Native plants are species indigenous to a particular habitat within a specific bio-geographic region. They are adapted to the soil, hydrology, and climate in which they thrive, and they have evolved defenses to many diseases and insect pests.
Ecoregions
Biological diversity occurs in different patterns, determined by climate, soil chemistry, soil composition, and geology. These areas, called ecoregions, change slowly, evolving over geologic time. Plants and animals adapt, over time, to conditions within an ecoregion. While a given species may be represented in many ecoregions, the species' specific genetic make-up may vary among ecoregions.
Cardno JFNew uses ecoregions as our landscape-level framework for specifying native plants. When specifying native plant materials, we recommend using materials that originate from within the same ecoregion. If you cannot locate the desired species from a given ecoregion, then look for materials from an adjacent ecoregion.
Learn more about ecoregions.
Genotype Verification
To further determine if a plant is native to a region, the plant’s genotype needs to be verified. Different regions and climates alter the dormancy, bloom times, and hardiness of the same plant species. These slight differences can affect a plant’s relationship with pollinators and its ability to reproduce and survive.
Cardno JFNew traces the genotype of each plant to the parent collection site, to confirm that the plant is native to the particular region. Depending on the location and purpose of your project, genotype may or may not be an important factor for your project. The nursery team will assist you in determining your project's specific needs.