by Parkinson (Author)

Whether for beauty, drought tolerance, wildlife, or hardiness, homeowners in the arid west are beginning to look to natives as alternatives for their landscaping needs. Each year, more visitors to the native plant gardens at the BLM in Boise, Idaho are asking questions about the plants featured: their names, how to grow, and where to find them. In response to the enthusiasm over native plants and to encourage their use, this guide is meant to aid in their selection, placement, and growth. This guide was conceived and compiled by southwest Idaho gardeners with experience growing native plants. For the purposes of this guide, we have defined a "native plant" as one that evolved in a particular area, and is therefore naturally adapted to its climate and soil. Many of the recommended plants are native to the Boise area, but all of the plants presented here are native to the Intermountain Region, the Southwest, or the Great Plains.