Iowa
Iowa's native flora is dominated by tallgrass prairie species, woodland wildflowers, savanna plants, wetlands, and native trees that support pollinators, birds, and other wildlife.
Before European settlement, much of Iowa was covered by tallgrass prairie, with woodlands along rivers and streams. Today, native plant gardens, prairie restorations, and conservation plantings help preserve this important ecological heritage while supporting wildlife and improving landscape resilience.
For Iowa gardeners, combining native wildflowers, grasses, shrubs, and trees creates beautiful landscapes that require less maintenance and provide habitat throughout the year.
Ready to dig deeper into the native plants for your neighborhood?
Explore your local ecosystem with Easyscape, a powerful tool that identifies plants native to your exact location and helps you discover species that thrive naturally in your area's unique climate and conditions. Easyscape provides personalized native plant recommendations, drought-tolerant options, and detailed plant profiles, making it easier than ever to create a beautiful, low-maintenance, and wildlife-friendly landscape. Click on the button below to view more information.
Helpful Native Plant Resources
- Ecological Introduction
- Why is Reducing Your Lawn a Good Thing?
- Reasons to Plant Native Plants
- What are Soft Landings?
- Why Leave the Leaves?
- Best Practices for Communicating with HOAs
- EcoRegion vs Plant Zone Maps
- Consider Signage in your Yard
Visit Native Plant Resources Near You
Blooming Prairie Nursery began in 1997 in founder Bob Wubben’s backyard. Prior to that, he had been involved in Iowa native prairie restoration since the mid-1990s while employed by the Iowa Department of Transportation as the Roadside Vegetation Manager for five counties in northern Iowa. Everything that comes from Blooming Prairie Nursery is indigenous and native to Iowa in all aspects; from the soil and compost to the seed, flowers, and grasses, it all comes from our natural Iowa ecosystem.
Ion Exchange Inc. is a native seed and plant nursery located at 1878 Old Mission Dr, Harpers Ferry, Iowa. Established in 1988, the business is recognized for its work in preserving and propagating native prairie species across the Midwest, promoting biodiversity and sustainable landscaping practices. Ion Exchange specializes in native forbs, wildflowers, grasses, sedges, and rushes, providing both seeds and live plants. Its inventory supports conservation projects, prairie restorations, and ecological landscaping, offering tailored seed mixes for various bloom seasons and environmental conditions. The nurser ...