WILDFLOWERSon North Carolina Roadsides

North Carolina Department of TransportationRoadside Environmental Unit

Rocket Larkspur

The North Carolina Department of Transportation Wildflower Program began in 1985 as an integral part of highway beautification. Twelve acres were sown during the first year of production. Today, wildflower beds are installed and maintained across the state by Roadside Environmental personnel in each of the fourteen highway divisions. This booklet is intended as a reference to identify the wildflowers planted by NCDOT, as well as some of the naturally occurring ones growing along North Carolina highways. Both botanical and common names are listed on the following pages. Photographs with descriptions and planting information are arranged alphabetically. This guide also contains the installation techniques used by Roadside Environmental personnel, as well as instructions for planting your own wildflowers at home. We hope this booklet will be useful as you drive along our highways and in your own wildflower gardening endeavors. Remember, for your own safety, do not stop and pick the wildflowers. Please leave them for everyone to enjoy!

QUICK FACTS ABOUT THE WILDFLOWER PROGRAM✿ Former First Lady Dottie Martin (pictured to the left), wife of former Gov. Jim

Martin, is credited with initiating the idea for the N.C. program after reading an article in the Wall Street Journal about wildflower beds in Texas.

✿ Tourism in North Carolina provides $18 billion to the state’s economy annually. Since most visitors arrive by vehicle, the Wildflower Program plays a particularly important role in making the state an appealing destination. The program is one of NCDOT’s most popular initiatives, and receives hundreds of comments of praise each year from residents and visitors alike.

✿ Today’s Wildflower Program consists of one-third of each — annuals, perennials and N.C. native wildflowers. ✿ The native species planted each year along state roadsides include Clasping

Coneflower (Rudbeckia amplexicaulis), Bur-Marigold (Bidens aristosa), Common Sunflower (Helianthus annuus) and Maximilian Sunflower (Helianthus maximiliani), to name a few.

✿ Wildflowers serve as sources of nectar for pollinator species including bees, butterflies and moths. (See page 33 for more on pollinators.)

✿ The Garden Club of North Carolina is the lead sponsor of the Wildflower Program. Other important partners include N.C. State University and the N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.

INTRODUCTION

BOTANICAL NAME

COMMON NAME

Butter and Eggs ...................................................19Butterfly Weed ....................................................... 1California Poppy...................................................12Calliopsis ................................................................9Campion ...............................................................26Cardinal Flower ....................................................20Carolina Bush Pea ................................................28Carolina Lily ..........................................................19Carolina Lupine ....................................................28Carolina Phlox ......................................................23Catchfly ................................................................26Catfoot .................................................................14Chicory ...................................................................8Clasping Coneflower ............................................24Common Clematis .................................................8Common Goldenrod ............................................ 27Common Sunflower .............................................15Common Toadflax ................................................19Cornflower .............................................................4Corn Poppy ..........................................................23Cosmos ..................................................................9Dame’s Rocket .....................................................16Dark-Eyed Sunflower ...........................................15Dense Blazing Star ...............................................18Drummond Phlox ...........................................23, 24Evening Primrose .................................................22Fire Pink .............................................................. 27Firewheels ............................................................13Flanders Poppy ....................................................23Frost Aster ..............................................................3Garden Coreopsis ..................................................9Garland Chrysanthemum .......................................6Gerardia ................................................................. 1Globe Gilia ...........................................................13Gloriosa Daisy ......................................................25Golden Star ............................................................ 7Great Blue Lobelia ...............................................20Green and Gold ..................................................... 7Green Coneflower ................................................25Indian Blanket ......................................................13Indian Paintbrush ...................................................4Indian Pink ............................................................ 27Ironweed ..............................................................29Joe-Pye-Weed ......................................................12Lance-Leaved Coreopsis ........................................9Lemon Mint .......................................................... 21Lespedeza ............................................................18Little Black-Eyed Susan ........................................24Marsh Mallow ....................................................... 17Maryland Golden Aster .......................................... 7Maximilian Sunflower ...........................................16Milfoil ..................................................................... 1Mistflower ............................................................12Mixed Poppy ........................................................26Mountain Garland ..................................................8Narrow-Leaved Sunflower ....................................15New England Aster ................................................2

Nodding Catchfly .................................................26Obedient Plant ..................................................... 11Orange Daylily .....................................................16Oswego Tea ......................................................... 21Ox-Eye Daisy ..........................................................6Painted Daisy .........................................................5Partridge Pea .........................................................4Plains Coreopsis .....................................................9Pleurisy Root .......................................................... 1Purple Coneflower ............................................... 11Purple Horse Mint ................................................ 21Queen Anne’s Lace ..............................................10Queen-of-the-Meadow ........................................12Rabbit Tobacco ....................................................14Red Poppy ...........................................................23Rocket Larkspur ...................................................10Rose Mallow .........................................................18Rough-Leaved Goldenrod ...................................28Scarlet Flax ...........................................................20Scarlet Paint-Cup ...................................................4Seashore Mallow .................................................. 17Shasta Daisy ...........................................................6Shirley Poppy .......................................................22Showy Gaillardia...................................................13Siberian Wall Flower ..............................................5Smooth Coneflower ............................................. 11Snakehead ..............................................................5Spiked Gayfeather ...............................................18Spurred Snapdragon ............................................19Sulphur Cosmos ...................................................10Sundrops ..............................................................22Swamp Milkweed ...................................................2Swamp Rose Mallow ............................................ 17Swamp Sunflower.................................................15Sweet Pea ............................................................ 17Sweet William Catchfly ........................................26Tansy .....................................................................28Thoroughwort .......................................................13Tickseed .............................................................3, 9Toadflax ................................................................19Tree Mallow ..........................................................18Tri-Color Chrysanthemum ......................................5Turtlehead ..............................................................5Virgin’s Bower ........................................................8White Wood Aster .................................................2Wild Blue Aster ......................................................3Wild Carrot ...........................................................10Wild Cotton .......................................................... 17Wild Golden Glow ...............................................25Wild Scarlet Sage .................................................26Wild Snapdragon .................................................19Wild Sunflower .....................................................15Wingstem .............................................................29Yarrow ..................................................................... 1Yellow Crown-Beard .............................................29Yellow Ironweed ...................................................29Yellow Wingstem ..................................................29

Aaron’s Rod ..........................................................28Ageratum .............................................................12Annual Gaillardia ..................................................13Annual Phlox ..................................................23, 24Baby Blue Eyes ..................................................... 21Baby Snapdragon ................................................19Bachelor’s Button ...................................................4Bee Balm .............................................................. 21Beggar Ticks...........................................................3

Bitter Sneeze Weed .............................................14Bird’s Eyes ............................................................14Black-Eyed Susan .................................................25Blue Boneset ........................................................12Blue Cardinal Flower ............................................20Blue-Eyed Grass ................................................... 27Blue Sailors .............................................................8Blue Thimble Flower ............................................13Bur-Marigold ..........................................................3

Achillea millefolium ................................................ 1Agalinis purpurea ................................................... 1Asclepias incarnata ................................................. 1Asclepias tuberosa .................................................2Aster divaricatus .....................................................2Aster grandiflorus ...................................................2Aster novae-angliae ................................................3Aster pilosus ...........................................................3Bidens aristosa .......................................................3Cassia fasciculata ....................................................4Castilleja coccinea ..................................................4Centaurea cyanus ...................................................4Cheiranthus allionii .................................................5Chelone lyonii.........................................................5Chrysanthemum carinatum.....................................5Chrysanthemum coronarium ..................................6Chrysanthemum leucanthemum.............................6Chrysanthemum maximum .....................................6Chrysogonum virginianum ..................................... 7Chrysopsis graminifolia .......................................... 7Chrysopsis mariana................................................. 7Cichorium intybus ...................................................8Clarkia unguiculata .................................................8Clematis virginiana .................................................8Coreopsis lanceolata ..............................................9Coreopsis tinctoria .................................................9Cosmos bipinnatus .................................................9Cosmos sulphureus ..............................................10Daucus carota .......................................................10Delphinium ajacis .................................................10Dracocephalum virginianum................................. 11Echinacea laevigata .............................................. 11Echinacea purpurea .............................................. 11Erysimum hieraciifolium .........................................5Eschscholzia californica ........................................12Eupatorium coelestinum ......................................12Eupatorium fistulosum ..........................................12Eupatorium hyssopifolium ....................................13Gaillardia pulchella ...............................................13Gilia capitata ........................................................13Gilia tricolor ..........................................................14Gnaphalium obtusifolium .....................................14Helenium amarum ................................................14

Helianthus angustifolius .......................................15Helianthus annuus ................................................15Helianthus atrorubens ..........................................15Helianthus maximiliani ..........................................16Hemerocallis fulva ................................................16Hesperis matronalis ..............................................16Hibiscus moscheutos ............................................ 17Kosteletzkya virginica ........................................... 17Lathyrus latifolius .................................................. 17Lavatera trimestris ...............................................18Lespedeza bicolor ‘Natob’ ...................................18Liatris spicata ........................................................18Lilium michauxii ....................................................19Linaria maroccana .................................................19Linaria vulgaris ......................................................19Linum grandiflorum rubrum .................................20Lobelia cardinalis ..................................................20Lobelia siphilitica ..................................................20Monarda citriodora ............................................... 21Monarda didyma .................................................. 21Nemopila insignis ................................................. 21 Oenothera fruiticosa .............................................22Oenothera lamarckiana ........................................22Papaver rhoeas ...............................................22, 23Phlox carolina .......................................................23Phlox drummondii ..........................................23, 24Rudbeckia amplexicaulis ......................................24Rudbeckia fulgida .................................................24Rudbeckia hirta .....................................................25Rudbeckia hirta ‘Gloriosa’ ....................................25Rudbeckia laciniata ...............................................25Salvia coccinea .....................................................26Silene armeria .......................................................26Silene pendula ......................................................26Silene virginica ...................................................... 27Sisyrinchium bellum .............................................. 27Solidago nemoralis ............................................... 27Solidago rugosa ...................................................28Tanacetum vulgare ................................................28Thermopsis villosa ................................................28Verbesina alternifolia ............................................29Verbesina occidentalis ..........................................29Vernonia noveboracensis......................................29

California Poppy, Red Poppy, Cornflower and Ox-Eye Daisy mix

Genus and Species: Achillea millefoliumFamily: AsteraceaeCommon Name: Yarrow, MilfoilHabit: perennial, reseedsHeight: 2 feetFlower Color: whiteNative To: EuropeRange: throughout temperate North AmericaBlooming Period: May–JulyWater Requirement: low, drought tolerantSoil Type: light, rich or sterileExposure: full sunSeed Count: 2,770,000 seeds/lb.Seeding Rate: 1 lb./acreMiscellaneous: very competitive; controls soil erosion; foliage has pleasant smell when crushed

Genus and Species: Agalinis purpureaFamily: ScrophulariaceaeCommon Name: Gerardia Habit: annualHeight: 2–3 feetFlower Color: rose-lavender, rarely whiteNative To: eastern United StatesRange: throughout North Carolina Blooming Period: August–frostWater Requirement: moderateSoil Type: moistExposure: full sun Seed Count: N/ASeeding Rate: N/AMiscellaneous: semi-parasitic on the roots of grasses

Genus and Species: Asclepias incarnataFamily: AsclepiadaceaeCommon Name: Swamp MilkweedHabit: perennialHeight: 2–4 feetFlower Color: pinkNative To: North America Range: Nova Scotia south to Florida; west to UtahBlooming Period: July–September Water Requirement: low to highSoil Type: will tolerate poorly-drained soilExposure: full sun Seed Count: N/ASeeding Rate: N/AMiscellaneous: there are 1,900 species of milkweeds; attracts birds and butterflies

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Genus and Species: Asclepias tuberosaFamily: AsclepiadaceaeCommon Name: Butterfly Weed, Pleurisy RootHabit: hardy, long-lived perennialHeight: 12–36 inchesFlower Color: orangeNative To: North AmericaRange: all regions of United StatesBlooming Period: June–SeptemberWater Requirement: lowSoil Type: requires well-drained soil, sandy, neutral or slightly acidicExposure: full sunSeed Count: 87,000 seeds/lb.Seeding Rate: 10 lbs./acreMiscellaneous: produces large quantities of nectar throughout blooming period which attracts butterflies; takes up to two years to become established

Genus and Species: Aster divaricatusFamily: AsteraceaeCommon Name: White Wood AsterHabit: perennialHeight: 1–3 feetFlower Color: white with yellow or red centerNative To: North AmericaRange: West Virginia, Virginia, North Carolina, Tennessee, Georgia and AlabamaBlooming Period: July–OctoberWater Requirement: low to moderateSoil Type: average to poorExposure: full sunSeed Count: N/ASeeding Rate: N/AMiscellaneous: attracts birds and butterflies

Genus and Species: Aster grandiflorusFamily: AsteraceaeCommon Name: Wild Blue AsterHabit: perennialHeight: 2–5 feetFlower Color: blueNative To: North AmericaRange: lower Piedmont of North Carolina to VirginiaBlooming Period: September–OctoberWater Requirement: low to moderateSoil Type: poor to averageExposure: sun to partial shadeSeed Count: N/ASeeding Rate: N/A Miscellaneous: there are more than 150 species of asters in North America; attracts birds and butterflies

Genus and Species: Aster novae-angliaeFamily: AsteraceaeCommon Name: New England AsterHabit: perennial, reseedsHeight: 3–3½ feetFlower Color: blue to purple to whiteNative To: United StatesRange: southern Canada south to western North Carolina and westwardBlooming Period: August–frostWater Requirement: low to moderate Soil Type: heavy or lightExposure: full sunSeed Count:1,305,000 seeds/lb.Seeding Rate: 2 lbs./acreMiscellaneous: one of the showiest wild asters; tends to become bushy; attracts birds and butterflies; plants need to be divided every two to three years

Genus and Species: Aster pilosusFamily: AsteraceaeCommon Name: Frost AsterHabit: perennialHeight: 1–4 feetFlower Color: white, rarely lavenderNative To: North AmericaRange: Virginia, North Carolina, Tennessee, Georgia, Kentucky, Alabama and MississippiBlooming Period: September–NovemberWater Requirement: lowSoil Type: average garden soilExposure: full sunSeed Count: N/ASeeding Rate: N/AMiscellaneous: attracts birds and butterflies

Genus and Species: Bidens aristosaFamily: AsteraceaeCommon Name: Bur-Marigold, Tickseed, Beggar TicksHabit: annualHeight: 1–5 feetFlower Color: yellowNative To: New England south to North Carolina; west to Texas; north to Missouri and MinnesotaRange: Midwest, Northeast, Southeast, Texas to OklahomaBlooming Period: August–frostWater Requirement: moderate to highSoil Type: average garden soil Exposure: sun, open shadeSeed Count: N/ASeeding Rate: 3 lbs./acreMiscellaneous: similar to Bidens polylepsis, but has slightly larger flowers

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Genus and Species: Cassia fasciculataFamily: FabaceaeCommon Name: Partridge PeaHabit: branching annualHeight: 2 feetFlower Color: yellowNative To: eastern and central United States Range: Massachusetts to FloridaBlooming Period: June–SeptemberWater Requirement: low Soil Type: sandy to clayExposure: full sunSeed Count: 28,000 seeds/lb.Seeding Rate: 15 lbs./acreMiscellaneous: attracts birds and butterflies

Genus and Species: Castilleja coccineaFamily: ScrophulariaceaeCommon Name: Indian Paintbrush, Scarlet Paint-CupHabit: annualHeight: 8–24 inches Flower Color: redNative To: North AmericaRange: southern Manitoba to north Florida; west to Louisiana and OklahomaBlooming Period: April–JulyWater Requirement: highSoil Type: good to rich garden soilExposure: full sun Seed Count: 4,915,200 seeds/lb.Seeding Rate: 1 lb./acreMiscellaneous: adapted to low-lying moist areas in full sun; the red brush-like brackets appear to have been dipped in paint as suggested by the common name

Genus and Species: Centaurea cyanusFamily: AsteraceaeCommon Name: Cornflower, Bachelor‘s ButtonHabit: annual, reseedsHeight: 2½ feetFlower Color: blueNative To: EuropeRange: naturalized throughout North America Blooming Period: April–JuneWater Requirement: low, drought tolerantSoil Type: light, sterileExposure: full sun to partial shadeSeed Count: 96,000 seeds/lb.Seeding Rate: 4 lbs./acreMiscellaneous: easily grown; also available commercially in white, pink and burgundy colors; excellent for dried flower arrangements

Genus and Species: Cheiranthus allionii or Erysimum hieracifoliumFamily: BrassicaceaeCommon Name: Siberian Wall FlowerHabit: biennialHeight: 10–18 inchesFlower Color: orangeNative To: Canary IslandRange: northern North AmericaBlooming Period: March–MayWater Requirement: moderate Soil Type: well-drainedExposure: partial shade, full shadeSeed Count: 340,194 seeds/lb.Seeding Rate: 6 lbs./acreMiscellaneous: transplants well; light fragrance

Genus and Species: Chelone lyoniiFamily: ScrophulariaceaeCommon Name: Turtlehead, SnakeheadHabit: perennialHeight: 1–3 feetFlower Color: purple-roseNative To: northeastern United StatesRange: mountains of North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Tennessee and Virginia Blooming Period: July–OctoberWater Requirement: moderate to wetSoil Type: rich coves and bogsExposure: sun to partial shadeSeed Count: N/ASeeding Rate: N/AMiscellaneous: requires humus-rich soil kept constantly moist

Genus and Species: Chrysanthemum carinatumFamily: AsteraceaeCommon Name: Painted Daisy, Tri-Color ChrysanthemumHabit: annual, reseedsHeight: 18–30 inchesFlower Color: red, yellow, orange, white and purpleNative To: MoroccoRange: naturalized throughout United StatesBlooming Period: spring–summerWater Requirement: lowSoil Type: heavy or light Exposure: full sun Seed Count: 235,000 seeds/lb.Seeding Rate: 8 lbs./acreMiscellaneous: competes well with grasses; very aggressive; attracts birds and butterflies

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Genus and Species: Chrysanthemum coronariumFamily: AsteraceaeCommon Name: Garland ChrysanthemumHabit: annual, reseedsHeight: 1–5 feetFlower Color: yellow, rarely white Native To: EuropeRange: naturalized throughout eastern United States and CanadaBlooming Period: spring–fallWater Requirement: lowSoil Type: light Exposure: full sunSeed Count: 288,000 seeds/lb.Seeding Rate: 5 lbs./acreMiscellaneous: prolific bloomer; attracts birds and butterflies

Genus and Species: Chrysanthemum leucanthemumFamily: AsteraceaeCommon Name: Ox-Eye DaisyHabit: perennialHeight: 1–2 feetFlower Color: whiteNative To: Europe and AsiaRange: all regions of the United StatesBlooming Period: April–JulyWater Requirement: moderateSoil Type: light, ordinary garden soilExposure: full sunSeed Count: 859,000 seeds/lb.Seeding Rate: 5 lbs./acreMiscellaneous: thought to hold medicinal value; attracts birds and butterflies; excellent cut flower; a mainstay of any wildflower program

Genus and Species: Chrysanthemum maximumFamily: AsteraceaeCommon Name: Shasta DaisyHabit: perennialHeight: 1–3 feetFlower Color: white Native To: Europe and AsiaRange: all regions of the United StatesBlooming Period: April–JulyWater Requirement: moderateSoil Type: prefers fertile soilExposure: sun to partial shadeSeed Count: 436,000 seeds/lb.Seeding Rate: 5 lbs./acreMiscellaneous: generally grows 6 to 12 inches taller than Ox-Eye Daisies and flowers are larger; excellent cut flower

Genus and Species: Chrysogonum virginianumFamily: AsteraceaeCommon Name: Green and Gold, Golden StarHabit: perennial groundcoverHeight: 1 footFlower Color: yellowNative To: central Atlantic regionRange: Piedmont and Coastal PlainBlooming Period: April–OctoberWater Requirement: lowSoil Type: fertile, well-drained Exposure: open deciduous forest, full sun to filtered sunlightSeed Count: N/ASeeding Rate: N/AMiscellaneous: an outstanding long-blooming semi-evergreen groundcover

Genus and Species: Chrysopsis graminifoliaFamily: AsteraceaeCommon Name: NoneHabit: perennialHeight: 1–3 feetFlower Color: yellowNative To: North America Range: throughout Piedmont North Carolina, Virginia, Georgia, Alabama and MississippiBlooming Period: July–OctoberWater Requirement: low to moderateSoil Type: average garden soilExposure: sun to partial shadeSeed Count: N/ASeeding Rate: N/AMiscellaneous: silver-gray grass-like foliage; also know botanically as Heterotheca graminifolia

Genus and Species: Chrysopsis marianaFamily: AsteraceaeCommon Name: Maryland Golden AsterHabit: perennialHeight: 1–2 feetFlower Color: yellow Native To: eastern United StatesRange: Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, Kentucky, Tennessee, Georgia, Florida, Alabama and MississippiBlooming Period: June–October Water Requirement: low to averageSoil Type: average to poorExposure: full sunSeed Count: 192,000 seeds/lb.Seeding Rate: N/AMiscellaneous: low maintenance; also known botanically as Heterotheca mariana

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Genus and Species: Cichorium intybusFamily: AsteraceaeCommon Name: Chicory, Blue SailorsHabit: perennialHeight: 2–4 feetFlower Color: blueNative To: EuropeRange: throughout United StatesBlooming Period: May–OctoberWater Requirement: low Soil Type: well-drainedExposure: full sunSeed Count: 426,000 seeds/lb.Seeding Rate: 5 lbs./acreMiscellaneous: used to make coffee during World War II; flowers remain on plant for one day

Genus and Species: Clarkia unguiculataFamily: OnagraceaeCommon Name: Mountain GarlandHabit: annual Height: 2–3 feetFlower Color: multi-colored, burgundy, pinkNative To: United StatesRange: United StatesBlooming Period: May–JulyWater Requirement: moderateSoil Type: well-drained Exposure: partial shade, full shadeSeed Count:1,587,000 seeds/lb.Seeding Rate: 2 lbs./acreMiscellaneous: attractive variety for floral arrangements; also called Clarkia elegans

Genus and Species: Clematis virginianaFamily: RanunculaceaeCommon Name: Virgin’s Bower, Common ClematisHabit: perennial vineHeight: stem 6–10 feet longFlower Color: whiteNative to: eastern United StatesRange: Manitoba to Nova Scotia; south from New England to Georgia; west to Alabama, Mississippi and Louisiana; north to KansasBlooming Period: July–SeptemberWater Requirement: moist to averageSoil Type: rich to averageExposure: sun to light shadeSeed Count: N/ASeeding Rate: N/AMiscellaneous: attractive fruit; tendency to spread has caused many to avoid its use

Genus and Species: Coreopsis lanceolataFamily: AsteraceaeCommon Name: Lance-leaved Coreopsis, TickseedHabit: perennial, reseedsHeight: 3 feetFlower Color: yellowNative to: United States, east of the Rocky MountainsRange: throughout North AmericaBlooming Period: April–JulyWater Requirement: low, withstands drought and prolonged periods of wetnessSoil Type: heavy or light, rich or sterileExposure: full sun to light shadeSeed Count: 221,000 seeds/lb.Seeding Rate: 10 lbs./acreMiscellaneous: readily reseeds; competes well with grasses; attracts birds and butterflies

Genus and Species: Coreopsis tinctoriaFamily: AsteraceaeCommon Name: Plains Coreopsis, Garden Coreopsis, CalliopsisHabit: annual, reseedsHeight: 3 feetFlower Color: yellow with maroon centersNative To: southwest United States Range: naturalized throughout the United StatesBlooming Period: May–AugustWater Requirement: low Soil Type: sterileExposure: full sun, partial shadeSeed Count: 1,400,000 seeds/lb.Seeding Rate: 2 lbs./acreMiscellaneous: prolific bloomer; competes well with grasses; readily reseeds; attracts birds and butterflies

Genus and Species: Cosmos bipinnatusFamily: AsteraceaeCommon Name: CosmosHabit: annual, reseedsHeight: 3–5 feet Flower Color: white to pink to reddish-burgundyNative To: southwestern United StatesRange: southern and coastal United States Blooming Period: June–frostWater Requirement: low, drought tolerantSoil Type: sterileExposure: full sun Seed Count: 89,000 seeds/lb.Seeding Rate: 10–15 lbs./acreMiscellaneous: plant in spring or summer (it is not winter hardy); performs best in less fertile soils; attracts birds and butterflies

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Genus and Species: Cosmos sulphureusFamily: AsteraceaeCommon Name: Sulphur CosmosHabit: annualHeight: 3–5 feetFlower Color: yellow or mix of yellow, orange and redNative To: southwestern United States Range: southern and coastal United StatesBlooming Period: June–frostWater Requirement: low, drought tolerantSoil Type: sandy, well-drained, sterileExposure: full sunSeed Count: 63,000 seeds/lb.Seeding Rate: 10–15 lbs./acreMiscellaneous: plant in spring or summer (it is not winter hardy); blooms in 4 to 6 weeks

Genus and Species: Daucus carotaFamily: ApiaceaeCommon Name: Queen Anne’s Lace, Wild CarrotHabit: biennialHeight: 4–5 feetFlower Color: white, rarely pale purpleNative To: AfghanistanRange: naturalized throughout eastern United StatesBlooming Period: June–JulyWater Requirement: low Soil Type: average garden soil to barren dry soilsExposure: full sun to at least a half day’s full sunSeed Count: 876,000 seeds/lb.Seeding Rate: 2 lbs./acreMiscellaneous: the root contains carotin, sometimes grated and mixed with oil to soothe sunburn; attracts birds and butterflies

Genus and Species: Delphinium ajacisFamily: RanunculaceaeCommon Name: Rocket LarkspurHabit: annual Height: 3–6 feetFlower Color: pink, purple, white and dark blueNative To: EuropeRange: southern EuropeBlooming Period: April–SeptemberWater Requirement: moderateSoil Type: well-drained Exposure: full sun to partial shadeSeed Count: 150,000 seeds/lb.Seeding Rate: 10 lbs./acreMiscellaneous: a delightful and easy to grow garden favorite; marvelous plant to accent any cut flower arrangement

Genus and Species: Dracocephalum virginianumFamily: LamiaceaeCommon Name: Obedient PlantHabit: perennialHeight: 1–4 feetFlower Color: pink, lavenderNative To: North AmericaRange: New Brunswick and Quebec south to Florida; west to Mississippi; north to Missouri and MinnesotaBlooming Period: June–September Water Requirement: high Soil Type: good garden soilExposure: full sun Seed Count: N/ASeeding Rate: N/AMiscellaneous: grows best in damp thickets, swamps and roadside ditches

Genus and Species: Echinacea laevigataFamily: AsteraceaeCommon Name: Smooth ConeflowerHabit: perennialHeight: 1–3 feetFlower Color: pinkNative To: Granville, Durham and Orange counties in North CarolinaRange: eastern United StatesBlooming Period: June–August Water Requirement: moderateSoil Type: sterile to fertile Exposure: sun to filtered sunSeed Count: N/ASeeding Rate: N/AMiscellaneous: this is a federally endangered plant; unlawful to pick flowers, collect seeds or dig plants

Genus and Species: Echinacea purpureaFamily: AsteraceaeCommon Name: Purple ConeflowerHabit: perennial, reseedsHeight: 2–3 feetFlower Color: reddish-purpleNative To: Midwestern and southeastern United StatesRange: naturalized throughout Midwest, Northeast and SoutheastBlooming Period: May–AugustWater Requirement: low, fairly drought tolerantSoil Type: heavy or lightExposure: full sun Seed Count: 117,000 seeds/lb.Seeding Rate: 12 lbs./acreMiscellaneous: performs best in cooler climates without irrigation; withstands very dry conditions; excellent cut flower

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Genus and Species: Eschscholzia californicaFamily: PapaveraceaeCommon Name: California PoppyHabit: annual or tender perennial, reseedsHeight:18 inchesFlower Color: orangeNative To: CaliforniaRange: Alberta south to Mexico, eastward to Colorado Blooming Period: spring–summerWater Requirement: low, drought tolerantSoil Type: light, sterileExposure: full sun Seed Count: 293,000 seeds/lb.Seeding Rate: 8 lbs./acreMiscellaneous: very adaptable; grows almost anywhere within natural range; state flower of California; blooms close at night or on cloudy day; foliage is bluish-green; excellent flower for pressing

Genus and Species: Eupatorium coelestinumFamily: AsteraceaeCommon Name: Ageratum, Mistflower, Blue BonesetHabit: perennialHeight: 1–3 feetFlower Color: blue, violetNative To: southeastern United StatesRange: scattered throughout Southeast Blooming Period: July–OctoberWater Requirement: moderate to highSoil Type: average garden soilExposure: full sun to partial shadeSeed Count: 3,200,000 seeds/lb.Seeding Rate: N/AMiscellaneous: rare in mountains of North Carolina; less frequent in Piedmont; withstands hot, humid summer weather

Genus and Species: Eupatorium fistulosumFamily: AsteraceaeCommon Name: Joe-Pye-Weed, Queen-of-the-MeadowHabit: perennialHeight: 2–10 feetFlower Color: pink to lavenderNative To: North America Range: throughout eastern United States, across southern Canada and northern United States Blooming Period: July–August Water Requirement: moderateSoil Type: moist to wetExposure: full sun to filteredSeed Count: N/ASeeding Rate: N/AMiscellaneous: once used to cure fevers; folklore tells that an Indian, “Joe Pye,” used this plant to cure fevers

Genus and Species: Eupatorium hyssopifoliumFamily: AsteraceaeCommon Name: ThoroughwortHabit: perennialHeight: 2–3 feetFlower Color: white Native To: North AmericaRange: southern Ontario to New Brunswick; south through New England to Virginia and upland Georgia; west to Louisiana; northwest to TexasBlooming Period: August–OctoberWater Requirement: low Soil Type: poor to averageExposure: full sunSeed Count: N/ASeeding Rate: N/AMiscellaneous: attractive fruit

Genus and Species: Gaillardia pulchellaFamily: AsteraceaeCommon Name: Indian Blanket, Firewheel, Showy Gaillardia, Annual GaillardiaHabit: annual, reseedsHeight: 1–2 feetFlower Color: red with yellow tipsNative To: United States, east of the Rocky Mountains throughout the Midwest Range: naturalized in the southeastern United StatesBlooming Period: summer–frostWater Requirement: low Soil Type: sandy Exposure: full sun Seed Count: 153,000 seeds/lb.Seeding Rate: 10 lbs./acreMiscellaneous: color varies to solid red or yellow

Genus and Species: Gilia capitataFamily: PolemoniaceaeCommon Name: Blue Thimble Flower, Globe GiliaHabit: annual, reseedsHeight: 1–2 feetFlower Color: blueNative To: CaliforniaRange: Alaska; northern California to British Columbia; east to IdahoBlooming Period: springWater Requirement: low, drought tolerant Soil Type: lightExposure: full sun to partial shade, tolerates full shadeSeed Count: 1,020,000 seeds/lb.Seeding Rate: 2 lbs./acreMiscellaneous: tends to become bushy

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Genus and Species: Gilia tricolorFamily: PolemoniaceaeCommon Name: Bird’s EyesHabit: annualHeight: 12–24 inches Flower Color: white, pink with dark centerNative To: western United StatesRange: western United StatesBlooming Period: spring, early summerWater Requirement: moderateSoil Type: well-drainedExposure: full sun Seed Count: 1,020,000 seeds/lb.Seeding Rate: 2 lbs./acre Miscellaneous: flowers are fragrant; retains color when dried

Genus and Species: Gnaphalium obtusifoliumFamily: AsteraceaeCommon Name: Rabbit Tobacco, CatfootHabit: biennialHeight: 1–4 feetFlower Color: white Native To: North AmericaRange: throughout eastern North AmericaBlooming Period: August–OctoberWater Requirement: lowSoil Type: poor to average Exposure: full sunSeed Count: N/ASeeding Rate: N/AMiscellaneous: leaves are sometimes smoked hence the common name; leaves are white or grayish white

Genus and Species: Helenium amarumFamily: AsteraceaeCommon Name: Bitter Sneeze WeedHabit: annualHeight: 1–2 feetFlower Color: yellowNative To: southeastern United StatesRange: throughout North CarolinaBlooming Period: May–frostWater Requirement: low Soil Type: average Exposure: full sun Seed Count: N/ASeeding Rate: N/AMiscellaneous: rare in mountains; pest in pastures-causes milk to have bitter taste

Genus and Species: Helianthus angustifoliusFamily: AsteraceaeCommon Name: Narrow-Leaved Sunflower, Swamp SunflowerHabit: perennialHeight: 3–6 feetFlower Color: yellow Native To: southeastern United StatesRange: Coastal Plain and lower Piedmont of North Carolina, rare in mountainsBlooming Period: August–frostWater Requirement: moderateSoil Type: average garden soilExposure: full sun Seed Count: N/ASeeding Rate: N/AMiscellaneous: rare in upper Piedmont and mountains; can tolerate wet soils

Genus and Species: Helianthus annuusFamily: AsteraceaeCommon Name: Common SunflowerHabit: annual Height: 4–6 feetFlower Color: black heads surrounded by bright yellow ray petalsNative To: North AmericaRange: United StatesBlooming Period: May–SeptemberWater Requirement: moderateSoil Type: average, well-drainedExposure: full sunSeed Count: 60,000 seeds/lb.Seeding Rate: 3 lbs./acreMiscellaneous: Goldfinch and other birds love the seeds; allow the flower-heads to dry on the stalk to attract birds

Genus and Species: Helianthus atrorubensFamily: AsteraceaeCommon Name: Wild Sunflower, Dark-Eyed SunflowerHabit: perennialHeight: 2–5 feetFlower Color: yellow Native To: North America Range: North Carolina, Virginia, Georgia, Tennessee and KentuckyBlooming Period: August–OctoberWater Requirement: moderateSoil Type: average, well-drainedExposure: full sunSeed Count: 58,500 seeds/lb.Seeding Rate: 5 lbs./acreMiscellaneous: attractive flowers; some contain purple disks

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Genus and Species: Helianthus maximilianiFamily: AsteraceaeCommon Name: Maximilian SunflowerHabit: perennialHeight: 3–9 feetFlower Color: yellowNative To: North AmericaRange: Saskatchewan and Manitoba; Minnesota south to Missouri, Oklahoma and TexasBlooming Period: July–frostWater Requirement: low Soil Type: average, well-drained Exposure: full sun Seed Count: 182,000 seeds/lb.Seeding Rate: 5 lbs./acreMiscellaneous: produces heavy crop of seeds; attracts birds; good forage for wildlife; takes two years to become established

Genus and Species: Hemerocallis fulvaFamily: LiliaceaeCommon Name: Orange DaylilyHabit: perennialHeight: 3–6 feetFlower Color: orangeNative To: central Europe to China, especially JapanRange: eastern United States Blooming Period: May–JuneWater Requirement: moderateSoil Type: averageExposure: sunSeed Count: N/ASeeding Rate: N/AMiscellaneous: best propagated by division; best time to divide in early spring or fall; commonly found in ditch banks along roadsides

Genus and Species: Hesperis matronalisFamily: BrassicaceaeCommon Name: Dame’s RocketHabit: perennial Height: 1–4 feetFlower Color: violet, rarely whiteNative To: EuropeRange: throughout United StatesBlooming Period: May–AugustWater Requirement: moist to moderateSoil Type: well-drainedExposure: partial shade to full sun Seed Count: 296,000 seeds/lb.Seeding Rate: 8 lbs./acreMiscellaneous: sweet fragrance; competes well with grasses

Genus and Species: Hibiscus moscheutosFamily: MalvaceaeCommon Name: Marsh Mallow, Swamp Rose Mallow, Wild CottonHabit: annualHeight: 12–14 inchesFlower Color: pink to creamy white, red or purple centersNative To: North AmericaRange: coastal areas from Massachusetts to FloridaBlooming Period: July–September Water Requirement: high Soil Type: richExposure: full sun Seed Count: 48,000 seeds/lb.Seeding Rate: N/AMiscellaneous: often found in upper wetlands; susceptible to Japanese beetles

Genus and Species: Kosteletzkya virginicaFamily: MalvaceaeCommon Name: Seashore MallowHabit: perennialHeight: 1–5 feet or moreFlower Color: pinkNative To: North AmericaRange: Long Island south to Florida; west to LouisianaBlooming Period: May–October Water Requirement: highSoil Type: good garden soil Exposure: full sun to filtered shadeSeed Count: N/ASeeding Rate: N/AMiscellaneous: natural habitat in the Southeast is brackish marshes in coastal counties

Genus and Species: Lathyrus latifoliusFamily: FabaceaeCommon Name: Sweet PeaHabit: perennialHeight: trailing vineFlower Color: purplish-pink Native To: EuropeRange: all regions of the United States Blooming Period: summer–fallWater Requirement: low to moderateSoil Type: heavyExposure: full sun to partial shadeSeed Count: 9,000 seeds/lb.Seeding Rate: 20 lbs./acreMiscellaneous: may be difficult to control in the West and Midwest

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Genus and Species: Lavatera trimestrisFamily: MalvaceaeCommon Name: Rose Mallow, Tree Mallow Habit: annual, reseedsHeight: 3–6 feetFlower Color: pink, ice-white, roseNative To: EuropeRange: naturalized throughout Midwest and SoutheastBlooming Period: summer–fallWater Requirement: moderate to high Soil Type: richExposure: full sun to partial shadeSeed Count: 70,800 seeds/lb.Seeding Rate: 25 lbs./acre Miscellaneous: tolerates low pH; easily cultivated; fast growing; deeply rooted which makes transplanting difficult; not winter hardy

Genus and Species: Lespedeza bicolor “Natob”Family: FabaceaeCommon Name: LespedezaHabit: shrubby, perennialHeight: 1–12 feet Flower Color: lavender to pinkNative To: North AmericaRange: throughout North CarolinaBlooming Period: July–SeptemberWater Requirement: low, drought tolerantSoil Type: low fertility, slightly acidic, well-drained clay, sand, loamExposure: full sun Seed Count: N/ASeeding Rate: N/AMiscellaneous: good food for quail, dove and wild turkey

Genus and Species: Liatris spicataFamily: AsteraceaeCommon Name: Dense Blazing Star, Spiked GayfeatherHabit: perennial, reseedsHeight: 2–3 feetFlower Color: rosy-purple to lavenderNative To: central United StatesRange: eastern and central United States Blooming Period: June–SeptemberWater Requirement: low, drought tolerantSoil Type: sterileExposure: full sun Seed Count: 138,000 seeds/lb.Seeding Rate: 12 lbs./acreMiscellaneous: tolerates low pH soils; competes well with grasses; excellent in dried flower arrangements

Genus and Species: Lilium michauxiiFamily: LiliaceaeCommon Name: Carolina LilyHabit: perennialHeight: 3–3½ feet Flower Color: reddish-yellow (orange), spottedNative To: southeastern United StatesRange: Texas to West Virginia and the eastern mid-Atlantic states including North Carolina Blooming Period: July–AugustWater Requirement: low, medium water use Soil Type: sandy, dry to moistExposure: partial shade Seed Count: N/A Seeding Rate: N/AMiscellaneous: North Carolina’s Official State Wildflower; adopted 2003; named for French botanist Andre Michaux

Genus and Species: Linaria maroccanaFamily: ScrophulariaceaeCommon Name: Toadflax, Baby Snapdragon, Spurred SnapdragonHabit: annual, reseedsHeight: 1–2 feetFlower Color: bicolored with yellow and red, pink, white or purpleNative To: EuropeRange: naturalized throughout United StatesBlooming Period: March–MayWater Requirement: low Soil Type: tolerates most soilsExposure: full sun to partial shadeSeed Count: 6,850,000 seeds/lb.Seeding Rate: 0.5 lb./acreMiscellaneous: rapid bloomer; not winter hardy; do not sow seed too deeply

Genus and Species: Linaria vulgarisFamily: ScrophulariaceaeCommon Name: Butter and Eggs, Common Toadflax, Wild SnapdragonHabit: annual, reseedsHeight: 1–3 feetFlower Color: yellow and orangeNative To: Europe, AsiaRange: throughout North AmericaBlooming Period: summerWater Requirement: low, drought tolerantSoil Type: light, sterileExposure: full sun to partial shadeSeed Count: 4,096,000 seeds/lb.Seeding Rate: 0.75 lb./acreMiscellaneous: easily grown; orange coloration on lower lip attracts insects

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Genus and Species: Linum grandiflorum rubrumFamily: LinaceaeCommon Name: Scarlet FlaxHabit: annualHeight: 12–36 inches Flower Color: redNative To: northern AfricaRange: Africa, southern Europe, northern North AmericaBlooming Period: summerWater Requirement: dry, average, well-drained Soil Type: sandy, drought/dry Exposure: full sun Seed Count: 122,000 seeds/lb.Seeding Rate: 8 lbs./acre Miscellaneous: showy flowers with extended blooms

Genus and Species: Lobelia cardinalisFamily: CampanulaceaeCommon Name: Cardinal FlowerHabit: short-lived perennialHeight: 3–5 feetFlower Color: redNative To: MexicoRange: throughout eastern United States Blooming Period: June–SeptemberWater Requirement: moist to averageSoil Type: average garden soilExposure: sun to shadeSeed Count: 8,600,000 seeds/lb.Seeding Rate: 0.5 lb./acreMiscellaneous: attracts hummingbirds; over-gathering has decreased its numbers; can be propagated from stem cuttings; may take up to two years to become established

Genus and Species: Lobelia siphiliticaFamily: CampanulaceaeCommon Name: Great Blue Lobelia, Blue Cardinal FlowerHabit: short-live perennialHeight: 2–3 feet or moreFlower Color: purple, blue, rarely white or pinkNative To: northern and central United StatesRange: found only in western mountains of North CarolinaBlooming Period: August–OctoberWater Requirement: moderate Soil Type: average, moistExposure: will tolerate sunny locationsSeed Count: N/ASeeding Rate: N/A

Genus and Species: Monarda citriodoraFamily: LamiaceaeCommon Name: Lemon Mint, Purple Horse MintHabit: annualHeight: 2 feetFlower Color: pink to white with purple spots Native To: North America Range: Missouri to Nebraska, Utah, Texas and ArizonaBlooming Period: May–AugustWater Requirement: low Soil Type: best in soils rich in limestone (basic pH)Exposure: full sun to partial shadeSeed Count: 819,000 seeds/lb.Seeding Rate: 3 lbs./acreMiscellaneous: attracts birds and butterflies; crushed leaves release citrus aroma; excellent cut flower

Genus and Species: Monarda didymaFamily: LamiaceaeCommon Name: Bee Balm, Oswego TeaHabit: perennialHeight: 3–6 feetFlower Color: redNative To: North AmericaRange: throughout northeastern United States to southern AppalachiansBlooming Period: June–AugustWater Requirement: moist to wetSoil Type: lightExposure: full sun to filtered sunSeed Count: N/ASeeding Rate: 3 lbs./acreMiscellaneous: attracts birds and butterflies; leaves give off pleasant mint odor when crushed

Genus and Species: Nemophila insignisFamily: HydrophyllaceaeCommon Name: Baby Blue EyesHabit: annual Height: 6–12 inchesFlower Color: light blue with white centerNative To: United StatesRange: United StatesBlooming Period: March–MayWater Requirement: moderate Soil Type: light sandyExposure: partial shadeSeed Count: 258,000 seeds/lb.Seeding Rate: 8 lbs./acreMiscellaneous: an enjoyable and easily grown variety from seed; this low-growing plant requires little maintenance; does not transplant well

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Genus and Species: Oenothera fruticosaFamily: OnagraceaeCommon Name: SundropsHabit: perennialHeight: 2 feetFlower Color: yellow Native To: eastern United States Range: chiefly in mountains of North Carolina Blooming Period: May–August Water Requirement: average to drySoil Type: good garden soilExposure: full sunSeed Count: 2,032,000 seeds/lb.Seeding Rate: N/AMiscellaneous: appears to hybridize with other similar species and therefore are quite variable; flowers open during the day

Genus and Species: Oenothera lamarckianaFamily: OnagraceaeCommon Name: Evening PrimroseHabit: annual, reseedsHeight: 1–3½ feetFlower Color: yellowNative To: unknownRange: naturalized throughout the United StatesBlooming Period: July–SeptemberWater Requirement: low Soil Type: light Exposure: full sun Seed Count: 864,000 seeds/lb.Seeding Rate: 3 lbs./acreMiscellaneous: tolerates high pH; flowers open in late afternoon; less aggressive than other Oenothera species

Genus and Species: Papaver rhoeasFamily: PapaveraceaeCommon Name: Mixed Poppy, Shirley Poppy Habit: annual Height: 2–2½ feetFlower Color: white, pink and redNative To: EuropeRange: throughout United StatesBlooming Period: April–JulyWater Requirement: lowSoil Type: well-drained Exposure: full sun to partial shadeSeed Count: 3,200,000 seeds/lb.Seeding Rate: 2 lbs./acreMiscellaneous: large showy flowers; inconspicuous foliage when in bloom; contains no opium; must specify mixed colors when buying

Genus and Species: Papaver rhoeasFamily: PapaveraceaeCommon Name: Corn Poppy, Flanders Poppy, Red PoppyHabit: annual, reseedsHeight: 3 feetFlower Color: redNative To: Europe, AsiaRange: throughout United States, predominantly in the Northeast and MidwestBlooming Period: April–JulyWater Requirement: low to moderateSoil Type: lightExposure: full sun to partial shadeSeed Count: 3,200,000 seeds/lb.Seeding Rate: 2 lbs./acreMiscellaneous: common field poppy of Europe; contains no opium; must specify red when buying

Genus and Species: Phlox carolinaFamily: PolemoniaceaeCommon Name: Carolina Phlox Habit: perennialHeight: 3 feetFlower Color: pinkNative To: North AmericaRange: throughout North Carolina, southeastern United StatesBlooming Period: May–JulyWater Requirement: low Soil Type: light to heavyExposure: full sun Seed Count: 907,000 seeds/lb.Seeding Rate: 2 lbs./acre Miscellaneous: attracts birds and butterflies

Genus and Species: Phlox drummondiiFamily: PolemoniaceaeCommon Name: Annual Phlox, Drummond PhloxHabit: annual, reseedsHeight: 1–1½ feetFlower Color: redNative To: TexasRange: naturalized throughout southeastern United States into FloridaBlooming Period: April–AugustWater Requirement: low Soil Type: light, richExposure: full sun Seed Count: 234,000 seeds/lb.Seeding Rate: 10 lbs./acreMiscellaneous: blooms longer if watered frequently; tends to become bushy; fragant flowers attract birds and butterflies

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Genus and Species: Phlox drummondiiFamily: PolemoniaceaeCommon Name: Annual Phlox, Drummond PhloxHabit: annualHeight: 8–24 inchesFlower Color: red, white, pink or variegatedNative To: TexasRange: southeastern United StatesBlooming Period: April–JulyWater Requirement: low Soil Type: sandyExposure: full sun Seed Count: 234,000 seeds/lb.Seeding Rate: 10 lbs./acreMiscellaneous: fragant flowers attract birds and butterflies; grows chiefly in sandy soils in coastal areas; represents escaped horticulturally grown forms

Genus and Species: Rudbeckia amplexicaulisFamily: AsteraceaeCommon Name: Clasping ConeflowerHabit: annualHeight: 1½–2 feetFlower Color: black, cone-shaped heads surrounded by bright yellow petalsNative To: southeastern United StatesRange: North AmericaBlooming Period: June–SeptemberWater Requirement: moistSoil Type: average, well-drainedExposure: full sunSeed Count: 800,000 seeds/lb.Seeding Rate: 3 lbs./acreMiscellaneous: very heavy reseeder; wonderful variety for cut arrangements

Genus and Species: Rudbeckia fulgidaFamily: AsteraceaeCommon Name: Little Black-Eyed SusanHabit: short-lived perennial, reseedsHeight: 2½–3 feetFlower Color: deep yellow, dark centerNative To: southeastern United StatesRange: throughout United StatesBlooming Period: midsummer-early fallWater Requirement: low to moderateSoil Type: ordinary garden soil, preferably heavyExposure: full sun Seed Count: 1,710,000 seeds/lb.Seeding Rate: 2 lbs./acreMiscellaneous: can spread by rhizomes

Genus and Species: Rudbeckia hirtaFamily: AsteraceaeCommon Name: Black-Eyed SusanHabit: perennial, reseedsHeight: 2–3 feetFlower Color: yellow-orange with brown centersNative To: United States, east of the Rocky Mountains Range: throughout North America Blooming Period: May–August Water Requirement: low to moderateSoil Type: heavy or lightExposure: full sun to partial shadeSeed Count: 1,710,000 seeds/lb.Seeding Rate: 2 lbs./acreMiscellaneous: noxious weed in Hawaii; the state flower of Maryland; low maintenance

Genus and Species: Rudbeckia hirta “Gloriosa”Family: AsteraceaeCommon Name: Gloriosa Daisy, Black-Eyed SusanHabit: perennialHeight: 2–3 feetFlower Color: shades of bright yellow with red and mahogany, bi-colorsNative To: southeastern United StatesRange: throughout the United StatesBlooming Period: May–AugustWater Requirement: low Soil Type: ordinary garden soil, preferably heavyExposure: full sun Seed Count: 450,000 seeds/lb.Seeding Rate: 2 lbs./acreMiscellaneous: drought resistant; tetraploid form; also in doubles

Genus and Species: Rudbeckia laciniataFamily: AsteraceaeCommon Name: Green Coneflower, Wild Golden GlowHabit: perennialHeight: 3–8 feetFlower Color: yellow Native To: North AmericaRange: Quebec to northern Florida; west to the Rocky MountainsBlooming Period: July–OctoberWater Requirement: moderateSoil Type: heavy to average, well-drainedExposure: full sun to light shadeSeed Count: N/ASeeding Rate: 2 lbs./acreMiscellaneous: can spread by rhizomes

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Genus and Species: Salvia coccineaFamily: LamiaceaeCommon Name: Wild Scarlet SageHabit: hardy annual or tender perennialHeight: 12–24 inchesFlower Color: redNative To: TexasRange: all regions of United States Blooming Period: June–JulyWater Requirement: low to moderateSoil Type: sandy to gravellyExposure: full sun Seed Count: 276,800 seeds/lb.Seeding Rate: 8 lbs./acreMiscellaneous: excellent species to attract hummingbirds and butterflies; excellent reseeder

Genus and Species: Silene armeriaFamily: CaryophyllaceaeCommon Name: Catchfly, Campion, Sweet William CatchflyHabit: annual, reseedsHeight: 1–2 feet Flower Color: pinkNative To: southern EuropeRange: naturalized throughout most of the United StatesBlooming Period: May–AugustWater Requirement: low to moderateSoil Type: heavy or lightExposure: full sun to partial shadeSeed Count: 4,480,000 seeds/lb.Seeding Rate: 1 lb./acreMiscellaneous: easily grown; stem exudes a sticky sap which captures small insects

Genus and Species: Silene pendulaFamily: CaryophyllaceaeCommon Name: Nodding CatchflyHabit: annual, reseedsHeight: 1–2 feetFlower Color: pink, whiteNative To: southern Europe Range: naturalized throughout most of the United StatesBlooming Period: May–AugustWater Requirement: low to moderateSoil Type: heavy or light Exposure: full sun to partial shadeSeed Count: 606,400 seeds/lb.Seeding Rate: 5 lbs./acreMiscellaneous: easily grown; stem exudes a sticky sap which captures small insects

Genus and Species: Silene virginicaFamily: CaryophyllaceaeCommon Name: Fire Pink, Indian PinkHabit: short-lived perennialHeight: 1–2 feetFlower Color: crimson, pink, rarely whiteNative To: North CarolinaRange: eastern United States Blooming Period: April–JulyWater Requirement: averageSoil Type: average, well-drainedExposure: full sun to filtered sunlightSeed Count: N/ASeeding Rate: N/AMiscellaneous: normally grows in dry, rocky woods and on road banks; more common in mountains

Genus and Species: Sisyrinchium bellumFamily: IridaceaeCommon Name: Blue-Eyed GrassHabit: perennial, reseedsHeight: 1 footFlower Color: blue with yellow centerNative To: CaliforniaRange: California north to Alaska; east to the Rocky MountainsBlooming Period: springWater Requirement: moderateSoil Type: heavy or light, rich or sterileExposure: full sun Seed Count: 315,000 seeds/lb.Seeding Rate: 8 lbs./acreMiscellaneous: flowers open in sunlight and last one day; foliage persists through fall and mild winters

Genus and Species: Solidago nemoralisFamily: AsteraceaeCommon Name: Common GoldenrodHabit: perennialHeight: 2–4 feetFlower Color: yellow Native To: eastern United States Range: widespread; eastern United States; throughout North CarolinaBlooming Period: September–October Water Requirement: lowSoil Type: average, well-drainedExposure: full sunSeed Count: N/A Seeding Rate: N/A

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Genus and Species: Solidago rugosaFamily: AsteraceaeCommon Name: Rough-Leaved GoldenrodHabit: perennialHeight: 2–4 feetFlower Color: yellowNative To: eastern United StatesRange: North Carolina, Virginia, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Kentucky and West VirginiaBlooming Period: September–OctoberWater Requirement: low Soil Type: average to poorExposure: full sun Seed Count: N/ASeeding Rate: N/AMiscellaneous: low maintenance; good cut flower

Genus and Species: Tanacetum vulgareFamily: AsteraceaeCommon Name: TansyHabit: perennialHeight: 2–3 feetFlower Color: yellow-orangeNative To: EuropeRange: Alleghany and Avery counties in North Carolina; throughout North AmericaBlooming Period: August–OctoberWater Requirement: averageSoil Type: average garden soil Exposure: full sun Seed Count: N/ASeeding Rate: N/AMiscellaneous: aromatic leaves

Genus and Species: Thermopsis villosaFamily: FabaceaeCommon Name: Carolina Bush Pea, Aaron’s Rod, Carolina LupineHabit: perennialHeight: 2–5 feetFlower Color: deep yellowNative To: North Carolina Range: throughout southeastern Appalachian region Blooming Period: May–June Water Requirement: low to averageSoil Type: averageExposure: full sun Seed Count: N/ASeeding Rate: N/AMiscellaneous: excellent cut flower; sometimes known botanically as Thermopsis caroliniana

Genus and Species: Verbesina alternifoliaFamily: AsteraceaeCommon Name: Wingstem, Yellow IronweedHabit: perennialHeight: 3–6 feetFlower Color: yellowNative To: North AmericaRange: throughout mountains and Piedmont; Florida to Texas; north to OntarioBlooming Period: August–September Water Requirement: low to moderateSoil Type: average Exposure: full sun to partial shadeSeed Count: N/ASeeding Rate: N/A

Genus and Species: Verbesina occidentalisFamily: AsteraceaeCommon Name: Yellow Wingstem, Yellow Crown-BeardHabit: perennialHeight: 6 feetFlower Color: yellowNative To: North AmericaRange: Maryland to Florida Blooming Period: late summer–fallWater Requirement: highSoil Type: rich, moist Exposure: full to filtered sunlight Seed Count: N/ASeeding Rate: N/A

Genus and Species: Vernonia noveboracensisFamily: AsteraceaeCommon Name: IronweedHabit: perennial Height: 6 feet or moreFlower Color: purple Native To: southeastern United StatesRange: throughout North Carolina except outer Coastal Plain; most of the eastern third of United States Blooming Period: July–OctoberWater Requirement: moist to wetSoil Type: average garden soilExposure: full sun Seed Count: N/ASeeding Rate: N/AMiscellaneous: grows best on stream margins, meadows, low woodlands

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7

6

43

5

2

For Large Areas

1. Soil Preparation. Proper soil preparation is one of the most important factors to ensure success in planting wildflowers. The site must first be prepared by removing all existing vegetation. Compost may be applied to provide slow-release nutrients and to aid the soil’s water holding capacity. The site is then cultivated with a series of equipment to loosen the soil (Photos 1 and 3) and create a smooth seedbed. Soil testing is important to determine soil conditions (a pH of 6.0 to 6.5 is optimal). Dolomitic limestone (Photo 2) could be added if test results indicate very acidic soil. If the results indicate a lack of nutrients, fertilizer should be added during bed preparation (Photo 5).

2. Application of Pre-emergent Herbicides. Research conducted over several years at N.C. State University demonstrated the advantages of pre-emergent herbicides to managing weeds in wildflower beds. Managing weeds prolongs the longevity of the wildflower bed.

3. Planting Times and Techniques. Best results are obtained when seeds are sown in the fall between mid-September and early November. The wildflower planting schedule follows historic small grain installation schedules. In addition, certain wildflowers can be sown in the spring between mid-March and mid-April. Examples include: Biden, Black-eyed Susan, Purple Coneflower, Gloriosa Daisy, Narrow-Leaved Sunflower and most aster species. Hydroseeders are used for large area seed application (Photo 4). Wildflower seed should be evenly distributed over the prepared soil and firmed (Photo 6) to ensure good seed-soil contact.

4. Mulch Cover. Seeded wildflower beds should receive a light covering of coastal bermuda hay to prevent erosion and conserve moisture to aid germination. A standard mulch blower (Photo 7) can be utilized to apply one ton of coastal hay to each acre of wildflower beds. Avoid leaving clumps of hay on the beds as they will impede wildflower seed germination. 5. Maintenance. Once the wildflower beds are sown, little maintenance is required (Photo 8). In mid-January, watch for annual ryegrass seed germination. Use a selective herbicide to remove grasses that compete with wildflowers for nutrients and detract from the bed’s aesthetics. After the plants have flowered, do not mow until they have produced seed. In North Carolina, most wildflower beds are mowed in late November. Include “Green Manure” crops to avoid depleting the soil from years of tillage and organic matter loss.

WILDFLOWER PLANTING INSTRUCTIONS

1

8

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For Homeowners

Follow these steps for planting wildflowers at your own home.

1. Do your research. Consider varieties, seeding times, seeding rates and availabilities. Most vendors have complimentary catalogs that offer this information.Tips for what to plant and when:

✿ October is the best time in North Carolina to sow most wildflowers—such as Red Poppy, Catchfly, Rocket Larkspur, Shasta Daisy and Lance-leaved Coreopsis.

✿ To achieve fall blooms, varieties of cosmos perform best when sown in early July.

✿ In early April, you can successfully sow Black-eyed Susan, Purple Coneflower, Biden, Gloriosa Daisy, Narrow-leaved Sunflower and most aster species.

2. Find a good spot in your yard. Your bed should ideally receive at least 6 hours of sun each day.

3. Remove weeds. Use glyphosate to remove all grasses and weed competition from your selected wildflower area.

4. Prepare the soil.a. Lightly till the soil with a rotary tiller or use garden tools to turn the soil.b. If possible, collect a sample of the soil and have it analyzed for free by the

Cooperative Extension Service. For more information, visit ncagr.gov/agronomi/sthome.htm.

c. In lieu of a soil test, incorporate a 5-pound bag of dolomitic limestone to every 50 square feet of prepared area.

d. Incorporate 40 to 50 pounds of compost or processed animal manure to every 50 square feet of prepared area.

e. Using a leaf rake, smooth the soil surface.

5. Plant your seeds. Sow the wildflower seed into the surface of the prepared site. Do not cover the seed with soil. Don’t worry, the birds will not eat the seed. Do not cover the seed with mulch as the seeds require sunlight to germinate.

6. Water as needed. If possible, water the site once — then walk away.

7. Enjoy the results!

8. Do not mow wilted blooms. Let the plants develop seed for next year.

WILDFLOWER GROWING TIPS

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Wildflowers serve as important sources of nectar for pollinator species, including bees, butterflies and moths, birds and bats, and beetles and other insects. Different flower colors, shapes and scents attract a wide variety of pollinators.Three-fourths of the world’s flowering plants depend on pollinators to reproduce. Most fruit, vegetable and seed crops—and other plants that provide fiber, medicine and fuel—are pollinated by animals.Some scientists estimate that one out of every three bites of food we eat exists because of animal pollinators.In the United States, the annual economic value of pollinators is estimated at $3 billion.The honey bee alone contributes to the production of billions of dollars of crops in America every year. Bees are the main pollinators for fruits and vegetables. How it WorksPollinators visit flowers in their search for food (nectar and pollen). During a flower visit, a pollinator may accidentally brush against the flower’s reproductive parts, unknowingly depositing pollen from a different flower. The plant then uses the pollen to produce a fruit or seed. Many plants cannot reproduce without pollen carried to them by foraging pollinators.

Credit: Information from U.S. Department of Agriculture

POLLINATORS IN NORTH CAROLINA

Shirley Poppy

On the cover: Mixed Cosmos / Back cover: Tetra Versailles and Psycho-white Cosmos

Revenue from the sale of personalized licenseplates provides the principle source of funding

for the North Carolina Department ofTransportation Wildflower Program. Whenyou purchase a personalized plate you are

supporting wildflowers and highway beautification with a portion of the extra

fee. Many people choose to make a direct contribution to the wildflower program, since 100 percent of such contributions are used for

the program. Contributions can be made to the North Carolina Department of Transportation.

For more information or to make a contributionto the Wildflower Program write to the:

North Carolina Department of TransportationRoadside Environmental Unit

1557 Mail Service CenterRaleigh, North Carolina 27699-1557

WILDFLOWER PROGRAM FUNDING