Plant Descriptions

Woodbrook Nursery is one of the best retail sources for Pacific Northwest Native Plants in the greater Seattle, Tacoma and Olympia area. Why grow native plants? They are adapted to our wet winters and dry summers, unlike most non-native plants. They also provide food and shelter for indigenous wildlife. So when adding to your landscape, or doing a new landscape, do consider the advantages of these environmentally friendly plants.

Click on the name of the plant and you can see additional information and more pictures of each plant.

In the plant list, natives have an asterisk after the scientific name, such as:
Scientific name*

Deciduous Trees

Acer macrophyllum*

Bigleaf Maple

A vigorous growing native maple tree that grows rapidly to 75-100 ft. high and 50 ft. wide. Named for its large leaves which are often as much as a foot across. Sometimes has brilliant yellow fall color.

Alnus rubra*

Red Alder

Alders, thriving in areas and soils in which other plants barely survive, are very important in land reclamation. Their roots fix nitrogen which will eventually increase the nutrients available for the other plants which follow. These native trees grow quickly to 30-50 ft high and 20-30 ft wide. Do well in full sun to part shade in dry to somewhat wet soils. Short lived, making way for more long living plants.

Betula papyrifera*

Canoe Birch, Paper Birch

As this specimen native tree matures, the bark develops creamy-white areas and peals off in papery layers. It tends to be columnar shaped with heights to 50 ft and widths at maturity of approximately 15-20 ft.. Does well in well drained to slightly moist soils. Very attractive in groves.

Cornus nuttalli*

Pacific Dogwood

Our native dogwood tree flowers in April or May before its leaves are out. Some years it also blooms in September. Fall color varies from yellows to reddish. It does best in wooded, well drained settings. Tolerates some shade. Good wildlife plant - Birds like seeds. Grows to about 20-60 ft tall and 10-20 ft. wide. Usually has pinkish-red fall color.

Crataegus douglassii*

Western (Douglas) Hawthorn

A small native tree growing to 20 ft.. Sometimes multi-stemmed. Black berries are food for birds and other wildlife. Develops thorns which could be useful for foot traffic control. Good wildlife cover and erosion control. Likes some moisture in the soil and full sun to part shade.

Fraxinus latifolia*

Oregon Ash

This native tree does well in wet, low-lying areas. Tolerates seasonal flooding. Bright green compound leaves turn yellow in fall. Grows 60-80 ft., spreads 30-40 ft.

Larix occidentalis*

Western Larch

A large, deciduous conifer that turns a golden yellow in the fall. Soft, green needles in small clumps appear in the spring. Common on the east side of the Cascade Mountains.

Malus (Pyrus) fusca*

Pacific Crabapple

Small native tree up to 15-30 ft. high, spreading 10-20 ft.. Spring flowers are white to pink and fragrant. Colorful crabapples are suitable for wildlife food. Makes dense thickets. Likes dry to moist soils in full sun to part shade.

Metasequoia glyptostroboides

Dawn Redwood

A prehistoric deciduous conifer, once thought to be extinct, was rediscovered in China. Its needles are lacy and soft to the touch. Has yellow to orange fall color. Grows rapidly in youth, as much as 4-6' per year. Can reach 70-90 ft. high. Likes full sun in well drained soils, but likes some summer irrigation. Once native to all of northern part of USA.

Populus tremuloides*

Quaking Aspen

An ornamental or reclamation native plant known for its quivering leaves and distinctive greenish white bark. Likes moist soil areas (Willow family). Striking when grown in groupings. Brilliant gold fall color. Locate away from septic or drains. Grows 25-75 ft tall and 10-25 ft. wide. Commonly found in the mountains of Washington State, but sometimes found in the lowlands of Western Washington

Populus trichocarpa*

Black Cottonwood

This native tree grows rapidly. Usually does well in the deep moist soils along river bottoms and stream sides (Willow family). Good for reclamation of urban wastelands and windbreaks. Can tolerate periodic flooding. Grows 40-150 ft tall and 20-40 ft. wide.

Prunus emarginata*

Bitter Cherry

Small native tree or large shrub growing to 45 ft. tall and 15-25 ft. wide. An excellent wildlife plant. White spring flowers yield bright red bitter cherries (people do not eat these). Likes moist forest setting. Does well in full sun too.

Prunus virginiana*

Chokecherry

Small native tree or large shrub growing to 25-35 ft. high and 12-20 ft. wide. An excellent wildlife plant. White spring flowers yield edible, reddish-black fruit by late summer. Fruit makes tart jelly when sweetened or is good wildlife food. Likes forest edges or clearings.

Quercus garryana*

Oregon White Oak

A slow growing native tree that develops an intricate branching pattern when older. Grows to 75 ft. tall and 45 ft. wide. Does best in full sun and in dryish, porous, gravelly soils. Acorns are very popular with our native squirrels. Occurs naturally in the Fort Lewis area of Pierce County in Tacoma, Washington.

Rhamnus purshiana*

Cascara

A small native tree growing up to 30 ft.. Best used in a forest setting in which its handsome foliage is not damaged by pollution.

Salix hookeriana*

Hooker's Willow

Large willow growing to about 18 ft.. Native to coastal areas.

Salix lasiandra*

Red or Pacific Willow

A small tree or multi-stemmed shrub. Bark varies from yellow to reddish brown with dark green narrow leaves favored by deer. Good soil stabilizer along streams and lakes.

Salix scouleriana*

Scouler's Willow

Rapidly growing large shrub or small tree growing to 30 ft. Good winter browse for deer and moose. Light grey bark.

Salix sitchensis*

Sitka Willow

Small tree or shrub growing to 24 ft. Likes moist areas.

Sorbus scopulorum*

Western Mountain Ash

A shrub or small native tree growing up to 12 ft. Has white flowers in clusters followed by orange to scarlet fruit. Found growing naturally mostly in the Washington Cascade Range, but will also do well in Western Washington lowlands.

Coniferous Trees

Abies amabilis*

Pacific Silver Fir

A dense, conifer with a cylindrical, or conical shape, commonly found at high elevations. It may grow to 165 feet, but is usually much smaller. Its unique, shorter needles lie flat against stem. Older bark is whitish-gray with white patches.

Abies balsameas

Balsam Fir

A good specimen or used as a Christmas tree.

Abies bournmuelleriana

Turkish Fir

A good specimen or used as a Christmas tree.

Abies concolor

White Fir

A slow-growing, broadly pyramidal tree, growing to 75 or 100 feet.. Attractive steely, blue-gray foliage. Best in sun with good drainage.

Abies lasiocarpa*

Subalpine Fir

This popular landscape plant grows slowly and is used extensively for specimen plantings.

Abies procera*

Noble Fir

Usually found at higher elevations, the Noble Fir is a fine specimen tree and one of the most highly prized Christmas trees. It grows at a moderately slow rate (~12" to 30" per year), but may eventually reach 90-200 feet. It does best in full sun on well drained soils.

Calocedrus decurrens*

Incense Cedar

Native to Oregon and California, this tree also does quite well in the Puget Sound area. Its narrow columnar shape, bushy down to the base, make it a natural for an evergreen screen. They grow rapidly, reaching 75-90 ft. when mature. Tolerant of a variety of soil, exposure and moisture conditions.

Cham.nootkXCupress leylandii

Leyland Cypress

A hybrid between C. nootkatensis and Cupressus macrocarpa. Grows very fast to 15-20 ft. in 5 years. Can be topped and sheered for a good screen. Accepts variety of soils and climates.

Chamaecyparis lawsoniana*

Port Orford Cedar, Lawson Cypress

A widely used ornamental conifer. Native to the southern coast of Oregon. It grows to from 125 -to 185 feet. It does best in drier soils.

Chamaecyparis nootkatensis*

Alaska Yellow Cedar

Graceful conifer with drooping branches. Native Alaska to California. Pyramidal growing to ~25 ft. wide and ~80 ft. tall. Tolerates moderately moist soils. Full sun preferred, but can grow in partial shade.

Juniperus scopulorum*

Rocky Mountain Juniper

A shrubby, evergreen tree found in dry, rocky habitats in the San Juan Islands. Growing to 25 feet, it has grayish foliage with pea-sized bluish-purple fruits. Tolerant of salt-spray.

Larix occidentalis*

Western Larch

A large, deciduous conifer that turns a golden yellow in the fall. Soft, green needles in small clumps appear in the spring. Common on the east side of the Cascade Mountains.

Metasequoia glyptostroboides

Dawn Redwood

Picea pungens Glauca

Colorado Blue Spruce

Attractive bluish needles make this tree a popular specimen or Christmas tree.

Picea sitchensis*

Sitka Spruce

This tree is commonly found in the rain forests of the Olympic Peninsula. Grows rapidly to 100-150 ft. with a spread of 20-25 ft.. Prefers full sun on moist, well drained soils.

Pinus contorta contorta*

Shore Pine

Common from sea level to timberline, this medium sized pine tree is useful both in sandy areas subjected to salt spray or in ornamental gardens. It frequently grows in contorted shapes.

Pseudotsuga menziesii*

Douglas Fir

A very common NW conifer, the Douglas Fir graces many a neighborhood already. The average height of an old growth tree is between 75-125 ft. It can be used as a specimen tree or sheared to make a large hedge. Prefers well drained soils.

Sequoia giganteum*

Giant Sequoia

Native to the west slope of the Sierra Nevada, it can grow to be one of the tallest trees in the world. It grows rapidly, has a dense pleasing foliage, and makes a good specimen.

Sequoia sempervirens*

Coast Redwood

Coastal redwood tree.

Taxus brevifoli

Pacific Yew

Evergreen shrub to small tree 6-45' tall. Moist mature forest understory tree.

Thuja plicata*

Western Red Cedar

A graceful tree distinguished by its drooping leader. It grows widely along the western side of the Cascades and is often found intermixed with the Douglas Fir. It grows rapidly.

Tsuga heterophylla*

Western Hemlock

A graceful tree distinguished by its drooping leader. It grows widely along the western side of the Cascades and is often found intermixed with the Douglas Fir. It grows rapidly.

Tsuga mertensiana*

Mountain Hemlock

Slow growing conifer common to the Cascades and Olympics. In gardens it tends to stay small with a pleasing irregular growth habit. Often multi-stemmed with bluish-gray green foliage.

Broadleaf Evergreen Trees

Arbutus menziesii*

Pacific Madrone

This elegant, broad-leaved evergreen tree, has a distinctive smooth reddish brown trunk with exfoliating bark on upper branches. White flower clusters in mid spring are followed by orange to reddish berries in the fall. Likes dry, well drained soil with sunny exposures.

Deciduous Shrubs

Acer circinatum*

Vine Maple

This distinctive plant is as highly valued as an urban ornamental as it is in native plantings. Mature plants usually develop multiple trunks with bright reddish green bark. It can be grown alone as a specimen, in groupings, or as an understory shrub. Does best in partial shade with moist, well drained soils.

Acer glabrum*

Douglas Maple

A deciduous shrub that can reach about 30 feet. New growth branches are an attractive reddish color which changes to a greyish bark as it matures. Leaves turn bright yellow to orange in the fall. Takes sun and prefers well drained soils.

Amelanchier alnifolia*

Serviceberry

Valued by English gardeners, this plant merits wider use in ornamental gardens, as well as in naturalized settings. Attractive, white flower clusters in spring are up to 2 inches across. Edible, purplish black fruit matures in late summer. In fall, leaves turn bright red or yellow. Most grow to 4-6 ft. tall and prefer partial to full sun.

Cornus stolonifera or Cornus sericea*

Redtwig Dogwood, Red Osier, Creek Dogwood

This plant is highly valued ornamentally, but also does quite well in the naturalized landscape. It thrives in moist areas alongside streams or ponds, or in wetter areas in a conventional garden. It is multi-stemmed shrub, up to 15 feet tall, and spreads from root sprouts. In fall, leaves turn bright red and bunches of white or bluish berries form. The stems of new growth often are red, providing winter interest in the garden.

Corylus cornuta californica*

Western Hazelnut

A tall, spreading deciduous shrub with edible hazelnuts favored by squirrels. Common understory shrub in natural settings.

Crataegus douglassii*

Western (Douglas) Hawthorn

Holodiscus discolor*

Ocean Spray

In spring, this member of the Rose Family provides quite a floral show along many NW roads. Flowers are small, creamy white, and borne in large clusters, resembling ocean foam. This multi-stemmed shrub can be used both ornamentally and in the naturalized settings. Prefers well drained soils.

Lonicera involucrata*

Black Twinberry

This is the largest of the shrubby honeysuckles, reaching 10 feet tall. It does well in moist open sites. It has pale yellow flowers and purplish black fruits.

Malus (Pyrus) fusca*

Pacific Crabapple

Oemleria cerasiformis or Osmaronia cerasiformis*

Indian Plum or Oso Berry

By early March this shrub starts leafing out and blooms with pendant white flower clusters. Common in the lowlands west of the Cascades, it grows 15-20 ft.. Editable "Plums" are purple, olive-sized fruit, favored by birds and other wildlife.

Philadelphus lewisii*

Mock-Orange

Our native mock-orange has been a prized ornamental in Europe since 1825. It is best known for its fragrant, large, snow white blooms which occur in late June. This medium to large sized, multi-stemmed shrub takes full sun or part shade. Fruit is eaten by birds.

Physocarpus capitatus*

Pacific Ninebark

This tallish shrub favors low elevations in open woods, along creeks or in moist areas. Its small white flowers are clustered in dense pompoms. Has interesting bark.

Prunus virginiana*

Chokecherry

Rhododendron occidentale*

Western Azalea

Used extensively in azalea crosses, this is one of our best native summer bloomers. Flowers vary from white to pale rose. In Oregon and California, it frequently grows along stream banks in moister soils. Grows to 10 ft. in sun to partial shade.

Ribes aureum*

Golden (Yellow) Currant

Attractive deciduous shrub with edible berries that attract birds. Fragrant yellow flowers. Native to east slope of the Cascades. Likes moist to dry soils. Grows to 9' tall.

Ribes lacustra*

Swamp Currant

Shrub that likes a moist to dryer soil in part sun to part shade.. Dark purple berries.

Rosa gymnocarpa*

Baldhip Rose

This wild rose has brilliant red hips that are food for birds and small mammals. Flowers are small and grow in clusters. It grows to about 4.5 feet. Native to both sides of the Cascades.

Rosa nutkana*

Nootka Rose

This native rose does well in both dryish and moist habitats on both sides of the Cascades. It has an aggressive root system. Roses are large single pink blooms followed by purplish hips.

Rosa pisocarpa*

Clustered Wild rose, Peafruit Rose

A native rose with deep pink flowers followed by hips which provide food for wildlife. Reaches 3-12 feet tall.

Rosa Rugosa

Rugosa Rose

Deep pink to white flowers are followed by red hips. Makes a good hedge. Vigorous and hardy. Native to China and Japan.

Rubus parviflorus*

Thimbleberry

Shrub grows to 4 ft.. Has large maple-shaped leaves. White flowers in spring produce edible red fruit. Good wildlife food.

Rubus spectabilis*

Salmonberry

Reddish purple flowers bloom before foliage appears in early spring. The bright reddish salmonberries are edible. Hummingbird plant.

Salix hookeriana*

Hooker's Willow

Large willow growing to about 18 ft.. Native to coastal areas.

Salix lasiandra*

Red or Pacific Willow

A small tree or multi-stemmed shrub. Bark varies from yellow to reddish brown with dark green narrow leaves favored by deer. Good soil stabilizer along streams and lakes.

Salix scouleriana*

Scouler's Willow

Rapidly growing large shrub or small tree growing to 30 ft. Good winter browse for deer and moose. Light grey bark.

Salix sitchensis*

Sitka Willow

Small tree or shrub growing to 24 ft. Likes moist areas.

Sambucus caerulea*

Blue Elderberry

Deciduous shrub with blue edible berries, good for jams, jelly, pies, wine or the birds. Grows 4-10’ tall. Creamy white flowers. Similar to the red, but likes it a little dryer and sunnier.

Sambucus racemosa*

Red Elderberry

This deciduous shrub is very common west of the Cascades. Large attractive clusters of red berries are very popular with the birds, but may be toxic to humans when eaten raw.

Sorbus scopulorum*

Western Mountain Ash

Sorbus sitchensis*

Sitka Mountain Ash

A shrub or small tree growing up to 12 ft. Has white flowers in clusters followed by reddish fruit favored by some birds.

Spirea densiflora*

Subalpine Spirea

This shrub grows to about 70 cm, has attractive flat topped clusters of pink flowers. Likes moist thickets, meadows or open rocky slopes.

Spirea douglasii*

Douglas Spirea

This attractive, many-stemmed shrub does best in moist, open sunny areas. It reaches 4 ft. or more and blooms in early to mid summer with fragrant pink to purple flower plumes.

Symphoricarpos albus*

Common Snowberry

A low twiggy shrub usually reaching about 2-3 ft.. In winter it has distinctive white berries that can be food for wildlife or used in flower arrangements.

Symphoricarpos mollis*

Creeping Snowberry

Similar to the Common Snowberry but smaller and can spread by above ground stems rooting at the nodes. Likes dry areas.

Syringa pubescens patula

Miss Kim Lilac

Dense lilac bush growing to ~4-6 ft. tall in 5 years. Fragrant ice blue flowers in May. Leaves might have good fall color.

Vaccinium membranaceum*

Mountain, Black Huckleberry

Understory shrub growing to about 4.5 ft. . Creamy pink to yellow pink flowers followed by purplish to red-black edible & tasty berries.

Vaccinium ovalifolium*

Oval-leafed Blueberry

Deciduous shrub to 6 ft. tall. Flowers pinkish urn shaped bells. Blue-black berries ripen in July, are ~1/4 to 3/8 in. across and are sweeter than the Alaskan. Likes forest and openings.

Vaccinium parvifolium*

Red Huckleberry

This shrub can vary from 3-12 ft.. It tolerates shade or sun, and dryish or moist sites, but does best in soils with humus. Fruit is attractive, salmon colored, edible berries favored by birds.

Viburnum opulus*

High Bush Cranberry

This shrub can grow to 10 ft. Likes moist forests and forest edges. Edible fruit is red or orange and is in clusters.

Coniferous or Broadleaf Evergreen Shrubs

Ceanothus velutinus*

Snowbrush

A tall, spicy-scented shrub to 9 feet. Plants have thick, shiny, evergreen leaves often sticky on top with 3 main veins. Flowers are white in large pyramidal clusters. Found in dry to moist open habitats.

Chamaecyparis pisifera

Boulevard Cypress

Dense, slow-growing bush to 6-8 ft. tall. Silvery blue-green foliage.

Gaultheria shallon*

Salal

Plants have thick, evergreen leaves, that are valued in floral arrangements. Small dainty flowers bloom in late spring or early summer bearing edible black fruit in fall. Needs well drained soils. Grows 3-6 ft. tall, tallest in shaded woodland.

Juniperus scopulorum*

Rocky Mountain Juniper

A shrubby, evergreen tree found in dry, rocky habitats in the San Juan Islands. Growing to 25 feet, it has grayish foliage with pea-sized bluish-purple fruits. Tolerant of salt-spray.

Mahonia (Berberis) aquifolium*

Tall Oregon Grape

Highly valued as an ornamental as well as in naturalized settings. Glossy, holly-like leaves have bronzy copper color new growth which turns green by summer. Small yellow flowers in spring set purple fruit favored by birds or suitable for jellies. Height is typically up to 5 ft. in gardens, but can reach 8-10 ft. in the wild. Can be pruned to control size. Does well in both sun and shade on well drained soils.

Mahonia (Berberis) nervosa*

Low (Cascade) Oregon Grape

An evergreen shrub, with compound leaves, about 2 feet in height. It is very common to the woods west of the Cascades. Flower stalks show yellow flowers in spring followed by clusters of fruit in late summer and fall. Fruit is favored by birds and suitable for jelly. It does well with filtered shade in well drained soils.

Mahonia (Berberis) repens*

Creeping (Mahonia) Or. Grape

This evergreen plant is the smallest of our native Oregon grapes. Although originating east of the Cascades, it also does very well west of the Cascades. It spreads from underground stems.

Myrica californica*

Pacific Wax Myrtle

This plant makes an excellent, attractive screen, growing up to 15 feet high and about as wide. It can be pruned to be kept smaller. It is marginally hardy in much of the northwest, but is worth the risk of cold die back in those maritime areas that have somewhat warmer microclimates than their inland neighbors. It tolerates salt spray, does well in both sun and shade, prefers peaty, slightly acid soils.

Potentilla fruiticosa*

Shrubby Cinquefoil

Semi-evergreen shrub with yellow flowers. Likes open sunny locations. Can handle wet locations.

Prunus laurocerasus Schipkaensis

Schipka Laurel

Evergreen shrub with dark green leaves. Usually to 4-10 ft. tall and 7 ft. wide. Good for screening.

Quercus sadleriana*

Sadler Oak

This tree/shrub is evergreen with thick leaves. Likes sunny sites on well drained soils. Often multi-stemmed.

Rhododendron macrophyllum*

Pacific Rhododendron

The state flower of Washington has large leaves and large trusses of flowers. Common on many coastal or mountain sites from California to British Columbia. It is especially attractive in naturalized settings on the Kitsap Peninsula. In the woods it can reach 25 feet high. In the open they are more compact.

Vaccinium ovatum*

Evergreen Huckleberry

This superb evergreen does as well in cultivation as it does in more naturalized settings. Small glossy evergreen leaves are quite attractive and persist all year. The branches are often used in floral arrangements. It has small pinkish white flowers in spring followed by edible blackish purple fruit towards late summer or fall. They do well in sun or shade with slightly acid soils.

Groundcovers

Arctostaphylos uva-ursi*

Kinnikinnick, Bearberry

A low growing native evergreen ground cover highly valued both as an ornamental and in naturalized settings. Has small delicate leaves, small white or pink flowers in spring, and red berries in fall. Likes full sun or shade, on well drained soils. Drought tolerant once established. Wildlife eats berries.

Asarum caudatum*

Wild Ginger

Low growing to about 6 in., it has glossy evergreen leaves and purple flowers. Prefers part or full shade in damp areas along creeks. The roots can be eaten. Spreads with rhizomes.

Cornus canadensis*

Bunchberry, Creeping Dogwood

This deciduous groundcover, a member of the Dogwood Family, has the distinctive white bracts around its flower. The plants are about 6 inches high and prefer shade with acid, gritty, somewhat damp but well drained soil. Birds eat berries.

Fragaria chiloensis*

Coastal Strawberry

Low, evergreen groundcover that spreads by runners. Drought tolerant. Has small tasty fruit. Attractive shiny green leaves that usually stay through winter.

Fragaria vesca*

Woods Strawberry or Woodland Strawberry

Similar to Wild Strawberry but the leaves are a brighter green. It has small. bright red edible berries. Woodland Strawberry has a more delicate appearance and brightens up the understory in partial shaded forests.

Fragaria virginiana*

Wild Strawberry

This strawberry's leaves are bluish-green and not shiny. The fruit is succulent and palatable. It grows in openings in woods, streambanks and meadows.

Gaultheria procumbens

Wintergreen

An eastern native, nice evergreen groundcover for shade. Plants have evergreen leaves. Bright red berries are wintergreen flavored.

Gaultheria shallon*

Salal

Linnea borealis*

Twinflower

A charming little woodland groundcover. It produces small, pink, fragrant, trumpet-shaped flowers in pairs. A creeping evergreen vine that often forms large mats in moist, shady woods, usually on decomposing wood. This species is found throughout the northern latitudes of the the northern hemisphere. Named for Carl Linneaus, the creator of the modern binomial naming system for plant and animals.

Mahonia (Berberis) nervosa*

Low (Cascade) Oregon Grape

Mahonia (Berberis) repens*

Creeping (Mahonia) Or. Grape

This evergreen plant is the smallest of our native Oregon grapes. Although originating east of the Cascades, it also does very well west of the Cascades. It spreads from underground stems.

Maianthemum dilatatum*

False lily-of-the-valley

This understory plant prefers moist areas. Its glossy green, heart shaped leaves disappear in winter. Small delicate white flower clusters bloom on stalks. Beware - spreads aggressively.

Oxalis oregana*

Oregon Oxalis

A low growing perennial ground cover with clover-like leaves. Has white flowers. Spreads by roots.

Vaccinium caespitosum*

Dwarf Blueberry, Dwarf Bilberry

Low-spreading matted deciduous plant to ~12 in. tall. Small whitish to pink flowers are followed by edible, sweet blue berries. Likes low elevation bogs, moist tundra.

Vancouveria hexandra*

Inside-out Flower

Attractive delicate looking foliage. Flowers are white and bend backwards making them look inside-out.

Vinca minor

Dwarf Periwinkle

An evergreen groundcover which does best in shade with some summer irrigation. Lavender blue flowers. Grows about 6 in. high.

Viola palustris*

Marsh or Blue-runner Violet

Perennial plant with runners to next plants. Flowers lilac to white. Likes cold damp areas in understory.

Ferns

Adiantum pedatum*

Maidenhair Fern

Delicate fern favored by gardeners. Perennial. Likes shady humus rich locations.

Athyrium filix-femina*

Lady-Fern

This deciduous fern does well in moist woods, along streambanks and in wet meadows. Can get up to 6 feet tall.

Blechnum spicant*

Deer Fern

A delicate looking fern often used in floral arrangements. It grows 1 to 3 feet tall. Common in our moist conifer forests.

Dryopteris expansa*

Wood Fern

Deciduous fern which can spread by rhizomatic roots. Likes moist forests and openings.

Gymnocarpium dryopteris*

Oak Fern

A deciduous fern with delicate triangular blades, usually solitary but often in masses. Grows to 16 inches tall.

Polystichum munitum*

Western Sword Fern

An evergreen fern which is very abundant in our northwest forests. Fronds can grow 3-5 ft. tall. Does best in partial shade. An excellent ornamental in the naturalized garden.

Perennials

Achillea millefolium*

Yarrow

A perennial aromatic herb growing to ~4-38 in. tall. Fern-like leaves with white to pinkish flowers. Used a lot by tribes for medical purposes. Likes dry to moist well drained open sites.

Achlys triphylla*

Vanilla Leaf

A perennial herb spreading by underground roots. Vanilla Leaf has 3 distinctive fan-shaped leaflets on 4-15 in. stems. Its small, white, starry flowers are clustered on a short spike. Dried leaves smell like vanilla. It is found in moist, shady forests, especially along streambanks.

Allium cernuum*

Nodding Onion

A wild onion preferring moist sunny locations such as wet meadows. Has interesting flowers and foliage.

Anaphalis margaritacea*

Pearly Everlasting

A perennial herb which comes up from rhizomes. Leaves are green on top and woolly-white underneath. Flowers in midsummer to fall are yellow disks with white bracks. Grows ~ 8-34 in. tall.

Aquilegia formosa*

Western Columbine

This red columbine is found in mountain meadows, along streamsides, and in open rocky places throughout the Pacific Northwest. Hummingbirds enjoy its nectar. Perennial.

Armeria maritime*

Sea Thrift

A perennial herb commonly found along coastal beaches and sometimes in meadows. Base has a densely tufted leaf area. Pink to lavender flowers form on top of stalks.

Aruncus dioicus (sylvester)*

Goatsbeard

Perennial growing from rhizomes to 30-60 in. tall. White flowers hang down in clusters that resemble a beard of a goat or spaghetti. Prefers edge habitats along roads, forests or streams.

Asarum caudatum*

Wild Ginger

Low growing to about 6 in., it has glossy evergreen leaves and purple flowers. Prefers part or full shade in damp areas along creeks. The roots can be eaten. Spreads with rhizomes.

Aster modestus*

Great Northern Aster

Violet daisy-like flowers with yellow centers. 1 to 3 feet tall. Spreads by creeping rhizomes. Native to moist areas of the Cascades and coastal B.C.

Aster subspicatus*

Douglas Aster

Perennial growing 8-36 in. tall. Flowers are blue to purple. Likes open areas with some moisture.

Balsamorhiza deltoidea*

Deltoid Balsamroot

This perennial has a sunflower-like inflorescence (about 3-5 in. wide). It grows to 8-36 in. tall, in open grassy areas.

Brodiaea congesta*

Northern Brodiaea

Perennial herb growing from a corm. Has pinkish to bluish-purples flowers on a short stalk. Like drier areas.

Calochortus tolmiei*

Tolmie's Mariposa Lily

Perennial herb from a bulb. To 12 in. tall. Flowers cream-colored sometimes with purple or rose coloring. Likes dry rocky slopes.

Caltha leptosepala*

Marshmarigold

Perennial with short fleshy stems favoring moist areas. Very showy white flowers.

Camassia leichtlinii*

Great Camas, Leichtlin's Camas

Perennial herb with grass like leaves to 18 in. high. Flowers pale to deep blue. Likes grassy slopes and meadows.

Campanula rotundifolia*

Harebell or Bluebells-of-Scotland

Perennial herb with blue, bell-shaped flowers. Basal leaves, oval to heart-shaped, usually wither before flowers appear. Stem leaves are linear or lance-shaped. It grows 4-20 in. tall, on grassy slopes and in moist meadows. Harebell is commonly seen at high elevations.

Carex lyngbyei*

Lyngby's Sedge

A native grass that does well in tidal marshes and flats. Very common along the coastline. Our most common shoreline sedge.

Carex obnupta*

Slough sedge

A native grass that does well in moister areas. It forms attractive clumps. Great in rain gardens. Usually stays green all year.

Castillejas*

Indian Paintbrush

Very showy plant. Colorful bright red to scarlet bracts surround inconspicuous flowers. Perennial grown with local fescue to aid root growth.

Cornus canadensis*

Bunchberry, Creeping Dogwood

Delphinium nuttalli*

Nuttall's Larkspur

Growing 1-2 ft. Deep blue to purple flowers on stalks. Grows on low moist ground, gravelly outwashes and basalt cliffs. Common in South Puget Sound Prairies.

Deschampsia caespitosa*

Tufted Hairgrass

Densely tufted perennial with many stems reaching 8-40 in. tall. Likes it wet to somewhat dry and sunny.

Dicentra formosa*

Pacific Bleeding Heart

This native perennial can be found from British Columbia to California, usually west of the Cascades. Flowers vary from pink to purple although some albinos can also be found.

Dodecatheon jeffreyi*

Jeffrey's Shooting Star

One of the most beautiful native wildflowers. This native perennial has distinctive, upside-down flowers are that are purplish, magenta, lavender or white. It grows 6-24 in. and grows best in wet meadows, and along stream banks and pool margins.

Elymus mollis*

American Dunegrass

A robust perennial grass, 2-4 feet tall, with thick spreading rhizomes. The thick grayish leaves were used by natives for weaving. It provides excellent habitat for seabirds on coastal dunes, and sandy or gravelly beaches.

Erigeron speciocus*

Showy Fleabane

An attractive perennial, 8-24 in. tall, with lavender-blue daisy-like flowers. It grows in moist places, in open woods and meadows.

Eriophyllum lanatum*

Wooly Sunflower, Oregon Sunshine

An perennial subshrub, 4-40 in. tall. Wooly sunflower's yellow, daisy-like flowers will bring a bit of sunshine to your garden. Its attractive, silvery foliage is densely covered with wooly hairs. This plant prefers dry, open sites.

Festuca idahoensis*

Idaho Fescue

Densely tufted perennial with narrow leaves. Likes open, dry areas.

Fragaria chiloensis*

Coastal Strawberry

Low, evergreen groundcover that spreads by runners. Drought tolerant. Has small tasty fruit. Attractive shiny green leaves that usually stay through winter.

Fragaria vesca*

Woods Strawberry or Woodland Strawberry

Fragaria virginiana*

Wild Strawberry

This strawberry's leaves are bluish-green and not shiny. The fruit is succulent and palatable. It grows in openings in woods, streambanks and meadows.

Geum machrophylum*

Large Leaf Avens

Heracleum lanatum*

Cow Parsnip

A very large perennial, 3-9 feet tall with large white umbrella-like flower clusters, similar to wild carrot or Queen Anne's Lace. Caution: Cow Parsnip may cause phototoxicity, that is --after handling this plant and exposure to sunlight, areas of skin that came in contact with the plant may develop a rash or blisters--especially in individuals easily sunburned.

Heuchera micrantha*

Small-flowered Alumroot

Similar to Fringecup and Piggyback plant, this perennial from the saxifrage family has bright green leaves and grows in clumps. It has small, white flowers in open clusters on slender reddish stems. It grows 6 to 24 inches tall.

Ipomopsis aggregata*

Scarlet Gilia

A biennial or short-lived perennial. The orange-red tubular flowers, mottled with yellow are extremely attractive to hummingbirds! The flowers are borne in loose clusters, growing 1-4 feet tall. It prefers dry, open, rocky sites.

Iris douglasii*

Douglas Iris

Showy clumped perennial with flowers from cream to reddish purple. Likes woods or meadows.

Iris setosa*

Alaska Iris, Wild Flag

A blue iris with dark veins. Prefers wet meadows and marshes. It grows to 28 inhes.

Iris tenax*

Oregon Iris

Showy clumped perennial with blue to purple spring flowers. Takes some moisture, but drought tolerant. Likes open areas.

Juncus ensifolius*

Dagger-leafed Rush

Wetland grass with spiked leaves. Grows from 6-24 in. tall. Likes wet meadows. Perennial.

Lewisia cotyledon*

Siskyou Bitterroot

A rock garden favorite native to the Siskyous of Oregon and California. A succulent rosette of leaves with very showy flowers, typically pink or orange with white stripes. Likes it sunny and dry on sandy or rocky sites. It does well in containers.

Lewisia rediviva*

Bitterroot

A rock garden favorite native to eastern Washington. Very showy flowers on this succulent. Indians dug for its nutritious roots. In summer it seems to die back, but the taproot holds it over until next spring. Likes it sunny and dry.

Lilium columbianum*

Tiger Lily

Grown from a bulb, this has small flowers that are orange and spotted red.

Lonicera ciliosa*

Trumpet Honeysuckle

A climbing vine with clusters of trumpet-shaped orange flowers. Prefers the filtered shade of the understory of the forest or found along road cuts.

Lonicera hispidula*

Hairy Honeysuckle

Like the trumpet honeysuckle but flowers are pinkish.

Lupinus albicaulis*

Sickle-keeled Lupine, Pine Lupine

Perennial growing 4-15 in. Leaves with silky hairs; Flowers white, purple or yellow. Grows on open dry slopes.

Lupinus littoralis*

Seashore Lupine

A trailing, hairy perennial growing to 24 in. often in mats. Pale blue to white pea-like flowers with bright blue wings. Found on sandy beaches and dunes along the coast.

Lupinus polyphyllus*

Big Leaf Lupine

Perennial growing 2-5 ft. with blue flowers. Likes moist woods and meadows.

Lupinus rivularis*

Streambank Lupine

Perennial growing 18-24 in. with violet or blue flowers. Grows in sand or gravel near marshes.

Lysichiton americanum*

Skunk Cabbage

Perennial with large leaves that bear like to eat.

Maianthemum dilatatum*

False lily-of-the-valley

This understory plant prefers moist areas. Its glossy green, heart shaped leaves disappear in winter. Small delicate white flower clusters bloom on stalks. Beware - spreads aggressively.

Mimulus guttatus*

Yellow Monkey-Flower

A perennial growing 4-28 in. tall with bright yellow trumpet-shaped flowers.Can spread by rhizomes. Like moist areas in sun or shade.

Oxalis oregana*

Oregon Oxalis

A low growing perennial ground cover with clover-like leaves. Has white flowers. Spreads by roots.

Potentilla gracillis*

Graceful Cinquefoil

Perennial herb with runners. Yellow flowers. Likes wet spots. Or sandy soil.

Scirpus microcarpus*

Small-fruited Bullrush

A grasslike wetland perennial useful for nesting of waterfowl.

Sedum oreganum*

Oregon Stonecrop

Attractive succulent herb that spreads from rhizomes. Has yellow flowers. Likes rocky or sandy areas.

Sisyrinchium idahoense

Idaho Blue-eyed Grass

Showy tufted perennial with leaves ~8 in. tall. Dainty blue to purple flowers in May/June on stems ~16" tall. Likes moist areas in sun to part sun.

Sisyrinchium californicum*

Yellow Eyed Grass

Like the Idaho Blue-eyed grass, but with yellow flowers.

Smilacina racemosa*

False Solomon’s-seal

Perrennial spreading from rhizomes. Leaves alternate on stems in 2 rows. Creamy white flower clusters followed by fleshy fruit. Likes moist forests, streambanks, meadows & clearings.

Tolmiea menziesii*

Youth-on-age, Piggy-back plant

Perennial that can spread from rhizomes. Often used as a houseplant. Easy to grow. Likes woods and streamsides.

Trillium ovatum*

Western Trillium

When this distinctive flower blooms, northwesterners know that spring is here! It is distinctive with three leaves bearing a single stalk upon which the white flower blooms. They prefer the moist, but well drained, forest floor with filtered light.

Typha latifolia*

Common Cattail

Perennial reaching 3-9 ft. tall. Brown flowers resembling cattails. Likes wet areas.

Vancouveria hexandra*

Inside-out Flower

Attractive delicate looking foliage. Flowers are white and bend backwards making them look inside-out.

Viola palustris*

Marsh or Blue-runner Violet

Perennial plant with runners to next plants. Flowers lilac to white. Likes cold damp areas in understory.

Xerophyllum tenax*

Beargrass

A clumped grass up to 3-5 ft. tall that has flowers on spikes. Prefers well drained , partially open slopes.

Vines

Annuals

Claytonia sibirica*

Siberian Miners Lettus

Succulent annual with white or pinkish flowers. Likes moist open to shady areas. Self seeds so it will come back year after year.