
yellow in April and May.
Paxistima myrsinites (Mountain Boxwood/Oregon Boxleaf)
– This low-growing evergreen shrub grows up to 2 ft. high with small, glossy, dark-green
leaves in pairs along ascending branches. Inconspicuous maroon-colored flowers appear
April-June. Grows in sun to shade, with low to moderate water, and prefers rich,
well-drained soil. Adapted to open woodlands and rocky glades.
Physocarpus malvaceus (Mallow Ninebark) - Mallow Ninebark
is a vase-shaped deciduous shrub with exfoliating bark and foliage that resembles
small grape or currant leaves. Tiny white flowers occur in loose rounded clusters
and are very fragrant. Fall foliage ranges from intense red to subtle rose-brown.
It is very drought tolerant and likes dry rocky soils. Plant in part shade.
Philadelphus lewisii (Syringa) - Idaho's state flower,
this deciduous shrub grows up to 10 feet tall and has showy, 4-petaled white flowers
in early June. It has opposite branches and leaves that are ovate with entire to
serrate margins. Grows best in well-drained soil in sun to partial shade.
Picea englemanii (Englemann Spruce) - Large tree with
dark or blue-green foliage and a dense, narrow, conical crown of short branches
spreading in close rows. Engelmann’s spruce is a narrow, spire-like evergreen, growing
75-100 ft. tall. Its branches descend to sweep the ground and conceal the trunk.
The coniferous needles are dark blue-green. Grow in sun to part-shade, in moist
rich loamy soil. They are native to North America. They produce 3” pinecones and
are homes for wild birds, squirrel .
Pinus albicaulis (Whitebark pine) – Grows 20-50 feet tall,
whitebark pine are known from British Columbia to California and east to Wyoming
and Montana. They generally grow on south-facing slopes near timberline. There are
5 short (1-3” long) needles per fascicle. Can live more than 1000 years in their
natural habitat. Needs well-drained soil and full sun. Unknown how well they will
grow in the Treasure Valley (none of us have grown them before).
Pinus flexilis (Limber pine) - Native to eastern Idaho
and other Rocky Mountain states, limber pine is slow-growing and, like whitebark
pine, has 5 needles per fascicle. Grows in full sun on well-drained soils.
Pinus ponderosa (Ponderosa pine) -- One of the largest
pine trees in the world (up to 130’ tall) and one of the most common trees in
western North America. Needles are 6-10" long and 3 per bundle. Grows best in full
sun in well-drained soils. Drought tolerant.
Potentilla fruticosa (Shrubby cinquefoil) – Hardy to Zone
2, this 2-4 foot tall deciduous shrub has a rounded habit and slow rate of growth.
It has yellow flowers from June until first frost. It is widely used and there are
many cultivars. It is tolerant of a variety of soil types but grows best in full
sun with moderate amounts of water (not drought tolerant).
Prunus virginiana (Chokecherry) -- This deciduous shrub
typically grows 8-15 feet tall and spreads vegetatively. It produces clusters of
white flowers on pendulant spikes in the spring. Fruits ripen to a deep purple to
black color in summer. Tolerant of a variety of soil conditions.
Pseudotsuga menziesii (Douglas Fir) -- Douglas Fir is
one of our most important lumber species, a magnificent ornamental tree, and one
of the most popular Christmas trees in America. Additionally, a large number of
bird and animal species find shelter and food in this majestic tree. Douglas fir
seeds are used by blue grouse, songbirds, squirrels, rabbits, and other rodents
and small animals. Antelope, deer, elk, mountain goats, and mountain sheep eat the
twigs and foliage. It prefers full sun with a slight shade tolerance, moderate water
(do not over-water)and well drained, acidic or neutral soil. Mature size in a home
landscape setting: 40-70 feet tall and 12-20 feet wide.
Purshia tridentata (Bitterbrush) - Typically grows 4-6
feet tall, though can reach heights of 10 feet. Extremely drought tolerant, bitterbrush
grows best on well-drained soils in full sun. It produces sweet-smelling, 5-petaled
yellow flowers in early May. Preferred deer browse. Do not overwater.
Rhus trilobata (Oakleaf sumac) - A drought tolerant shrub
that obtains a height up to 6 feet and 8 feet across. It has attractive foliage
that is particularly showy in the fall. Also known as lemonade bush due to the lemon
flavor of the fruits. However, fruits are best eaten by wildlife rather than humans.
Ribes aureum (Golden currant) -- This 4-6 foot tall deciduous
shrub produces bright yellow flowers in late March and early April. It is tolerant
of a variety of site conditions, though grows best with regular irrigation and in
partial sun. An excellent species for birds due to the small orange-red fruits it
produces in summer.
Ribes cereum (Wax currant) -- Native at mid-elevations
in Idaho, this 4-5 foot tall deciduous shrub produces a white to pink-tinged tubular
flower, followed by a dull to bright red unpalatable berry. Requires regular irrigation.
Ribes sanguineum (Red-flowering currant) – This northern
Idaho native grows 5-10 feet tall and is intolerant of saturated soil. It grows
best in full sun to partial shade. The pink to reddish flowers bloom in early spring
(April). Leaves are deciduous, have 3-5 lobes and are a dark green color. Hardy
to Zone 5, this is a highly attractive shrub.
Rosa nutkana (Nootka Rose) – This Native plant has attractive
pink bloom and large red fruit (hips) that persist in the winter. Covered with prickles
and is an aggressive spreader. They enjoy moist to wet soil in sun to part shade.
Often they reach 10’ in height. They are deer resistant and attract wild birds and
butterflies. The hips, or fruit, of any wild roses may be eaten and are often used
to make jams and jellies.
Rosa woodsii (Wood’s rose) – Native along riparian corridors
primarily, this 3-4 foot tall shrub produced simple pink flowers in late May and
early June. This shrub spreads vegetatively to form thickets, so it must be planted
accordingly. Bright red rose hips in fall and winter are showy and attractive to
wildlife.
Rubus parviflora (Thimbleberry) - Native to the understory
in many Idaho forests, thimbleberry grows best in partial shade and requires regular
water. It spreads vegetatively similar to raspberries, but much more slowly.
Sambucus cerulea (Blue elderberry) - Deciduous shrub to
15 feet tall, it produces small white flowers in summer and powdery blue fruits
in late summer. Blue elderberry has pinnately compound leaves, grows best in well-drained
soil in sun to partial shade, requires plentiful water, and is not preferred by
deer. Blue elderberry grows from Canada to Arizona. To maintain good form,
it is best to prune it back heavily each spring.
Sarcobatus vermiculata (Greasewood) - This shrub grows
2-8 ft. tall. It can be erect or spreading. The foliage is small and bright green
and have a layer of salt on them that can be tasted. It will lose the leaves in
winter. Shrubs have either male or female flowers. Blossoms appear July-August.
Plant in a sunny location and provide even water. It prefers alkaline soils. Greasewood
is an important food source for small mammals and birds.
Sheperdia argentea (Silver buffaloberry) - This deciduous
shrub to multi-stemmed small tree reaches 10-15 feet in height. It has silvery,
narrow, entire leaves. Branches are opposite and somewhat spine-tipped, and its
fruits are reddish-yellow and provide an excellent food source for birds. Will spread
vegetatively. Drought tolerant and grows best in full sun.
Sorbus scopulina (Mountain ash) -- This 10-15 foot tall
shrub to small tree is deciduous with pinnately compound leaves. Leaflets are sharply
serrated. The small white flowers are borne in large, dense, flat-topped clusters
and appear in summer. Fruits are reddish-orange and occur in clusters that ripen
in late summer to early fall. Best grown on a northerly aspect in the Treasure Valley.
Requires moderate amounts of water and is tolerant of a variety of soils.
Spirea douglasii (Pink spirea) -- A deciduous shrub that
forms thickets (it spreads vegetatively) and grows to 4-6 feet tall by 3-6 feet
wide, it forms spires of pink to purple flowers in the summer. Grows in partial
shade to shade, requires moderate amounts of water, and tolerates a variety of soil
types.
Symphoricarpos albus (Snowberry) -- This opposite branching
shrub produces pink to white flowers in May or June, followed by a white, berry-like
fruit in late summer and winter. It grows to about 5’ tall and spreads vegetatively.
Tolerant of partial shade, it requires regular irrigation.
Forbs
Achillea millefolium (Yarrow) - Stems can be single or
loosely clustered and are 1-2 ft. tall. The foliage is silvery-green and feathery.
The flowers are in clusters at the top of the stems. They range from white to pink
with a yellow center and appear from mid-summer to fall. Will grow a broad range
of soils and is very drought tolerant once established.
Agastache urticifolia (Nettleleaf Giant Hyssop) - This
is a perennial subshrub that grows 3-6 ft. tall. Foliage is thick and dark green.
Rose colored flowers appear in June, July and August. Plant in sun to part shade.
Likes well drained soil and regular water. Very attractive to butterflies.
Allium cernuum (Nodding Onion) – This onion has soft,
grass-like leaves and a 1-2 ft. flowering stalk. White to pink flowers bloom
July-August. Flower stem bends so that flowers nod toward the ground.
Prefers full sun, low to moderate water, and humus-rich, neutral to alkaline soil.
Most effective planted in small groups and benefits from being divided every third
year or when 8-10 bulbs appear.
Anaphalis margaritacea (Pearly everlasting) – This white-flowered
perennial blooms prolifically from June to September. It grows to 18” tall, is tolerant
of poor soils, needs moderate amounts of water, spreads by rhizomes, but is not
aggressive. Common in forested habitats of Idaho.
Antennaria microphylla (Rosy pussytoes) -- A low-growing
perennial that is somewhat mat-forming. Leaves are a silvery gray color. Prefers
well-drained soils and low to moderate amounts of water. Flowers cream colored to
pink tinged.
Aquilegia coerulea (Rocky Mountain columbine) -- This
widespread blue and white flowering species is native to most western states. It
is Colorado’s state flower. It grows to 24” tall in partial to full sun where well
watered.
Aquilegia formosa (Red Columbine) -- An open-branched,
2-3 ft. perennial with delicate, blue-green, lobed foliage and yellow and red, spurred
flowers. Blooms May-August. Plant in full sun to part shade. It likes medium moisture
and is adapted to most soil types. Attracts hummingbirds.
Asarum caudatum (Wild Ginger) -- This native forb is a
mat-forming groundcover that grows less than 1 ft. tall but up to 3 ft. wide. The
main stem creeps along the ground with two leaves growing from each stem node. The
large, heart-shaped, dark-green, persistent leaves hide the unusual, fuzzy, reddish-brown
to greenish-yellow flowers borne from lower leaf axils. The bizarre brown-purplish
to yellowish or greenish flower is hidden by heart-shaped leaves growing in pairs
from trailing, rooting stems that form dense patches. They are an evergreen perennial
reaching only 7-10” tall. Blooms April-August and requires moist rich soil, full
shade.
Balsamorhiza hookeri (Hooker's Balsamroot) - Leaves are
deeply segmented, appearing in basal tufts from a woody taproot with 4-12 inch tall
leafless flowering stems. The flower is 2-3 inches wide and yellow, resembling a
sunflower. Blooms April-June. Plant in full sun in dry rocky soils. Prefers medium
moisture.
Balsamorhiza sagittata (Arrowleaf balsamroot) - A long-lived,
drought tolerant native perennial that emerges in April and flowers in May around
Boise. Doesn't flower until it is 4-7 years old. Flowers are sunflower-like. Goes
dormant in summer until the following spring.
Camassia quamash (Blue camas) - Six dark blue petals and
6 bright yellow stamens characterize this species of wet meadow habitats. Grows
about 1 foot tall from a bulb. Dormant through the summer. Edible bulb.
Castilleja integra (Whole-leaf Indian Paintbrush) - This
Native forb has been described as a crudely formed paintbrush dipped in paint. This
Native plant gets orange blooms similar in look to snapdragon. The Indian paintbrush
has woody roots, which will grow until they touch and penetrate the roots of nearby
plants, usually grasses, allowing it to feed off a portion of the host plant’s water
and nutrients. Plant close to other shrubs, forbs or grasses in well drained soils
and full sun. They grow 2-3’ tall and can be planted on dry hills, woodlands, mesas,
plains, high prairies, on gravelly or rocky soil. Requires 20” of water annually.
They are very attractive to pollinator’s.
Castilleja miniata (Giant Red Indian Paintbrush) - An
erect perennial, 12-30 inches tall, with stems either unbranched or somewhat branched
above. The flower cluster resembles a ragged, crimson or scarlet paintbrush. Blooms
May-September. Most Indian paintbrushes are partial parasites on other plants, their
roots establishing connections with roots of other species. Disturb roots as little
as possible when transplanting. Plant in well drained soils in full sun. Prefer
even moisture.
Cleome serrulata (Rocky Mountain Beeplant) - Annual with
erect stems. Palmately compound leaves appear in threes at the base of the stems
and pink or reddish-purple flowers appear at the top. They bloom July to September.
The Stems are 3-6 ft. tall. Flowers produce a lot of nectar that attract bees. Plant
in full sun to part shade with well drained sandy soil. Likes medium moisture. Seeds
are an important food for doves and other wild birds.
Epilobium canum ssp. latifolium (Zauschneria latifolia)
(Firechalice) – This spreading, perennial herbaceous plant features scarlet, fuchsia-like
flowers that rise 6-12 in. above a low-growing mat of gray-green, leathery leaves.
Flowers appear June-August. Needs full to part sun and low to moderate water.
Spreads by root sprouts and rhizomes. Adapted to rocky slopes and canyons.
Erigeron compositus giabratus (Cut-Leaf Daisy) -- Round
yellow button flowers form above muted green lacy leaves. They grow 10-15 inches
tall. Plant in full sun, prefers well drained soils. Very drought tolerant once
established. Attractive to bees and butterflies.
Erigeron linearis (Desert Yellow Fleabane) -- This low-growing
perennial with linear leaves produces a profusion of yellow, daisy-like flowers
on single stems May-July. Needs full sun and very low water. Adapted
to dry, open rocky areas.
Erigeron speciosus (Aspen Fleabane) -- Clusters of leafy
stems, ½ - 2 ½ ft. tall, rise from the woody rootstock of this perennial. Each stem
bears several showy, nearly 2 in. wide flower. They have bright blue rays and a
yellow center. The lower leaves of this plant tend to fall off as the season advances.
Blooms June-August. Plant in full sun in any soil type. Likes even moisture.
Erigeron subtrinervis (Threenerve Fleabane) – This spreading
perennial with leafy stems grows up to 30 in. tall and is topped with small, purple,
daisy-like flowers in July-August Needs full sun and low water. Adapted to moderately
dry, open areas in the mountains.
Eriogonum compositum (Cut-Leaf Daisy) - Branched, prostrate,
stems form a mat-like clump up to 1 ft. wide. Leaves, on long, slender stalks, are
oval to hear-shaped. Creamy-white to deep yellow, tubular flowers are borne in rounded
clusters on leafless stalks about 1 ft. tall. Blooms May to June. Plant in full
sun. Liked rocky, well drained soil. Drought tolerant.
Eriogonum heracleoides (Wyeth buckwheat) - Woody, long-lived
buckwheat that reaches a maximum height of 18”. Unusual garden plant with creamy
white flowers in the summer. Best if grown in partial to full sun. Moderately drought
tolerant.
Eriogonum microthecums (Slender Buckwheat) -- This is
a lovely, dainty shrub. It grows about a foot tall and two feet across at the top.
Leaves are narrow, rolled inward and sparse. Flowers have a raggedy beauty as they
dangle at the end of the stems with their cute little stripe on each petal. Plant
in full sun. Very drought tolerant once established.
Eriogonum umbellatum (Arrowleaf Buckwheat) -- This long-lived,
creeping perennial requires good drainage and full sun. Its deep yellow flowers
appear in early summer and can be dried for flower arrangements. It has attractive,
evergreen, round leaves. Drought tolerant.
Eriophyllum lanatum (Wooly Sunflower) -- A grayish, woolly,
leafy plant with several branched stems ending in short leafless stalks and golden-yellow
flower heads. Flowers are 2 inches across and appear June to September. Plants may
be erect or sprawling and from 4-18 inches tall. It is a shrubby perennial with
a woody base. Plant in full sun, very drought tolerant, prefers dry sandy soil.
Attractive to butterflies.
Fragaria vesca (Mountain strawberry) -- Also known as
woodland strawberry, this small plant (4-6 inches tall) is commonly found in meadows,
young woodlands, sparse forest , woodland edges and clearings. Spreads fast by runners
and can form dense mats. Fruits are much smaller than the commercial variety. Grow
in sun to partial shade. Somewhat drought tolerant. Flowers white with 5 petals,
from 3-15 on a stem.
Fritillaria pudica (Yellow Fritillary) – The stem of this
lily grows 1 ft. high and is topped by a single yellow, hanging, bell-like flower.
Flowers fade to red or purple as they age. Grows in partial shade and needs
moisture in the spring, drier in the summer. Adapted to shrub-steppe and mixed
coniferous forests with dry, rocky soils. Susceptible to damage by rodents
and deer. Plant several to ensure some flower.
Gaillardia aristata (Indian Blanketflower) -- Sunshine
on the western prairies, Blanket Flower blooms with golden beauty. A member of the
Sunflower family, Blanket Flower has red-tinted centers and looks beautiful planted
with other wildflowers in a prairie setting. The muted silvery green leaves have
varied shapes and stay in a low growth pattern. They reach 1-2’ height and 12’ width
requiring full sun and well-drained soil. Blooming in summer and requiring 15-20”
of water annually. They are butterfly forage and pollinator attractor.
Geranium viscossissimum (Sticky geranium) -- Grows from
18-30" tall at low to moderate elevations in the mountains. Pink to lavender colored
flowers bloom in the summer. Requires moderate amounts of water.
Geum triflorum (Prairie smoke) -- This mountain meadow
native requires full to partial sun and moderate amounts of water. It produces interesting
reddish flowers from early to mid-summer. Low-growing, evergreen foliage. Flower
stalks are 10-18” tall.
Gutierrezia sarothrae (Broom Snakeweed) – This 1-3 ft.
tall sub-shrub has many slender, branching stems and fine yellow-green foliage.
Tiny yellow flowers appear in tufts at ends of branches August-November. Flower
stems are the same length, producing a yellow-domed, fan-shaped plant when in flower.
Needs full sun with low to moderate water. Adapted to dry, open calcareous
plains and disturbed areas.
Hedysarum boreale (Northern Sweetvetch) -- A member of
the Pea family. Plants have many branches with pinnately compound leaves and compact
to elongated clusters of pinkish-purple to reddish-pink pea-like flowers. Blooms
April to August and grows 18-24 inches tall. Likes full sun and sandy to rocky soils.
Drought tolerant. Attracts butterflies.
Heuchera rubescens (Pink Alpine Coralbells) – This small
perennial plant with low rosettes of grape-like leaves produces flowering stalks
4-12 in. high. White to pink bell-shaped flowers bloom May-August. Needs
partial shade and low soil moisture. Adapted to dry, high elevation rocky
areas.
Hymenoxys acaulis (Sundancer Daisy) -- Like gold coins,
the flowers of the Sundancer daisy wave cheerfully in the summer breeze, held above
a low-growing cluster of leaves by long (14"), leafless stems. This creates the
illusion that the flowers are suspended in mid-air, without any stems at all. It
does well in harsh conditions, keeping the leaf profile low, but putting on a good
show of flowers to feed native pollinators. Unlike Shasta Daisy, Sundancer keeps
its petite size and dainty growth habit without spreading. This Native needs 10-15”
water annually enjoying dry soil growing 1-2’ height and 8” width.
Lilium columbianum (Columbia Tiger Lily) – The slender
stems of this lily may reach 5-6 ft. and under favorable conditions feature a dozen
or more nodding, light-orange flowers, spotted with maroon. Blooms May-September,
depending on elevation. Requires partial shade and well-drained soil that
dries out in summer. Adapted to prairies, woodlands and coniferous forests.
Linum perenne v. lewisii (Blue flax) -- This 12-24” tall
plant produces blue flowers from spring to summer. Each 5-petaled flower lasts just
1 day. Grows best in full sun, is drought tolerant, and stays green through summer.
This variety is native throughout most of western North America, while the ornamental
var. perenne is of Eurasian origin. It produces a lot of seed and can spread if
the site is well watered.
Lomatium dissectum (Fernleaf Biscuitroot) – This member
of the carrot family features finely dissected leaves and small brownish-purple
or yellow compound flower umbels at the end of 1-5 ft. stems between April-July.
Needs sun to partial shade and low water. Adapted to deep soils in shrub-steppe
and mountain meadow habitats. (All plants in this genus contain toxins and
should not be ingested.)
Lomatium triternatum (Nineleaf Biscuitroot) – This member
of the carrot family features long, narrow, slightly dissected leaves and small
yellow flower umbels at the end of 7-30 in. stems between March-July. Needs
sun to partial shade and low to moderate water. Adapted to dry or somewhat moist
open areas at low to mid-elevations. (All plants in this genus contain toxins
and should not be ingested.)
Lupinus polyphyllus (Bigleaf lupine) -- Plants grow up
to 30" tall and are generally associated with moist areas in the mountains. Summer
flowers vary from lavender to blue to pink.
Mimulus lewisii (Lewis monkeyflower) -- This moisture-loving
plant grows along mountain streams and springs. It grows to about 18” tall in full
to partial sun. First discovered by Meriwether Lewis, this stunning plant has large,
purplish-red tubular flowers.
Penstemon cyaneus (Blue penstemon) -- Large, deep purple
tubular flowers grace this native perennial that grows to 2 feet tall. Blooms in
May and June when planted in full sun. Drought tolerant.
Penstemon deustus (Hotrock penstemon) -- Low-growing perennial
forb native to Idaho. Easily grown in full sun, producing lots ofwhitetubular flowers
from May-June. Drought tolerant. Often self seeds. Avoid overwatering.
Penstemon eatonii (Firecracker penstemon) -- Perennial
forb of the Great Basin (UT, NV; not native to Idaho). Easily grown in full sun,
produces many red, tubular flowers from May to June. An excellent hummingbird attractant.
Drought tolerant. Avoid overwatering. Relatively long-lived.
Penstemon fruticosus (Shrubby penstemon) -- A low-growing
(to 18” tall), semi-evergreen subshrub with large, blue to lavender tubular flowers
in June and July. Requires well-drained soils and is longer lived than many other
Penstemons.
Penstemon palmeri (Palmer penstemon) -- Short-lived perennial
forb of the Great Basin (Utah, Nevada - not native to Idaho). Easily grown in full
sun, producing lots of large pink, tubular flowers from May-June. Drought tolerant.
Often self seeds. Avoid overwatering.
Penstemon payettensis (Payette penstemon) -- Native to
west-central Idaho, Payette penstemon produces light to medium blue flowers in late
Mate and June. It is moderately drought tolerant and requires full sun and good
drainage.
Penstemon rydbergii (Rydberg’s Penstemon) – This small
sub-shrub features pale purple to dark blue-violet flowers in dense whorls at the
top or along erect stems reaching 7-24 in tall. Flowers appear May-July.
Needs full to partial sun and low to moderate water. Adapted to open meadows
and drier sagebrush-covered slopes in the foothills and lower elevation mountains.
Penstemon venustus (Lovely penstemon) -- Numerous bluish
to purple tubular flowers are produced by this 2-3 foot tall plant in May and June.
Also a good species for hummingbirds. An Idaho native, this spectacular penstemon
requires more moisture than firecracker, hotrock, or Palmer penstemon.
Polystichum munitum (Western Swordfern) – This evergreen
fern grows in a massive clump of 75-100, 3-5 ft. long, dark-green fronds resembling
a palm tree. Prefers part to full shade and moist, acidic soils but tolerates
dry conditions. Adapted to damp coniferous woodlands. Deer-proof and
drought-tolerant.
Sidalcea oregano(Oregon checkermallow) -- Produces 3 foot
tall pale lavender colored spikes of flowers. Grows best in full sun, but is not
drought tolerant.
Sisyrinchium idahoense (Blue-eyed grass) -- This 10-15”
tall member of the Iris family produces blue to reddish-purple flowers in early
spring. Native to sites that are moist in spring. Prefers full sun. Becomes dormant
in summer.
Sphaeralcea grossulariifolia (Gooseberryleaf globemallow)
-- A drought tolerant orange-flowered native of low elevation sites in southern
Idaho. Requires full sun and very little water once established. With flower stalks,
can grow about 24" tall.
Sphaeralcea munroana (Munro's Globemallow) -- Perennial
forb that produces a showy, salmon-colored, five-petaled flower. Grows to about
2 feet tall. Plant in full sun and avoid overwatering.
Stanleya pinnata (Desert Princesplume) – This graceful
desert perennial features towering flowering stalks that reach 5-6 ft. tall and
bear racemes of bright-yellow flowers on tall, stout, smooth, bluish-green, leafy
stems. Blooms April-September. Needs full sun, low water, and well-drained
soil. Adapted to dry, stony slopes and sandy washes.
Grasses
Achnatherum hymenoides (= Oryzopsis h.) (Indian ricegrass)
-- A native perennial bunchgrass of sandy sites in the western U.S. Flower stalks
grow up to 18" tall and are quite airy and attractive. Drought tolerant and relatively
short lived, particularly on soils that are not well-drained.
Festuca idahoensis (Idaho fescue) -- This native perennial
bunchgrass obtains heights of up to 18" (with flower stalks). Prefers medium to
moderately fine deep soils and moderate amounts of water. Full sun is best.
Pseudoroegneria spicata (Agropyron s.) (Bluebunch wheatgrass)
-- A large, long-lived bunchgrass that can grow up to 2.5' tall. Very widespread
in the western U.S. This drought tolerant species requires full sun.