In our last article, we discussed several items equating to common landscaping mishaps. Among these items was choosing the wrong species of plant for your yard. As the top Massachusetts landscapers, our team at Cataldo Landscaping can attest that the wrong plant choices happen way too often.
By considering the overall look and feel you want to achieve, understanding your soil type and sun patterns, and the purpose of which these plants serve, you can set your efforts up for success.
Here, our team is starting the journey by providing several native Massachusetts plants to inspire your gardening project.
American Coral Bell:
This is a small evergreen plant with uniquely colored leaves in purple, green, brown, or some combination of the colors. It can thrive in rock crevices and ledges, adding an interesting dimension to any landscape.
Blue Holly:
This shrub is a hardy plant that does well in the cold environment of New England. You can plant it as a hedge, a bush, or corner plant. The name comes from the slightly blue coloring of the leaves.
Cutleaf Staghorn Sumac:
Attracting wildlife with its low-hanging leaves, bringing shelter to small creatures, this is a must for bird watchers.
Culver’s Root:
This tall plant has stalks of flowers in a candle holder-like appearance. With proper care, the flowers often last through the summer.
Eastern Bluestar:
Growing up to 3 feet in height, this plant offers an eye-catching experience. The flowers are blue with five petals, but while the plant is beautiful, it is toxic to dogs.
Golden Twig Dogwood:
This is a decorative plant composed of long, golden stalks and berries that attract birds.
Lilac:
This common flower grows as a shrub or small tree. Offering several varieties that are easy to care for, it’s no wonder the late spring scent takes over many neighborhoods.
Maidenhair Fern:
Distinctive fan-shaped fronds and curling leaves make this fern one of the most sought after. However, it can be finicky at times but often holds up well through harsh winters.
Merrybells:
These dropping yellow flowers add a touch of stunning color to any garden in the spring.
Ninebark:
Native to most North America and lasting through much New England weather, these dome-shaped white cluster flowers are a homeowner’s favorite.
Summersweet:
This flowering shrub naturally grows along shores in eastern North America and can be used as decoration or as a hedge.
Swamp Milkweed:
Despite the name, this plant has a beautiful flowering appearance. The flowers are clusters of purple blossoms which attract monarch butterflies.
Witch Hazel:
As a small shrub with orange or yellow flowers, this plant provides beauty and offers medicinal purposes. However, in its natural state, witch hazel can be poisonous. It is a beautiful plant but may not be appropriate for homes with kids or pets.
Wood Anemone:
Growing all over New England, this small white flower is noticed in wooded areas, covering the forest floor with a thick mat of leaves. The flower takes years to bloom, but the leaves can be a beautiful base for a garden.
Woodland Iris:
These flowers are short and often spread as a ground cover. The blossoms are bright purple or white blooms among the greenery.
Choosing the proper vegetation for your landscape can quickly become overwhelming. However, with a professional team of Massachusetts landscapers by your side, like ours at Cataldo Landscaping, you can rest assured that your yard will flourish for years to come.
To learn more about our landscaping services and how our experienced team can help you transform your landscape into one of native beauty, contact us today at (781) 304-8900.