March 2012

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Spring will be here soon. Are you planning your garden now? Why not add a few native plants? Native plants provide beauty as well as food and shelter for wildlife. Native species are adapted to the Illinois climate. They require little or no watering and are resistant to drought, insects and most diseases. Because they are perennials, you can welcome their presence year after year.

yellow bellwort (Uvularia grandiflora)

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Yellow bellwort grows in woodlands throughout Illinois. Its yellow flowers are produced in April and May. This perennial plant grows from thick roots. The upright stems are often branched and may reach one and one-half feet in height. Leaves are arranged alternately along the stem. Leaves are oval, smooth and appear to surround the stem. Flowers are produced singly at the stem tip.

For more information about native Illinois plants, including where to purchase them and planting guides, the following publications are available through the order form at http://www.dnr.illinois.gov/publications.

Prairie Establishment and Landscaping

Landscaping for Wildlife

Butterfly Gardens