Native Plants
According to the USDA, "Native plants are the indigenous terrestrial and aquatic species that have evolved and occur naturally in a particular region, ecosystem, and habitat. Species native to North America are generally recognized as those occurring on the continent prior to European settlement. They represent a number of different life forms, including conifer trees, hardwood trees and shrubs, grasses, forbs, and others."
Native plants are essential for native wildlife to thrive. Because these species evolved in tandem, native plants provide the optimal food and habitat for the survival of these native wildlife species. If you are considering adding native plants to your landscape, it is also good to know that when planted in the appropriate location for sunlight and water needs, native plants generally require little or or no maintenance because they are naturally adapted to local conditions.
Native plants differ by area and there are many guides to native plants specifically for Connecticut. Here are a few:
Connecticut Coastal Planting Guide (UConn)
Plants for Birds (Audubon CT)
Butterfly Nectar Sources: Nectar-Rich CT Native Plants (USDA)
CT Native Plant and Sustainable Landscaping Guide (UConn)
CT Native Trees for Beautiful Landscapes (UConn)
CT Native Shrubs for Beautiful Landscapes (UConn)
UConn has also compiled a list of CT businesses that grow and/or sell native plants: