New York Native Perennials

New York's weather is vastly different from one part of the state to the next, creating a unique challenge for its native species. This climate inconsistency is due to influence from two continental air masses, lake-effect weather from Lake Ontario to the west, and high elevations along two massive mountain ranges.

These are perennials that are native to the state of New York. Included on this list are some cultivars (cultivated varieties) and naturally-occurring hybrids that vary only slightly from the parent species. Some native gardeners choose to incorporate cultivars into their plantings and some do not. You can identify these plants by the addition of an extra name in apostrophes (such as 'May Breeze').

For a more detailed look at New York native plants by region, please cross-reference the New York Flora Atlas.