It’s summer time, and we all know what that means – a yard or garden makeover is in our future. While you search for the perfect new flowers to decorate your lawn, consider choosing plants native to North Carolina.

By planting species native to the area as opposed to invasive species (or species which do not grow naturally in the region), you are helping to reinforce biodiversity in the area and preserve existing wildlife and greenery. Invasive species may look pretty, but they can actually do more harm than good when it comes to their environmental impact.

Keep reading for some gorgeous, native-to-NC plants and flowers that you can plant this season to give your yard a whole new look.

Wild Geranium (Geranium maculatum)

This gorgeous purple flower will add a pop of color to any yard and has a unique vein pattern within each petal. This plant has been used as a medicinal treatment and as a tea ingredient for centuries by Native American groups, such as the Meskwaki Tribe, and will grow abundantly where planted.

Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis)

This red flower is reminiscent of our bright and bold state bird, the cardinal. The red petals bloom off of stalks that can grow up to four feet tall and will bloom best in the late summer. Unfortunately, despite its name, this plant does not attract cardinals, but you will see more hummingbirds and butterflies around your home, as the bright colors catch their eye.

Butterfly Weed (Asclepias tuberosa)

Don’t be put off by the name – this vibrant orange flower looks nothing like a weed. It can grow in dry soil and attracts lots of butterflies due to its bold color. Due to the large amounts of nectar it produces, the Butterfly Weed also attracts hummingbirds, bees and other insects. Your yard will be one big party with this early summer bloom!

Swamp Rose (Rosa palustris)

The pink-purple Swamp Rose is perfect for those in wetter climates or near marshland. It flourishes in both sun and shade, provides special value to bumble bees and attracts birds to the area. It can reach up to 6-12 feet high and grows red or orange fruit, which birds may use for nesting.

Appalachian False Goats Beard (Astilbe biternata)

This aptly named plant will give your yard a whole new look, with white feathery flower bunches and fern-like leaves growing up to six feet tall. It blooms early to mid-summer and can survive in partial shade, making it a great choice for not just mountain regions, but any NC yard.

Make your summer yard and garden look beautiful while being kind to the environment at the same time! Choose native plants and flowers over invasive species to make your bit of NC healthy and beautiful.