Tacoma, Washington is home to over 2,300 native plant species. This means you can find a wide variety of plants that make any garden look great with little work. I’ve been looking into Tacoma’s gardening scene and found some amazing plants that can make your garden stand out.
In this article, I’ll talk about 10 of the best native plants for Tacoma’s climate. These plants are not just pretty; they’re also easy to care for, can handle drought, and fight off pests and diseases. If you want a beautiful, easy garden or just want to add some nature to your yard, these plants are perfect.
Key Takeaways
- Tacoma boasts over 2,300 native plant species, making it a hub for diverse and sustainable gardening
- Native plants are well-suited to Tacoma’s climate, requiring less maintenance and resources than non-native species
- Explore 10 exceptional native plants that offer fragrance, visual appeal, and low-maintenance care
- Discover local nurseries and plant sales to source the best native plants for your Tacoma garden
- Embrace the beauty and benefits of native gardening to create a thriving, eco-friendly outdoor oasis
Why Choose Native Plants for Your Tacoma Garden?
For gardening in Tacoma, native plants are the top choice. These plants are made for the Pacific Northwest’s climate. They offer many benefits for sustainable, easy-to-care-for landscaping.
Advantages of Washington Native Plants
Native plants in Tacoma have big advantages over other plants. They are well-suited to the local climate. They do well in Tacoma’s wet winters and dry summers.
They are also pest-resistant. This means they can fight off pests and diseases on their own. So, you won’t need to use harmful chemicals.
Native plants are low-maintenance. They need less water, food, and trimming to stay healthy. This is great for people who are busy but still want a beautiful garden.
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Adaptive to Local Climate | Native plants can handle Tacoma’s wet winters and dry summers with ease. |
| Pest-Resistant | Native plants are well-equipped to withstand local pests and diseases. |
| Low-Maintenance | Native plants require less water, fertilizer, and pruning to thrive. |
Adding native plants to your Tacoma garden makes for a beautiful, easy-care landscape. These drought-tolerant and low-maintenance plants are perfect for gardeners wanting to enjoy the Pacific Northwest’s natural beauty.
“Native plants are the backbone of a healthy, vibrant garden. They support local wildlife, conserve resources, and make gardening a breeze.”
How to Choose Native Plants for Your Tacoma Yard
Choosing native plants for your Tacoma garden is key to their success. Look for plants that do well in USDA Hardiness Zone 8b, where it gets quite cold in winter. Make sure to consider your yard’s sun exposure, soil type, and moisture levels too. This ensures your plants will grow and bloom well.
Here’s a list of 10 top native plants for Tacoma gardens that are also fragrant:
- Common Yarrow (Achillea millefolium): This perennial grows up to 3 feet tall and fits USDA Hardiness Zones 4 – 8.
- Common Camas (Camassia quamash): Blooms in spring and can grow 3 feet tall, perfect for USDA Hardiness Zones 4 – 8.
- Red Columbine (Aquilegia formosa): This plant is 1 – 3 feet tall, blooms from April to August, and suits USDA Hardiness Zones 3 – 9.
- Pacific Bleeding Heart (Dicentra formosa): A toxic but lovely plant, 1 – 2 feet tall, for USDA Hardiness Zones 3 – 9.
- Western Serviceberry (Amelanchier alnifolia): This shrub or tree grows 3 – 16 feet, blooms in spring, and thrives in USDA Hardiness Zones 4 – 9.
| Native Plant | Hardiness Zones | Mature Height | Bloom Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Red Flowering Currant (Ribes sanguineum) | USDA Zones 6 – 8 | 5 – 12 feet | January to July |
| Tall Oregon Grape (Mahonia aquifolium) | USDA Zones 5 – 9 | up to 6 feet | March to June |
| Mock Orange (Philadelphus lewisii) | USDA Zones 3 – 8 | up to 12 feet | March to July |
| Pacific Red Elderberry (Sambucus racemosa) | USDA Zones 3 – 7 | 8 – 20 feet | May and June |
| Vine Maple (Acer circinatum) | USDA Zones 5 – 9 | 15 – 30 feet | March to May |
By picking native plants that fit Tacoma’s conditions, you can have a garden that’s easy to care for. It will also help local wildlife and the environment.
False Solomon’s Seal – A Fragrant Woodland Gem
In the woodland garden, the false solomon’s seal (Smilacina racemosa) stands tall. It offers a delightful surprise in spring. This native perennial has arching stems and clusters of tiny white flowers. It adds fragrance and charm to any garden.
This plant grows about 3 feet tall. It’s perfect for planting under big trees or in shady spots. In spring, its delicate flowers bloom and give off a sweet rose-like scent. This scent attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
In late summer, the plant changes, bearing small, round red berries. These berries are a feast for birds and small mammals. The false solomon’s seal adds beauty to the garden and helps the ecosystem by feeding wildlife.
Plant Details
To grow false solomon’s seal, you need to give it the right conditions. It loves moist, well-drained soil and partial to full shade. Planting it in groups creates a stunning look, as it spreads slowly underground.
| Characteristic | Details |
|---|---|
| Height | Around 3 feet |
| Flower | Tiny white clusters with a rose-like fragrance |
| Fruit | Small, round red berries |
| Growing Conditions | Moist, well-drained soil, partial to full shade |
| Spread | Slow spread through rhizomes |
If you want to add fragrance to your woodland garden or create a pollinator haven, the false solomon’s seal is perfect. It’s a captivating native perennial that should be in your landscape.
Mock Orange – Sweet-Scented Flowering Shrub
If you love the scent of citrus, the mock orange (Philadelphus lewisii) is perfect for you. This shrub grows well in sun or shade and can handle drought. A bit of water makes it bloom more, showing off its white flowers with pale yellow centers.
Bees, butterflies, and birds love the mock orange’s flowers. They also use it in traditional ways, like making tools and treating skin injuries. Its sweet smell and beautiful look make it a springtime treasure for your garden.
| Mock Orange Fact | Stat |
|---|---|
| Native Range | Most of North America |
| Sunlight Needs | At least 6 hours of sun |
| Companion Shrubs | Ninebark, dogwoods, snowberry, serviceberry, aronia, witch hazel |
| Companion Perennials | Prairie grasses, echinacea, false indigo, veronica, blazing star |
| Companion Annuals | Pansies, violas, annual baby’s breath, clarkia, wishbone flowers, fuchsia, impatiens |
| Fertilizer Recommendation | Slow-release fertilizers with higher phosphorus |
| Dwarf Varieties | Suitable for containers with shallow-rooted annuals |
| Bloom Time | June in zone 5b |
| Bloom Duration | A few weeks |
| Mature Size | 3m (10ft) tall by 2.5m (8ft) wide |
| Planting Advice | Buy when in bloom to ensure strong aroma |
| Hardiness Zones | 4-8, with protection from extreme cold |
| Pruning Recommendation | Prune just after flowering stops, using the one-third rule to rejuvenate |
| Companion Plants | Hostas, Astilbe |
The mock orange is a true delight with its fragrance and blooms. It’s perfect for attracting pollinators, creating a romantic feel, or enjoying spring’s sweet scent. This shrub is a must-have for your Tacoma garden.
Western Wallflower – Bold Colors and Sweet Fragrance
The western wallflower (Erysimum capitatum) is a stunning plant that brightens up gardens. Its bold flowers grab everyone’s attention. From May to July, it blooms with bright red, yellow, or orange flowers that can be up to an inch long.
These flowers have a sweet smell that draws butterflies and bees. They’re perfect for supporting local pollinators. The flowers also feed caterpillars, helping the garden’s biodiversity.
Plant Details
This plant loves sandy, rocky, or clay soil. It’s drought-tolerant and easy to care for in Tacoma gardens. It grows up to 45 cm tall and spreads 50 cm wide, forming a bushy shape.
The common wallflower has been in gardens since medieval times. It first appeared in the wild in 1548. John Gerard mentioned it in his 16th-century Herball, showing its long history in gardens.
Now, gardeners in the Pacific Northwest love it for its vibrant colors and sweet scent in spring and summer.
Red-Flowering Currant – Drought-Tolerant Beauty
Looking for a vibrant, drought-resistant shrub that draws hummingbirds and butterflies? The red-flowering currant (Ribes sanguineum) is a great pick for Tacoma gardens. It grows fast, reaching 4 to 5 feet tall in a few years. Its colors range from white to pink to deep red, adding beauty to your garden.
The red-flowering currant’s blooms are not just beautiful; they’re also fragrant. This attracts pollinators like hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies. Plus, its blackberries are a treat for elk, deer, and various birds.
This shrub stands out for its ability to survive without much water. It’s perfect for Tacoma’s climate. It grows well on different soils, making it a versatile choice for gardens.
| Characteristic | Details |
|---|---|
| Native Range | CA, OR, WA, ID, and BC |
| USDA Zones | 4-9 |
| Ease of Care | Easy |
| Deer Resistance | Moderate |
| Light Requirements | Full sun to part shade |
| Soil Type | Light to medium |
| Water Requirements | Moist to wet |
| Pollination | Self-fertile |
| Bearing Age | 1 year |
| Size at Maturity | 6-8 feet |
| Bloom Time | July to September |
| Harvest Time | August to October |
Want to brighten your Tacoma garden with color, fragrance, and wildlife? The red-flowering currant is a drought-tolerant native shrub that’s sure to impress.
Great Garden Plants – Tall Oregon Grape
Looking to brighten up your Tacoma garden? Consider the tall Oregon grape (Mahonia aquifolium). This native evergreen shrub is a standout with its many benefits. It’s perfect for the Pacific Northwest landscape.
The tall Oregon grape grows 3 to 6 feet tall. It’s a sight to see throughout the year. In spring, its leaves turn a deep copper color. By summer, they shine green. Come fall and winter, they turn a beautiful bronzy-purple.
This shrub is more than just pretty. It’s a great spot for wildlife habitat. Birds love its blue berries, making it a hit with local birds. Butterflies and hummingbirds also visit for the nectar-rich flowers.
But there’s more to this plant. It’s tough and great for hedges, barriers, or borders. It adds privacy and structure to your garden. Plus, you can use its bark to make a yellow dye.
The tall Oregon grape is a garden superstar for Tacoma gardens. It brings beauty, supports wildlife, and has practical uses. No wonder it’s a favorite among local gardeners.
| Tall Oregon Grape | Creeping Oregon Grape |
|---|---|
| Grows 3 to 6 feet tall | Typically reaches 1 to 2 feet in height |
| Evergreen shrub with shiny green leaves | Low-growing, spreading shrub with green leaves |
| Produces blue berries that resemble grapes | Also produces blue berries |
| Attracts birds, butterflies, and hummingbirds | Attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies |
| Bark can be used to make yellow dye | Suitable for ground cover in shady areas |
Nootka Rose – The “Deer Candy” Plant
In the Pacific Northwest, the Nootka rose (Rosa nutkana) is a standout native shrub. It has big, pink flowers and straight thorns. This plant is a treat for the eyes and a great choice for gardens or natural areas.
Plant Details
The Nootka rose grows 2-9 feet tall, fitting well in many landscapes. From May to July, its flowers attract bees. The large, purplish-red hips in early fall feed wildlife.
This plant is great as a natural barrier. Its thorny growth creates a safe space for birds and small mammals. It’s perfect for those wanting a wildlife-friendly garden.
Not just for looks, the Nootka rose is also edible. Humans have eaten its leaves, twigs, and fruits for centuries. It’s called “deer candy” because deer and other animals love it.
The Nootka rose is a top pick for gardeners and nature lovers. It attracts pollinators, creates barriers, and feeds wildlife. This hardy shrub is essential for any Tacoma garden.
“The Nootka rose is a true testament to the power of native plants, showcasing how they can not only beautify our gardens but also support the delicate balance of local ecosystems.”
Pacific Red Elderberry – Elegant White Blooms
The Pacific red elderberry (Sambucus racemosa var. racemosa) is a beautiful native shrub. It brings elegance to Tacoma gardens with its white blooms. This plant is a gem, offering many benefits beyond its looks.
As a native shrub, the Pacific red elderberry is key to our local ecosystem. Its lush foliage and rich wildlife habitat attract birds, deer, and small mammals. They love the plant’s berries, buds, and bark. Plus, its erosion control properties help revitalize and stabilize landscapes.
But there’s more to the Pacific red elderberry. Native American tribes have used it for medicinal purposes. They treat muscle aches, asthma, and headaches with it.
This shrub thrives in partial shade and well-drained soil. It can grow up to 18 feet tall in the wild but usually stays shorter in gardens. Its fast-growing nature makes it perfect for young gardens. It adds quick screening and structure.
When planting, pair it with other natives like Douglas-fir, vine maple, and red-twig dogwood. Together, they create a biodiverse garden. The Pacific red elderberry is a must-have in any Tacoma garden, thanks to its elegant blooms and many benefits.
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Growth Habit | Up to 18 feet tall in the wild, often more compact in garden settings |
| Bloom Time | Early spring to midsummer |
| Bloom Color | Creamy white |
| Preferred Growing Conditions | Partial shade, well-drained soil |
| Wildlife Attraction | Deer, elk, birds, and small mammals eat foliage, bark, buds, and berries |
| Ecological Benefits | Erosion control, native habitat, and biodiversity |
| Historical Uses | Medicinal purposes by Native American tribes |
Tips for Gardening with Native Plants in Tacoma
Living in Tacoma, I’ve learned that using native plants in my garden is a smart move. These plants are made for our climate and soil, making them perfect for gardens that are easy to care for and good for the planet.
To get your garden ready for native plants, focus on the soil. Adding compost will make it richer and better for your plants. Also, make sure the soil drains well to prevent water problems.
After preparing the soil, pick plants that fit your garden’s sun, moisture, and soil type. It’s important to know what each plant needs. For example, the Vine Maple likes shade and moist soil, while the Shore Pine does well in sunny, sandy spots.
One great thing about native plants in Tacoma is they’re easy to care for once they’re planted. Salal, a tough shrub, grows well with little water or trimming. Adding these plants makes your garden beautiful and easy to maintain.
If you’re new to gardening or already love native plants, I suggest learning more and trying out different types. With the right soil and plants, you can have a garden that looks great, needs little work, and helps local wildlife.
Conclusion
Native plants are a great pick for Tacoma gardens. They thrive in our climate, fight off pests, and need little care. Plus, they draw in pollinators and wildlife. By picking the right native plants for your garden, you get a beautiful, easy-care outdoor space.
Studies show being in nature lowers stress and anxiety. Being around soil bacteria like Mycobacterium vaccae boosts serotonin and helps the immune system. Adding native plants to your yard lets you enjoy nature’s healing effects.
Native plants are perfect for a low-care landscape or to attract wildlife. They bring the beauty of the Pacific Northwest to your yard. I suggest checking out the many native species and adding some to your garden.
FAQ
Why are native plants a great choice for Tacoma gardens?
What are the key advantages of using native plants in Tacoma?
How do I choose the right native plants for my Tacoma yard?
What are some of the best and most fragrant native plants for Tacoma gardens?
How do I prepare the soil and care for native plants in my Tacoma garden?
Source Links
- ‘Blue Eddy’ Allium Plants For Sale | Perennials
- Start Your Garden in Tacoma: Local Nurseries, Plant Sales, and Soil
- 10 Best Native Plants for Your Tacoma Garden
- 17 Washington Native Plants
- Native plant nurseries in Washington State – King County, Washington
- 8 Best Native Plants for Tacoma, WA | Wikilawn
- False Solomon’s Seal Fruit – New Hampshire Garden Solutions
- Starry Solomon’s Plume Making Its Move
- Mock Orange Companion Plants | Plant Addicts
- Sweet Mock Orange – Add Beautiful Jasmin Aroma to Your Late Spring Garden. Suitable For Colder Climate.
- Philadelphus / Mock Orange
- Winter Plant Portrait-Wallflowers, Erysimum
- Wallflowers
- Red-flowering Currant
- Red-flowering Currant: an Early-Blooming Oregon Native
- A native in the garden: Oregon grape
- Oregon grape, Berberis aquifolium
- Nootka Rose, Rosa nutkana
- Nootka Rose, Rosa nutkana
- Plant Inventory — LITTLE BIRD GARDENS
- Pacific Northwest Native Plant Profile: Pacific Red Elderberry (Sambucus racemosa var. racemosa)
- Simply The Best Natives-Common Elderberry
- Gardening with Pacific Northwest Native Plants
- Landscaping with Native Plants
- How gardening may extend your life and make it better
- Garden Logic – understanding correlation and causation in our gardens and landscapes
