Recommended Native Plant List - New Hope Bird Allianc

The New Hope Bird Alliance recommends these native plants for birds and pollinators in the piedmont area of North Carolina. The lists are ordered by scientific name to place related species next to each other. You can also browse our same recommended list of plants for the Piedmont in a downloadable spreadsheet format. For other native plant information and resources including info about keystone plants, a list of recommended sources of native plants, and a list of native plant landscapers visit our Native Plants webpage.

Plants native to our area are adapted to the soil and climate conditions of the area. However it is important to pick the right native plants for the variety of micro-climates on your property. Our recommended native plants list for the Piedmont tells you the sun, water and soil requirements of each plant. All the plants on our list are chosen to have benefit to wildlife, and specific information about that benefit is listed for each plant species. Also try to choose plants that bloom at different times of the growing season to support pollinators. You are encouraged to look-up each plant that you find of interest on the list below on the North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox for much more detailed information on growing conditions, wildlife supported, and a host of other information like resistance to challenges like deer, drought, flooding, etc.

Deer Resistance

No plant is deer proof but the plants marked “yes” tend to be deer resistant and are considered least likely to be damaged. Some new plants may need protection from “sampling” until established. New growth on perennials may need protection in spring with a spray if there’s damage from browsing. We recommend that all new trees have protection from browsing until branches are above browsing line and from buck rub until trunk diameter is at least 3 inches.

Sources

Plants and growing conditions:
NC Audubon – (primary source)
Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
NC Wild Flower of the Year program:
North Carolina Botanical Garden
Deer resistance:
NC Extension Service (primary source)
Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
Bringing Nature Home by Doug Tallamy, pages 299-300
Also from the combined experience of members of the New Hope Audubon Bird Friendly Habitat Committee
Keystone species (# of catepillars supported)
National Wildlife Federation

Search for plant names

On computer or laptop: hold down the CTRL key and tap the f key on Windows or hold down the ⌘ key and tap the f key on Mac, and then type part of name in search box.
On Android phone or tablet using Chrome: click the menu button (three dots at the top-right corner of the browser screen), and from the menu list, tap “Find in page” option and type part of name in search box.
On iPhone or iPad using Safari: type part of name in search bar at top of screen and scroll down to results “on this page” which will highlight matches and open a search box at the bottom of screen.

Jump to:

Red maple (Acer rubrum)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 40-75′; Width at maturity: 20-50′
Light requirement: sun-part sun; Soil Moisture: wet,moderate
Flowering / fruit dates: Jan-Mar; Apr-Jul
Drought tolerant: yes; Deer resistant: yes
Benefit to Wildlife: seed/nut producing, nectar
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes:

Southern sugar maple (Acer floridanum )

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 40-60′; Width at maturity: 40-60′
Light requirement: sun-part sun; Soil Moisture: moderate
Flowering / fruit dates: Apr-May; Jun-Oct
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: no
Benefit to Wildlife: seed/nut producing, nectar
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: 2018
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes:

Northern sugar maple (Acer saccharum)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 60-80; Width at maturity: 25-60′
Light requirement: sun-part sun; Soil Moisture: moderate
Flowering / fruit dates: Apr-Jun; Jun-Sep
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: no
Benefit to Wildlife: seed/nut producing, nectar
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: 2018
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes: Drought sensitive

Chalk maple (Acer leucoderme)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 20-30′; Width at maturity: 15-25′
Light requirement: sun-part sun; Soil Moisture: moderate, dry
Flowering / fruit dates: Mar-Apr; Apr-Sep
Drought tolerant: yes; Deer resistant: no
Benefit to Wildlife: seed/nut producing, nectar
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes:

Common pawpaw (Asimina triloba, )

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 8-35′; Width at maturity: 6-10′
Light requirement: part sun-shade; Soil Moisture: moderate
Flowering / fruit dates: Mar-May; Aug-Oct
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: yes
Benefit to Wildlife: larval host, berry/fruit producing
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes: Drought sensitive

Dwarf pawpaw (Asimina parviflora)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 3-12′; Width at maturity: 2-6′
Light requirement: sun-part sun; Soil Moisture: moderate,dry
Flowering / fruit dates: Apr–May; Jul–Sep
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: yes
Benefit to Wildlife: larval host, berry/fruit producing
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes: Drought sensitive

River birch (Betula nigra )

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 40-80′; Width at maturity: 15-25′
Light requirement: sun-part sun; Soil Moisture: wet, moderate
Flowering / fruit dates: Mar-Apr; May-Jun
Drought tolerant: yes; Deer resistant: yes
Benefit to Wildlife: larval host, seed/nut producing
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes:

Ironwood, American hornbeam (Carpinus caroliniana)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 15-35′; Width at maturity: 12-18′
Light requirement: sun-shade; Soil Moisture: wet, moderate
Flowering / fruit dates: Mar-Apr; Sep-Oct
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: no
Benefit to Wildlife: larval host, seed/nut producing
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes: Drought sensitive

Pignut hickory (Carya glabra)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 60-80’+; Width at maturity: 25-35′
Light requirement: sun-part sun; Soil Moisture: moderate,dry
Flowering / fruit dates: Apr-May; Oct
Drought tolerant: yes; Deer resistant: no
Benefit to Wildlife: seed/nut producing, larval host
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes: Good shade tree and handsome shape

Red hickory, Sweet pignut hickory (Carya ovalis)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: to 100′; Width at maturity: to 70′
Light requirement: sun-part sun; Soil Moisture: moderate,dry
Flowering / fruit dates: Apr-May; Oct
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: no
Benefit to Wildlife: seed/nut producing, larval host
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes:

Common Shagbark hickory (Carya ovata)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 70-100’+; Width at maturity: 20-35′
Light requirement: sun-part sun; Soil Moisture: moderate,dry
Flowering / fruit dates: Apr-May; Oct
Drought tolerant: yes; Deer resistant: no
Benefit to Wildlife: seed/nut producing, larval host
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes:

Mockernut hickory, White hickory (Carya tomentosa)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 60-80’+; Width at maturity: 20-30′
Light requirement: sun-part sun; Soil Moisture: moderate,dry
Flowering / fruit dates: Apr-May; Oct
Drought tolerant: yes; Deer resistant: no
Benefit to Wildlife: seed/nut producing, larval host
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes:

Southern hackberry (Celtis laevigata )

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 60-80′; Width at maturity: 40-60′
Light requirement: sun-part sun; Soil Moisture: moderate,dry
Flowering / fruit dates: Apr-May; Aug-Oct
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: yes
Benefit to Wildlife: larval host, berry/fruit producing, nectar
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes: Best for natural areas, tolerates seasonal flooding

Dwarf hackberry (Celtis tenuifolia)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 12-25′; Width at maturity: 8-15′
Light requirement: sun-part sun; Soil Moisture: wet, moderate, dry
Flowering / fruit dates: Apr–May; Aug–Oct
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: yes
Benefit to Wildlife: larval host, berry/fruit producing, nectar
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes:

Eastern redbud (Cercis canadensis)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 10-25′; Width at maturity: 10-20′
Light requirement: sun-part sun; Soil Moisture: moderate, dry
Flowering / fruit dates: Mar-May; Jun-Nov
Drought tolerant: yes; Deer resistant: yes
Benefit to Wildlife: seed/nut producing, nectar, larval host
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes:

Fringe tree (Chionanthus virginicus)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 10-30′; Width at maturity: 10-20′
Light requirement: sun-part sun; Soil Moisture: moderate,dry
Flowering / fruit dates: Apr–May; Jul–Sep
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: no
Benefit to Wildlife: berry/fruit producing
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: 2016
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes: Needs male pollinator

Flowering dogwood (Cornus florida )

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 12-20′; Width at maturity: 8-15′
Light requirement: part sun; Soil Moisture: moderate
Flowering / fruit dates: Mar-May; Aug-Oct
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: no
Benefit to Wildlife: berry/fruit producing, larval host, nectar
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes:

Silky dogwood (Cornus amomum)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 3-10′; Width at maturity: 3-6′
Light requirement: sun-part sun; Soil Moisture: wet, moderate
Flowering / fruit dates: May–Jun; Aug–Sep
Drought tolerant: yes; Deer resistant: no
Benefit to Wildlife: berry/fruit producing, larval host, nectar
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes:

Washington hawthorn (Crataegus phaenopyrum)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 25-30′; Width at maturity: 20-35′
Light requirement: sun; Soil Moisture: moderate, dry
Flowering / fruit dates: Mar-Apr; Sep-Nov
Drought tolerant: yes; Deer resistant: yes
Benefit to Wildlife: larval host, berry/fruit producing, nectar
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes:

Green hawthorn (Crataegus viridis)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 20-35′; Width at maturity: 20-35′
Light requirement: sun; Soil Moisture: moderate, dry
Flowering / fruit dates: Mar-Apr; Sep-Nov
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: yes
Benefit to Wildlife: larval host, berry/fruit producing, nectar
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes:

American beech (Fagus grandifolia )

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 50-70′; Width at maturity: 25-50′
Light requirement: sun; Soil Moisture: moderate,dry
Flowering / fruit dates: Mar-May; Sep-Oct
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: no
Benefit to Wildlife: seed/nut producing, larval host
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes: Drought sensitive

American holly (Ilex opaca)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: to 70′; Width at maturity: 8-15’+
Light requirement: sun-part sun; Soil Moisture: moderate
Flowering / fruit dates: Apr–Jun; Sep–Feb
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: no
Benefit to Wildlife: berry/fruit producing, nectar, larval host
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes: Needs male pollinator

Eastern red cedar (Juniperus virginiana)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 60-100’+; Width at maturity: 30-70′
Light requirement: sun-part sun; Soil Moisture: moderate, dry
Flowering / fruit dates: Apr–May; Aug–Sep
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: yes
Benefit to Wildlife: seed/nut producing
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes: Fruits messy

Sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua )

Tulip tree, Yellow poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 70-130′; Width at maturity: 30-60′
Light requirement: sun-part sun; Soil Moisture: moderate, dry
Flowering / fruit dates: Apr–Jun; Sep–Oct
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: no
Benefit to Wildlife: seed/nut producing, nectar, larval host
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes: Drought sensitive

Southern magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora )

Evergreen: yes
Height at maturity: 25-50’+; Width at maturity: 30-60′
Light requirement: sun-part sun; Soil Moisture: moderate
Flowering / fruit dates: May–Jun; Sep–Oct
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: no
Benefit to Wildlife: berry/fruit producing
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes:

Sweetbay magnolia (Magnolia virginiana )

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 20-60′; Width at maturity: 8-20′
Light requirement: sun-part sun; Soil Moisture: wet, moderate
Flowering / fruit dates: Apr-Jul; Jul-Oct
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: yes
Benefit to Wildlife: berry/fruit producing
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: 2016
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes: Evergreen varieties

Flowering crabapple (Malus angustifolia )

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 10-20′; Width at maturity: 8-15′
Light requirement: sun-part sun; Soil Moisture: moderate
Flowering / fruit dates: Apr-May; Aug-Sep
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: no
Benefit to Wildlife: berry/fruit producing, larval host
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes:

Black gum (Nyssa sylvatica )

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 30-100′; Width at maturity: 20-35′
Light requirement: sun-part sun; Soil Moisture: wet, moderate, dry
Flowering / fruit dates: Apr-Jun; Aug-Oct
Drought tolerant: yes; Deer resistant: yes
Benefit to Wildlife: berry/fruit producing, nectar
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: 2017
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes:

Sourwood (Oxydendrum arboreum)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 15-60′; Width at maturity: 6-12′
Light requirement: sun-part sun; Soil Moisture: moderate, dry
Flowering / fruit dates: Jun–Jul; Sep–Oct
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: no
Benefit to Wildlife: nectar
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes: Source of sourwood honey

American sycamore (Platanus occidentalis)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 70-100’+; Width at maturity: 40-60’+
Light requirement: part sun-sun; Soil Moisture: wet, moderate
Flowering / fruit dates: Apr–May ; Sep–Nov
Drought tolerant: yes; Deer resistant: yes
Benefit to Wildlife: seed/nut producing
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes: Fast-growing

Virginia pine (Pinus virginiana)

Evergreen: yes
Height at maturity: 40-70′; Width at maturity: 20-35′
Light requirement: sun; Soil Moisture: moderate, dry
Flowering / fruit dates: Mar-May; Sep-Nov
Drought tolerant: yes; Deer resistant: yes
Benefit to Wildlife: seed/nut producing, larval host
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes:

Longleaf pine (Pinus palustris)

Evergreen: yes
Height at maturity: 40-70’+; Width at maturity: 25-40′
Light requirement: sun; Soil Moisture: moderate, dry
Flowering / fruit dates: Mar–Apr; Sep–Oct
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: yes
Benefit to Wildlife: seed/nut producing, larval host
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes:

Black cherry (Prunus serotina )

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 50-90′; Width at maturity: 20-30′
Light requirement: sun-part sun; Soil Moisture: moderate, dry
Flowering / fruit dates: Apr-May; Jul-Sep
Drought tolerant: yes; Deer resistant: yes
Benefit to Wildlife: berry/fruit producing, nectar, larval host
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes:

Wild plum (Prunus americana)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 25-30′; Width at maturity: 25-30′
Light requirement: sun-part sun; Soil Moisture: moderate, dry
Flowering / fruit dates: Mar-Apr; Jun-Aug
Drought tolerant: yes; Deer resistant: no
Benefit to Wildlife: larval host, berry/fruit producing, nectar
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: 2016
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes: Fruit edible

Chickasaw plum (Prunus angustifolia)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: to 16′; Width at maturity: to 10′
Light requirement: sun-part sun; Soil Moisture: moderate, dry
Flowering / fruit dates: Mar-Apr; Mar-July
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: no
Benefit to Wildlife: larval host, berry/fruit producing, nectar
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes: Fruit edible

White oak (Quercus alba)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 50-100′; Width at maturity: 30-40’+
Light requirement: sun-part sun; Soil Moisture: moderate, dry
Flowering / fruit dates: Apr; Sep-Nov
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: no
Benefit to Wildlife: larval host, seed/nut producing
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes:

Willow oak (Quercus phellos)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 60-100′; Width at maturity: 30-60′
Light requirement: sun-part sun; Soil Moisture: moderate
Flowering / fruit dates: Apr; Sep-Nov
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: no
Benefit to Wildlife: larval host, seed/nut producing
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: 2018
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes:

Red oak (Quercus rubra)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 60-80’+; Width at maturity: 30-45’+
Light requirement: sun-part sun; Soil Moisture: moderate
Flowering / fruit dates: Apr; Sep-Nov
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: no
Benefit to Wildlife: larval host, seed/nut producing
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: 2015
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes:

Scarlet oak (Quercus coccinea)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 50-80′; Width at maturity: 50-80′
Light requirement: sun-part sun; Soil Moisture: moderate, dry
Flowering / fruit dates: Apr; Sep-Nov
Drought tolerant: yes; Deer resistant: no
Benefit to Wildlife: larval host, seed/nut producing
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: 2016
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes:

Shumard oak (Quercus shumardii)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 80-90′; Width at maturity: 30-60′
Light requirement: sun-part sun; Soil Moisture: moderate, dry
Flowering / fruit dates: Apr; Sep-Nov
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: no
Benefit to Wildlife: larval host, seed/nut producing
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: 2016
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes:

Sassafras (Sassafras albidum)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 30-60′; Width at maturity: 12-25′
Light requirement: sun-part sun; Soil Moisture: moderate-dry
Flowering / fruit dates: Mar–Apr; Jun–Jul
Drought tolerant: yes; Deer resistant: yes
Benefit to Wildlife: berry/fruit producing, larval host
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: 2017
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes: Needs male pollinator

Winged elm (Ulmus alata)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 30-50′; Width at maturity: 20-40′
Light requirement: sun-part sun; Soil Moisture: moderate, dry
Flowering / fruit dates: Feb-Mar; Mar-Apr
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: no
Benefit to Wildlife: seed/nut producing, larval host
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes: May be susceptible to Dutch Elm disease

Red buckeye (Aesculus pavia)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 12-15′; Width at maturity: 12-15′
Light requirement: sun-part shade; Soil Moisture: wet, moderate
Flowering / fruit dates: Apr-May; Jul-Aug
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: yes
Benefit to Wildlife: nectar, seed/nut producing
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes:

Painted buckeye (Aesculus sylvatica)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 5-20′; Width at maturity: 4-10′
Light requirement: sun-part sun; Soil Moisture: moderate
Flowering / fruit dates: Apr–May; Jul–Aug
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: yes
Benefit to Wildlife: nectar, seed/nut producing
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes:

Tag alder (Alnus serrulata)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 8-15′; Width at maturity: 6-15′
Light requirement: sun-part sun; Soil Moisture: wet, moderate
Flowering / fruit dates: Jan–Mar; Aug–Oct
Drought tolerant: yes; Deer resistant: no
Benefit to Wildlife: seed/nut producing, larval host
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes: Colonial

Eastern serviceberry (Amelanchier canadensis)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 10-20′; Width at maturity: 5-10′
Light requirement: sun-part sun; Soil Moisture: moderate
Flowering / fruit dates: Mar-Apr; May-Jun
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: yes
Benefit to Wildlife: berry/fruit producing, nectar, larval host
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes: Fruits can be damaged by rust fungus

Downy serviceberry (Amelanchier arborea)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 20-40′; Width at maturity: 8-15′
Light requirement: sun-part sun; Soil Moisture: moderate, dry
Flowering / fruit dates: Mar-May; May-Aug
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: yes
Benefit to Wildlife: berry/fruit producing, nectar, larval host
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: 2015
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes: Fruits can be damaged by rust fungus

Red chokeberry (Aronia arbutifolia)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 5-10′; Width at maturity: 4-8′
Light requirement: sun-part sun; Soil Moisture: wet, moderate
Flowering / fruit dates: Mar–May; Sep–Nov
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: no
Benefit to Wildlife: berry/fruit producing, nectar, larval host
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes: Colonial

American beautyberry (Callicarpa americana)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 3-8′; Width at maturity: 3-6′
Light requirement: part sun-shade; Soil Moisture: moderate
Flowering / fruit dates: Jun-Jul; Aug-Oct
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: yes
Benefit to Wildlife: berry/fruit producing, nectar
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes:

Carolina allspice, Sweetshrub (Calycanthus floridus)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 4-10′; Width at maturity: 4-12′
Light requirement: sun-shade; Soil Moisture: moderate,dry
Flowering / fruit dates: Apr–May; Aug–Sep
Drought tolerant: yes; Deer resistant: yes
Benefit to Wildlife: nectar, seed/nut producing
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes:

New Jersey tea (Ceanothus americanus )

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 2-3′; Width at maturity: 2-3′
Light requirement: sun-part sun; Soil Moisture: moderate, dry
Flowering / fruit dates: May-Jun; Jun-Jul
Drought tolerant: yes; Deer resistant: no
Benefit to Wildlife: larval host, nectar
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: 2017
NC Wildflower of the Year: 2013
Special notes:

Buttonbush (Cephalanthus occidentalis)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 5-8′; Width at maturity: 3-6′
Light requirement: sun-shade; Soil Moisture: wet, moderate
Flowering / fruit dates: Jun-Jul; Aug-Sep
Drought tolerant: yes; Deer resistant: yes
Benefit to Wildlife: seed/nut producing, nectar
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes:

Sweet pepperbush (Clethra alnifolia )

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 3-8′; Width at maturity: 4-6′
Light requirement: sun-part shade; Soil Moisture: wet, moderate
Flowering / fruit dates: Jun-Aug; Sep-Oct
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: yes
Benefit to Wildlife: nectar, seed/nut producing
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes:

Strawberry-bush, Hearts-a-burstin’ (Euonymus americanus)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 3-8′; Width at maturity: 3-5′
Light requirement: sun-part sun; Soil Moisture: moderate
Flowering / fruit dates: May–Jun; Sep–Oct
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: no
Benefit to Wildlife: berry/fruit producing
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes:

Winterberry holly (Ilex verticillata)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 6-15′; Width at maturity: 6-10′
Light requirement: sun-part sun; Soil Moisture: wet,moderate
Flowering / fruit dates: Apr-Jun; Sep-Nov
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: no
Benefit to Wildlife: berry/fruit producing, nectar, larval host
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: 2015
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes: Needs male pollinator

Inkberry holly (Ilex glabra)

Evergreen: yes
Height at maturity: 6-8′; Width at maturity: 3-6′
Light requirement: sun-part sun; Soil Moisture: wet,moderate
Flowering / fruit dates: May-Jun; Sep-Oct
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: no
Benefit to Wildlife: berry/fruit producing, nectar, larval host
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes: Needs male pollinator, drought sensitive

Deciduous holly (Ilex decidua)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 15-30′; Width at maturity: 8-15′
Light requirement: sun-part sun; Soil Moisture: wet,moderate
Flowering / fruit dates: Mar-May; Sep-Oct
Drought tolerant: yes; Deer resistant: yes
Benefit to Wildlife: berry/fruit producing, nectar, larval host
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: 2018
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes: Needs male pollinator

Yaupon holly (Ilex vomitoria)

Evergreen: yes
Height at maturity: 12-20′; Width at maturity: 6-12′
Light requirement: sun-part sun; Soil Moisture: wet, moderate, dry
Flowering / fruit dates: Mar-May; Sep-Jan
Drought tolerant: yes; Deer resistant: yes
Benefit to Wildlife: berry/fruit producing, nectar, larval host
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes: Needs male pollinator, dwarf forms available

Virginia sweetspire (Itea virginica )

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 3-6′ ; Width at maturity: 3-10′
Light requirement: sun – shade; Soil Moisture: wet, moderate
Flowering / fruit dates: May-Jun
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: no
Benefit to Wildlife: nectar, seed/nut producing
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: 2015
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes: Colonial

Mountain laurel (Kalmia latifolia)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 4-15′; Width at maturity: 4-8′
Light requirement: sun-part sun; Soil Moisture: moderate, dry
Flowering / fruit dates: Apr–Jul; Sep–Oct
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: yes
Benefit to Wildlife: seed/nut producing, nectar
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes:

Spicebush (Lindera benzoin )

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 8-15′; Width at maturity: 6-15′
Light requirement: part sun; Soil Moisture: wet, moderate
Flowering / fruit dates: Mar-Apr; Aug-Sep
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: yes
Benefit to Wildlife: larval host, berry/fruit producing
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: 2015
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes: Needs male pollinator

Wax myrtle (Morella (Myrica) cerifera )

Evergreen: yes
Height at maturity: 8-30′; Width at maturity: 10-25′
Light requirement: sun-part sun; Soil Moisture: wet, moderate, dry
Flowering / fruit dates: Apr; Aug-Oct
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: yes
Benefit to Wildlife: berry/fruit producing, larval host
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes: Needs male pollinator

Red chokeberry (Photinia (Aronia) pyrifolia )

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 5-10′; Width at maturity: 4-8′
Light requirement: sun-part sun; Soil Moisture: wet, moderate
Flowering / fruit dates: Mar-May; Sep-Oct
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: no
Benefit to Wildlife: berry/fruit producing, nectar, larval host
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes:

Ninebark (Physocarpus opulifolius)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 6-12′; Width at maturity: 6-10′
Light requirement: sun-part sun; Soil Moisture: moderate, dry
Flowering / fruit dates: May–Jul; Sep–Oct
Drought tolerant: yes; Deer resistant: no
Benefit to Wildlife: nectar
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: 2016
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes:

Sweet azalea (Rhododendron arborescens)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 5-10′; Width at maturity: 4-8′
Light requirement: sun-part sun; Soil Moisture: moderate
Flowering / fruit dates: Mar-Jun; Sep-Oct
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: no
Benefit to Wildlife: nectar, larval host
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: 2017
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes: Drought sensitive

Flame azelea (Rhododendron calendulaceum)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 3-8′; Width at maturity: 5-8′
Light requirement: sun-part sun; Soil Moisture: moderate
Flowering / fruit dates: May-Jun; Jun-Sep
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: no
Benefit to Wildlife: nectar, larval host
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes: Drought sensitive

Swamp azelea (Rhododendron viscosum)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 8-15′; Width at maturity: 3-5′
Light requirement: sun-part sun; Soil Moisture: wet
Flowering / fruit dates: Jun-Jul; Jul-Oct
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: no
Benefit to Wildlife: nectar, larval host
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes:

Pinxterflower azelea (Rhododendron periclymenoides)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 4- 5′; Width at maturity: 3-4′
Light requirement: sun-part sun; Soil Moisture: moderate
Flowering / fruit dates: Mar-May; Sep-Oct
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: no
Benefit to Wildlife: nectar, larval host
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: 2017
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes:

Smooth sumac (Rhus glabra)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: to 20′ ; Width at maturity: 12-20′
Light requirement: sun-part shade; Soil Moisture: moderate, dry
Flowering / fruit dates: May-Jul; Jun-Oct
Drought tolerant: yes; Deer resistant: no
Benefit to Wildlife: berry/fruit producing, nectar, larval host
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes: Colonial, best for natural areas, needs male pollinator

Shining sumac (Rhus copallinum )

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 5-15′; Width at maturity: 6-12′
Light requirement: sun-part shade; Soil Moisture: moderate, dry
Flowering / fruit dates: May-Jul; Jun-Oct
Drought tolerant: yes; Deer resistant: no
Benefit to Wildlife: berry/fruit producing, nectar, larval host
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes: Colonial, best for natural areas, needs male pollinator

Carolina rose, Pasture rose (Rosa carolina)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 2-3′; Width at maturity: 3-4′
Light requirement: sun-part sun; Soil Moisture: moderate, dry
Flowering / fruit dates: May–Jun; Aug–Oct
Drought tolerant: yes; Deer resistant: no
Benefit to Wildlife: berry/fruit producing, nectar
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes: Has sharp thorns, makes good wildlife thicket

Swamp rose (Rosa palustris)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 3-5′; Width at maturity: 3-6′
Light requirement: sun; Soil Moisture: wet, moderate
Flowering / fruit dates: May–Jul; Sep–Oct+
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: no
Benefit to Wildlife: berry/fruit producing, nectar
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes: Has sharp thorns, makes good wildlife thicket

Elderberry (Sambucus canadensis )

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 6-12′; Width at maturity: 6-12′
Light requirement: sun-part sun; Soil Moisture: wet, moderate
Flowering / fruit dates: Apr-Jul; Jul-Aug
Drought tolerant: yes; Deer resistant: no
Benefit to Wildlife: berry/fruit producing, nectar, larval host
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes: Needs more than one genetic strain for fruit set

Sparkleberry (Vaccinium arboreum)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 8-15′; Width at maturity: 4-10′
Light requirement: sun-part sun; Soil Moisture: moderate, dry
Flowering / fruit dates: Apr-Jun; Sep-Oct
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: no
Benefit to Wildlife: berry/fruit producing, nectar, larval host
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: 2018
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes:

Smooth highbush blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 3-12′; Width at maturity: 3-10′
Light requirement: sun-part sun; Soil Moisture: wet, moderate
Flowering / fruit dates: Apr–May; Jul–Aug
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: no
Benefit to Wildlife: berry/fruit producing, nectar, larval host
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: 2018
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes: Edible fruit

Deerberry (Vaccinium stamineum )

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 3-4′; Width at maturity: 2-3′
Light requirement: part sun; Soil Moisture: moderate, dry
Flowering / fruit dates: Apr-Jun; Aug-Oct
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: no
Benefit to Wildlife: berry/fruit producing, nectar, larval host
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: 2018
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes:

Rabbit-eye blueberry (Vaccinium virgatum)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: to 8′; Width at maturity: 6-8′
Light requirement: sun-part sun; Soil Moisture: wet, moderate
Flowering / fruit dates: Mar-Apr; May-Jun
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: no
Benefit to Wildlife: berry/fruit producing, nectar, larval host
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: 2018
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes: Edible fruit

Blackhaw viburnum (Viburnum prunifolium)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 8-18′; Width at maturity: 6 -15′
Light requirement: sun-shade; Soil Moisture: moderate, dry
Flowering / fruit dates: Mar-Apr; Sep-Oct
Drought tolerant: yes; Deer resistant: no
Benefit to Wildlife: berry/fruit producing, nectar, larval host
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: 2018
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes: Needs more than one genetic strain for fruit set

Southern arrowwood viburnum (Viburnum dentatum)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 6-12′; Width at maturity: 4-10′
Light requirement: sun-part sun; Soil Moisture: moderate, dry
Flowering / fruit dates: Mar-Apr; Jul-Sep
Drought tolerant: yes; Deer resistant: no
Benefit to Wildlife: berry/fruit producing, nectar, larval host
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: 2017
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes: Needs more than one genetic strain for fruit set

Maple-leaf viburnum (Viburnum acerifolium)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 3-6′; Width at maturity: 3-6′
Light requirement: part sun-shade; Soil Moisture: moderate, dry
Flowering / fruit dates: May; Aug-Oct
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: yes
Benefit to Wildlife: berry/fruit producing, nectar, larval host
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes: Needs more than one genetic strain for fruit set

Possumhaw viburnum (Viburnum nudum)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 6-12′; Width at maturity: 4-15′
Light requirement: sun-part sun; Soil Moisture: wet, moderate
Flowering / fruit dates: Apr-May; Aug-Oct
Drought tolerant: yes; Deer resistant: no
Benefit to Wildlife: berry/fruit producing, nectar, larval host
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: 2018
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes: Needs more than one genetic strain for fruit set

Downy arrowwood viburnum (Viburnum rafinesquianum)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 3-5′; Width at maturity: 3′
Light requirement: part sun-shade; Soil Moisture: moderate
Flowering / fruit dates: Apr–May; Jun–Jul
Drought tolerant: yes; Deer resistant: no
Benefit to Wildlife: berry/fruit producing, nectar, larval host
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes: Needs more than one genetic strain for fruit set

Cross-vine (Bignonia capreolata)

Evergreen: yes
Height at maturity: 36-50′; Width at maturity: n/a
Light requirement: sun-part shade; Soil Moisture: moderate, dry
Flowering / fruit dates: Apr-May; Jul-Aug
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: no
Benefit to Wildlife: nectar
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: 2015
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes:

Trumpet creeper (Campsis radicans)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 6-80′; Width at maturity: n/a
Light requirement: sun-part sun; Soil Moisture: moderate,dry
Flowering / fruit dates: Jun–Oct; Sep–Oct
Drought tolerant: yes; Deer resistant: yes
Benefit to Wildlife: nectar
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: 2015
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes:

Butterfly pea (Centrosema virginianum)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 6-12′; Width at maturity: n/a
Light requirement: part shade-shade; Soil Moisture: moderate, dry
Flowering / fruit dates: Jul-Aug
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: no
Benefit to Wildlife: nectar
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes:

Carolina jessamine (Gelsemium sempervirens )

Evergreen: yes
Height at maturity: 5-20′; Width at maturity: n/a
Light requirement: sun-part sun; Soil Moisture: moderate, dry
Flowering / fruit dates: Mar-May; Sep-Nov
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: yes
Benefit to Wildlife: nectar
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes:

Pipevine (Isotrema macrophylla )

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 15-30′; Width at maturity: n/a
Light requirement: sun-part shade; Soil Moisture: moderate
Flowering / fruit dates: May-Jun; Aug-Sep
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: no
Benefit to Wildlife: larval host
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes:

Coral honeysuckle (Lonicera sempervirens )

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 4-15′; Width at maturity: n/a
Light requirement: sun-part sun; Soil Moisture: moderate
Flowering / fruit dates: Mar-Jul; Jul-Sep
Drought tolerant: yes; Deer resistant: yes
Benefit to Wildlife: nectar, berry/fruit producing
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: 2018
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes:

Virginia creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia )

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 4-70′; Width at maturity: n/a
Light requirement: sun-part sun; Soil Moisture: wet, moderate, dry
Flowering / fruit dates: May-Jul; Jul-Aug
Drought tolerant: yes; Deer resistant: yes
Benefit to Wildlife: berry/fruit producing
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes:

Yellow passionflower (Passiflora lutea)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 15′; Width at maturity: n/a
Light requirement: sun-part sun; Soil Moisture: moderate, dry
Flowering / fruit dates: Jun–Sep ; Aug–Oct
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: yes
Benefit to Wildlife: nectar, larval host, berry/fruit producing
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes:

Lanceleaf greenbrier, Jacksonbrier (Smilax smallii)

Evergreen: yes
Height at maturity: 6-12′; Width at maturity: n/a
Light requirement: sun-part shade; Soil Moisture: wet, moderate
Flowering / fruit dates: Jun–Jul ; Apr–Jun (following year)
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: no
Benefit to Wildlife: berry/fruit producing, nectar
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes: Needs male pollinator

Eastern bluestar (Amsonia tabernaemontana)

Wild columbine (Aquilegia canadensis)

Eastern swamp milkweed (Asclepias incarnata)

Butterfly weed (Asclepias tuberosa)

White wild indigo (Baptisia alba)

Blue Wild indigo (Baptisia australis)

Yellow Wild indigo (Baptisia tinctoria)

Green and gold (Chrysogonum virginianum)

Blue mistflower, Wild ageratum (Conoclinium coelestinum)

Threadleaf coreopsis (Coreopsis verticillata)

Lobed tickseed (Coreopsis auriculata)

Star tickseed (Coreopsis pubescens)

Greater tickseed (Coreopsis major)

Big bluestem (Andropogon gerardii)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 3-9′; Width at maturity: 3-5′
Light requirement: sun; Soil Moisture: moderate, dry
Flowering / fruit dates: Jul–Oct; Aug–Nov
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: yes
Benefit to Wildlife: seed/nut producing, larval host
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes:

Bushy bluestem (Andropogon glomeratus)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 2-6′; Width at maturity: 1-2′
Light requirement: sun; Soil Moisture: wet, moderate
Flowering / fruit dates: Sep–Oct;Oct–Nov
Drought tolerant: ; Deer resistant: yes
Benefit to Wildlife: seed/nut producing, larval host
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes:

Splitbeard bluestem (Andropogon ternarius)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 2-3′; Width at maturity: 2′
Light requirement: sun-part shade; Soil Moisture: moderate, dry
Flowering / fruit dates: Sep–Oct; Oct–Nov
Drought tolerant: yes; Deer resistant: yes
Benefit to Wildlife: seed/nut producing, larval host
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes:

River oats (Chasmanthium latifolium )

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 2-4′; Width at maturity: 20-30″
Light requirement: sun-part sun; Soil Moisture: wet, moderate
Flowering / fruit dates: Jun-Oct
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: yes
Benefit to Wildlife: seed/nut producing, larval host
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: 1994
Special notes: Readily self sows

Pink muhly (Muhlenbergia capillaris)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 1-3′; Width at maturity: 16-32″
Light requirement: sun; Soil Moisture: moderate,dry
Flowering / fruit dates: Aug–Oct
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: yes
Benefit to Wildlife: seed/nut producing, larval host
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes:

Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum )

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 4-8 ‘; Width at maturity: 2-5’
Light requirement: sun; Soil Moisture: wet, moderate, dry
Flowering / fruit dates: Sep-Oct
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: yes
Benefit to Wildlife: seed/nut producing, larval host
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: 2015
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes:

Little bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 2-4′; Width at maturity: 6-24″
Light requirement: sun; Soil Moisture: moderate,dry
Flowering / fruit dates: Jun-Oct
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: yes
Benefit to Wildlife: seed/nut producing, larval host
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: 2016
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes:

Yellow indian grass (Sorghastrum nutans)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 3-7′; Width at maturity: 2-3′
Light requirement: sun; Soil Moisture: moderate,dry
Flowering / fruit dates: Aug-Oct
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: yes
Benefit to Wildlife: seed/nut producing, larval host
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: 2017
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes:

Creek sedge (Carex amphibola)

Evergreen: yes
Height at maturity: 1′; Width at maturity: 1′
Light requirement: part sun-shade; Soil Moisture: wet, moderate
Flowering / fruit dates: May
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: yes
Benefit to Wildlife: seed/nut producing. larval host
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes:

Longhair sedge (Carex comosa)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 2′; Width at maturity: 1′-2′
Light requirement: sun-part shade; Soil Moisture: wet, moderate
Flowering / fruit dates: May
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: yes
Benefit to Wildlife: seed/nut producing. larval host
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes:

Fringed sedge (Carex crinita)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 3′; Width at maturity: 1-2′
Light requirement: sun-part shade; Soil Moisture: wet, moderate
Flowering / fruit dates: May
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: yes
Benefit to Wildlife: seed/nut producing. larval host
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes: Forms colonies

Blue wood sedge (Carex flaccosperma)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 6-12″; Width at maturity: 6-12″
Light requirement: part sun-shade; Soil Moisture: moderate, wet
Flowering / fruit dates: May
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: yes
Benefit to Wildlife: seed/nut producing. larval host
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes: Tolerates dry or wet shade

Frank’s sedge (Carex frankii)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 1-2′; Width at maturity: 1-2′
Light requirement: sun-part shade; Soil Moisture: wet, moderate
Flowering / fruit dates: May
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: yes
Benefit to Wildlife: seed/nut producing. larval host
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes: Tolerates temporary flooding

Gray’s sedge (Carex grayi)

Evergreen: yes
Height at maturity: 2′; Width at maturity: 1.5-2′
Light requirement: sun-part shade; Soil Moisture: moderate, wet
Flowering / fruit dates: May
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: yes
Benefit to Wildlife: seed/nut producing. larval host
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes: Can tolerate drier conditions

Spreading sedge (Carex laxiculmis)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 6-12″; Width at maturity: 6-12″
Light requirement: part sun-shade; Soil Moisture: moderate
Flowering / fruit dates: April
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: yes
Benefit to Wildlife: seed/nut producing. larval host
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes:

Hop sedge (Carex lupulina)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 2-3′; Width at maturity: 1-2′
Light requirement: sun-part shade; Soil Moisture: wet, moderate
Flowering / fruit dates: May
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: yes
Benefit to Wildlife: seed/nut producing. larval host
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes:

Lurid sedge (Carex lurida)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 1-3′; Width at maturity: 1-2′
Light requirement: sun-part shade; Soil Moisture: wet, moderate
Flowering / fruit dates: May
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: yes
Benefit to Wildlife: seed/nut producing. larval host
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes:

Pennsylvania sedge (Carex pensylvanica)

Evergreen: yes
Height at maturity: 6-12″; Width at maturity: 6-12″
Light requirement: part sun-shade; Soil Moisture: dry, moderate
Flowering / fruit dates: May
Drought tolerant: yes; Deer resistant: yes
Benefit to Wildlife: seed/nut producing. larval host
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes: Lawn alternative

Rosy sedge (Carex rosea)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 1′; Width at maturity: 1′
Light requirement: part sun-shade; Soil Moisture: dry, moderate
Flowering / fruit dates: May
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: yes
Benefit to Wildlife: seed/nut producing. larval host
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes:

Narrow-leaved cattail sedge, Squarrose sedge (Carex squarrosa)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 2-3′; Width at maturity: 1-2′
Light requirement: sun-shade; Soil Moisture: moderate, wet
Flowering / fruit dates: May
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: yes
Benefit to Wildlife: seed/nut producing. larval host
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes:

Tussock sedge (Carex stricta)

Evergreen: yes
Height at maturity: 3′; Width at maturity: 2′
Light requirement: sun-part shade; Soil Moisture: moderate, wet
Flowering / fruit dates: May
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: yes
Benefit to Wildlife: seed/nut producing. larval host
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes: Tolerates flooding

Fox sedge (Carex vulpinoidea)

Evergreen: no
Height at maturity: 1-3′; Width at maturity: 1-2′
Light requirement: sun-part shade; Soil Moisture: moderate, wet
Flowering / fruit dates: May
Drought tolerant: no; Deer resistant: yes
Benefit to Wildlife: seed/nut producing. larval host
NC Audubon Plant of the Year: no
NC Wildflower of the Year: no
Special notes: Can spread rapidly

Love Wildlife? Give Back.

New Hope Bird Alliance depends on the community to help fund meetings, educational resources, and conservation efforts. Make a donation* to help protect North Carolina’s wildlife for years to come. Thank you for your support!

*Donations are tax-deductible to the full extent provided by law.