Native Plants of Arkansas

Baby Blue Eyes (Nemophila Menziesii)

• Baby blue eyes is a small plant that typically grows, at most, 12 inches tall. This ground-cover plant works best in flower beds or as a light accent. The thin stems produce a small (typically, five-petal) bloom. The blooms tend to be a light blue color with a white center. These sensitive plants do not fair well in cold weather -- they can easily die during frost.

Wild Geranium (Geranium Maculatum)

• Wild geranium can grow to be over 2 feet tall. This perennial plant sprouts light violet blooms and basal leaves. Although a beautiful flower, the wild geranium lasts only about one month, blooming in May or June. Although it is native to Arkansas, this flower also blooms well in northern, midwestern states such as Michigan, Illinois and Ohio.

Meadow Goldenrod (Solidago Canadensis)

• The meadow goldenrod can grow quite large, reaching heights of 5 feet tall. The name comes from the goldenrod's blooms, which are a bright yellow and/or golden color. The tiny blooms can be plucked and used as an edible garnish, tea or even crushed into an oil. For best results, plant this perennial in partial to direct sunlight.

Prickly Pear (Opuntia Humifusa)

• Although it's the official state plant of Texas, the prickly pear is a native plant of Arkansas. This cactus plant not only sprouts red-orange or pink flowers, it also is edible. The bright green "pads" of the plant can be boiled and/or grilled, and they typically taste like asparagus or green beans.