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Native Plant Synoptic Garden
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Aruncus sylvester- Goat’s beard is common in wet sites along seeps and streams. The foliage is
about 20” tall, but can have white flower spikes 3-6 feet in height (Pojar, 1994). Can be used in
the “Valley Bottom” and “Wetland Zone”. Ethnobotany: Roots and leaves used medicinally.
Asarum caudatum- Wild Ginger is a great spreading groundcover for shady humus sites. Glossy
heart shaped leaves hug the ground. In spring maroon three lobed flowers are hidden under the
leaves. Recommend to plant along a moist rock wall to be able to enjoy flowers up close. Best
suited for the “Forested Ridge” or “Valley Bottom” zones. Ethnobotany: Roots were eaten.
Leaves used in medicinal teas and other medicines.
(Photo by: Jake Pool)
‘Alba’- Same growth pattern as species, but flowers are white.
Caltha biflora- White flowers in spring. Similar in growth to C. paulustris ssp. Asarifolia
(Lyons, 1997). Best suited for the “Wetland Zone”. Ethnobotany: Plant was cooked and eaten.
(Photo by: Hugh Wilson)
Caltha paulustris ssp. asarifolia - Great plant for wet seepage areas. Yellow flowers produced in
spring (Pojar, 1994). Creeping stem helps to make a sizable colony. Best suited for the “Wetland
Zone”.
Camassia leichtlinii- A great lily for open moist sites in meadows. Can grow to 2 feet in height
and is topped by flowers from cream to deep blue (Dusek, 2004). All cultivars and species can be
used in the “Alpine Zone” or open sunny spots in the “Valley Bottom”. Prefers a well-drained
soil.
‘Alba’- White flowering form.
‘Blue Danube’- Sea lavender blue flowers (Thimblefarms, 2003).
‘San Juan’- Dark blue flowers compared to type (Thimblefarms, 2003).